In the increasingly digital landscape we operate in, understanding the essentials of reputation management is becoming undeniable for small businesses. When it comes to the decision-making process of your potential customers, your online reputation can be a definitive factor. With this in mind, stellar online reviews are not just an asset, they’re a requirement. So, let’s unravel the art and science of reputation management to bolster your business’s online image.
Unraveling the Significance of Online Reviews
In the grand scheme of reputation management essentials, online reviews are pivotal in establishing trust and credibility. These digital testimonials act as powerful marketing tools, enhancing your business’s visibility and directly influencing customer choices. A string of positive reviews can do wonders in attracting new customers and retaining existing ones.
Encouraging Customers to Voice Their Opinions
Your customers are your best advocates. However, encouraging them to share their experiences can sometimes be challenging. By offering exceptional service, simplifying the review process, and gently incentivising feedback, you can motivate your satisfied customers to contribute positive reviews.
Interacting with Reviews – The Good and The Not-So-Good
Reputation management is not just about harvesting positive reviews. Equally important is how you interact with them. Whether the review is a praising chorus or a criticism, each needs a thoughtful response. We’ll guide you through the process of addressing both types of feedback in a way that builds customer relationships and potentially converts dissatisfied customers into advocates.
Leveraging Reviews for Business Improvement
The power of online reviews extends beyond reputation management. They are a treasure trove of insightful data that can drive your business forward. Through analysing your customer feedback, you can identify patterns, pinpoint areas for improvement, and make informed decisions to refine your offerings and service.
Proactively Upholding Your Online Reputation
Reputation management is not a one-time task; it’s an ongoing effort. By regularly monitoring your online reviews, responding promptly to feedback, and implementing necessary changes, you can maintain a favourable online presence. Proactive management can also help mitigate potential negative feedback, keeping your business’s reputation sterling.
Tip: Addressing negative reviews with professionalism can turn a negative situation positive, showcasing your commitment to customer satisfaction and improving your online reputation.
In today’s digital world, reputation management is a cornerstone of small business success. No matter whether you have an extensive collection of reviews or are just starting to gather them, this guide aims to empower you to use online feedback to your advantage.
By proactively managing your online reputation, you can ensure your business shines brightly in the vast digital landscape. If you’re ready to elevate your reputation management essentials, our team at Done Digital is here to help with personalised, practical strategies tailored to your business.
Remember, managing your online reputation isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential part of your business’s online success. It’s about making the most of positive reviews and dealing with the negatives in a way that turns them into opportunities for improvement. And in doing so, you’re not just surviving, you’re thriving. Ready to take the next step? Schedule your free strategy call with Done Digital today and let us help you supercharge your online reputation.
As a small business owner, you may be wondering why customer feedback is so important. After all, you may have a good product or service, and your customers seem to be happy with what you offer. However, customer feedback can provide valuable insights that can help you improve your business and grow your customer base. Here are five reasons why customer feedback is essential for small businesses:
Improve customer satisfaction
As a small business owner, one of the most valuable assets you have is your customer base. Without happy and satisfied customers, your business won’t grow and succeed in the long run. That’s why customer feedback is so important. By listening to your customers and taking their feedback seriously, you can uncover valuable insights that can help you take your business to the next level.
Customer feedback can help you understand what your customers truly value and what they are looking for in a product or service. By addressing these needs and wants, you can create a more personalised experience for your customers that will keep them coming back for more.
Moreover, customer feedback can also help you improve your overall customer service. By understanding where customers may be experiencing issues, you can address them and make changes that will improve the experience for future customers. This can not only increase customer satisfaction but can also lead to positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations, which can attract new customers and increase revenue.
Identify areas for improvement
Customer feedback can also help you identify areas where your business may be falling short. For example, if you receive feedback that your customer service needs improvement, you can take steps to address this issue. By making changes based on customer feedback, you can improve your business and ensure that you are meeting the needs of your customers.
Furthermore, when customers feel heard and valued, they are more likely to become loyal brand advocates. By taking the time to listen to their feedback and make improvements, you demonstrate that you are committed to providing the best possible experience for your customers. This can lead to increased positive reviews, word-of-mouth referrals, and even repeat business.
