Brandmerry Blog Archives
How to Get Started With Tracking Metrics in Your Business with Ally from Akari Digital
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, tracking data can often feel overwhelming. But when done right, it can free you from the uncertainty and guesswork that often accompany business decisions.
You need to be tracking your data, but it’s not as complex as you might think based on what other entrepreneurs are doing. We’re all about authenticity here, and understanding your authentic metrics is key.
I invited Ally, a data strategist from Akari Digital, to the Authentic Brand Builders Podcast, to help you understand which data to use in your business.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
Exactly which key metrics entrepreneurs should track (and which ones to ignore) so you can finally make informed decisions about your marketing.
Ally’s signature framework for tracking data in a way that feels simple, strategic, and actually helps you grow your business.
How to use data to pinpoint what’s working, what’s not, and how to adjust without burning your business down.
**I’ve included the main points below, but I encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 135 now or watch the episode here.
Introduction to Data Tracking for Entrepreneurs
As entrepreneurs, we're constantly told to track our data. Yet, when we dive into what it means for our business, it often feels daunting.
Understanding your metrics is crucial because marketing is all about informed decisions rather than emotional guesses. When you know what you're looking at, you can determine what to scale, tweak, or stop altogether.
Whether you're just starting your business or have been in the game for a while, tracking the right metrics can guide you toward success.
It's about knowing your business better and making informed decisions based on what's working and what's not.
The Framework for Effective Data Tracking
Ally recommends focusing on four key marketing systems: Reach, Nurture, Convert, and Retain. Each system should have two or three vital metrics:
1. Reach: How do new potential customers find you? Common metrics include website visits and initial engagements.
2. Nurture: How do you build a relationship with your audience? This could be email signups or social media engagement.
3. Convert: What guides a potential customer to become a paying one? Metrics here might involve sales page views or cart additions.
4. Retain: How do you keep your customers engaged and coming back? Consider repeat purchases or renewal rates.
Building an Authentic Marketing Strategy
Marketing organically involves understanding which platforms or methods work best for you. Just because other businesses focus on social media posts doesn't mean it's the right tactic for your brand.
Ally emphasizes that every marketing strategy needs to be personalized to fit you and your business objectives.
She advises starting with eight to ten metrics tailored to your business’s strengths and areas for growth. Tracking fewer, more meaningful metrics can provide clearer insights than spreading your attention thinly across countless data points.
Then it comes down to comparing that data with your personal numbers. While there are “standard” metrics for the industry, it’s really about your growth and your ROI.
This is why logging your data is essential because then you’ll have something to compare it to and make adjustments as needed.
With this data you can determine what's working and what’s not, what needs to be adjusted, and what needs to be let go! This is how we build authentic marketing strategies.
Practical Steps to Begin Data Tracking
1. Google Analytics: Set this up to start collecting data on your website traffic. It’s a free and powerful tool.
2. UTM Tags: Use unique tags in your URLs to track where your traffic originates. Although technical, it's invaluable for pinpointing effective sources.
3. Monthly Reviews: Track and analyze your metrics monthly. This approach keeps you informed and lets you adjust strategies as needed.
CONCLUSION: FEEL EMPOWERED BY DATA
By regularly tracking data, you can avoid the constant entrepreneurial rollercoaster of emotions, such as believing nothing's working.
Instead, you can pinpoint specific areas for improvement and celebrate what’s truly helping your business thrive. Ally encourages entrepreneurs to start tracking now—don’t wait.
Even if you're not yet ready to dive into complex analysis, collect the data so you have it when you're ready to use it.
Ally offers a free KPI tracker to help you get started on your data journey. Let's take the mystery and emotion out of your business decisions. By understanding your data, you lead your business with confidence and clarity. DOWNLOAD THE TRACKER HERE.
CONNECT WITH ALLY
Ally is a data-backed marketing strategist who helps small business owners put their time, energy, and money in the right places when it comes to their marketing. After a decade in digital marketing, she's watched countless business owners throw marketing spaghetti at the wall, hoping something sticks— simply because they don't know how to track their results. She shows them how to make sense of their marketing data in simple, practical ways, so they can invest in what works and stop wasting resources on what doesn't.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akaridigital/
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
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DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
How to Improve Your Copywriting and Build Confidence with Elise Hodge
As entrepreneurs, we often face many challenges, and for me, one of the toughest was mastering copywriting.
