The Freelance Podclass (Craig Cannings)
Explore every episode of The Freelance Podclass
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Nov 2021 | The Systems Class with Alexis Fortier | 00:20:55 | |
Are you passionate about systems? Well, today we’re discussing the wonderful world of systems — how you can use them to support your business and your clients’ success as well! Join us as Alexis Fortier, Operations Consultant and OBM, explains how to systematize and streamline your freelance business so you can get more done and achieve better results. You’ll also learn how you can become a systems expert for your clients and serve an ongoing role in automating their businesses.
Podcast Outline: [0:48] Introduction to Alexis Fortier and the topic of business systems - Alexis explains how she got into the online business management space and what she does now. [3:56] Symptoms of a business without systems - how a lack of systems profoundly affects clients and their business. [6:29] The definition of a system and how it benefits a business - Alexis and Craig give some examples of a system and how it goes hand in hand with Standard Operating Procedures. [9:04] The importance of documenting a system and analyzing it so you can determine how to make things easier [9:32] The top two systems Alexis creates for clients right now - Alexis and Craig discuss the intricacies of managing systems when a client has a team. [11:45] How to manage clients who don’t realize their systems are antiquated and their business operations aren’t sustainable - Alexis and Craig share some tips for approaching clients who push back or disagree.
Steps to Help Systematize a Client’s Business [13:50] #1 Complete an audit - the importance of blocking out time to list and prioritize what the client is doing in their business. [14:55] #2 List how things are currently being done, step by step - some examples of how to list steps and decide what to automate and delegate. [15:36] The ongoing role an OBM plays after the systems are fine-tuned - Alexis describes the important tasks that clients continue to require. [17:03] Alexis’ favorite tools to manage systems in her role as an OBM - she explains the benefits and uses of different categories of tools. [19:52] How to connect with Alexis [20:27] How to learn more about sharpening your skills and growing your business with Freelance University’s 80+ courses
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Alexis Fortier:
Project Management
Client Management
Course/Membership Site Management | |||
| 04 May 2022 | The Future of Remote Work Class with Michael Brooks | 00:30:13 | |
It’s safe to say we’re operating in a remote work revolution right now, with renewed interest in companies and freelancers working from home. So, you may be wondering, what is the future of remote work? Today we’ll hear from Michael Brooks, the founder and CEO of goLance, an award-winning online freelance marketplace. He’ll share his predictions and key strategies to help you thrive in the remote work economy for many years to come!
Podcast Outline: [1:10] Introduction to Michael Brooks and the future of remote work - Michael talks about working remotely and tells the story of what led him to launch goLance. [9:10] The impact of the global pandemic on remote work and freelancing - reasons why remote work is growing explosively. [12:01] How many businesses were forced to go remote during the pandemic and discovered greater profitability - the importance of developing and managing trust for remote workers. [15:28] How freelancers are the most motivated group of people Craig has ever worked with - compelling reasons why clients can trust freelancers. [16:25] What Michael envisions the remote work landscape looking like - some exciting predictions about the worldwide working world. [19:42] How higher quality platforms with higher quality people are likely to emerge because of the benefits of working remotely
Keys to thriving long term in the remote work economy as a freelancer [22:12] #1 Build Your Reputation - how to build your digital reputation online. [22:52] #2 Be a Subject Matter Expert - how you can perform that function yourself or outsource it. [26:10] What freelance specialist areas are in demand right now - some important examples where there’s more demand than supply. [28:12] How to connect with Michael and learn more about what he’s doing [29:20] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode
Learn more about Michael Brooks
Connect with Michael
Resources and Tools | |||
| 12 Jun 2019 | The Course Creation Class with Rob Galvin | 00:30:17 | |
In this Podclass, I am joined by Rob Galvin of Themeific, who shares his insights on creating courses online. As freelancers you can leverage course platforms to generate new leads for your business, create new income streams for yourself, or offer a service to entrepreneurs, helping them build their courses. Rob talks about how to design (or build) a course and emphasizes having the right idea that will impact the right person.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:01 - Introduction to Rob Galvin 2:34 - Setting the stage for the topic of course creation (why a freelancer or virtual assistant might want to create courses):
3:32 - Rob’s story 6:26 - The importance of searching for opportunities in course creation 8:20 - Why are online courses so popular today?
13:25 - Steps to designing or building a course:
22:16 - Picking a webinar tool:
23:20 - The opportunity to use Thinkific as a platform to help entrepreneurs:
25:46 - The benefits of Thinkific and how to try it out 26:26 - Information about The Online Course Builder course at FreeU 26:53 - Diverse income opportunities available within the online course creation space 28:03 - Information about Rob’s company and how to connect with him 29:03 - Closing thoughts
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Themeific: https://bit.ly/robgalvin (https://themeific.thinkific.com/) Facebook Group - Thinkific Studio for Online Course Creators: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thinkific/ (Tag Rob, say you heard him on the show, and if you have questions, he’ll respond to you.)
Thinkific: https://www.thinkific.com/ Snapchat: https://www.snapchat.com/ Kajabi: https://kajabi.com/ Zoom: https://zoom.us/ Facebook Live: https://live.fb.com/
The Online Course Builder: https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/the-online-course-builder
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| 30 Apr 2021 | The Virtual Skills Summit Preview Class Part One | 00:23:03 | |
Today we’re thrilled to share a preview of our upcoming Virtual Skills Summit, happening May 10-12, 2021! Join us as I introduce the 10 skill topics we’re going to feature. I’ll explain why we’ve picked them and how you can apply them to your business and client work. Discover how learning even one of these skills could have a profound impact on your success this year!
Podcast Outline: [0:54] Introduction to the Virtual Skills Summit preview - how to register and find out more details. Craig explains the reason for choosing 10 topics and how they can open up new income streams for your business.