Build trust
In a world where customers have countless options at their fingertips, it’s important to show that your small business is invested in their satisfaction. By actively seeking out customer feedback, you demonstrate that you value their input and want to create the best experience possible for them. This not only helps build trust and loyalty, but it can also attract new customers who are looking for businesses that prioritise customer satisfaction. And, let’s face it, in the age of social media and online reviews, word of mouth can make or break a business.
By taking customer feedback seriously and implementing changes based on their suggestions, you can create a positive reputation for your small business and stand out in a crowded market. Ultimately, customer feedback is a powerful tool that can help you create a culture of customer-centricity, drive growth, and establish your business as a leader in your industry.
Stay ahead of the competition
In today’s fast-paced business world, staying ahead of the competition is more important than ever. Customer feedback can give you a unique edge in this regard, as it can provide valuable insights into what your customers want and need. By actively seeking out customer feedback, you can gain a deeper understanding of your customers’ preferences, pain points, and expectations. This knowledge can be leveraged to make strategic changes to your business that set you apart from your competitors.
For instance, if your customers consistently provide feedback about a particular feature that they would like to see in your product or service, you can work to implement it before your competitors do. This can give you a first-mover advantage and help you capture a larger market share. Additionally, by addressing common customer complaints, you can improve your brand reputation and win over customers who may have had a negative experience with your competitors. In short, listening to customer feedback can help you stay ahead of the curve and thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.
Drive innovation
Finally, customer feedback can help drive innovation in your small business. When you listen to your customers and take their feedback into account, you gain valuable insights into their needs and preferences. These insights can help you identify new trends and opportunities that you may not have otherwise considered, and provide you with the inspiration and motivation to create new products or services that meet the changing needs of your customers.
Innovation is crucial for small businesses to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced and constantly evolving market. By utilising customer feedback to drive innovation, you can create unique and compelling offerings that stand out from the crowd and attract new customers. Additionally, by staying ahead of the curve and meeting the changing needs of your customers, you can build a strong reputation as a forward-thinking and customer-centric business.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, customer feedback is a powerful tool that can help small businesses improve their marketing efforts and stay ahead of the competition. It provides valuable insights into areas where your business is succeeding and where improvements can be made, which in turn can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Ultimately, customer feedback is an essential component of any successful small business marketing strategy, and should be a priority for any business looking to grow and thrive in today’s dynamic marketplace.
Discover the power of digital marketing today with Done Digital. Visit our website to learn more about how we can help your business succeed online!
https://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ox6sw103ktm.jpg10681600Kryzel Fernandezhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngKryzel Fernandez2023-05-01 15:38:132023-06-05 15:07:13Unlock the Power of Customer Feedback for Small Business: 5 Reasons Why it Matters
Achieving small business growth is the name of the game for entrepreneurs, but sometimes it feels like you’re chasing a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow. If you’re feeling the frustration of slow progress, it’s time to sleuth out what’s holding you back. In this article, we share five common culprits stalling growth of small businesses, and how to outsmart them.
1. Missing a clear vision and strategy (like a ship without a compass)
Small business growth needs a clear vision and strategy, or else you’ll be sailing in circles. Take the time to map out your destination and chart the course by defining your goals, target audience, value proposition, and marketing tactics. With a solid plan, you’ll be well on your way to business success.
In addition to crafting a solid plan, it’s essential to regularly review and adjust your business strategy to ensure you stay on course. As you make progress and learn more about your market, customers, and competitors, you may uncover insights that warrant fine-tuning your approach. Regularly revisiting your business vision, objectives, and tactics allows you to pivot as needed, keeping your small business nimble and responsive to the ever-changing landscape. With a dynamic strategy that evolves alongside your business, you’ll chart a path to sustainable growth and long-term success.
2. Not-so-awesome customer experience (uh-oh!)
Customer experience is like the secret sauce for small business growth. If your customers aren’t delighted, they won’t come back for seconds or tell their friends. Make sure you’re providing top-notch customer service, keeping your promises, and responding to feedback like a pro. Spice things up with customer loyalty programs, personalised experiences, and insightful feedback tools.
Moreover, remember that communication is key in enhancing customer experience. Keep your customers informed and engaged through regular updates, newsletters, and social media interactions. By proactively addressing their needs and concerns, you’ll foster long-lasting relationships, build trust, and ultimately create a loyal customer base that fuels your small business growth. Embrace the power of a positive customer experience and watch your business soar to new heights.
