Find the systems you need to grow your business
When it comes to running our businesses, there always seems to be more work than time, which is why we often ignore those things that are important but not urgent. Well, consider this your wake up call.
At any moment your computer could crash, get hacked, stolen, have a hardware failure… and not only will your business be at risk, but trust me, it’s also very stressful.
Here’s our 3 step system to ensuring all of our business data is protected and accessible.
There isn’t a business owner I know who doesn’t want more time, income or support.
Here are 5 ways that an Operations Manual will save your ass(ets) every single day.
1. Save time remembering stuff
Have you ever written one of those beautiful emails to a lead or client, maybe to an editor, and then lost it in the annuals of your outbox?
Ever created a beautiful campaign, graphic or video and then can’t find it when you need to reference it most?
“This is the best thing ever!” You think as the initial euphoria of closing that big client, getting the media feature, or hiring that team member sets in. You’re screaming from the rooftops and overflowing with gratitude and joy and… 10 minutes later reality sets in.
That client is excited and sends 12 emails in an hour. The speaking opportunity you’re applying for is going to need your media kit asap. Your new team member is ready for training and your schedule is slammed.
And all of a sudden the success that you’ve been dreaming of is not sipping mojitos from a beach lounger but a burden of more work and responsibility that’s pulling you down from the euphoric high that comes with getting exactly what you wanted.
Here are 3 ways to enjoy your success when you’re stressed:
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If you ask a 100 entrepreneurs the hardest thing about how to manage a business you’ll get 100 different answers. We struggle with challenges differently because, gasp!, we’re unique people.
Sidenote: I’ve been trying to communicate this point in various interviews lately. There is no one archetype of an entrepreneur.
Yet, even as we are a melting pot of personalities, backgrounds, skills and training, many entrepreneurs have a similar struggle. Continue Reading ￫
Every week I talk to entrepreneurs who are ready to make a change to a new software to host their CRM (client relationship management). Sometimes they’re moving into Infusionsoft, but others come up as well.
And just about every week I tell someone NOT to purchase that day. The reason is simple.
Most businesses are not organized and ready for a new CRM and waste hundreds or thousands of dollars.
So here’s my handy-dandy, top 5 things you must do before a move:
1. Understand your segments. If you’re moving into a comprehensive system that allows you to tag, sort and segment your list, then what segments are you going to use?
2. List out your products. What do you sell? How much does it cost? What are your payment plans? If you don’t have this in a simple and easy to upload format, then you’re not going to be able to accept orders right away.
3. Document your webforms. New CRM means moving allll those webforms to a new service. Finding all your existing webforms and documenting what page they’re on is critical if you want a smooth transition.
4. List your top 3 campaigns. Most new CRMs have the ability to drip content to your lists and new subscribers. What campaigns do you need to have in place from day 1? Where is that content located?
5. Get those graphics ready! Your CRM is a wonderful branding tool so bring in the right graphics including banners, buttons, call outs, and hex colors so your emails, landing pages and webforms match your brand.
Now, I know this is easier said than done which is why we created a simple system for new Infusionsoft users. Our private clients who are preparing for a switch go through a proprietary system, so that their accounts are set up and running within just a few days or weeks.
Action Step: Considering a switch? Start working on these 5 action steps even if you’re not ready to invest just yet.
It happens to us all. The month where everything happens at once, when someone quits without notice or family obligations keep you busy 24/7.
Most adults would consider taking extra vacation time from work in order to manage during the chaos.
Entrepreneurs remember with fondness that thing called “paid time off.” Sigh. “Wouldn’t it be nice?” you think as you send out another proposal, get that email copy finished, finalize a client meeting for tomorrow, and wonder how you’re going to get it all done if you have just one more client or obligation added to the ever growing to do list.
While we can’t wave a magic wand in your direction, here are 5 strategies to help you survive as an entrepreneur when life is just too busy.
When entrepreneurs hear the name of my business “She’s Got Systems” a lot of assumptions come to mind. For many of us systems are old school – reminiscent of businesses stuck in routines, thick binders full of policies and procedures and there’s nothing really sexy about systems.
Very few people wake up in the morning and exclaim, “I need some systems today!”
Just me? Okay, probably just me.
But here’s what I have learned about entrepreneurs…
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Over and over I see coaches and teachers lament about the “dreaded how” as they encourage their followers and students to embrace the magic, the faith, the intention of a result.
Let me put it in simple terms: they tell them to stop worrying about learning something and dream that it’s already been done!
Now I’m a fan of positive thinking, setting intentions and goals, even in focusing attention through manifestation. But there’s a reason I don’t talk about it often.
Manifest, sure. But then get yourself into action and work.
Here’s how:
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Business owners are driven by various motivations. Sometimes it’s influence, other times income, often helping those in need.
So it’s no surprise that when someone has a need and asks for your help the answer on the tip of your tongue is “sure, we can do that,” even if you can’t.
It’s not about deceiving a client or misrepresenting your skills, often it’s the thought that you can learn that skill, figure it out, or otherwise hire someone so you can help a client who has a clear need.
Other times it’s a self delusion that in order to be great, you must be an agency. Sure, it’s the first month of business, but if you don’t have 12 sub-specialties and contractors and the ability to handle every challenge thrown your way then, well, the clients will go elsewhere.
Perhaps it’s time to envision your business like a construction contractor.
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In business it often feels like if you’re not moving forward you’re going in reverse. The challenge is that there is always something to learn, build, refine and study – not to mention leads to attract, educate and nurture, then clients to teach, inspire and support.
But I still have to ask: what are you launching?
It can feel a little awkward, right? Self-promotion has such negative connotations. Some people feel like they’re interrupting and being pushy. There’s the whole “compare despair” where someone else is always more talented, connected and beautiful.
So I’m going to break it down and make this really simple Continue Reading ￫
