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When I was first starting my business, I thought I could do everything for free and that there was no need to invest in tools when I could do it cheaper or even for free. One of those areas of my business was a CRM, also known as customer relationship management, which is used for managing customer interactions and data. I thought, "I don't need this. It's a waste of money." I didn't understand why I should invest when I could use Notion and a DIY template. However, months later, I discovered that leads had gone unresponded to because my website failed to alert me, and the backend was ineffective at finding a mutual time for discovery calls. Not only was it making everything difficult and consuming too much time, but I finally said to myself, "I can't keep doing this." So, I chose to invest in HoneyBook after a friend suggested it and I found a 50% off deal for the year. I thought, "This is my chance to test out the tool." Because the truth is, when you're starting a business as a solo entrepreneur, every dollar counts, and you want to ensure it's going to the right place. It's been magical. I can now have a contact form, and I get alerted about a new contact. I have an automation sequence, so I never have to write another email, and prospects can book a time on my calendar. I can use lead forms and digital invoices, so I can slowly move away from only accepting checks. It has me shaking my head, wondering why I didn't invest sooner. Here's your sign: you do have to invest in order to make money, and a CRM like HoneyBook has been my best investment yet. Check it out for yourselves here.
One of the biggest obstacles standing in the way of your business's success is the use of stock photography. Whether you're obtaining it ethically through licensed platforms or simply grabbing images from the vast expanse of the internet, or worse yet, entrusting your brand's image to a company offering cut-rate social media management services under $500, it's time to put a stop to it.
Why? Because relying on stock photos makes you blend in with the crowd. And let's face it, being just like everyone else in the competitive world of business is a surefire way to get lost in the noise. You don't want your content to be cookie-cutter; you want originality, uniqueness, and a custom approach tailored specifically to your brand. So, what's the solution? It's time to start investing in creative assets that truly represent your business. That means committing resources to developing unique graphics, taking authentic photos, crafting engaging videos, and devising marketing strategies that set you apart from the competition. It may require a bit more effort and investment upfront, but the payoff in terms of brand authenticity, customer engagement, and long-term success will be well worth it. After looking at lots of social media profiles, I've picked out my top three tips for making your business better on Instagram. Let's get started! 1. Be Authentic in Your Instagram StoriesThink of your Instagram Stories as your personal stage. Showcasing the real you helps to foster a deeper connection with your audience. Take them behind the scenes of your daily life, involve them in decision-making processes, and let them see the human side of your business. This authenticity builds trust and loyalty. 2. Invest in Quality PhotographyWhile spontaneity has its charm, investing in high-quality photos is essential for making a lasting impression. Consider scheduling a professional branding photoshoot and pay attention to the visual presentation of your products or services. Good photography not only grabs attention but also communicates professionalism and reliability. 3. Embrace Instagram ReelsDon't underestimate the power of Instagram Reels. You don't need fancy equipment or elaborate setups; just hit record and start sharing your story. Overcome any hesitations and showcase what makes your business remarkable. Authenticity shines through, and your audience will appreciate the genuine connection. Remember, these tips are just the beginning. Stay tuned for more insights on mastering social media marketing!
As a young professional in the dynamic realm of marketing, I've encountered my fair share of stereotypes and misconceptions. People often underestimate my abilities, dismissing me as too young or inexperienced to make a real impact. But I refuse to let these stereotypes define me. Instead, I see my youth as my greatest asset—a superpower that sets me apart in an industry that craves fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Reflecting on my journey, I recall the pressure to conform to traditional notions of professionalism. I believed I needed to wear a blazer, adopt a serious demeanor, and suppress my creativity to be taken seriously. But I soon realized that stifling my authenticity only hindered my potential for success.  I refuse to conform to outdated stereotypes, choosing instead to celebrate my creativity, passion, and individuality. In my eyes, success is not measured by age or experience but by the ability to authentically connect with audiences and drive meaningful change. With unwavering confidence, I challenge the notion that youth is a barrier to success in marketing. I am tech-savvy, agile in navigating digital trends, and unafraid to experiment with unconventional approaches. I reject the idea that experience is the sole determinant of impact, believing instead that youth brings a fresh perspective and a willingness to challenge the status quo. If you're ready to take your marketing strategy to the next level, I invite you to consider hiring me as your partner. Together, we can create campaigns that resonate, engage audiences, and make a real difference in the world of marketing. Let's make waves together!
