Business growth may seem like a challenge this year because of all that we have gone through but here is what I’ve come to know after growing my business from the ground up for 7 years.
1) Nothing is impossible with God
2) The marketplace needs experts to help solve problems
3) Potential clients are hungry for dialogue with experts to hear their problem and discuss solutions
As you create your business growth plan for this year what I would highly recommend is to place having sales conversations on the top of the list. When you speak with a potential client, another person that needs help, it builds a relationship and rapport that allows them to feel comfortable to share more about what they need help with while also being open to hearing your solution.
Hello Ladies,
Here is a quick tip for the Q4 business growth strategy.
“Focus on one thing” I know many of us are working on different areas within our business since we are in the last few months of the year one of the key areas that I focus on is selling one made program, service, or offering. If people want to work with you in other ways you can bring it up in conversation but having one core focus will help your marketing message attract the prospective clients which increases sales and in return brings in cash flow.
Shemeka Brathwaite
on November 10, 2020 at 1:20 pm
Thank you. I love the book the ONE Thing. I am guilty of the shiny new objects syndrome. I need to focus on one core program offering. I am currently working on budiling it out.
LaDawn Townsend
on November 28, 2020 at 11:39 am
Thats great Shemeka! Yes, we all get distracted with that but it is good that you recognize it and then just put yourself back on course. Cheering you on! Keep us posted on how it goes!
May God’s grace give you speed to execute and open many doors for new customers.
LaDawn Townsend
on August 4, 2020 at 12:20 pm
Hello ladies,
Here is a business growth tip that I’ve been working on and it is making a pivot in how I show up for my client. The season we are in now calls for a different way to engage and support our customers. In what way can you do this in your business? For me, I’ve created a group program that has 2 live support calls a month and a private onboarding call (15 minutes) with the customer to help them get set up and answer any questions.
Our customers are requiring more from us now and that doesn’t always mean a lower price it could be offering more support to help them in this challenging time.
I wanted to share a word of hope and that is the fact that business growth is still possible this year. I have found myself over the past few months asking myself “What is the pain that I solve for my customer?” The answer has evolved during the current time of the health crisis that we are in and with that my service offerings have changed as well.
So I will ask you. What is the #1 pain that you can solve for your customer? Answering that question can grow your business.
Hello LaDawn, I have been thinking about the problem I solve for my clients as well. Maybe I have already defined it or it needs to be more clearer and even niched more. Sisters, please provide your feedback on the following:
I am a peak performance strategist for high-achieving, goal oriented women who are struggling with stress, overwhelm and work-life balance. These extraordinary women come from a variety of industries and juggle the roles of being the bread winner, bread maker and crumb sweeper in their families. They are ambitious and want to seek higher level of responsibility at work and in the leadership roles within their civic organizations/professional associations.
I help them with peak performance strategies to maximize their time, have an influential executive presence that is energized and make an impact.
LaDawn Townsend
on August 4, 2020 at 12:18 pm
Hi Shemeka,
I like what you’ve put together here. When I’m working on identifying what I can solve for my clients is understanding what are they struggling with that I can help them solve. For your prospective client dive deep into what are the three challenges she is facing? What keeps her up at night? What is a frustration for her? Next, how do you solve those problems and communicate it in a way that she would want to pay you for it.
Keep going! Your on the brink of breakthrough!
Shemeka Brathwaite
on August 5, 2020 at 9:40 pm
@Ladawn I plan on organizing my first focus group later this month so I can search for those answers. I have done the online surveys but it doesn’t turn up too many responses. I think the focus group could help me with getting new clients. I am trying to dig deeper in finding out the problems that I solve. I also will have to be cleat on the features, advantages and benefits of the solutions that I offer. Yes, the problem have to be serious enough for her to pay for it.
LaDawn Townsend
on August 27, 2020 at 2:17 pm
Shemeka,
Another strategy could be is to ask for the market research group to meet with you for a 15 minute call to give feedback. In return could you offer a free ‘session’ for them based on your service?
