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How and When to Ask for Referrals

Do you avoid asking for referrals because you don’t think you can reciprocate? If so, you’re not alone. This is one of the topics from the most recent episode of the Marketing Mentor Podcast with special guest Maegan Megginson, of Deeply Rested. Maegan’s a therapist-turned-coach who helps business owners find a path out of overwhelm. And she approaches networking a lot like I do, with a focus on relationship-building. Or what I call making “business friends.” Now, if you think the purpose of networking is to connect with potential clients, that’s only part of it. Sometimes referral sources – peers and people who could potentially send business your way – are even more valuable. It’s all part of building your most valuable asset - your network. Maegan agrees that when you focus on the person in front of you, rather than what you want to “get” from them, networking is more fun and more effective. But how do you ask a new “business friend” for a referral when you don’t know any...
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Your Business, Your Purpose with Maegan Megginson

When you’re self employed, your business is you. It’s not necessarily about you but it must reflect you. But what exactly does that mean? That’s the topic today in my conversation with  Maegan Megginson , of Deeply Rested ( newsletter and podcast ) who has evolved her business over the years into one that not only reflects her main purpose but also seeks to help business owners do that too. That’s the heart of today’s episode. Here's what we covered:  The Pivot: How Maegan went from being couples and sex therapist to a business coach to her current and more integrative approach to serving business owners. The Uncertainty: How to handle the uncertainty and discomfort of not quite knowing yet what your business is as it evolves. The System: The idea that under capitalism, business is disconnected from nature and who we are as human beings. But what if our business could instead be an extension of who we are as people? The Questions: Asking existential questions about...
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Do You Have “Out of The Blue” Syndrome?

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I’m thrilled that SMP members are reporting so many wins lately. New clients, new projects, retainer deals… But when I ask them how it happened, they say things like: “I accidentally came across this person.” Or…  “It was totally random.” But the thing is, it’s not random. If you planted seeds in late fall, would you be surprised to see sprouts popping up come spring? Of course not. You planted them! But when a potential client reaches out, people often tell me it’s “out of the blue.” I hear this so often I’ve started calling it:  “Out of the Blue Syndrome.” When someone new reaches out, it can feel like you’re getting a client “out of the blue.” But in reality, they’re reaching out because you’re planting seeds with your marketing. I shared this new idea with SMP members in our recent Office Hours and here are some of my favorite comments:  You plant a “seed” every time you: Post on LinkedIn Publish a newsletter issue Connect with a potential client on LinkedIn A...
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Passover Greeting Messages for Small Businesses

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Chag Sameach! Also known as Pesach, Passover is a Jewish holiday commemorating the Ancient Israelites’ exodus from slavery. This important religious holiday often is celebrated with plenty of pomp and festivity, particularly on the first day when families hold a special meal known as Passover seder. Looking to extend your best wishes to professional colleagues for Passover? Explore these 60 Passover greeting messages tailored for small businesses. How do You Wish Someone Happy Passover? How do you wish someone a happy Passover? What makes an appropriate professional message for Passover? People appreciate holiday messages, and Passover is no exception. In fact, some religious observers will feel special appreciation knowing you honor their faith. When sending messages from a small business, it’s important to wish a happy Passover with a professional tone and language. Passover messages can be sent via email, text message, direct message or written into a greeting card. Y...
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Who has the power? with Melody Wilding

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Who really has the power: you or your client?  You may feel like they do, but that is actually not the case. If it were, you might as well just get a J-O-B. One of the main reasons to be self employed – to shoulder the responsibility – is so that you aren’t at the mercy of anyone – especially your client.  So if you think they have the power, Episode 521 of the Marketing Mentor Podcast is for you.  It's a conversation with executive coach and author, Melody Wilding, whose new book, Managing Up , is just out.  So listen here (and below)… If you want my help finding actual clients using AI,  check out my new 1:1 AI Client Finding Coaching Calls. And if you like what you hear, we’d love it if you write a review, subscribe here and sign up for Quick Tips from Marketing Mentor. * This article was originally published here
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Tips for package pricing

Here's a guest post from Jill Anderson of Jill Lynn Design: I’ve been a WordPress designer and developer for 20+ years, and I’ve learned a few things along the way. One of the most transformational things I’ve implemented in my business along the way has to be package pricing.  Before package pricing, I was quoting each project individually, and spending way too much time with prospects who had little or no budget. After package pricing, people would reach out and say, “I want this package. How do we get started?”  Do you know how much time and confusion that has saved me?  A lot!  Do you know how much more profitable it has been?  Also a lot.  In our businesses, sometimes the way we do things on the forward-facing side, can create so much efficiency and sanity behind the scenes. So if you’ve ever wondered —  Should I offer packages with pricing?  — my advice is absolutely, yes. And in my latest blog post, I share why.  Find out why I love package pricing, and read my 7 t...
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Exploring Loyalty: Customer Experience Statistics

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Understanding the intricate relationship between customer experience (CX) and brand loyalty is a must in today’s dynamic business landscape. As consumer behavior evolves, so does the concept of brand devotion. In this article, we go into 60 essential customer experience statistics, shedding light on the impact of positive experiences, customer loyalty, and emerging trends. Defining Customer Experience Customer experience (CX) refers to the overall perception and interaction a customer has with a brand throughout their entire journey. It encompasses every touchpoint, from initial awareness to post-purchase support. CX extends beyond individual transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships and fostering trust. The Role of Customer Experience in Today’s Business Landscape In the hyper-competitive business world, CX has become a strategic differentiator. Here’s why it matters: Customer Retention : Exceptional CX leads to higher customer retention rates. Satisfied custo...
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