Take a deep breath—Instagram and Facebook experienced a crash this morning. Just as you're feeling the frustration, remember, they are equally distressed because their app outage translates to revenue loss. Now is the ideal moment to reassess your marketing strategy. Start Your NewsletterIf you haven't initiated the process of building an email list, explore platforms such as MailChimp or Constant Contact. Make your choice based on your budget and preferences, as there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Start by designing a template and deciding on the frequency—whether weekly, monthly, or quarterly—depending on your business needs. Tailor the content of your newsletter to cater to your audience, whether it's a community-focused update or an exclusive business share. Join a New PlatformNext, seize this opportunity to explore a new social media platform. If you've been eyeing TikTok, now is the time to dive in. With users flocking to alternative platforms during the outage, you can capitalize on increased awareness and reach for your business. Learn SEOConsider dedicating time to your blog and search engine optimization (SEO). Explore YouTube tutorials to enhance your website's SEO and learn how to create engaging blog content for organic traffic. The app crash might just be the push you need to focus on acquiring new skills. Start Your YouTube Channel or PodcastVenture into video content creation on YouTube or start that dream podcast. The app downtime offers a chance to explore the strategies you've been putting off due to a lack of time. Attend an In-Person NetworkingTraditional marketing and networking events shine in this situation. Attend in-person events to promote your business. Check out local Chamber of Commerce events, explore BNI (Business Network International), or find other networking opportunities in your area. This is an excellent chance to step out of your comfort zone and make valuable connections. ConclusionWhile the situation may be stressful, having a plan in place is crucial. Remember, adaptability is key in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Use this downtime as an opportunity to refine your strategies and build a resilient online presence.
I was leaving a meeting with a potential client the other day when my last name came up at the end of the conversation. They assumed "Grad" indicated my recent college graduation. Indeed, it does, however it also happens to be my last name. Here’s the story of how having a last name like Grad is great but also complicated when trying to develop your online identity.
It's always amusing to have my last name as Grad because I'm all over celebration balloons, and it's nice to have an easy-to-spell last name. However, when I first started my freelance business, it was challenging to rank as "Caitlyn Grad" due to the abundance of differently spelled Caitlyns who are graduates. Competing against school celebrations and photography websites, I didn't exist on the World Wide Web for a long time. In one of my capstone classes, Dr. Elaine Young my professor at Champlain College inspired me to create a portfolio website and work on my personal SEO. After many months, even after the class was finally over, now when you type my name, my professional identity is at the top. However, to this day, I still have to compete with other Caitlyns who have just graduated. It's a unique challenge I've had to overcome, but it speaks to my determination and the skills I've developed in SEO. I previously couldn't comprehend why marketing agencies often had subpar social media presences until I transitioned into full-time freelancing. I questioned why anyone would entrust them with managing social media when their own content was lacking. Now, as a freelancer, I understand the challenge of maintaining a robust social media presence, especially when most client acquisition doesn't come from there.
Having walked in the shoes of marketing agencies, I realize the struggle of prioritizing self-promotion over client success. While it may seem ironic, my focus is primarily on ensuring my clients thrive. Nonetheless, this month, I'm making it a priority to elevate my own presence. I aim to seamlessly integrate myself into the client roster. When assessing a marketing agency's social media presence, it's crucial to understand that a less-than-ideal performance may not be a red flag. Instead, it could signify a dedication to prioritizing client success over self-promotion. Now, you're in the know. In the fast-paced world of social media, it's easy to feel the pressure to be on every single platform, but here's a hot take: you don't need to. In fact, attempting to maintain a presence on every platform can be a quick one-way street to burnout. As a solo entrepreneur juggling multiple responsibilities, it's crucial to focus on quality over quantity.