Jackie Trottmann
on September 17, 2020 at 2:35 pm
Shemeka,
I agree with LaDawn about picking up the phone or getting on Zoom with people that are following you through social media or through your email list.
Rarely do people have the opportunity to be listened to. It allows them to be vulnerable and to have a safe place to share their challenges. That means SO much to people.
Through this process, I discovered that my target audience is Men 55-65 who want to connect their head knowledge of God to heart knowledge of God. Who knew?!!? I’m now coaching my first client starting his 9th week out of 12 and am leading a 6-week course with 4 men starting September 30. It would have never happened without having those conversations.
You will be amazed how the pain point language will pour out of people. And then you ask, “Would you like help with that?” : )
LaDawn Townsend
on December 8, 2020 at 1:00 pm
This is a great example Jackie! Thank you for sharing.
LaDawn Townsend
on July 7, 2020 at 2:44 pm
Hello ladies,
I wanted to share a tip on scaling a business and it is based on a concept of ‘slow down to speed up’. Today I took a look at all of the activities in my business and decided to scale back on the non-income producing activity to speed up. To do this I categorized the list of ‘items’ that need to be done and divided them into groups of what is a priority for now and what can be done in 60 days.
Why 60 days? The marketplace is changing rapidly but what can remain consistent is how we set our goals and the activity we take towards those. So what can you slow down to speed up? What activity can you take off of your plate and focus on activities to bring in sales?
Cheering you on towards success! We are in this together.
I had to remove or pause a lot of personal obligations that was stealing time from me.
LaDawn Townsend
on July 30, 2020 at 1:17 pm
Hi Shemeka,
I know that is challenging but it is only for a short term while you work on the long term play. Keep going!
LaDawn Townsend
on July 3, 2020 at 8:44 pm
As we approach July 2020 many of us may think that the goal we had at the start of the year cannot be realized. I understand the news is full of reports that this is wrong or that is wrong so let me share what I see is right.
The marketplace is hungry for experts that can provide results. If your end customer is a customer, business, or nonprofit in order to grow your business ask yourself this question.
“What is the new problem my client is having?” And, next, create a way to solve that problem. When you do that it sets up apart as the expert and also justifies charging a higher price 🙂
Let’s keep pushing towards our 2020 goal the year isn’t over yet.
This year has brought many different challenges for business owners. One of the items that I’m working with clients on is how to reposition the annual sales goal and I wanted to share this tip with the group. When it comes to your sales goal, the one you set at the start of this year, don’t retract from the goal better yet extend the deadline date.
If your goal was to make $100K by December 2020 consider extending the date until June 2021. What does this do? It keeps the goal the same but it give you room to pivot and adjust with the current times we are in. Also, as believers we know that God can provide all but He doesn’t tell us when only to be ready.
By putting a plan of action in place to still anticipate the harvest will give you room to breath and then to plan accordingly with clear thoughts and less pressure.
Hi ladies,
Here is a business growth tip for you. I call it the ’15 minute coffee call’ and it is an invitation to those that you want to work with to introduce yourself and to learn more about what they do. I’m finding that it is a good way to break the ice and how I position the business is during the call I say “I’m really looking forward to hearing more about you and to share what I do as well. And, (Name), if during our conversation anything comes to mind of how I may be able to support you I’ll share that with you but please know there is no pressure here to say yes to anything. So (name), tell me about yourself.
If you’re in need of filling up your calendar with sales consultations try this tip and remember just to be yourself.
Deneen Troupe-Buitrago
on June 16, 2020 at 9:05 am
Thanks for this. I am always looking for ‘great’ ways to say things. Do you mind if I borrow your script? 🙂
LaDawn Townsend
on June 30, 2020 at 11:27 pm
Hi Deneen! Please do! I pray it brings in a flood for you of new business.
LaDawn Townsend
on June 2, 2020 at 1:23 pm
Hello ladies,
I think that many of us can say that 2020 is a year of unexpected changes and with this change as business owners there is always the question of how do we continue to grow the business.