10 Skill Topics Included at This Year’s Summit [3:27] Online Course Creation and Management (Craig Cannings) - how unprecedented growth happened in this niche during 2020, leading to great demand and opportunities for freelancers with this skill set. [5:49] Email Marketing Sequences (Abby Perets) - how to send messages to your audience at the right time, learning to use the tools and techniques needed to create email marketing sequences. [7:26] How to Become an Effective Online Community Manager (Jay Clouse) - how online community is a big deal, with companies needing freelancers who know how to build warm, supportive communities. [9:04] Website Conversion Design (Shannon Mattern) - how to create conversion-friendly websites that lead to business results like email leads and sales. [10:17] Online Business Management (Sarah Noked) - how the rise of the remote workforce has led to an increased demand for business systems, project management systems, and team management. [11:36] Online Marketing Funnels (Bob Sparkins) - how to develop vital skills for building awesome funnels that allow your clients, including a wide variety of entrepreneurs and businesses, to grow their email list. [12:51] Creative Content Creation (Cynthia Trevino) - how to stay consistent and creative with content like blog posts, newsletters, social media, videos, and podcasts to engage your client’s audience and expand their reach. [14:15] Stress-Free Product Launches (Tasha Booth) - how to create systems and preparation plans to run online launches successfully and become a product launch manager for a wide variety of clients and products. [15:50] YouTube Video Marketing (Rob Balasabas) - how YouTube video usage has increased during COVID-19, leading to businesses needing freelancers to set up their YouTube channels and distribute keyword-targeted videos. [16:52] SEO Writing (Julia McCoy) - how to write great SEO copy for web pages, blogs, and any piece of online content for your business and your clients. [18:01] Recap of the skills lineup and how to sign up for the Free Pass and All-Access Pass - how FreeU’s Summit will differ from other summits. [19:52] How to purchase the Early Bird Special for the All-Access Pass and what’s available in this plan [21:00] What’s happening on next week’s Virtual Summit preview [21:30] The value of investing hours in skill-based training that can transform your business
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: How to sign up for the Virtual Summit: Upgrade to the All-Access Pass Pat Flynn Smart Passive Income | |||
| 12 Feb 2020 | The Building Your Authority Class | 00:21:40 | |
In this class we talk about building authority and how to position yourself as an expert or an authority in your market. Many of you may be new to the freelance world and don’t feel like an expert. And some of you may have been doing this for a while and still struggle with imposter syndrome. Join me as I walk you through 7 practical ways to overcome these feelings and position yourself as a trusted authority to your clients and an expert in your service offerings!
Podcast Outline: [0:42] Craig introduces the topic of building authority and positioning yourself as an expert or an authority in your market, even if you don’t feel like one. He talks about the importance of owning this role.
[1:42] Craig shares a humorous story that illustrates the importance of being an expert. You’ll have a chuckle and an “aha” moment when you hear it!
7 Ways to Become a Trusted Expert in Your Market [4:18] #1 Be a Specialist - How to niche down and offer services to a specific market. Craig provides examples of students at Freelance University who are offering specialized services. [7:15] #2 Be a Content Publisher - How sharing valuable, actionable content raises your status as an authority. [8:52] #3 Participate in Relevant Community - How you can be of service and value to your clients when you join the groups where they hang out. Craig shares practical examples of how you can offer value both online and locally. [10:13] #4 Establish Social Proof - How to establish both indirect and direct social proof. Craig admits this can be a difficult topic for people starting out and provides some helpful suggestions. [13:21] #5 Build a Credible Web Presence - How to establish authority by looking good. Craig lists the elements to include in your website and branding to make the best impression. [15:23] #6 Be a Lifelong Learner - How to commit to ongoing professional development that will make you the best you can be in your niche. Craig explains how Freelance University students showcase their certifications on their website and social media to show they’ve developed their skill sets. [17:04] #7 Build a Great Onboarding System for New Clients - How to establish an incredible first impression by having a seamless onboarding system. Craig shares examples of tools and tells a story about how he was impressed by a freelancer who used this type of system. [18:54] Recap of the 7 Ways to Become a Trusted Expert [20:42] How to enroll in Freelance University to help you become a lifelong learner and remain committed to having the best skills to produce the best results for your clients!
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
MailChimp https://mailchimp.com/ ConvertKit https://convertkit.com/ ActiveCampaign https://www.activecampaign.com/ Keap (formerly Infusionsoft) https://keap.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Medium https://medium.com/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/?hl=en Twitter https://twitter.com/?lang=en WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Squarespace https://www.squarespace.com/ 17hats https://www.17hats.com/ Dubsado https://www.dubsado.com/ | |||
| 17 Aug 2022 | The Find Your Freelance Path Class | 00:21:46 | |
Finding your freelance path is of utmost importance to the development and growth of your freelance or VA business. It allows you to tap into the work you want to do, with clients you want to work with. Today we’ll unpack a four-step process to finding your freelance or VA path (or any new career path). These strategies will help clarify which niche you’d like to focus on so you can truly enjoy and develop passion for your work!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of finding the right path for your freelance or VA business - Craig shares a story from his experience that illustrates the importance of enjoying your work. [2:14] How the freelance space allows you to craft a role that’s tailor-made for you - a compelling quote from Steve Jobs that sets the stage for today’s topic. [3:18] How the sky’s the limit in terms of opportunities - the challenge of selecting from many freelance niches.