If you find yourself contemplating a presence on every social media platform, consider this alternative approach. Start by creating a single piece of content, perhaps a video. Take that video and strategically share it across platforms like IG Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts. Extend its reach further by turning the video captions into a detailed blog post. However, it's important to acknowledge the significant workload associated with managing multiple platforms. Wearing all the hats of a solo entrepreneur requires careful consideration of time and resources. Instead of spreading yourself thin, pick one platform or a compatible combination like Instagram and Facebook. The key is to get really good at managing and engaging with your audience on the selected platforms. Choosing the right platform involves understanding where your target audience hangs out. It's not about being everywhere; it's about being where your audience is most active. Take the time to research and analyze the demographics and behaviors of your target audience. This focused approach will yield more meaningful interactions and better results. In the world of social media, the pressure to be omnipresent can be overwhelming, fueled by the advice of so-called "gurus." It's essential to question these expectations and find what works best for you and your business. Ready to ease the burden? As a seasoned social media manager, I specialize in taking the hassle out of your hands. Let's collaborate to streamline your social media strategy and free up your time. Fill out my contact form, and let's embark on a journey to redefine your online presence together! When's the best time to post on social media? Here's my two cents. For TikTok, I find that posting late at night works, anytime after 6 pm EST. I've noticed on my clients' and personal accounts that the later I post, the more views I get.
For Instagram, I've found there's no prime time. If your content is good, it will get pushed out regardless of when you post. Interestingly, on one client's account, morning posts perform better hashtag-wise. It seems like more people are looking at hashtags in the morning. So, what's the takeaway? I've always been taught to post during normal business hours, between 9-5, but really, at the end of the day, it doesn't matter. So, post what you want and when you want. In the fast-paced world of social media, algorithm updates seem to roll in like waves, each one causing a ripple of panic among content creators. Many rush to dissect the latest changes, scrambling to adapt their strategies in an attempt to stay afloat in the ever-shifting digital landscape. However, I'm here to offer a hot take – the key to success lies not in mastering every algorithm tweak but in crafting a resilient content strategy.
Admittedly, I've never been one to meticulously study algorithm changes. Instead, I focus on overarching concepts and tailor my content to meet broader trends. Take TikTok, for instance. While the platform may emphasize long-form content and TikTok shops, I've found success with short-form content, thanks to a well-thought-out content marketing strategy. The core of my approach is understanding what the platform wants and aligning it with my brand. By grasping the fundamental goals, I ensure my content resonates with the intended audience, irrespective of algorithmic nuances. It's about staying true to the essence of the platform while maintaining authenticity. It's understandable to feel overwhelmed with the constant barrage of advice on adapting to various social media algorithms. The key, however, is not to succumb to the noise. Instead of frantically adjusting to every algorithmic shift, focus on developing a content strategy that authentically represents your brand and speaks directly to your target audience. In the grand scheme, your marketing strategy should act as a compass, guiding your content through the storm of algorithm changes. A well-crafted approach ensures that your content reaches the right people, even when the digital winds are blowing in different directions. One valuable piece of advice is to build a direct connection with your audience outside social media platforms. While these platforms are essential for visibility, taking your audience to your own space, such as email lists, websites, or memberships, provides a stable anchor. This not only strengthens your relationship with your audience but also shields your brand from the unpredictable waves of algorithmic shifts. So, don't let the algorithmic noise dictate your strategy. Stay true to yourself, stay true to your customers, and success will follow. In the midst of the algorithmic storm, a steadfast content strategy acts as your compass, navigating you toward the shores of authenticity and audience connection. Remember, the best way to weather the algorithmic storms is not to fight them but to sail through them with a strategy that withstands the test of time. |
AuthorI’m Caitlyn Grad, a marketing and communications expert who helps clients excel in social media, email marketing, and digital campaigns. Archives
August 2024
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