Entrepreneurship

My Favorite Tools I Use to Run My Online Business

September 4, 2018 Leave a Comment

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through my link, I get a small commission at no cost to you!

Having an online business is fun, creative and especially rewarding. But, this baby takes tools and systems to keep it running! That’s where all my various tools come into place.

Whether it’s for marketing, operations or transactions, these tools help me run my online business more efficiently. By efficient, I mean so I don’t have to do it.

Mailerlite

As a content creator, my passion is writing. Not sending emails. So, me and Mailerlite became fast friends. Mailerlite is a marketing automation platform that assists with all things email.

I use Mailerlite to send out stunning emails, create converting landing pages and create wonderful funnels. Without it, my email marketing would be probably nonexistent.

Dubsado

Keeping up with clients, projects and invoices is not easy. In fact, it can be a pain. So, to make the workload a little easier, I got Dubsado, a CRM for creative entrepreneurs like myself.

With Dubsado, I handle all of my invoicing from creating to sending, keep track of all my client projects and create and send contracts for any work I do.

Sellfy

This is not for taking pictures of yourself as it may sound like. It’s for selling your amazing digital products! Sellfy takes the hassle out of having to do the transactions and sending manually. Post your product there and Sellfy handles the rest.

I use Sellfy for selling ebooks, guides, toolkits, and it’s great because it’s also gives you a cute little storefront so people can shop or you can embed the links on your website.

Google Calendar/Calendly

Listen, there is literally no place I’d go if it wasn’t on my google calendar. This calendar keeps my life in check. The best part about Google Calendar is it syncs to EVERYTHING.

I use Calendly to schedule client calls which automatically sync to my calendar when it’s booked. My iPhone calendar is linked so if anything like holidays or even when I ask Siri to add something, it will also appear on google. Even Alexa can put stuff on your Google Calendar with just the sound of your voice (As you can see from the 31st, it’s not always 100% good at picking up what you’re saying lol!) This combination of tools keeps my life on track.

Later

If you’re following me on Instagram (which you should be), you may notice I post quite a lot. Everyday to be exact. Well, trust me. I’m not sitting on my phone each day sharing pics with amazing captions. Instead, I use Later to do it for me.

With Later, I can batch all my content for 2 weeks including images, captions and hashtags. With an Instagram business account, Later posts to my Instagram automatically without me needing to do anything! If you don’t have a business account you still get access to powerful analytics that you don’t get on Instagram itself.

The right tools can truly make your business thrive. I use each and everyone to help with marketing, time management, clients and more! What are some of your favorite tools to use for business? Answer in the comments below.

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5 Ways to Brand Your Social Media Marketing

August 14, 2018 Leave a Comment

It’s no secret a solid social media strategy can make a huge impact in your business’s success. Standard for almost all businesses, especially those that run digitally. However, upping your social media marketing game is going to require your brand being in the forefront.

So to make it easy, here are 5 ways to brand your social media and feelgood about the marketing strategy you’re using to attract your ideal audience.

1. Call to action

It’s great to show an authentic side of yourself, the person behind the business. Most of the time, those posts are candid and in the moment. But hitting your goals is easier when you have a call to action in your posts; this could lead people back to your website to check out your new blog post, or follow the link to book a call with you, etc. Never be afraid to provide the next connection step.

2. Brand your curated posts

You can do this with a logo, submark, or graphic element that relates to your brand. I always tell my branding clients…”don’t skip this step!” These are the breadcrumbs, if you will, to ensure brand recognition and lead followers back to you.

3. Use a content calendar

This is a game changer and should be apart of your marketing prep. Personally I like to tailor mine to my sales or connection goals for the month. The content usually reflects a piece of our brand story, testimonials to share our clients success, and questions to make sure I’m providing the most relevant resources, etc.

TIP: just when you think you’ve said it enough, keep saying it. Reminding people how you started, what you do, who your brands supports, etc. will always be relevant! If you don’t have a content calendar, you can grab the one I use here.

4. Show your face

Believe it or not, this is tricky for some of us; I get it. But here’s a reality check: for all intended purposes, you are the face of your brand. Embrace it! Because people buy from people, not businesses.

PS: If you haven’t taken the time to get some professional brand photos, then here’s your permission slip. It was one of my best investments for my self confidence AND brand. Now people often recognize and associate me with donuts + coffee; a part of the Blue Loui Studio brand story.