A Four-Step Process to Find Your Freelance Path (or Any New Career Path) [5:22] #1 A - Assess Yourself and Your Niche - four questions to ask yourself so you can confirm what area you’re supposed to settle on and what type of freelancer you’d like to be. [7:16] How Freelance University was created to be a playground for you to explore a variety of niches you can do in the freelance space [7:46] How to determine who you want to work with - examples of the types of clients you can work with and how that narrows down over time, along with your niche. [10:00] #2 R - Research Your Options in the Industry - an example of two ways to research the type of work other freelancers or virtual assistants do in a particular niche and what skill sets they have. [12:19] #3 L - Learn New Skills - how to develop the skills you need to deliver a high-value freelance or VA service. [14:17] How training paths and courses like the ones offered at Freelance University can clarify and confirm which niche you’d like to focus on. [15:56] #4 A - Apply Your Skills - how putting your skills into action either develops passion or shows that you’re not meant to do a particular service. [17:52] How the FreeU Sandbox helps students access a practice WordPress site so they can learn by applying their skills. [18:39] Recap of the four-step process to finding your freelance or VA path [20:06] How to join the waitlist to be notified about the next intake of Freelance University
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Join the waitlist to be notified about the next intake of Freelance University | |||
| 13 Apr 2023 | The Work from Home Productivity Class with Hilary Sutton | 00:33:39 | |
How do you manage the tension between your personal and professional life when you work from home? Today our guest is Hilary Sutton, a fractional CMO, writer, speaker, and host of the Hustle & Grace Podcast, where she serves as the chief explorer in helping people cultivate a flourishing career in life. Join us as we discuss both the challenges and freedoms of working from home. We’ll share important tips, strategies, and tools that will help you optimize your productivity and find your own unique rhythm!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Hilary Sutton and the topic of work-from-home productivity - Hilary shares her story and describes what she’s been doing over the years. [2:42] Craig shares his story and describes what it was like going back to working in a cubicle - how he longed to go back to working from home. [3:49] How working from home has been important to Hilary - explains her work style and the challenges she faced when working outside the home. [6:01] The challenges faced by extroverts who work from home - Craig shares helpful strategies he and his wife/business partner have used to fulfill their need for social interaction. [6:30] The remote work revolution - Hilary shares her take on what the trends will be.
The Challenges of Working from Home (Productivity Pitfalls) [10:06] #1 Not having a dedicated workspace - some strategies to help carve out a space dedicated to work. [10:40] #2 Not maximizing your time - the limitations you might face and how to prioritize what needs to get done by time blocking and “big rock” strategies. [14:28] The concept of energy management - how “50-minute hustles” and other strategies can help you grow your business during the times that are most energetic and creative for you. [17:54] How using different spaces for different levels of work can improve productivity - Craig explains how you need to figure out the best environment and type of day for you. [19:17] Managing the tension between personal and professional life - Hilary shares her experience and strategies that have worked for her. [22:44] The importance of finding a rhythm - Craig describes his experience of dedicating a certain amount of time to work and life. [24:15] Tips to improve productivity - Hilary lists software and hardware that have helped her track time, avoid scope creep, collaborate with contractors or clients, and work remotely. Craig recommends additional hardware and software to include in your home office. [28:03] Using digital tools and apps versus analog planners or books - Hilary explains her preference for using digital tools for some planning and a physical journal for others. [31:57] How to learn more about Hilary
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Hilary Sutton: The “What’s Your Career Motivation?” Quiz
Resources and tools: | |||
| 03 Mar 2022 | The Virtual Summit Success Class with Krista Miller | 00:22:11 | |
Over the past two years, there’s been unprecedented growth in the popularity of virtual summits. So, today we’re joined by Krista Miller, an expert on virtual summits and founder of Summit in a Box. She’ll explain why virtual summits have become such an in-demand and profitable service for so many freelancers and virtual assistants. And she’ll also share practical steps for launching your own summit, even if you have a tiny email list!
Podcast Outline: [0:45] Introduction to Krista Miller and the topic of hosting a profitable virtual summit even if you have a tiny email list - Krista tells the story of how she became a thought leader in running virtual summits. [5:22] How productizing a service is a common pathway for freelancers
Trends shaping the growth of virtual summits during the COVID-19 pandemic [6:55] #1 Moving from pre-recorded to live virtual events - how people are becoming more comfortable with presenting live events. [7:18] #2 People looking for ways to make their events unique - some examples of how people are making their events stand out. [8:44] #3 People trying paid summits instead of freemium summits - how it’s not a great idea, but it’s being attempted. [9:01] #4 More people trying to launch in-person events - some reasons why hybrid events are also happening.
How freelancers could use virtual summits to sell services in their business [11:02] #1 List building - how it helps more people know about your services. [11:27] #2 A big cash injection through your all-access pass revenue - how there’s no limits to what you can do with the pass. [11:52] #3 A way to feature your services - how it will help you book out your services during your event. [12:20] #4 The relationships you build with speakers (and attendees) - how it’s most important because of the connections with industry experts who can send you referrals.
Practical steps for launching a summit when you have a small email list [14:16] #1 Get specific on the summit you’re running and the audience you’re targeting - Krista shares an example of what it looks like to host a summit for a different audience. [15:51] #2 Get specific on how you’re helping your audience - how it’s easier to craft a summit that makes a difference for them. [16:27] #3 Get specific with your speakers - how to pitch speakers who have the same audience as your summit. [17:29] The importance of niching down to make your summit distinctive - Craig shares an example of how this benefited Freelance University’s summit, speakers, and audience. [18:10] Opportunities for freelancers who want to offer services for summit hosts - some examples of in-demand services and roles. [20:49] How to get to know Krista more
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Krista Miller: The Summit Host Hangout Podcast | |||
| 04 Mar 2021 | The Virtual Team Builder Class with Sandra Booker | 00:28:06 | |
Today I’m joined by Sandra Booker, who shares her knowledge about running teams, managing teams, and teaching others how to build virtual teams. Especially in light of COVID, where almost every organization around the world has moved to remote teams, this topic has suddenly become even more relevant. We’ll discuss how to build virtual teams well, so you can start thinking about building your own team or providing this as an in-demand service to clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:42] Introduction to Sandra Booker and the topic of virtual teams - Sandra explains how she got started in the freelance and virtual assistant space. [3:39] Why Sandra built a team - how bringing on more talent helped her expand her services and at the same time train virtual assistants to refer to other business owners. [4:51] Indicators that it’s time to build a team - Sandra and Craig give some important examples and explain why people may feel hesitant to hire a team. [7:46] The growth opportunity - how spending money to hire people can ultimately bring in more revenue. [9:49] The headaches of hiring people - how Sandra has worked through them and built a great team. Craig shares an example that shows how compatibility with a company’s vision is important. [13:42] Skills that are most important to have and develop - Sandra describes the skills and characteristics of a great team leader in this day and age. She also explains the concept of outsourcing an outcome rather than a task. [15:08] Tools to manage a team - recommendations based on what’s working well for Sandra’s team right now. Sandra and Craig discuss the benefits of sticking with a tool that’s working for you and your team. [19:22] Initial steps to starting a virtual team - the importance of a time analysis to determine whether you’re ready to build a team or just need to improve your time management. [21:14] Suggested next steps - how to encourage business owners to start small at building a team and be open to changes and turnover. [25:20] Where Sandra would have been if she didn’t have a team - encouragement that you can benefit from team building. [26:54] How to learn more about Sandra
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Sandra Booker on her website:
Fiverr https://www.fiverr.com/ Teamwork Projects https://www.teamwork.com/ Asana https://asana.com/ 15Five https://www.15five.com/ Trello https://trello.com/en Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com Kajabi https://kajabi.com/ | |||
| 17 Mar 2020 | The Thriving During Crisis Class | 00:18:40 | |
While going through a crisis, it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel sometimes. We don’t realize how a difficult time can grow and change us and our business in positive ways. In this podclass, we’ll share 10 ways to thrive in your freelance business during the current coronavirus crisis (and at any time). Join me as I support and encourage you to embrace the resilience and innovation borne out of adversity.