3. Lacklustre marketing (time for a makeover!)
Effective marketing is like the fuel that powers small business growth, but not all strategies will rev your engine. If your marketing isn’t driving results, it’s time for a pit stop to reevaluate your approach. Ensure you’re targeting the right audience, using the best channels, and delivering a message that resonates. Consider joining forces with a professional marketing agency to turbocharge your strategy.
Additionally, don’t shy away from experimenting with different marketing tactics to find the perfect mix for your business. Explore the world of content marketing, email campaigns, social media advertising, and search engine optimisation to maximise your reach and impact. Use the right tools to continuously track your marketing performance through key metrics and analytics, allowing you to fine-tune your approach and make data-driven decisions. By staying agile and adaptable in your marketing strategies, you’ll fuel your small business growth and leave the competition in the dust.
Small business growth is no accident. You need the right strategy and team to make it happen.
4. Trying to do it all yourself (calling in reinforcements!)
Trying to juggle every aspect of your business single-handedly can put the brakes on small business growth. While it might seem cost-effective initially, it can lead to burnout and a stalled engine. Instead, recruit a dream team by delegating or outsourcing tasks to experts who can knock them out of the park, freeing you up to focus on strategic planning and building customer relationships.
Embracing collaboration and teamwork not only eases the burden on your shoulders but also brings diverse skillsets and fresh perspectives to the table, fostering innovation and problem-solving in your small business growth journey. Cultivate a positive work culture that encourages open communication, mutual support, and ongoing professional development. By investing in your team and leveraging their strengths, you’ll create a powerhouse capable of overcoming challenges, driving growth, and propelling your business towards long-term success.
5. Resisting change (embrace the winds of change!)
The business world is like a kaleidoscope, constantly changing and offering new perspectives. If you don’t adapt, your small business growth might hit a standstill. Keep your finger on the pulse of industry trends, emerging technologies, and customer preferences, and be ready to shift gears when needed. Embrace change, take calculated risks, but never lose sight of the finish line.
In this ever-evolving landscape, building a culture of learning and adaptability within your organisation is crucial for sustained small business growth. Encourage your team to stay curious, attend workshops, and engage in industry-related events to stay ahead of the curve. Foster an environment where ideas are valued, and experimentation is welcomed. By instilling a growth mindset and promoting resilience, you’ll ensure that your business is well-equipped to navigate the dynamic market, seize new opportunities, and emerge stronger in the face of challenges, propelling your small business growth to greater heights.
Accelerate your business growth with Done Digital by your side
If your business isn’t zooming ahead as fast as you’d like, don’t throw in the towel. By tackling these common hurdles and leaping over them with grace, you’ll set yourself up for success and reach your growth goals. Stay focused, remain agile, and never stop learning!
Ready to put the pedal to the metal? Schedule a free strategy session with one of our marketing consultants today and find out how to accelerate your business like never before.
https://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/txxifuqlbkq.jpg10671600David Lee-Schneiderhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngDavid Lee-Schneider2023-04-22 11:48:032023-04-22 14:49:37Small Business Growth Unlocked: Top 5 Obstacles and How to Crush Them
Ask ten business owners what marketing is, and you’ll get ten different answers. Some say it’s advertising, others think it’s social media or word of mouth. The truth is, marketing is all of that and much more.
Here’s how I define it:
“Marketing is everything you do to GAIN and RETAIN customers.”
In other words, marketing isn’t just about running ads or posting on your Facebook page. It’s about everything you do to attract people, convert them into buyers, and keep them coming back. If you’ve watched some of my videos or visited my marketing blog before, you’ve probably heard me talk about the three pillars of business success:
Attract
Convert
Deliver
In this article, I’ll share 30 practical strategies across these three pillars to help you grow your business, increase sales, and save time through smarter marketing.
Attraction – How to attract more potential customers
Attracting new customers fuels growth but it’s also something many business owners struggle with. The following ten strategies will help you consistently attract new potential customers. Try combining several of these in your business for the best results.
1. Have a great website
Your website can be so much more than an online brochure. It’s your digital storefront — a place to build trust and generate leads. Yet, many business websites only talk about the company instead of helping visitors solve their problems. Learn what makes a great site with these examples and review the 17 crucial elements every business website needs to convert visitors into customers.