I know it might surprise some of my clients, given how quickly I now whip up blog posts, emails, and other content, but copywriting was something I struggled with in the beginning.
I’m sharing this because if you’re a business owner who’s feeling overwhelmed by writing your own copy, you’re not alone.
This is exactly why I wanted to bring on Elise Hodge, a funnel strategist and conversion copywriter who has helped countless coaches and course creators make daily sales on autopilot.
Elise and I connected through a shared passion for simplifying business processes, and I knew she’d be the perfect guest to help you build confidence with your copywriting.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
Tips to build confidence in your writing, and create copy that connects with your audience and drives conversions.
How to craft email and sales funnels that automate sales and engage your ideal clients.
Practical advice on identifying your unique voice and using it to create authentic, compelling copy that resonates with your audience.
**I’ve included the main points below, but I encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 134 now or watch it on YouTube here.
Elise’s Journey to Becoming a Conversion Copywriter
Elise’s story is an inspiring one. She started her journey in the online space back in 2016, diving into blogging and growing an Instagram community.
She eventually sold her first course about Instagram growth, a far cry from the funnel strategy and sales page copy she writes today. Elise’s background in PR and journalism laid the foundation for her copywriting career, which she started experimenting with in 2017.
Over time, Elise transitioned into writing web copy, sales copy, and eventually sales funnel copy, all while refining her business to fit her lifestyle.
One thing that stood out to me in our conversation was how Elise has continually pivoted her business to align with her lifestyle, especially after having kids. Like me, Elise values the importance of balancing business with family, and she’s built a sustainable business model that supports both her professional and personal life.
Mastering Copywriting for Business Success
So, what’s the key to mastering copywriting as a business owner?
Elise and I both agree that it’s not about getting it perfect the first time. It’s about getting something out there and refining it through repetition.
Copywriting isn’t easy, especially when you’re just starting, but as Elise shared, the more you do it, the better you’ll get.
For those just starting to create content or writing their own copy for their business, Elise recommends two things: understanding your brand voice and listening to your audience.
Writing with authenticity is essential.
If you’re not sure how to find your voice, Elise recommends creating a simple “brand voice guide” to help you stay on track as you write. This can include things like what words you say, what you don’t say, and what feels true to your style.
Another huge tip from Elise is paying attention to your audience and really listening to what they say. Running surveys or looking at comments on your social media and content is a great way to gather insights about their pain points.
The more you know your audience, the easier it is to create copy that speaks directly to them.
How to Get Started with Funnel Copywriting
When it comes to funnel copy, Elise shared a ton of practical advice. One of her key insights was the importance of adding personal touchpoints in automated email sequences.
For example, rather than sending generic, impersonal emails, consider using more engaging formats like Loom videos or personalized responses. A little bit of extra effort can go a long way in creating a deeper connection with your audience.
Elise also talked about the power of email marketing funnels and how they can increase conversions when done right. The goal is to create a funnel that feels seamless, personal, and aligned with your audience’s needs.
Elise’s tip: When building funnels, make sure that your copy speaks to your ideal customer’s emotions and needs, while positioning your products or services as the solution.
Your Copywriting Success Starts with Confidence
We all struggle with copywriting in the beginning, but at the end of the day, confidence in copywriting comes from practice.
The more you write, the more you refine your message.
As Elise said, even though she’s now an expert in copywriting and funnels, she still faces moments where she questions her work. But the key is to keep going, keep refining, and keep showing up for your audience.
Like most things in business, finding your rhythm with writing your copy comes from practice, and yes, I’m sorry that it’s the same for a lot of things in business!
The Power of Authentic Copy
The world of copywriting can feel overwhelming, but when you get it right, it’s incredibly rewarding.
As Elise and I discussed, copywriting is about connecting with your audience in a way that feels personal and genuine. It’s about telling your story, solving problems, and guiding your audience to the solutions you provide.
So if you’re struggling with your copy, take a deep breath.
You don’t have to be perfect from the start.
Get your ideas on the page, and refine them as you go. You’ve got this!