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Craig introduces the topic of thriving during a crisis. He shares how the strategies in this podclass will be helpful for any crisis you may face, including the current coronavirus crisis.
10 Ways to Thrive in Your Freelance Business During a Crisis
[2:21] #1 Take a pause - The benefits of pausing and a personal story about a time when Craig needed to take a pause and consider his next steps. [5:09] #2 Launch a new plan - a tangible example from Craig’s life when he changed how he worked and shifted the timeline for his business. [6:20] #3 Innovate and adapt - how resilience rises up and encourages innovation and adaptation. Craig shares an example of a good niche to pursue during the current coronavirus crisis. [8:35] #4 Learn new things - how this is a time to learn and develop your skills and make the most of your time during social distancing. [9:39] #5 Keep a consistent schedule - an encouraging example from Craig’s life that shows the benefits of developing a schedule and sticking to it. [10:57] #6 Don’t stop marketing - how this is an opportunity to continue networking and connecting with people so your business has forward momentum. [11:38] #7 Plan for rainy days - some examples of how to save a certain percentage of income to plan for future crises and how to adjust your budget now. [12:57] #8 Hold on to your support network - the benefits of holding your support network close. Craig shares how a health crisis in Craig and Kelly’s life brought them closer and brought wisdom to their business. [14:17] #9 Don’t give in to fear - the importance of resilience. Craig explains how we often imagine the worst case scenario and derail ourselves. [15:10] #10 Leverage new possibilities - how new opportunities can emerge during a crisis. Craig shares an example of how businesses are needing help with online technology for virtual conferences and summits right now. [16:35] Recap of the 10 ways to thrive in your freelance business during a crisis [17:33] Craig acknowledges the gravity of the current situation and provides encouragement. He explains where to find out more information about Freelance University’s supportive community and training.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Shopify https://www.shopify.com/ WordPress https://wordpress.org/ WooCommerce https://woocommerce.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ Twitter https://twitter.com/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Zoom https://zoom.us/ GoToWebinar https://www.gotomeeting.com/en-ca/webinar | |||
| 30 Sep 2021 | The Standing Out From the Crowd Class with Lesley Pyle | 00:31:21 | |
As the remote work boom takes root, more and more businesses are hiring freelancers and virtual assistants. So, how do you make yourself more memorable, unique, and distinct when you’re applying for remote work in this competitive industry? Join us as Lesley Pyle from HireMyMom.com shares key strategies you need to put in place in order to stand out from the crowd!
Podcast Outline: [0:46] Introduction to Lesley Pyle and the topic of standing out when you’re applying for remote work - Lesley shares her story and what led her to embark on her freelance journey. [8:20] How COVID-19 has impacted Lesley’s work and what trends she sees taking shape as a result of COVID-19 - Lesley describes how the remote work boom has taken root, providing savings for businesses and flexibility for parents. [11:19] How the trend of hiring freelancers and remote professionals (and creating remote work offices) will continue to evolve [12:54] How to motivate and inspire a remote work staff - the importance of learning to work with a team that’s not in a physical office. [13:59] Common in-demand skill areas - Lesley and Craig describe the types of roles that are growing in demand.
Tips for Standing Out When Applying for Remote Work with a Business Owner [16:52] #1 Show some personality - ideas for using Canva to personalize your resume. [18:05] #2 Sell yourself - how to talk about what you’ve done for a company. [18:26] #3 Read the job description thoroughly - the importance of following instructions and learning about the company, industry, and business owner. [19:59] #4 Don’t waste your time, and don’t waste theirs - how to determine whether you have enough skills to apply for a job. [22:17] #5 Apply quickly and respond quickly - the importance of making a good impression by showing how responsive you are. [23:50] Recommendations for an online presence for people who are starting out in the freelance space - how to optimize your LinkedIn profile photo and ensure your online presence is appropriate for a future client to see. [28:11] Other sites where you can find remote jobs worldwide [29:46] How to learn more about HireMyMom.com [30:48] How to learn more about Freelance University training
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about HireMyMom.com:
Tonya Sutherland, VA Networking | |||
| 07 Nov 2019 | The Freelance Writing Success Class with Jessica Lawlor | 00:29:32 | |
In this class, I’m joined by Jessica Lawlor, a freelance expert, writer and trainer who shows us some tools and strategies on how you can build a highly successful freelance writing business. Freelance writing is one of the most profitable, in-demand niches to get into and is growing significantly. Today we talk about some of the skill sets and tips on how you can become an effective freelance writer!