2. Be on social media
Social media can be a powerful engagement tool — if used strategically. Don’t just create an account; be active. Use social platforms to drive potential customers back to your website (where you’re not competing with cat videos). If consistency is an issue, automate it. Tools now let you plan and post content automatically. Check out my complete guide to automating your social media posts to save time and stay visible effortlessly.
3. Run print ads
Even in a digital world, print ads still have their place. The key is to track your success. Don’t pay for “exposure” — pay for measurable results. Use clear calls-to-action like coupons or trackable URLs so you can calculate your return on investment.
Example: If you spend $300 on an ad that brings in 100 leads, that’s $3 per lead. If three of those leads convert at $200 each, you’ve made $600 — doubling your investment. Even if you just break even, you’re still building a valuable customer list.
4. Run online ads (Google, Facebook, YouTube)
Online ads let you target specific audiences precisely. For example, if you own a beauty salon in Sydney, you could show your ad only to women aged 30–50 in your local area who are interested in beauty services. That’s far more cost-effective than paying for print ads that reach people who may never visit your salon.
Always remember: never invest in advertising that can’t be measured.
5. Partner with other businesses
Business partnerships or joint ventures are one of the fastest and most underused ways to grow. For example, I helped a café with a 10,000-person customer list partner with a local massage business. Together, we sent a $25 gift voucher to every café customer — positioning the café as generous while putting the massage therapist in front of thousands of locals instantly. One email, 10,000 people reached. That’s leverage.
6. Write a blog
Your customers already search online for answers. Blogging positions you as the expert they find first. Think of it like owning real estate online — every article becomes a long-term asset that brings traffic for years. This is what I call Evergreen Marketing. Consider hiring a writer to produce 12 high-quality articles, post them monthly, and promote them across your channels.
7. Optimise your website for search engines (SEO)
SEO isn’t dead — it’s evolved. Today, Google rewards readability, valuable content, and engagement. Focus on writing helpful, well-structured content people actually want to read and share. If you’re on WordPress, use the Yoast SEO plugin to optimise each page.
8. Run a competition or giveaway
Giveaways can quickly grow your list — but only if they attract the right people. Avoid generic prizes like iPads. Offer something directly related to your product or service. If you’re an accountant, for instance, offer a free Xero setup or consultation. Always follow up with non-winners to turn interest into sales.
9. Run a survey or quiz
Surveys and quizzes are great for gathering insights and building your list. Keep them short and focused on what helps you improve your offer. Partner with complementary businesses if you don’t yet have your own audience. For more on this strategy, I recommend Ryan Levesque’s book ASK.
10. Send a press release to media outlets
A great story can get you free publicity worth thousands. Focus on human stories — not self-promotion. For example, instead of “Local roofer launches new website,” write “Local roofer helps the homeless stay dry by donating tents for Christmas.” Journalists love stories that connect emotionally. Download my free press release template to get started.
Now that you know how to attract more people to your business, the next step is turning those visitors into paying customers.
Conversion – How to turn browsers into buyers
Attracting attention is only half the battle. Now it’s time to turn that interest into revenue. The Conversion stage is where relationships begin to form and browsers become buyers. This is where your communication, offers, and systems come together to guide people toward a confident “yes.”
These ten strategies will help you create stronger connections, build trust, and convert more leads into loyal customers, without feeling pushy or salesy.
11. Create a lead magnet
A lead magnet is a valuable free offer that attracts your ideal customers — a discount, checklist, eBook, video, or free trial. It should solve a small but meaningful problem and serve as the first step in your customer’s transformation.
12. Use email automation to educate and engage with your audience
Email is still one of the most profitable marketing tools — especially when automated. Set up a series of emails that guide subscribers through a journey: answering FAQs, sharing testimonials, and offering helpful insights before presenting your offer. This keeps you top of mind and moves people closer to buying — automatically.
13. Use a chatbot to help people find what they need faster
Chatbots streamline customer support and sales. They can answer common questions, share your location or pricing, or direct users to your booking page — all while you focus on other things. Tools like Chatfuel and ManyChat integrate seamlessly with social media and websites, helping you provide fast, friendly service 24/7.