This month I’m taking a look back on my products and services and asking two questions
1) Which of these align to my purpose
2) Which of these needs to go?
The second question is the most important because it calls for a time of prayer to seek God’s wisdom as to what should be the area I focus on now. As you think about the remaining part of 2020 know, growth is possible but it might look different than what you had planned.
Hi LaDawn,
Thank you for providing the Business Tip for The Gathering last Friday. It definitely echoed what you are saying here in answering those questions and the power of focus.
I have been binge watching The Last Dance. It’s the story of the career of Michael Jordan and the last year before his retirement. I am just in awe of his transformation from not making the basketball team his first year in high school(!) to his determination and focus when he decided he was going to be the greatest basketball player of all time. So inspiring!
It’s all about focusing on what is most important and I am aspiring to do the same.
Continued success!
LaDawn Townsend
on June 11, 2020 at 12:37 pm
Hi Jackie,
I’m glad that it resonated with you. In this season we must focus on what are the key important items and also move ahead with massive action!
You’ve got this!
Cheering you on
Peggy Dunn
on August 22, 2019 at 9:31 am
I want to speak in front of people. I specialize in a) Overcoming Emotional Eating, b) Halting and Reversing Chronic Illness and I will be partnering soon with someone to put on a (my first) workshop on The Secret To Answering the Question What’s For Dinner? I am health/life coach. My target audience is busy moms who want to feed their families healthy meals and spend more time with them.
Deneen Troupe-Buitrago
on September 27, 2019 at 3:06 pm
Hi Peggy, Did you have that workshop yet? How did it go? What was one thing you took away from it that was positive? How could you improve?
I would LOVE to chat about it. I have a teaching background (and a Drama background) so I know what it can look like to get started in speaking and facilitating workshops.
Let me know how it went or how it is going?
Peggy Dunn
on December 26, 2019 at 9:46 am
Deneen, Yes, I held that workshop, two in fact. The purpose of it was to simply get me out of my comfort zone. So in that regard it was successful. Now I need to figure out the rest of the business idea. I would love to chat with you and gather some ideas. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas.
Peggy Dunn
on July 15, 2019 at 8:53 am
I am having trouble getting started in my business. I just don’t know the first steps to take. Right now I am focused on writing my story so I can give talks and do a workshop on The Secret to Answering the Question What’s for Dinner and another one on The 7 Steps to Balancing Blood Sugar. I am not even sure what it is going to look like but I don’t want to keep waiting until I have it all figured out. The only thing I know for sure is to Stop and Listen to the Holy Spirit when ever I have questions. But He sure can be quiet at times.
Whenever I have coached people in their careers, I start by discussing their passion. Then we explore their vision for that passion. In your business, whom do you see yourself speaking in front of to deliver your speech? What do you hope to achieve through speaking? Keep trusting Gods plan for you. The Holy Spirit will lead you! You mentioned that you are not certain what it will look like right now but think of various scenarios. Do you want to be an author and sell your book? Do you want to speak about it on a stage, in a living room or support groups?
The business aspect is also something to consider. Do you want this to be a LLC? Do you embrace marketing and business or do you need help with that? We have wonderful Audacious Faith sisters who have businesses to assist you.
God will continue to unfold all Good ideas until you flourish!
Peggy Dunn
on December 26, 2019 at 9:51 am
Jenny, I would love to explore my vision and passion with you. I am noticing I am not moving forward because I keep bouncing all over the place with my ideas. I see myself as speaking in person, teaching ideas for meal prep to begin with and this leading to coaching young female professionals towards living a healthier lifestyle overall physically, emotionally and mentally. I would like to grow this virtually eventually. I am terrible at the business marketing and building side of things. Let’s chat sometime if you are willing. I hope you had a Merry Christmas.