Want to learn more from Elise? Be sure to grab her free welcome email template download for a great launch point to get started on your copywriting journey.
CONNECT WITH ELISE
Elise Hodge is a funnel strategist and conversion copywriter who helps coaches and course creators make daily sales on autopilot by building simple, high-converting funnels. As a mum of two toddlers running her business in part-time hours, she’s passionate about helping others create flexible, profitable businesses that fit their lives.
https://instagram.com/connectioncopyco
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
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FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
Diversifying Your Income as a Small Business Owner with Whitney Bonds
Ever wondered if affiliate marketing could work for you—even if you have a small (or even nonexistent) audience?
Or maybe you’re exploring new ways to diversify your income in the ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship?
In today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders Podcast, I’m chatting with Whitney Bonds, who built a multi-six-figure business and grew a thriving YouTube channel with over 140,000 subscribers all from scratch using affiliate marketing.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
How the birth of her second child pushed Whitney to find ways to work from home, leading her to start a blog and jump into affiliate marketing.
Why affiliate marketing is a powerful income stream, especially for those who aren’t ready to create their own products just yet.
A simple content hack using already-performing content that can take your YouTube strategy to the next level.
**I’ve included the main points below, but I encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 133 or watch it on YouTube here.
Getting Started with Affiliate Marketing
Whitney's journey into entrepreneurship began with her desire to be at home with her children.
She explored how to make money from home and stumbled upon the idea of creating a blog that shared successful moms' stories and how they accomplished their goals.
Whitney discovered that affiliate marketing provided an opportunity to earn commission by referring products or services via a unique referral link. This method allowed her to earn her first income online through her blog before she developed her own products.
Whitney emphasizes that you don't have to have your own product to get started. You can promote something that helps other people and earn a commission from it.
This strategy not only worked for her but led to a significant boost in her income over time. This strategy, while including links to online products she uses, also prioritizes sharing courses and programs with a higher affiliate payout.
The Importance of Diversifying Your Income
One of the key takeaways from our conversation is the importance of diversifying your income streams.
Whitney experienced firsthand the impact of algorithm changes on platforms like Pinterest, which was initially a significant driver of traffic to her blog. When that traffic diminished, Whitney had to pivot and adapt, ultimately leading her to prioritize diverse income streams.
Creating sustainable businesses is crucial. This is why affiliate marketing, memberships, YouTube payouts, selling courses, etc… is key to building sustainability.
We can’t control the fluctuations in the market, or changes to our marketing platforms which is why this diversification is key.
Prioritizing YouTube as a Marketing Strategy
Whitney and I also discussed our expansion into YouTube, a platform that has significantly contributed to her income and mine.
She shared how important it is to identify what is working for others in your niche and find ways to do it better through your content. This hack falls in line with utilizing what’s already on the internet, similar to my SEO content tips here.
Whitney shares that with YouTube, the key is focusing on your title and thumbnail first, and then ensuring your content delivers.
YouTube stands as an amazing platform for marketing in 2025 and beyond thanks to its powerful search engine, consumers need to move away from short-form content and desire to look for more in-depth solutions.
I recently shared my entire recording and editing process in this YouTube training video.
Building a Reliable Email List
Another crucial income driver that Whitney and I both advocate for is building an engaged email list.
Whitney credits her remarkable open rate thanks to effective strategy and consistency. She prioritizes working smarter, by reusing the same subject line format. Building trust with your audience is where email lists come in. By giving them a way to hear from you consistently and invite them into your authentic journey, you build trust.
This trust can pay off when you’re utilizing affiliate marketing or looking for sponsorships as additional income streams.
Remember, you're on rented land on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, but you own your email list, and it’s a vital fallback for any entrepreneur says Whitney.
Mindset and Long-Term Success
Whitney emphasizes the direct correlation between value and income. She shared that more value equals more income and emphasized both learning and sharing experiences, even from mistakes, as a way to provide value to others.
Sometimes, it can feel like we don’t have anything to share, especially when we’re just getting started, but these simple lessons or mistakes can prove to be rather valuable content.
Just think of all the things you’ve learned in the last six months and how valuable that information could be for someone else.
Whitney provided a new free resource for listeners, The Wealth Blueprint, where she shares the Secret to Building Wealth. Get your free download here.