14. Create a strong offer people can’t refuse
Sometimes success comes down to packaging. McDonald’s skyrocketed profits by turning individual items into value meals and asking, “Would you like fries with that?” Look for ways to add perceived value — bundles, bonuses, or upgrades — without drastically raising your price.
15. Run retargeting ads
Retargeting ads allow you to follow up with people who already interacted with your brand. For example, show ads only to those who visited your site or watched your webinar. It’s one of the most cost-effective ways to increase conversions because you’re marketing to people who already know you.
16. Find a way to help more people
Ask yourself: “If I had to help 10 times more people than I do now, how would I do it?” Maybe that means shifting from one-on-one to one-to-many models or creating a DIY version of your service. Thinking bigger helps you identify bottlenecks and opportunities for growth.
17. Run ‘limited-time only’ offers
Limited-time offers create urgency and excitement. Test small product batches or temporary services to gauge interest. For instance, a café could offer a special seasonal drink and track how it performs before adding it permanently to the menu.
18. Be easy to do business with
Make it simple for customers to buy from you. Offer multiple payment methods, clear communication options (phone, text, email, social), and frictionless booking or checkout processes. The easier it is, the more people will say “yes.”
19. Get to know your customers better
Never assume you know what your customers want. Ask, listen, and adapt. Understanding their true motivations builds deeper trust and longer-lasting relationships. Sometimes the best sale you can make is recommending something they need before yours.
20. Make sure your website has all the right elements
Your website should do more than “exist.” A great site builds authority, generates leads, answers questions, and converts visitors into buyers. Think of it as your online headquarters — a place where every piece of your marketing connects.
So, you’ve made the sale — congratulations! But marketing doesn’t stop there. What happens next determines whether customers stay for life or disappear after one purchase.
Delivery – How to grow your business during and after the sale
The moment a customer buys from you, a new stage of marketing begins. The Delivery phase is where you turn promises into experiences and customers into raving fans. It’s about delighting people, building loyalty, and inspiring them to come back, maybe even bring their friends.
These final ten strategies will help you strengthen relationships, increase repeat business, and grow through exceptional service and genuine connection.
21. Provide great customer service
Exceptional service creates loyal customers and positive word of mouth. When people feel genuinely cared for, they not only come back — they tell others. Great service is your most underrated marketing channel.
22. Ensure people only buy what they need
Selling the wrong product to the wrong customer hurts your reputation and long-term profits. Focus on fit, not just sales. Honesty builds trust and referrals — the foundation of any sustainable business.
23. Offer high-quality products and services
Marketing brings customers in, but quality keeps them. Review your products regularly, collect feedback, and fix issues fast. The goal? Create experiences so good that people can’t help but tell others about you.
24. Overdeliver and exceed expectations
Surprise your customers with something extra — a handwritten note, bonus content, or unexpected follow-up. These small gestures build emotional connection and turn happy customers into lifelong advocates.
25. Follow up after the sale
Don’t stop communicating once the money changes hands. A simple follow-up email asking, “How are you enjoying your purchase?” shows you care. It also opens doors for feedback, testimonials, and future sales.
26. Invite customers to leave reviews
Positive reviews are today’s word of mouth. Ask for them proactively and make it easy with direct links to Google, Facebook, or TripAdvisor. If you get a negative review, respond with professionalism and empathy. How you handle criticism can actually boost your reputation.
27. Add customer testimonials to your website
Testimonials are social proof in action. Feature them on your homepage, sales pages, and contact page. When possible, include video testimonials — they’re authentic, persuasive, and hard to ignore.
28. Send a thank-you note
Whether it’s a quick email, a handwritten card, or a small gift, gratitude goes a long way. A simple “thank you” turns transactions into relationships and shows customers you truly value their business.
29. Offer upsells and cross-sells
Existing customers are the easiest to sell to. Offer relevant upgrades (upsells) or complementary products (cross-sells) that enhance their experience. When done thoughtfully, these offers feel helpful, not pushy.
30. Consider offering a subscription or membership
Recurring revenue adds stability to your business. From VIP memberships to maintenance plans or exclusive access communities, subscriptions deepen relationships and create predictable income while rewarding your most loyal customers.