5. Color

Simple but effective. Using your brand colors in your social media graphics does a few things…

a. Keeps things consistent, which is key to your brand gaining momentum

b. Makes it easier for you; you don’t have to sit down and think about what colors to use, how to stay on brand, or what images will work; you’re busy! Having a brand color palette at your finger tips saves a lot of time.

c. Connecting to the right audience: did you know color has a huge impact on the psychology of your content? Crazy, but true. Using particular colors will literally attract the right people. To which I say, see “b” above. Cheers to working with ideal clients!

——
If you’re struggling with these concepts, I always bring it back to three important
questions….

1. What platforms are you using?

2. Do you actually enjoy using the platform(s)?

3. Are your ideal clients using the platform?

We’re aiming for yes’s here–and if you’ve checked both of these boxes, focus on the best way to deliver your message (video, post, stories), something you enjoy and yields results. From there, you can start implementing your brand pieces! I think you’ll be surprised at the type of response you’ll receive and how your brand will do recognition and conversion work for you.

This post was written by Jennah Lear of Blue Loui Studio.

Everything I Learned from Co-Organizing WordCamp Kent 2018

June 26, 2018 Leave a Comment

Fellow WordPress nerds: This post is for you! Last weekend, I had the honor of being on this year’s amazing organizing team for WordCamp Kent 2018! As always, it was an amazing event, but this time was extra special since I was involved in making it happen.

My friend and this year’s lead organizer, Megan, who I met at my first WordCamp in 2016 asked me to help with marketing the WordPress conference. I, of course, said yes!

So, now I have to tell you everything I learned from being a co-organizer this year!

Organizing a Conference is a Lot of Work

I’m sure it already sounds like a lot of work but I can confirm that it is! So many elements go into making an event fabulous! From logistics, to design to marketing! Each piece makes the event whole.

As a past attendee, I really didn’t realize everything that went into making this conference so spectacular. But, it makes me appreciate event organizers so much more!

Try Volunteering from Something Different than What You Do Everyday

As you might now, I’m a content writer and social media strategist. It’s pretty safe to say that in my spare time, I don’t want to do content writing or social media strategy. Sure, I’m great at it! But, I enjoyed doing other things far more than the stuff I get to do all the time!

Plus, I get the chance to try new stuff which is always a good thing. Doing work can sometimes makes something fun like this seem like work. I came here to party (just kidding, still working but fun work).

WordPress is Awesome

Okay, I didn’t learn this specifically from co-organizing this event. I’ve known it for quite some time, but this event helped cement this fact into my noggin (why’d I say noggin?)

The WordPress community is amazing. Every year, I meet some amazing people who make this event something I come back to ever year. I’ve learned so much from the speaker who present, as well! Don’t worry if you’re not in my area because WordCamps are everywhere!

Having a Good Team is Crucial

I got the pleasure of working with some amazing people during this event. The lead organizer, Megan, made it all happen! So glad she let me be apart of it! Sarah did a phenomenal job at designing the entire event! David got the volunteers and schedules in order! Plus, all the volunteers and other organizers who helped get the event off without a hitch!

Appreciate Just All of It

While organizing the event, the run-around is real. But, take a moment to reflect and enjoy while you’re there! I did this so much and was amazed at how things have changed since my first WordCamp!

Two years ago, my blog was still accordingtobrittney.wordpress.com and I didn’t know what the heck I was doing! The next year, I got myself together even volunteered at the event, but wanted to start offering services. This year, I co-organized and have clients under my belt! It’s crazy how things can change and I definitely owe WordCamp some of that!

This experience is definitely one of my favorites on my entrepreneurial journey. Already excited for WordCamp 2019! What is your favorite conference?

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Content Mistakes You’re Making That’s Hurting Your Business

June 12, 2018 Leave a Comment

Content marketing has proven itself time and time again to be an effective strategy. I love content because it sends me leads, doesn’t have that icky selling feeling, and my first love is writing!

Content is great, but writing is half the battle. There’s a lot that goes into having an effective content strategy. You want content you love to create but also content that converts! Plus, you don’t want to waste time making mistakes that hurt your business. Make sure you aren’t doing any of these!

Not being Consistent

We’re all guilty of this (including me!). When life gets in the way or client work piles up, we neglect growing our own business. This mistake is costing you visibility in your business! Without visibility, how will your people find you?

To prevent inconsistency, batch and schedule your content so that you always have content on hand and don’t have to manually post all of your content. Create a calendar to help you keep track of topics you want to cover weekly or monthly.

Not Providing Value

If you’e not saying something your audience can relate to or learn from, why should they read it? Content is all about engaging people. You want to offer something great to your audience to keep them reading and eventually buying.

Think about what you do in your business. How do you help people? What’s the process like? Why is it important to your audience? Use the answer to those questions to create something your audience will love. For example, this post! I’m a content writer helping people identify problems with their content!