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:47 - Introduction to Jessica Lawlor 1:54 - Opportunities available for people who want to be freelance writers in 2020
3:06 - Two different ways to look at freelance writing:
3:44 - How there were more narrow opportunities for writers in the past, but the sky’s the limit now:
5:25 - Requirements to be a writer:
9:48 - Strategies on how to enter the freelance writing space and find success:
14:55 - How blogging and showcasing your work can attract freelance writing gigs 17:10 - How business owners need writers to help with their content
18:05 - How to set your pitch apart:
21:16 - How to get on the editor’s good side once you land the pitch:
23:16 - Advice for those just starting their freelance writing business:
25:47 - Encouragement that one-off projects can turn into long-term contracts 27:49 - How to learn more about Jessica’s work 29:00 - Final thoughts
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Jessica Lawlor:
The Write Life: https://thewritelife.com/
Muck Rack: https://muckrack.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/?hl=en HARO (Help a Reporter Out): https://www.helpareporter.com/ Huffington Post: https://www.huffingtonpost.ca/ Where to Pitch: https://wheretopitch.com/
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| 27 Nov 2019 | The Scaling Your Business Class with Brandi Mowles | 00:22:21 | |
In this class, I’m joined by Brandi Mowles, who shares her insights into how she was able to scale her freelance service-based business without hiring a team. Brandi started out as a Virtual Assistant and turned into a Facebook and Instagram Ads Strategist. She’s grown her income to multiple six figures and helps other entrepreneurs scale to consistent five-figure months. Join us as we discover four ways that you can start small and wait for the right time to hire a team!
Podcast Outline: [0:42] Craig introduces us to Brandi Mowles and the concept of scaling your service-based business without hiring a team. [2:54] How to scale a freelance business - Brandi discusses the pros and cons of staying small and waiting to hire a team. [5:14] How the concept is counter to what you’d learn in business school or what high-level entrepreneur coaches are teaching. Craig shares an interesting example that illustrates the wisdom of staying small.
Four Ways to Scale Your Business: [6:52] #1 Look at the list of services on your website or pricing. Decide on one to two services you could run with and really get good at. Brandi and Craig share some valuable examples of this! [9:32] #2 Create the systems to support that growth. Brandi discusses how it’s way easier to set up your systems when you’re not there yet than once you’re there. She describes the concept of KISS (“Keep It Simple Sweetie”) and recommends tools to use for your systems. [12:22] How to limit the amount of technology to simplify systems and save time [13:27] #3 Make your marketing minutes a priority. Brandi advises what to focus on, how to track conversions and be intentional. She shares some numbers freelancers and virtual assistants can aim for with discovery calls. [18:43] #4 Elevate your services - where you can elevate them to the next level that makes sense and how to be known in your industry for what you do and who you serve. [20:16] Recap of the four strategies [21:15] How to learn more about Brandi
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Brandi Mowles’ podcast and sites:
Facebook Ads: https://www.facebook.com/business/ads Instagram Ads: https://business.instagram.com/advertising/ ConvertKit: https://convertkit.com/ Dubsado: https://www.dubsado.com/ ClickUp: https://clickup.com/ Trello: https://trello.com/ Asana: https://asana.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/
Facebook Groups: https://www.facebook.com/help/1629740080681586 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/solutions/facebook-live | |||
| 03 Jul 2019 | The Winning Clients With Upwork Class with Winton Churchill | 00:41:10 | |
In this class, I’m joined by the founder of Barefoot Consultants, Winton Churchill, who shares some important strategies on how you can win new clients using Upwork. We discuss how to overcome being new and unknown in the Upwork entity and which job areas see the most success. Winton also shares some exciting stats on the growth and popularity of freelancing that show great promise for the future.
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:46 - Introduction to Winton Churchill 2:51 - Winton’s name and the opportunities he’s had because of it 5:42 - How Winton got into the freelancing and training space 8:20- How Craig hired his first designer on Elance and started working virtually 9:02 - Dispelling the misconception that Upwork is a saturated marketplace
9:41 - What buyers like in a freelancer:
15:00 - How people can win clients on Upwork:
34:29 - How many marketplaces people should focus on 36:22 - The importance of using many different strategies to build your client base 36:45 - Rumors about possible changes to LinkedIn 37:27 - The growth of freelancing in the United States 39:14 - How freelancing is becoming more mainstream and popular 39:46 - Final thoughts and how to connect with Winton Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Winton is providing three awesome resources: 1. Five Tips to Becoming a Top Freelancer 2. How to Succeed on Freelance Networks 3. Finding Your Golden Goose (AKA High Paying Clients) Here is the link to the above FREE resources: https://wm110.infusionsoft.com/app/form/freelanceu-webform
Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/ How to connect with Winton:
The Wall Street Journal: https://www.wsj.com/ Entrepreneur Magazine: https://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine
Apple: https://www.apple.com/ Elance Odesk
Grammarly: https://www.grammarly.com/
Microsoft Excel: https://products.office.com/en-us/excel Microsoft PowerPoint: https://products.office.com/en-us/powerpoint
ConvertKit: https://convertkit.com/ ActiveCampaign: https://www.activecampaign.com/ MailChimp: https://mailchimp.com/
Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/ Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/ Guru: https://www.guru.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ MIT Media Lab: https://www.media.mit.edu/ | |||
| 27 Apr 2023 | The Financial Management Class with Ashley Cline | 00:37:47 | |
Managing your finances is crucial to running and managing a successful freelance business, whether it’s full time or a side hustle. But many of us struggle if bookkeeping is not our strength. Today our guest is Ashley Cline, a digital marketing consultant and freelancing expert with more than 15 years experience in the digital marketing space. Join us as she shares effective tips, tools, and strategies that will help you manage and sustain your business finances long term, even if you experience cycles of feast and famine!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Ashley Cline and the topic of managing your finances - Ashley tells her story and how she arrived at her current freelance role. [6:27] The importance of freedom to Ashley - the different types of freedom she values and how they shifted to include time freedom and flexibility. [9:16] How freelancers can become great managers of their finances - the importance of treating your freelance work as an actual business. [12:37] The side hustle culture - how people don’t often attribute their side hustle to an entrepreneurial pursuit. Craig explains how we need the mindset of an entrepreneur in order to manage our finances.
Common Mistakes That Freelancers Make with Their Finances [14:47] #1 Not charging enough - how we need to charge for both time and expenses and have confidence. [17:12] #2 Not keeping track of books or understanding what you can write off - how we might not remember things and could miss little things. [19:20] #3 Not putting enough money away for taxes, opportunities, and expenses that come up - the importance of investing a little bit of money into growing your business.