Jackie Trottmann
on July 1, 2019 at 11:32 am
When I left the corporate world to pursue my dream of writing and creating, it was like I was running from a burning building! I had no plan, and as hard as this is to admit, I still have no plan! Initially, I punted writing and creating full time because clients started coming to me asking for help with their online marketing. I had come from marketing and sales in my corporate career. Soon, I had a successful web development business. But I still wanted to write and create! So, in 2016, I let go of my marketing clients and have been struggling ever since to make an income and an impact through my work. Throughout my 30 year career in advertising and even with the web development business, the income just flowed right in without any sort of plan (most of those years were as an employee, so I had a staff, a billing and collections department, etc.). You who are coaches, I’m assuming you have a business plan. I know this is a huge question, but how do you write a business plan as an author and speaker? Any input would be appreciated!
Jackie, As an author your book is your main source no matter what you do AND there is a lot you can do around your book.
First decide what you want to do outside of your book sales. You have chosen speaking, that is one thing.
Do you want to give workshops? Is there a retreat within your book? Can you create any downloadable courses? Can you create videos?
Having a business plan is just deciding which way you are going to offer your products and services in a way that is good for your clients and in a way that is true to who you are.
Look up Kary Oberbrunner. He has some great ideas about turning your book into a business.
Jackie Trottmann
on July 5, 2019 at 9:52 pm
Thanks Deneen! I loved all of your input, and especially appreciate the example that you gave me of Kary Oberbrunner. I learn best by seeing examples, so this was so helpful. I will definitely study him for sure. Thanks for saying, “As an author, your book is your main source.” That’s what I want to do is to continue to write more books. That was very comforting and affirming, more than you will ever know.
Jackie Trottmann
on June 19, 2019 at 1:56 pm
I am changing direction from being a marketing consultant to being an author, speaker, and mindset mentor. So, I am starting over in many respects. There has been little growth for me. I am in the process of developing more programs and opportunities. The questions I wish to answer are: what are the desires of my heart, what brings me joy, who can I serve, and what is God calling me to do? Being in this entrepreneur space for over 10 years – having come from the corporate world, it is not for the faint of heart! I am confident that based on witnessing your gifts, that Audacious Faith will add to your growth and stability. I’m finding it to be a constant course correction as I learn more talking to people and finding their needs, pain points, and desires. So, you are not alone at all! I look forward to sharing successes in the future and of hearing about yours.
Deneen Troupe-Buitrago
on June 20, 2019 at 10:34 am
Jackie, it is good to know that we are all on an adventure with God. That we are not alone and that sometimes things change so much we really don’t know which way to go. I LOVE that we have sisters here that can walk this out with us, talk this out with us, and be there to give us strong advice.
Thanks for your openness in sharing.
LaDawn Townsend
on June 24, 2019 at 9:05 am
Jackie, what an amazing adventure that you have embarked on and one that I know personally. Enjoy the process and allow yourself to ask question that might seem foreign ( and a bit uncomfortable) but just know in those moments the most creative answers can flow.
Jackie Trottmann
on June 27, 2019 at 2:06 pm
Thanks Deneen and LaDawn for your support and encouragement!
Does anyone know of any podcasts or blogs that focus on losing emotional, spiritual and physical weight? My book The Freedom to EAT – 10 Secrets for Lasting Weight Loss and Inner Peace was named finalist in the category of Health: Women’s Health by the International Book Awards. I’m wanting to gain exposure because I know that my book can help people lose physical, emotional, and spiritual weight.
I’d also love to get on any podcasts where I could talk about my book God Notes – Daily Doses of Divine Encouragement and meditation for Christians.
Deneen, have done this type of outreach for your book?
Most days I feel like I live under a rock! So, I’m not familiar with what is popular out there. Any feedback would be appreciated.
Deneen Troupe-Buitrago
on August 8, 2019 at 7:21 pm
I missed this earlier this summer Jackie. As far as getting on podcasts, I would go into the app and use the search bar. Type in your topic and you will find who is talking about what you want to bring to the conversation. It does take some research. I always listen to the ones that look good to see if I like it (and then I can talk knowledgeably about the show too). You can reach out to the host via their website usually and offer you topic for their show.