Showing Little Personality

Does your content sound like anyone could of wrote it? Well, then why should your audience gravitate towards you and not someone else? Make your content unique to you or your personality to keep people engaged with your content.

What does personality look like? You know better than me! Are you witty or like to have fun with your writing? You could use certain writing or emojis on social that makes your content pop! Don’t forget how your brand comes into play with images and video!

Creating Too Much Content

Why is a content writer telling you that you’re creating too much content? Here’s why. If you’re a solopreneurs who’s team consists you and your cat, you might be doing a lot at once. My philosophy is quality content is better than a ton of content. Why come back to something you didn’t like?

Focus on 2-4 platforms that you will focus on creating new and amazing content for. For me, that’s my blog, email list, Instagram and Facebook group. Everywhere else can be repurposed content and posted to less frequently. My examples, Twitter, Facebook page, and Pinterest.

Content Creation Academy

We all make content mistakes, but learning how to make better content is easy. In fact, my signature program, Content Creation Academy (CCA), helps entrepreneurs build their influence, visibility and engaged audience through content marketing!

CCA is a membership community that provides you with all the tools you need to take your content to the next level including: weekly trainings, supportive exclusive FB group, updated resources and guides to make content creation easier, group planning sessions and even 1:1 strategy sessions with me!

Learn about how to join the Content Creation Academy here. We’re accepting new members until the 15th!

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Event Marketing Guide: Blogger Event at Borrow Rentals

May 22, 2018 Leave a Comment

You probably don’t consider yourself to be an event planner. Trust me, me either. But, hosting an event is a great way to network, acquire leads and spread the message about your brand! It’s a great way to get out from behind your computer and really get to know people!

In my hometown of Cleveland, we have a growing and supportive blogger community. We normally meet bi-weekly and get together at local business’s around town to connect and support. I had an idea to add a photography element to one of our events because I know bloggers have a need for quality photos. So, I did it!

After planning a successful event this past weekend, I wanted to share my tips on how to plan an event to reach your goals.

Event Marketing Guide — *Photo by Katie Logsdon Creative*

Photo by Katie Logsdon Creative

Address a Need

As I mentioned before, bloggers need beautiful photos for their websites and social media. I knew this a blogger myself who still struggles to get the best photos! So, once I had the idea, I asked other bloggers. This step is crucial because you want to host an event that is valuable for those attending.

Ask yourself what your attendees are getting of out of it. Connections, information, or in my case – photos! Next, ask your potential attendees if an event like this is worthwhile for them. If so, go for it! If not, you may want to re-think your event.

Set Goals

This is often overlooked (even by me) but you should think about what is the actual goal of your event. My biggest goal for this event was to have at least 20 people attend, 2 photographers, and other local businesses involved. This is event wasn’t centered around my business, so I didn’t have any monetary (except to break even on expenses – which I did) or marketing goals.

Think about what you want out of the event. Maybe it’s to talk to 10 new people, sell a certain number of tickets, or get 30 new people to sign up for your newsletter. The actual goal itself doesn’t matter, what matters is that you know what you’re working towards.

Find a Perfect Space

Where are you going to put all these people? The location is very important because it sets the tone for the whole event. When looking for spaces, keep in mind what you want and need to make your event successful. Does the place offer catering? Can it hold X amount of people? Is it close to the potential attendees?

When planning my photography event, I knew I needed a place big enough to hold at least 30 people, was in Cleveland, and was a great place to take photos. I got extremely lucky when a friend suggest Borrow Vintage and Ecclectic Rentals. Borrow is this especially unique venue in Cleveland that specializes in vintage furniture. Say you’re having a wedding, you can contact Borrow to rent some gorgeous vintage pieces to set the tone for your special day.

Not only does Borrow rent furniture, but they also have a warehouse and beautiful event space. Any blogger will tell you the importance of natural light and we had plenty! I literally could not have found a better place to hold this event! Everyone had a wonderful time plus got amazing photos. Trust me, the event space makes a difference!

Partner with Amazing People

Doing everything alone is overrated. Especially when you’re like me and have no idea what you’re doing. Search for other people and businesses who can help you throw a great event. Maybe someone who is in your niche or can provide something to the event that you can’t.