How to Make Sure You Can Cover Your Expenses During Feast and Famine Cycles [20:50] #1 Focus on networking - Ashley shares tips and examples of networking groups based on her experience. [22:36] #2 Align with “channel partners” - Ashley explains what this concept is and how you can approach agencies that may refer clients to you. [24:36] The importance of always marketing your business during good times - how consistent marketing (“digging the well before you’re thirsty”) can offset the months that are not as profitable. [25:59] How to take care of lean months - Ashley explains how “what gets measured matters” and shares tips on healthy financial habits you can adopt. [27:50] How saving and investing need to be balanced - Craig and Ashely share tips for being intentional and strategic with your finances every month. [29:19] Ways freelancers can succeed with their finances - Ashley shares books that can help you address your mindset, get organized, and understand your finances. [30:58] Tools and apps that can be used as practical help for your finances - Ashley recommends her favorite tools and apps for invoicing, time tracking, bookkeeping, and tracking your mileage. [33:13] Craig recommends his favorite all-in-one financial management tool that offers FreeU students a discount - he describes HoneyBook’s features and how it creates an automated workflow for client management. [35:44] How to learn more about Ashley [35:58] The value of nurturing relationships - Ashley shares a story that shows how relationships can help grow your business over time. [36:52] How to develop your skills at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: The Entrepreneur’s Mindset course Virtual Bookkeeping certification
Learn more about Ashley Cline:
Resources and tools: Business Network International (BNI) The Desire Map by Danielle LaPorte Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill | |||
| 17 Nov 2022 | The Freelance Writing Niche Class with Melanie Padgett Powers | 00:24:39 | |
In this episode, we’re diving into the wonderful world of freelance writing! It’s one of the longest running freelance trades and is still popular today. But how do you discover your ideal freelance writing niche when there are so many things you can do? Today we’re joined by Melanie Padgett Powers, a freelance writer and editor who is the owner of MelEdits. She shares a simple three-step process that includes strategies you can use to figure out the what, who, and where of your ideal niche and clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Melanie Padgett Powers and the topic of discovering your freelance writing niche - Melanie describes how she got started in the freelance writing space. [4:21] The best freelance niches in 2022 - Melanie lists examples of in-demand niches that pay well. She also shares advice on how to leverage a niche you’re interested in. [6:40] The challenges of working remotely - Melanie explains how she helped others figure out how to work from home. [7:37] Opportunities for writing jobs or gigs - Melanie suggests valuable ways you can help clients with writing tasks, strategies, and digital marketing. [10:16] Craig explains how podcasters require writers to repurpose podcasts into long-form blog posts - Melanie discusses why this is a great opportunity for writers.
How to Figure Out Your Writing Niche [11:33] #1 Do what you like to do - Melanie describes the negative effects of writing about something you’re not interested in. She also shares practical advice to help you brainstorm topics you’ll love. [13:08] #2 Think about who your ideal clients are - Melanie describes examples of niches you could write for and suggests how to brainstorm possible clients. [14:28] #3 Think about where your ideal clients are - Melanie explains how to reach clients by posting content in social networks. [15:24] The need for structure and strategy - Melanie stresses the importance of following the three steps. [16:00] How to find clients on LinkedIn - Melanie emphasizes content marketing and lists other effective strategies to help build your network and make more connections. [18:00] How to search for your “dream client” or “dream 100” on LinkedIn - Craig describes the benefits of LinkedIn newsletters. Melanie adds crucial advice to ensure your newsletters provide high value.
Final Tips for Finding Your Writing Niche [20:04] #1 Embrace and lean into networking and marketing - Melanie suggests reframing those two activities as “relationship building.” [21:07] #2 Remember you’re not “just a freelancer” - Melanie emphasizes the importance of thinking and acting like a business. [21:57] How marketing may not necessarily be your natural skill set - Craig provides encouragement about offering value and making connections. [22:47] How to get to know Melanie [23:51] How to learn more about Freelance University and its membership-based offer
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: FreeU’s “Freelance Friday” newsletter on LinkedIn
Learn more about Melanie Padgett Powers:
Podcasts:
Connect with Melanie: LinkedIn: Melanie Padgett Powers
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 02 Mar 2023 | The Transferable Skills Class with Janine Kelbach | 00:38:07 | |
How do you bring your previous skills and experience into the exciting new world of freelancing? Today our guest is Janine Kelbach, the CEO of Write RN and host of the Savvy Scribe Podcast. She is a long-time nurse, educator, author, and freelance health content writer who knows a lot about transitioning to freelancing after having a long-term career.
Join us as we discuss the top soft skills that can be transferred to freelancing and the top niches that are in demand in 2023. We guarantee this class will have a positive impact on many of you and encourage you to get started with your own freelancing career or side hustle!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Janine Kelbach and the topic of bringing your transferable skills to the world of freelancing - Janine tells the story of how she started nursing and then pivoted to her new freelancing life. [3:33] The issue of burnout - how it caused many nurses to retire or choose a different career. Janine explains her experience as a nurse and describes how the challenges of a nursing career affected her and her colleagues. [7:20] How burnout affects people in all sorts of careers - Janine describes her journey and how she helps nursing students figure out how to become freelancers.