Deneen Troupe-Buitrago
on May 20, 2019 at 12:49 pm
My business growth feels like I have been all over the place. I think I am going in one direction and it is going well and then it seems to stall. I finally feel like I have learned enough to be going in the right direction and promised myself I would stay on track.
Has anyone else experienced this in their business? Going one way that leads no where and having to change direction?
What is really going on?
Oh My God yes, most of the time for me Deneen it has gotten comfortable and easy for me, and the direction changes because I finally realize it and let God have His way. most of the time it hard to travel down the new path then once I realize it I pray and say, Well God guess I was not on your road but mine….. I laugh and keep moving.
LaDawn Townsend
on June 24, 2019 at 9:07 am
Oh girl have I! When those moments come I do a self check to lean into what the Holy Spirit is trying to tell me or if I’m just confusing the process 🙂
I’m excited to see where this new road takes you!
Shemeka Brathwaite
on August 7, 2019 at 9:14 pm
I had a major break through in my business last Janaury, then I got pregant with my second son in February and everything slowed down. Now that he is 9 months, i am trying to get caught back up.
Business growth may seem like a challenge this year because of all that we have gone through but here is what I’ve come to know after growing my business from the ground up for 7 years.
1) Nothing is impossible with God
2) The marketplace needs experts to help solve problems
3) Potential clients are hungry for dialogue with experts to hear their problem and discuss solutions
As you create your business growth plan for this year what I would highly recommend is to place having sales conversations on the top of the list. When you speak with a potential client, another person that needs help, it builds a relationship and rapport that allows them to feel comfortable to share more about what they need help with while also being open to hearing your solution.
Hello Ladies,
Here is a quick tip for the Q4 business growth strategy.
“Focus on one thing” I know many of us are working on different areas within our business since we are in the last few months of the year one of the key areas that I focus on is selling one made program, service, or offering. If people want to work with you in other ways you can bring it up in conversation but having one core focus will help your marketing message attract the prospective clients which increases sales and in return brings in cash flow.
Thank you. I love the book the ONE Thing. I am guilty of the shiny new objects syndrome. I need to focus on one core program offering. I am currently working on budiling it out.
Thats great Shemeka! Yes, we all get distracted with that but it is good that you recognize it and then just put yourself back on course. Cheering you on! Keep us posted on how it goes!
May God’s grace give you speed to execute and open many doors for new customers.
Hello ladies,
Here is a business growth tip that I’ve been working on and it is making a pivot in how I show up for my client. The season we are in now calls for a different way to engage and support our customers. In what way can you do this in your business? For me, I’ve created a group program that has 2 live support calls a month and a private onboarding call (15 minutes) with the customer to help them get set up and answer any questions.
Our customers are requiring more from us now and that doesn’t always mean a lower price it could be offering more support to help them in this challenging time.
Hello Ladies,
I wanted to share a word of hope and that is the fact that business growth is still possible this year. I have found myself over the past few months asking myself “What is the pain that I solve for my customer?” The answer has evolved during the current time of the health crisis that we are in and with that my service offerings have changed as well.
So I will ask you. What is the #1 pain that you can solve for your customer? Answering that question can grow your business.
Hello LaDawn, I have been thinking about the problem I solve for my clients as well. Maybe I have already defined it or it needs to be more clearer and even niched more. Sisters, please provide your feedback on the following:
I am a peak performance strategist for high-achieving, goal oriented women who are struggling with stress, overwhelm and work-life balance. These extraordinary women come from a variety of industries and juggle the roles of being the bread winner, bread maker and crumb sweeper in their families. They are ambitious and want to seek higher level of responsibility at work and in the leadership roles within their civic organizations/professional associations.
I help them with peak performance strategies to maximize their time, have an influential executive presence that is energized and make an impact.
Hi Shemeka,
I like what you’ve put together here. When I’m working on identifying what I can solve for my clients is understanding what are they struggling with that I can help them solve. For your prospective client dive deep into what are the three challenges she is facing? What keeps her up at night? What is a frustration for her? Next, how do you solve those problems and communicate it in a way that she would want to pay you for it.