I was able to partner with a lot of people to get my event off the ground. I couldn’t do it without Katie Logsdon of Katie Logsdon Creative, local blogger and photographer, or Larry Spencer of Spencer Photography, local wedding photographer. What’s a photography event without photos? I’m not a food person and all the food was literally purchased in pre-packaged trays. But, luckily, Annie of Annie’s Signature Treats, a local baker, supplied us with yummy treats. Plus, I was able to get the ladies glammed up with hair and jewelry. Shibani of Bombay Taxi Boutique brought her lovely pieces. My mother brought a ton of pieces from her Paparazzi jewelry business while my sister, a licensed cosmetologist, did hair (including mine). I was lucky to get some amazingly talented people involved.

Photos taken by Spencer Photography

Of course, I can’t forget the bloggers who attended who really made it all happen. I love being able to connect with people who share my love of blogging!

Karen Morse – Glam Karen

Stella Compiseno – The Heart’s Delight

Betsey Ramsey – Natty Gal

Nic Abraham – A Random’s Life

Leah Wilson – Last Minute Leah

Jill Grunenwald – The Year of the Phoenix

Kate Kaput – Greatest Escapist

Jennah Lear – Blue Loui Studio

Amanda Blakeman – Blissful Gal

Katie Logsdon – Kasually Katie

Rachel Loza – It’s a Hero

Alicia Hansen – Alicia M Hansen

Alyssa Reichert – Bite Size Better

Stephanie Delacy – Minimum Viable Adult

Zoe Brown – Gone Girl Go

Misty Shaheen – Misty Shaheen

Shibani Faehnle – Bombay Taxi Boutique

Be Organized and Prepared

As my blog and business continue to grow, I get more and more controlling… I mean, organized and prepared! I’ve really had to develop my planning skills. But, now that I have, it’s made stuff like event planning so much easier! Here’s exactly what I did to keep track of all the things:

Created a google doc which included all the event details (when, where, etc.), it also included links to register, a list of who registered, who partnered with me and all the financial information (venue costs, food costs, etc.). It was great because since it was a google doc, I could edit anywhere which was helpful when people registered at different times.

When it comes to being prepared, I just say be early, clarify everything beforehand and bring anything you have the slightest urge you will need. For instance, I brought a clipboard and when I decided to do a sign in sheet, that thing was extra handy! You never know what you need!

Planning events is not easy, but it can be rewarding! What are some of your favorite events to plan/attend?

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Make Extra Money from These Side Hustles Perfect for Millennials

April 27, 2018 Leave a Comment

This post contains affiliate links which means if a purchase is made through them, I get a commission at no cost to you

Our economy is making it tougher than ever for millennials to get by without some kind of side hustle to supplement income. But, side hustle gives the opportunity to try something new that’s creative and fun while making money!

Working on my blog and growing my content marketing business has given me amazing opportunities, the ability to help people with their businesses and a chance to take control!

I’m giving you ideas and steps on how to start your side hustle right now, so the money can start rolling in.

Online Business

This one is obviously the first on my list because that’s what I do! The possibilities with an online business are limitless. Many people take their business to the next level thanks to growing a social media presence.

Ready to start? Take some time to think about a skill or service that you can provide to others that they want. Develop some packages you can offer someone. Reach out to your network, do some marketing and use social media to get some clients. Keep showing and growing!

Blogging

Okay, I promise this list won’t be a bunch of things that I do. But, regardless of how much I enjoy blogging, it’s a great side hustle. Blogging is about more than just writing. It’s about having influence, building an audience and can be a very lucrative business.

Ready to Start? Develop your website, brand and blog concept. Create engaging content to attract an audience. Use social media to grow a presence and following. Make money using affiliate marketing, sponsorships or even offering products or services to your followers. Time to get writing!

Uber Driver-Partner

You’ve probably heard of Uber by now! But if you’ve been under a rock, this ride request app allows you to quickly find a ride or make money by signing up and becoming a driver partner! It’s not just about riding either. You can make money by delivering food with Uber Eats, as well (you can do it with a bike in select cities!) Uber is a great side hustle if you’re looking for a flexible schedule, the chance to be paid weekly, or cash out immediately if you sign up with Instant Pay, and to drive around the town making cash.

Ready to Start? If you’re looking to be an Uber driver-partner, sign up here.

Be a Paparazzi Consultant

If you love jewelry, you will love this. My mom started selling Paparazzi jewelry which is lead and nickle free jewelry company, but all the piece only cost $5! Yep, you read that right. I’m not a jewelry person myself, but I’ve bought quite a few pieces from my mom that I actually like! It’s a great company to start if you want something fun to sell that won’t break your friends bank!

Ready to Start? All you have to do is purchase a starter kit and you’re all set! Going under my mom gets you some great perks!

Having a side hustle offers so many opportunities to not only make extra money, but something you enjoy! What are some fun ways that you’ve made some extra cash? Comment below!

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