Soft Skills That Can Be Transferred to Freelancing [12:12] Self-motivation - how a good work ethic is necessary and is the hallmark characteristic of an entrepreneur vs. employee mindset. [15:20] Professionalism - how you need to be professional on your website and in all your communications with clients. [15:40] Cultural Awareness - things to be aware of when you work with a global audience. [16:02] Detail-oriented - how you need to be detail-oriented to get through a lot of projects. [16:20] Compassionate - how you must have a heart for people. [17:03] Critical Thinking - the importance of thinking outside the box to solve problems. [17:27] A Good Communicator - how it involves speaking well and having a way with words. [17:38] Empathetic - how it’s similar to having a compassionate side. [17:47] Problem Solving - the importance of thinking on your feet to help clients quickly. [18:10] Respectful - how it’s related to professionalism and involves communicating to others with respect. [18:24] Innovator - how it’s necessary if you’re going into a creative field. [18:39] Lifelong Learner - how all of us should have this soft skill if we’re going into business because the technical world is constantly changing. [18:58] Strong Work Ethic - how it involves being motivated to work and committed to sticking with it. [19:13] Organization - how it’s something all of us struggle with. [19:27] Productive - how it ebbs and flows but involves getting things done throughout your week. [19:45] Networking - how it involves connecting with people and is crucial for getting clients. [20:08] Recap of the top soft skills that can be transferred to freelancing [20:36] The importance of assessing your strengths and finding areas you can develop more - how some can be instrumental in your success and some can be an Achilles’ heel.
Top Freelancing Areas That Are in Demand in 2023 [23:16] #1 Web Design - perfect for people who like to put things together and aesthetically design them. [23:58] #2 Copywriting - as people are starting their own businesses, they need help with the copy on their website. [24:11] #3 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - has always been in demand and is necessary for content writers. [24:41] #4 Graphic Design - involves putting things together with matching colors and fonts. [25:11] #5 Social Media Marketing - an easy skill for people who are creative and detail-oriented. [25:42] #6 Ecommerce - involves selling things online through websites that need descriptions and pictures. [26:00] #7 Data Analytics - a brand-new area that’s increasingly in demand and requires you to be detail-oriented and tech-savvy. [26:47] #8 Video Production - video is huge, meaning you could have many retainer clients. [26:59] #9 Bookkeeping - good for people who like numbers and spreadsheets. [27:14] #10 App Development - involves high-tech code work. [27:22] #11 Artificial Intelligence - an up and coming area that involves application development and software tools. [27:39] #12 Excel - anything with Excel is still “excelling” in 2023. [28:21] #13 Customer Service - how it’s a great area to transfer skills into and helps provide a stable income. Craig explains that the very first hire of a small business, especially an online business, is typically in customer support. [29:30] #14 Virtual Assistance - how you can niche down to a specific product by providing virtual assistance for clients who need help with certain tools. Craig explains how virtual assistance is more than just a remote administrative role now. [30:51] How to start a side hustle if you’re busy with a job or family - Janine shares strategies to help you make the most of your time and move you forward with your side hustle. [34:28] How your side hustle depends on intentionality - Craig shares strategies that involve using dedicated hours to make progress in your business. [35:50] How to learn more about Janine and the work she’s doing [37:17] How to learn more about developing technical skills and building a side hustle at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Janine Kelbach: Plan Produce Profit course for nurses
Connect with Janine: On Instagram: @savvynursewriter
Resources and Tools:
| |||
| 14 Jul 2022 | The Wow Your Clients Class | 00:25:14 | |
How do you make an incredible impression on clients so they want to hire you for more projects, put you on retainer, and maybe even give you a blank check because you’re so valuable to them? Today we’ll discuss an invaluable topic that will revolutionize your client relationships. Join us as we share a laundry list of the 10 Best Ways to Wow Your Clients. It’ll help you make a great first impression and continue to build trust for years to come!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of “wowing” your clients to help you make an incredible impression on them - Craig shares an important example from his experience working with a celebrity client in the online marketing space.
10 Ways to Wow Your Clients [4:52] #1 Lead with a high-value discovery call - what “high-value” means and how you should prepare for the call. [7:12] #2 Focus on relationships and results - how results are important, but you also need to be relational and make a unique connection with clients. [8:46] #3 Make yourself available (with clear boundaries) - how to be responsive to clients within certain parameters. [10:14] #4 Create a “don’t-make-me-think” onboarding experience - how to make onboarding a seamless process using effective tools. [12:36] #5 Own your role and skills - how to be an expert in your role so you become your client’s advisor in that area. [14:35] #6 Be hyper-organized and use tools if necessary - what this looks like and why it’s so important to clients. [16:50] #7 Offer random acts of kindness - examples of how you can show kindness to your clients and offer value. [19:01] #8 Go the extra mile - the importance of overdelivering and giving your absolute best in your projects and client relationship. [20:52] #9 Demonstrate high integrity always - how to be humble and honest to further the client relationship when you make a mistake or things aren’t going well. [21:38] #10 Be proactive - things to think about so you’re not reacting to situations, but are proactively responding to problems and challenges you foresee with a client. [22:34] Recap of the 10 ways to wow your client [24:16] How to learn more about the Client Training Center and complete suite of courses at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 09 Jun 2022 | The Upwork Success Class with Silvia Pinho | 00:21:30 | |
During the global pandemic, freelance marketplaces like Upwork continue to gain significance as valuable sources of jobs and gigs. But how do you win at Upwork and attract your ideal clients? Today we’re joined by social media manager and educator Silvia Pinho, who’s been on Upwork since 2013. She shares important strategies to help you personalize your proposals and earn clients’ trust even before the initial discovery call!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Silvia Pinho and the topic of finding work on Upwork - Silvia tells her story, how she got started in freelancing and what she’s doing today. [3:00] Why Upwork is still a great place to find freelance projects and a good opportunity for freelancers - some important features that help you reach out to ideal clients and sell yourself. [4:48] How the COVID-19 pandemic led to more jobs being posted on Upwork and more freelance gigs - examples of how remote work has become mainstream.
Common Reasons Why Freelancers Struggle to Find Clients on Upwork [6:35] #1 Thinking it’s a numbers game - how you shouldn’t copy and paste proposals to a ton of jobs. [6:49] #2 Talking too much about yourself and not about the client - recommendations for what clients want to hear instead. [7:38] #3 Not personalizing your proposal - the importance of using a potential client’s name and researching the industry. [10:00] #4 Having typos in your profile or cover letter - how correct grammar and spelling is important for writers and all freelancers. [10:53] Keys to creating a winning Upwork profile - how to earn clients’ trust by sharing relevant examples of work, testimonials, and video introductions.