Marketing doesn’t have to feel complicated or time-consuming. When you focus on the three pillars — Attract, Convert, and Deliver — everything you do starts working together. Build systems that attract customers automatically, convert them authentically, and deliver experiences that make them stay.
https://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/04x1yp9hnh8.jpg10671600David Lee-Schneiderhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngDavid Lee-Schneider2019-07-25 10:15:082025-10-08 01:42:31How To Do Marketing – 30 Ways To Grow Your Business
The biggest challenge most of my clients face is knowing what to focus on in their marketing. It can be incredibly overwhelming with all the different options and tools out there – social media platforms, advertising platforms (print and digital), search engines, autoresponders, tech tools, productivity tools – the list goes on and on. How do we know what’s right for us, and at the stage, we’re currently in?
The big mistake many business owners make is that they focus on lead generation BEFORE getting their conversions right, only to realise that they’re spending way too much money and time on marketing without getting the results they’re after.
In my 90-Day Marketing Transformation, we follow a clear marketing roadmap to help you focus on your marketing activities in the right order, so you can maximise results while minimising cost and effort. It’s divided into three pillars.
ATTRACTION
CONVERSION
AMPLIFICATION
The order in which you focus on your marketing activities is crucial. As you will agree, it doesn’t make sense to launch an ad campaign (amplification pillar) before knowing that you can actually convert these people. It would be like increasing the amount of fuel you pour into a car that only has 2 wheels. More fuel won’t make it go any faster unless you have a working vehicle.
The Marketing Roadmap – 3 Ways To Grow Your Business in 2025
First things first. Most business owners would like to jump straight in and throw money at ads (either print or online) before having laid a solid marketing foundation. You wouldn’t start building a house before having a solid plan and foundation to build on. In the same way, you need to address your marketing activities in the right order. Here are 3 things you need to focus on BEFORE spending a single cent on advertising or other costly marketing activities.
1. Create a Lead Magnet
A lead magnet is a tool to help you build a list of potential customers. It’s something of value to your target audience that you can send them for free but in return for their name and email address. This is a crucial part of any marketing strategy and should be the very first thing to decide on, as it gives people a way to connect with your business even before they’re ready to buy. Here are some examples of lead magnets you could use in your business.
Free guide or ebook
Free video or tutorial
Discount code or value voucher
Free checklist or time-saving template
Free report with information that’s highly relevant to your customers
I – for example – offer a free 17-point website checklist, as that is something most of my clients struggle with. You may also find these free downloads helpful as examples for strategic lead magnets.
2. CRM & Email Automation
Once you decided on your lead magnet, the second step is to choose a CRM (Customer Relationship Management Software) and an email marketing provider that you will use to build your list. Some CRM’s already have email automation built-in. There are loads of options out there, some very basic and some with more advanced marketing automation features that you probably won’t need at the start. The important thing is to just get started.
When starting out, a free service like Mailchimp may suffice (they offer a free plan until you reach a certain number of subscribers). Here are two options that I personally recommend for small businesses and which I have used myself.
Once a potential customer opted in for your free lead magnet, what are the next steps you want them to take? What information will they be looking for before they are ready to become your customer? It’s important not to treat every person as if they are ready to buy from you right now. Instead, focus on building a relationship with them first, so that when they are ready to buy your product or service, your business becomes their natural first choice.
Here’s what that customer journey looks like in one of my other businesses (a yoga studio).
Step 1: Claim a FREE Yoga Pass
Step 2: Send Introductory Offer
Step 3: Upgrade to 10-Class Pass or Membership
Step 5: Offer Workshops & Retreats
For most people, it’s too much of a stretch to go from never having tried yoga before to committing to a membership or a yoga retreat. But a free yoga pass will help them get started and move towards that goal.
This is a natural progression that eases people into their journey of becoming long-term customers, slowly moving them from free to higher-priced products. Timing is a crucial element in marketing. Make sure that the messages you send people are relevant to the stage they’re currently in. This can be automated using email automation software (see the previous point) or using a messaging bot.
The key is – always focus on educating and connecting with your customers more than you focus on selling.
00David Lee-Schneiderhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngDavid Lee-Schneider2019-01-04 23:12:212019-01-04 23:12:213 Things Your Business Needs BEFORE Spending A Single Cent On Ads
Every business owner wants their business to thrive. But to Improve your business, you can’t just rely on sheer luck. There are certain fundamentals of running a business that simply can’t be skipped. Here are a few changes you can make to running your business to dramatically improve performance and push you to the top of the pack.