Keep going! Your on the brink of breakthrough!
@Ladawn I plan on organizing my first focus group later this month so I can search for those answers. I have done the online surveys but it doesn’t turn up too many responses. I think the focus group could help me with getting new clients. I am trying to dig deeper in finding out the problems that I solve. I also will have to be cleat on the features, advantages and benefits of the solutions that I offer. Yes, the problem have to be serious enough for her to pay for it.
Shemeka,
Another strategy could be is to ask for the market research group to meet with you for a 15 minute call to give feedback. In return could you offer a free ‘session’ for them based on your service?
Shemeka,
I agree with LaDawn about picking up the phone or getting on Zoom with people that are following you through social media or through your email list.
Rarely do people have the opportunity to be listened to. It allows them to be vulnerable and to have a safe place to share their challenges. That means SO much to people.
Through this process, I discovered that my target audience is Men 55-65 who want to connect their head knowledge of God to heart knowledge of God. Who knew?!!? I’m now coaching my first client starting his 9th week out of 12 and am leading a 6-week course with 4 men starting September 30. It would have never happened without having those conversations.
You will be amazed how the pain point language will pour out of people. And then you ask, “Would you like help with that?” : )
This is a great example Jackie! Thank you for sharing.
Hello ladies,
I wanted to share a tip on scaling a business and it is based on a concept of ‘slow down to speed up’. Today I took a look at all of the activities in my business and decided to scale back on the non-income producing activity to speed up. To do this I categorized the list of ‘items’ that need to be done and divided them into groups of what is a priority for now and what can be done in 60 days.
Why 60 days? The marketplace is changing rapidly but what can remain consistent is how we set our goals and the activity we take towards those. So what can you slow down to speed up? What activity can you take off of your plate and focus on activities to bring in sales?
Cheering you on towards success! We are in this together.
I had to remove or pause a lot of personal obligations that was stealing time from me.
Hi Shemeka,
I know that is challenging but it is only for a short term while you work on the long term play. Keep going!
As we approach July 2020 many of us may think that the goal we had at the start of the year cannot be realized. I understand the news is full of reports that this is wrong or that is wrong so let me share what I see is right.
The marketplace is hungry for experts that can provide results. If your end customer is a customer, business, or nonprofit in order to grow your business ask yourself this question.
“What is the new problem my client is having?” And, next, create a way to solve that problem. When you do that it sets up apart as the expert and also justifies charging a higher price 🙂
Let’s keep pushing towards our 2020 goal the year isn’t over yet.
This year has brought many different challenges for business owners. One of the items that I’m working with clients on is how to reposition the annual sales goal and I wanted to share this tip with the group. When it comes to your sales goal, the one you set at the start of this year, don’t retract from the goal better yet extend the deadline date.
If your goal was to make $100K by December 2020 consider extending the date until June 2021. What does this do? It keeps the goal the same but it give you room to pivot and adjust with the current times we are in. Also, as believers we know that God can provide all but He doesn’t tell us when only to be ready.
By putting a plan of action in place to still anticipate the harvest will give you room to breath and then to plan accordingly with clear thoughts and less pressure.
Hi ladies,
Here is a business growth tip for you. I call it the ’15 minute coffee call’ and it is an invitation to those that you want to work with to introduce yourself and to learn more about what they do. I’m finding that it is a good way to break the ice and how I position the business is during the call I say “I’m really looking forward to hearing more about you and to share what I do as well. And, (Name), if during our conversation anything comes to mind of how I may be able to support you I’ll share that with you but please know there is no pressure here to say yes to anything. So (name), tell me about yourself.
If you’re in need of filling up your calendar with sales consultations try this tip and remember just to be yourself.
You can do it!
Thanks for this. I am always looking for ‘great’ ways to say things. Do you mind if I borrow your script? 🙂
Hi Deneen! Please do! I pray it brings in a flood for you of new business.