CONNECT WITH WHITNEY
Whitney Bonds is a YouTuber with over 140K subscribers who is known for empowering her audience to build sustainable online businesses from home. Bonds shares step-by-step guides, tips, and resources to help her audience succeed in affiliate marketing, build online businesses, and achieve financial freedom.
https://www.youtube.com/@WhitneyBonds
https://www.instagram.com/whitneybonds101
https://www.facebook.com/triedandtruemomjobs
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
--
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
Five Unexpected Habits That Make Me a Better Entrepreneur and Business Owner
In 2019, I read Atomic Habits by James Clear, which completely changed my life.
It forced me to have a hard look at my life and business goals and evaluate just how I was getting there with my daily actions. The next year in business I doubled my growth, the following year we grew another 20%, and the harmony that I experienced between my personal and professional life changed completely.
I credit so much of this with prioritizing what I was doing behind the scenes, the unexpected daily habits that gave me the space and advantage to make me a better business owner.
Today on the Authentic Brand Builders podcast (and blog) we’re diving into those unexpected habits that have made me a better business owner. I’m a firm believer that how we spend our time directly affects how we run our businesses, and we’ll uncover that today.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
The habit that transformed my productivity, and has allowed me to get more done in less time - it’s been one of my secrets to working smarter, not harder.
What I implemented into my habit stack when I got burned out on personal development and how my business changed as a result.
My “Not-To-Do-List” and how I use it as a business owner.
**I’ve included the main points below, but I encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 132 now or watch it here on YouTube.
1. The Power of Cycle Syncing
I use cycle syncing to better plan my meals, workouts, and business tasks.
Cycle syncing essentially involves aligning your activities and tasks with the different phases of your menstrual cycle, using hormonal fluctuations to optimize your energy and productivity.
This small habit adjustment has profoundly impacted my ability to manage my business and personal life. By understanding the ebb and flow of my cycle, I can strategically plan my schedule to leverage my hormonal strengths and accommodate my natural energy dips.
For example, during ovulation, when estrogen and testosterone levels surge, I experience a peak in energy, focus, and creativity. This is the ideal time for me to create content, film, brainstorm, and engage in strategic planning.
On the other hand, during menstruation, as progesterone rises and estrogen declines, my energy levels tend to dip. This is when I shift my focus to behind-the-scenes tasks such as administrative work, organizing, and updating pages on my website or landing pages.
By syncing my work with my cycle and noting it on my calendar, I'm not only more efficient and productive but also less likely to experience overwhelm during a launch or planned event. I label my cycle on my calendar so I can plan the next 90 days more strategically - working smarter, not harder, and honoring my body's natural rhythms.
If you're curious to learn more about cycle syncing and how to implement it in your own life, I encourage you to check out Episode 93 of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, where I dive deep into this topic and share practical tips and strategies.
2. Prioritize Your Sleep
Sleep is my non-negotiable. And yes, even as a busy mom, I fiercely protect my eight hours. Over the years, I've honed a nighttime routine that helps me decompress from the day and transition into better sleep.
I disconnect from work by closing out my day which includes responding to emails, writing my to-do list for tomorrow, and cleaning up ClickUp.
I also practice self-care and prioritize calming activities like reading or lying on my acupressure mat.
A big shift, I’ve made, that I know isn’t possible for everyone today is getting rid of my alarm clock. Instead, I focus on morning sunlight to support my natural circadian rhythm. It’s allowed me to wake up gradually resulting in less grogginess and more mental clarity in the morning.
It didn’t happen overnight, but implementing soothing practices both in my evening and morning routine has greatly benefited my sleep which has given me more energy and clarity to tackle the day.
3. Invite More Space and Play into the Schedule
At the end of 2023, I was completely burnt out from personal development. I had been using my “free space” and breaks to read, listen, or learn what I could to improve my life. Honestly, it just left me tired and feeling like I wasn’t enough.
I knew I needed better ways to plan, take a break, and create space for myself to tap into more of my creativity. Essentially I needed ways to silence the noise so I could think!
Reading fiction might sound like it won’t benefit your business, but it's my secret creativity weapon. Fiction allows me to recharge, unlock creativity, and ultimately enhance my business mindset. It's not just about reading; it's about finding joy in relaxation and play, whether through books, crafting, or games, that fuels my productivity.