1. Giving Back to Improve Your Business
While this may sound a little counterintuitive, one thing you can do to improve your business is to give back. Ensure you have a life mission reflecting your need to make a difference in the lives of others. Money should not be the main motivation because it’s usually a non-monetary purpose that will help you keep going during challenging times and bring you the self-satisfaction, and happiness that you are looking for. Giving back to your local community will also increase support for your business. What are some ways in which you can give back? Can you contribute to a good cause? Donate products or services? Provide guidance to other local businesses?
2. Practice Physical Activity
This may not seem business-related, however, engaging in physical activity is one of the best ways to improve your quality of sleep, boost brain chemistry, become more creative, and clear your mind. It also helps to boost your longevity, happiness, and health. This will have a direct effect on how you think and operate your business, so you can be more productive in growing your business.
3. Self-coaching
When we think of coaching, we usually think of being coached by someone else. But becoming your own coach and maintaining a positive inner dialogue can be one of the most significant changes you’ll ever make in your life. It’s easy to slip into negative self-talk and go down the slippery slope of self-blame and self-pity. But if we want our business to be successful, then we need to develop a positive outlook on things, become our own best friend and coach ourselves through the tough times.
4. Be Willing to Do What It Takes
True success rarely comes without sacrifices. So, make it a habit to show up every day. Commit to the long haul and be willing to devote your energy and time to work toward your goals. Identify time-consuming distractions that take your focus away from your business and life. Do at least one thing every day to move you closer to your goals. Of course, in order to do so, we need to first get clear on what our goals are. Click here to learn how to write a business vision to gain clarity and motivation.
5. Love What You Do
I’ve found that the most successful business owners I work with have dedicated their lives and businesses to what they do best and love most. As a result, they create wonderful businesses that bring joy and add value to their customers. Are you creating a business that you truly love or are you merely focused on making an income? The good news is, it’s possible to do both!
6. Start a Journal
Another thing you can do to improve your business is to start journaling. Regularly write down your thoughts and ideas, so you can translate them into tangible form. Writing offers us a different perspective on our desires, our current state, our goals and helps us reflect on our mistakes. Don’t just get busy going down the wrong path. Make time to reflect and redirect your efforts to ensure you arrive at a place you actually love.
7. Improve your Business by Making Lists
Lists are amazing. They help us capture goals we want to accomplish and stay on track when we feel a little lost. Learn to work with different lists for the upcoming day, week, month, and year. Be sure to prioritise the items on your lists, so you can allocate your time and effort to what’s most important to you at any given time. When we write down our dreams and desires we turn them into goals, which significantly increases our chances of actually achieving them.
8. Learn to Listen
Listening is an important skill in business. Whether it’s our customers, partners or the people we work with, actively listening will offer us a deeper understanding to ultimately make better decisions. Regularly collect honest customer feedback to truly understand their needs and tweak your business accordingly. Learn to use their language, rather than jargon. No one wants to buy from someone they don’t understand.
9. Practice Clearing Your Mind
As business owners, we often have to wear multiple hats, which can become quite overwhelming at times. It’s important to make time to clear our minds every now and then to stay focused. Learn to make quick decisions that are conclusive to avoid cluttering your mind with unfinished business. The habit of constantly delaying our decision-making can have a huge impact on our well-being. While it may not always possible, try to make it a habit to never leave work without a clear mind. Lots of small unfinished decisions can quickly build up and prevent us from focusing our energy and headspace on the truly important ones.
10. Find Ways to Leverage Your Time
Lastly, find ways to make better use of your own time. Just because you do something better than anyone else, it doesn’t mean that it’s the best use of your time. Today, many business and marketing processes can be completely automated. In his book ‘The Four Hour Work Week‘, Tim Ferris suggests we delegate any tasks we can to free up our own time and headspace. But before delegating any tasks, we should see if it’s possible to automate them instead. Automation allows us to save vast amounts of time and significantly reduce operating costs. Automation not only helps us simplify running our business but also be more profitable.
As a marketing consultant, I help business owners to automate all of their marketing activities, so they can focus on running their business without worrying about where new customers are going to come from. If you would like to have a chat about how you can grow your business faster and more effectively, book a free strategy call with me here.