Hello ladies,
I think that many of us can say that 2020 is a year of unexpected changes and with this change as business owners there is always the question of how do we continue to grow the business.
This month I’m taking a look back on my products and services and asking two questions
1) Which of these align to my purpose
2) Which of these needs to go?
The second question is the most important because it calls for a time of prayer to seek God’s wisdom as to what should be the area I focus on now. As you think about the remaining part of 2020 know, growth is possible but it might look different than what you had planned.
To your success!
Hi LaDawn,
Thank you for providing the Business Tip for The Gathering last Friday. It definitely echoed what you are saying here in answering those questions and the power of focus.
I have been binge watching The Last Dance. It’s the story of the career of Michael Jordan and the last year before his retirement. I am just in awe of his transformation from not making the basketball team his first year in high school(!) to his determination and focus when he decided he was going to be the greatest basketball player of all time. So inspiring!
It’s all about focusing on what is most important and I am aspiring to do the same.
Continued success!
Hi Jackie,
I’m glad that it resonated with you. In this season we must focus on what are the key important items and also move ahead with massive action!
You’ve got this!
Cheering you on
I want to speak in front of people. I specialize in a) Overcoming Emotional Eating, b) Halting and Reversing Chronic Illness and I will be partnering soon with someone to put on a (my first) workshop on The Secret To Answering the Question What’s For Dinner? I am health/life coach. My target audience is busy moms who want to feed their families healthy meals and spend more time with them.
Hi Peggy, Did you have that workshop yet? How did it go? What was one thing you took away from it that was positive? How could you improve?
I would LOVE to chat about it. I have a teaching background (and a Drama background) so I know what it can look like to get started in speaking and facilitating workshops.
Let me know how it went or how it is going?
Deneen, Yes, I held that workshop, two in fact. The purpose of it was to simply get me out of my comfort zone. So in that regard it was successful. Now I need to figure out the rest of the business idea. I would love to chat with you and gather some ideas. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas.
I am having trouble getting started in my business. I just don’t know the first steps to take. Right now I am focused on writing my story so I can give talks and do a workshop on The Secret to Answering the Question What’s for Dinner and another one on The 7 Steps to Balancing Blood Sugar. I am not even sure what it is going to look like but I don’t want to keep waiting until I have it all figured out. The only thing I know for sure is to Stop and Listen to the Holy Spirit when ever I have questions. But He sure can be quiet at times.
Whenever I have coached people in their careers, I start by discussing their passion. Then we explore their vision for that passion. In your business, whom do you see yourself speaking in front of to deliver your speech? What do you hope to achieve through speaking? Keep trusting Gods plan for you. The Holy Spirit will lead you! You mentioned that you are not certain what it will look like right now but think of various scenarios. Do you want to be an author and sell your book? Do you want to speak about it on a stage, in a living room or support groups?
The business aspect is also something to consider. Do you want this to be a LLC? Do you embrace marketing and business or do you need help with that? We have wonderful Audacious Faith sisters who have businesses to assist you.
God will continue to unfold all Good ideas until you flourish!
Jenny, I would love to explore my vision and passion with you. I am noticing I am not moving forward because I keep bouncing all over the place with my ideas. I see myself as speaking in person, teaching ideas for meal prep to begin with and this leading to coaching young female professionals towards living a healthier lifestyle overall physically, emotionally and mentally. I would like to grow this virtually eventually. I am terrible at the business marketing and building side of things. Let’s chat sometime if you are willing. I hope you had a Merry Christmas.
When I left the corporate world to pursue my dream of writing and creating, it was like I was running from a burning building! I had no plan, and as hard as this is to admit, I still have no plan! Initially, I punted writing and creating full time because clients started coming to me asking for help with their online marketing. I had come from marketing and sales in my corporate career. Soon, I had a successful web development business. But I still wanted to write and create! So, in 2016, I let go of my marketing clients and have been struggling ever since to make an income and an impact through my work. Throughout my 30 year career in advertising and even with the web development business, the income just flowed right in without any sort of plan (most of those years were as an employee, so I had a staff, a billing and collections department, etc.). You who are coaches, I’m assuming you have a business plan. I know this is a huge question, but how do you write a business plan as an author and speaker? Any input would be appreciated!