Now, I prioritize downtime and incorporate intentional breaks into my schedule which has allowed me to be more present, rather than constantly striving for the next goal and improvement.
This simple practice has created a much larger habit which includes making sure my calendar has plenty of whitespace throughout the day!
4. Create a 'Not-To-Do' List
A not-to-do list is a list of tasks that you intentionally decide not to do, either by eliminating, automating, delegating, or outsourcing them. This strategy allows you to focus your time and energy on tasks that are more important, enjoyable, and aligned with your goals.
For my business, a not-to-do list has been highly beneficial in improving my productivity, efficiency, and overall ROI. By identifying and eliminating tasks that are time-consuming, repetitive, or don't contribute significantly to making money I’ve been able to free up resources, money, and energy to focus on things that will actually grow the business.
To determine which tasks to streamline and which to remove or outsource, here’s what I look at:
Identify time-consuming and repetitive tasks: Look for tasks that take up a significant amount of time but don't require much skill or expertise. These tasks are good candidates for software improvement or possible outsourcing.
Assess the value and impact of each task: Determine which tasks directly contribute to your business goals and which ones have a minimal impact. Tasks with low impact can be eliminated or outsourced if you’re not loving them.
Analyze your enjoyment of the task: If you enjoy doing something, but the steps of the process are where you’re getting hung up then consider optimizing your workflow. This is similar to what I did with my podcast and YouTube recording last year. I streamlined my process to make it easier to record (something I love) and share my content. This allowed me to save money, and time, and increase my output. This video shows what I did.
I also use my ‘Not-To-Do’ List to plan my monthly, quarterly, and yearly goals. Having this list handy when I planned my 2025 was so nice and a great reminder that taking notes throughout the year is essential.
5. The Weekly Money Date
One of my favorite weekly rituals is my "money date."
Every Friday, I make it enjoyable by sitting down with a cup of coffee and some music, and I really get into the nitty-gritty of my business finances.
I go through all the expenses, look at where the money's coming in, and basically just get a really clear picture of where things stand. For years, I outsourced all my financial tracking and didn’t have a clear idea where the money was going, or what was contributing to the ROI of the business.
It left me feeling a little disempowered and while I loved having the support of an accountant, I knew I needed to be more involved to gain that financial empowerment I craved.
While the money date is not always the most exciting thing, I've found that it's been incredibly helpful in terms of managing my money and making informed decisions about my business.
It's kind of like a weekly check-in with my finances, and it helps me stay on top of things and feel more in control both professionally and personally.
CONCLUSION:
I’m a big believer in the power of healthy habits and I hope this episode has given you the motivation to look at your personal, daily habits and evaluate how they are helping or hurting your business.
If even one of these habits is something you haven’t tried yet, like cycle syncing, prioritizing sleep, or anything else, take this as a sign to explore it further. We’ve got tons of resources to help you along the way, especially in episode 93 of the podcast.
As we kick off the year, now is the perfect time to set a solid foundation with your habits (it’s one of my favorite things to do for Q1).
Remember, the habits you build today will directly impact your end-of-the-year goals. Whether it’s a financial goal or an impact goal, it’s your daily actions that make all the difference.
If you want support with planning out your quarterly and monthly goals or feel a little behind in your yearly planning, I encourage you to check out my program Brand New Plan. Inside, the program we prioritize authentic and aligned planning, and your habits are a large part of that process. Learn more about Brand New Plan here.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
--
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
5 Strategic Steps to Launch or Relaunch Your Business in the New Year
As we wrap up another year and get ready to step into the new year, I’ve been reflecting on what I would do if I were to start my business from scratch today.
Having been an entrepreneur for nine years, I’ve seen the ups, downs, and dramatic changes in the industry. There are things that have completely shifted and things that honestly have remained the same.
Here are five approaches that I believe would accelerate your business growth and set you up for long-term success.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
Why PR should be your top priority and how building a network of collaborators can accelerate your brand growth.
The secret to focusing on sales from day one and how long-form content like podcasts and YouTube can drive sustainable success.
The essential mindset changes you need to take confident action and make your business thrive.