00David Lee-Schneiderhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngDavid Lee-Schneider2018-06-12 12:13:352018-06-12 12:13:3510 Changes You Can Make to Improve Your Business Dramatically
While some business owners struggle to keep their businesses afloat, others appear to flourish even in the most difficult times.
For some, a common complaint seems to be that referrals simply aren’t enough to drum up business anymore. The interesting thing is that most of these same business owners are not trying anything different to market their businesses even though the market clearly seems to have changed. On the other hand, there are business owners who have seen exceptional business growth all through the year and not just any kind of growth either; I am talking about stellar growth.
So what are the things that set successful business owners apart? Here are nine things successful business owners do differently.
1. They Don’t Focus on the State of the Economy
Instead, they focus on how it alters buying behaviours exhibited by their customers without letting the despondency of it depress them. If your services or products are genuinely useful or helpful, then you will definitely find people who are willing to buy from you regardless of the economic conditions.
2. They Offer their Customers Something New
If you find that people aren’t buying what you’re selling, even though they used to, this could be an indication that you need to change things up. The obvious reaction would be to cut your prices, but this will devalue what you are offering. Instead, try adding value by developing new packages out of services and products you already own or updating your current offerings. You could go as far as to offer something entirely new such as training programs, new product bundles or products, an eBook, or even a workshop. Be creative and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. All successful business owners do.
3. They Don’t Just Guess
Successful business owners don’t guess. Conduct a survey and collect customer feedback to discover what they want, so you can offer products and services that are in high demand. You can use free or low-cost online surveys or provide your customers with an in-person questionnaire. Honest customer feedback will help you make better decisions in your business and reassure you when you are on the right track. Be sure to always rely on facts and numbers and stop guessing.
4. They Take Advantage of New Technology
The digital space has grown rapidly in recent years and I am sure you have used one tool or another in your own business. So why not use it to improve your online presence? The social networking tools at your disposal also make it cheaper for you to effectively market your business. Social media allows you to expand your reach and maybe even have fun in the process. However, it is crucial that you actually have a game plan. Download your free social media blueprint to put your entire content strategy on autopilot.
5. They Constantly Grow Their List
Ensure you have a list of your current and previous customers that you keep in touch with, not to mention new prospects. This will help them remember and get to know your business better. Of course, you can collect contact information in your office or over the phone and send out print materials. But to truly leverage your time and tap into your list’s full potential, you should have an offer and sign-up system on your website as part of your marketing strategy and then keep in touch using smart email automation. Why restrict yourself? You can even use both methods to supercharge your list growth.
6. They Offer Value
People expect more value for their money and time today than ever before, so focus less on selling your services and products and more on offering helpful solutions in your marketing strategy for better results. The more value you give, the more people will want to buy from you.
7. They Do Mixed Media Marketing
Develop a marketing plan and strategy that allows you to use multiple tactics or media channels to reach your target audience instead of focusing on just one. Ask yourself where your ideal customers hang out and how to best engage with them on their preferred platform. Then develop a strategy to direct them onto your own list.
8. They Never Stop Learning
Times are changing and you need to stay updated on what is new and working currently but you cannot do this if you are always busy in your business. Successful business owners understand the importance of taking time out of their business to learn and grow. Network, take part in seminars or read new material to meet new people and learn new things about the industry. Check out this list of 6 TED Talks every business owner must watch.
9. They Don’t Do It All Themselves
And finally, you probably don’t have time to learn about everything it takes to run, grow, and promote your business, particularly online. You may end up hitting a wall whereby your business will cease to grow; you will burn out, and feel exhausted. Hire an employee or virtual assistant to help you with repetitive tasks. Engage a professional marketing consultant or digital agency to help you develop and implement a sound marketing strategy that will save you time and headspace. If you’d like to have a chat about how to best grow your business, you can book a free strategy call here.
There you have it. Nine things that will not only help you become more successful in your business but happier as well.
00David Lee-Schneiderhttps://donedigital.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/done-digital-marketing-brisbane-logo-white-1030x175.pngDavid Lee-Schneider2018-06-11 13:34:372018-06-11 13:34:37Nine Things Successful Business Owners (Who Are Actually Happy) Do Differently
Done Digital
Done Digital Marketing