Jackie, As an author your book is your main source no matter what you do AND there is a lot you can do around your book.
First decide what you want to do outside of your book sales. You have chosen speaking, that is one thing.
Do you want to give workshops? Is there a retreat within your book? Can you create any downloadable courses? Can you create videos?
Having a business plan is just deciding which way you are going to offer your products and services in a way that is good for your clients and in a way that is true to who you are.
Look up Kary Oberbrunner. He has some great ideas about turning your book into a business.
Thanks Deneen! I loved all of your input, and especially appreciate the example that you gave me of Kary Oberbrunner. I learn best by seeing examples, so this was so helpful. I will definitely study him for sure. Thanks for saying, “As an author, your book is your main source.” That’s what I want to do is to continue to write more books. That was very comforting and affirming, more than you will ever know.
I am changing direction from being a marketing consultant to being an author, speaker, and mindset mentor. So, I am starting over in many respects. There has been little growth for me. I am in the process of developing more programs and opportunities. The questions I wish to answer are: what are the desires of my heart, what brings me joy, who can I serve, and what is God calling me to do? Being in this entrepreneur space for over 10 years – having come from the corporate world, it is not for the faint of heart! I am confident that based on witnessing your gifts, that Audacious Faith will add to your growth and stability. I’m finding it to be a constant course correction as I learn more talking to people and finding their needs, pain points, and desires. So, you are not alone at all! I look forward to sharing successes in the future and of hearing about yours.
Jackie, it is good to know that we are all on an adventure with God. That we are not alone and that sometimes things change so much we really don’t know which way to go. I LOVE that we have sisters here that can walk this out with us, talk this out with us, and be there to give us strong advice.
Thanks for your openness in sharing.
Jackie, what an amazing adventure that you have embarked on and one that I know personally. Enjoy the process and allow yourself to ask question that might seem foreign ( and a bit uncomfortable) but just know in those moments the most creative answers can flow.
Thanks Deneen and LaDawn for your support and encouragement!
Does anyone know of any podcasts or blogs that focus on losing emotional, spiritual and physical weight? My book The Freedom to EAT – 10 Secrets for Lasting Weight Loss and Inner Peace was named finalist in the category of Health: Women’s Health by the International Book Awards. I’m wanting to gain exposure because I know that my book can help people lose physical, emotional, and spiritual weight.
I’d also love to get on any podcasts where I could talk about my book God Notes – Daily Doses of Divine Encouragement and meditation for Christians.
Deneen, have done this type of outreach for your book?
Most days I feel like I live under a rock! So, I’m not familiar with what is popular out there. Any feedback would be appreciated.
I missed this earlier this summer Jackie. As far as getting on podcasts, I would go into the app and use the search bar. Type in your topic and you will find who is talking about what you want to bring to the conversation. It does take some research. I always listen to the ones that look good to see if I like it (and then I can talk knowledgeably about the show too). You can reach out to the host via their website usually and offer you topic for their show.
My business growth feels like I have been all over the place. I think I am going in one direction and it is going well and then it seems to stall. I finally feel like I have learned enough to be going in the right direction and promised myself I would stay on track.
Has anyone else experienced this in their business? Going one way that leads no where and having to change direction?
What is really going on?
Oh My God yes, most of the time for me Deneen it has gotten comfortable and easy for me, and the direction changes because I finally realize it and let God have His way. most of the time it hard to travel down the new path then once I realize it I pray and say, Well God guess I was not on your road but mine….. I laugh and keep moving.
Oh girl have I! When those moments come I do a self check to lean into what the Holy Spirit is trying to tell me or if I’m just confusing the process 🙂
I’m excited to see where this new road takes you!
I had a major break through in my business last Janaury, then I got pregant with my second son in February and everything slowed down. Now that he is 9 months, i am trying to get caught back up.