**I’ve included the main points below, but I encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 131 now.
1. Prioritize Public Relations (PR) Strategically
When I think about building a business from zero, prioritizing PR would be at the top of my list.
I hold a degree in public relations, and I know firsthand that you don’t need a massive following to get featured. It's about shifting your approach.
My advice? Dedicate just one hour each week for pitching yourself to smaller platforms—like niche podcasts or guest articles. Sometimes the smaller the audience the higher the conversions because of the trust the host (or brand) has built with their audience.
Suppose you don’t have a lot of content on the internet to show your expertise, you can easily craft a simple media kit to share some of your top brand values, messages, and of course story.
The goal here is to expand your network, and even just one interview a month gets you in front of 12 new audiences in one year without a single dollar spent on ad spend.
2. Build a Network for Collaboration
I have to admit, that networking isn't my favorite activity, but it’s crucial.
Over the years, I’ve maintained a handful of collaborators, but expanding this network could have yielded even more opportunities. It’s something I’m prioritizing in the new year and something I wish I had focused more on when I was just getting started.
If I were starting over, I would focus on expanding my network with more collaborations. These can come from creating your own networking group, deepening the relationship when you’re on a podcast or have a guest on yours, and being in the room with people who challenge you.
I think that last piece is the big reason this works so well for business growth; challenging yourself to get out of your comfort zone and see where these new relationships can take you is one of the greatest (and often free) ways to grow your business.
I also have a mission to support my clients in stepping outside of their bubble and building more connections, so we’re focusing on this inside of the Authentic Brand Builders Academy a great deal in the coming months.
3. Focus on Selling from the Start
A common mistake I see entrepreneurs make, myself included, is getting bogged down in the details before focusing on sales.
In the early months of my business, I spent way too much time perfecting things like my brand and website. I still believe both of those pieces are crucial in building a business foundation, I also know that most people are spending more time, energy, and money than necessary.
You absolutely can build your brand and start promoting your offers in just two weeks.
You absolutely can create a simple website over the weekend, and add to it and improve it as your business and resources grow.
The truth is, that selling should be your primary focus from day one. Give yourself two weeks to clarify your audience, define your messaging, create your offer, and start promoting. The rest, including brand refinement and content development, will naturally align once you get into the practice of selling.
Inside my Build a Better Brand Method, I teach you exactly how to build your brand in just 2 weeks. Explore the program here.
4. Establish a Long-Form Content Platform
Creating consistent, long-form content via a podcast or YouTube channel should be one of your foundational strategies if you’re looking for sustainable growth.
I know social media can be incredibly tempting and I’m not denying its power to reach a lot of people quickly, but focusing on the longevity of your content is key if you don’t want to burn out.
Although I started my podcast a bit later, I see how impactful it would have been to begin sooner. Not only does this establish credibility and authority in your field, but it also provides a wealth of content to repurpose across other platforms.
Sustainable marketing strategies like these can be a game-changer if prioritized early on.
Want to learn more about multi-channel marketing? Watch this video here.
5. Cultivate a Strong Mindset
Finally, sustaining a positive and strong mindset is crucial not only when you’re starting your business, but also when you scale.
While I always understood the importance of mindset, it was typically centered around my money mindset and my mindset around being successful.
I wish I had spent more time working on my mindset around trusting myself more from the beginning.
Overthinking decisions can hold you back. Looking outside yourself for all the answers can lead to even more confusion.
Oftentimes, we know exactly what we should be doing, but we’re not giving ourselves the space to really listen to our intuition.
If you're starting out, work on trusting yourself and your business instincts, I really think it's a key to authentic growth.
CONCLUSION
As we gear up for a new year, I hope these strategies inspire and guide you, whether you're starting new or scaling your current business.
Even though I’ve been in business for nine years, I’m still always finding new ways to improve and align my business with my goals. These same five tips truly apply to you no matter where you’re at in the process.
For me, selling and collaboration are going to be significant drivers of success. Remember to trust your gut and stretch beyond your current network (it’s one of the fastest and cheapest ways to grow your business).
You’ve got this—I’m cheering for you every step of the way. If you found this helpful, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter at Brandmerry for more insights and updates throughout the year.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
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Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.