Recommendations for Finding Work on Upwork [14:48] #1 Use video to personalize your proposal - important tips for creating an effective video and examples of what to include in it. [15:55] #2 Show quick examples of work - how to demonstrate that you understand the clients’ needs for the project. [16:36] The importance of offering value in your interactions on Upwork - how it sets you apart from other freelancers. [17:17] How video may not be easy for everyone, but it produces results - examples of how video can be effective in attracting clients. [18:24] The importance of quality, not quantity - advice for setting reasonable goals when sending out proposals. [19:02] The Know Like Trust Factor - how personalizing your proposal contributes to this. [19:38] How to get to know Silvia [21:00] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Silvia Pinho: Freebie: 5-Step Upwork Checklist
Connect with Silvia:
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 17 Jun 2021 | The Momentum Class with Lauren Golden | 00:37:49 | |
In today’s episode, we focus on the word “momentum.” How do you keep moving forward in your freelance or VA business when you feel stuck, or you feel like you’ve plateaued and you can’t grow any further? Join us as Lauren Golden shares some simple strategies for gaining serious forward momentum in your business and celebrating how far you’ve come!
Podcast Outline: [0:43] Introduction to Lauren Golden and the topic of gaining momentum in your business when you feel like you’re stuck [2:18] Lauren’s story - how she discovered the passion of serving women and moms, helping them build their businesses. Lauren also shares her word of the year that balances momentum. [6:41] How a freelance business can be personal - the benefits of raising a family while working from home. [8:20] How the Free Mama group and company has experienced tremendous growth over the past year - how challenges caused by the pandemic gave people permission to pursue entrepreneurship and remote work. [10:49] What is momentum and how it differs from motivation - Lauren shares some vivid examples that illustrate momentum and how it applies to your business.
Three Traps That Might Stop Momentum When Starting or Growing a Business [12:44] #1 Starting and stopping - how lack of consistent networking practices can cause feast or famine in a freelance business. [14:08] #2 Hustling - how it can lead to burnout because it isn’t sustainable. Lauren shares some strategies for building momentum and making your business sustainable. [16:11] #3 Not addressing internal challenges (i.e. mindset) - how these challenges can stop your momentum. [17:08] How mindset and confidence are a challenge - the benefit of communities that encourage and nurture the “contagious entrepreneur.” [18:05] The importance of working smarter, not harder - how it’s still hard work, but involves being intentional with time and focused on goals. [20:44] How confidence can’t be taught - the importance of action and self-awareness. Lauren and Craig discuss how confidence is a process you need to go through. [26:11] How you can make mistakes and still be successful - Lauren explains how leaving mistakes in her videos shows a more human side and gives people permission to be imperfect and authentic.
Tips for Building Forward Momentum This Year in Your Business [28:54] #1 Recalibrate on your goals - how to manage your expectations and start with what you have to do. [29:57] #2 Celebrate many mini wins - how honoring these wins keeps momentum going. [30:54] #3 Invest in healthier habits - how to become healthier physically and emotionally. [31:53] #4 Use the F.A.N. framework if “stuff hits the fan” - how to find the lesson, assume ownership, and figure out your next steps. [33:22] #5 Don’t be afraid to take pen to paper - how this strategy can help you feel better. [34:54] The importance of celebrating many mini wins - how this can help your mindset, confidence, and momentum. [36:54] How to find the Free Mama Movement and get to know Lauren
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Lauren Golden: TheFreeMama.com https://thefreemama.com/ The Free Mama Movement Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/thefreemamamovement/ Lauren’s book - The Free Mama: How to Work From Home, Control Your Schedule, and Make More Money https://www.thefreemamamovement.com/book How-to tutorials on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCgiDyOm-SnuJIzIEXoRZpw
Google https://www.google.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ Upwork https://www.upwork.com/ WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Asana https://asana.com/ Bullet Journal https://bulletjournal.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ | |||
| 04 Aug 2022 | The FB Ads as a Service Class with Colby Flood | 00:27:57 | |
Today we’re talking about the wonderful world of digital ads! Join us as Colby Flood, the founder of Brighter Click, shares lessons he’s learned while launching and scaling an education-first Facebook Ad agency. We’ll discuss important strategies to help you build credibility, communicate well, and carve out a specialty as a Facebook Ad Manager or Facebook Ad Freelancer.
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Colby Flood and the topic of building a specialty as a Facebook Ad Manager or Facebook Ad Freelancer - Colby shares the story about his entry into the freelance space and his business, Brighter Click. [3:07] How the natural progression into freelancing often starts with general services before niching down to a specific area - the importance of finding your niche and having the confidence to further specialize in a service. [4:42] Why Colby chose the name Brighter Click, an agency name rather than his own name - reasons why your choice of name depends on the end goal for your business. [6:30] In light of the changes to Facebook, the potential for businesses who are seeking to improve their ad efforts - an explanation of the changes to iOS 14.5 and how it affected Facebook Ads. [7:46] How Facebook has been evolving and recommended changes for Facebook Ads strategies [9:58] The importance of having good SEO skills when offering Facebook Ad services (or finding someone who specializes in SEO to add on to your services) [10:50] The importance of going broad with Facebook Ads to let the algorithm work for you - a practical example with strategies you can apply to profiling your audience.
How to Get Started as a Freelance Facebook Ad Specialist [15:34] #1 Find an educational course, a resource, and a networking group to tap into - the benefits of staying on top of the changes in Facebook Ads by learning processes and best practices. [16:27] #2 Find some smaller clients and focus on building out case studies and processing out tasks as you go - examples of what to focus on and how to increase your rates. [17:08] The importance of training and experience - how Facebook advertising is changing a lot and requires you to be a relentless learner of your craft.
Lessons Learned from Launching and Scaling a Facebook Ads Agency [18:47] #1 Your value is often perceived by the level of your communication - the importance of ensuring your education and explanations match your skill. [20:01] How soft skills and hard skills are a winning combination - some examples of good communication between freelancers and clients. [21:30] #2 Once you’ve validated your business, be diligent about processing out the things you do - how to map out your process and some examples of tasks you’ll want to delegate. [22:29] The benefit of being an “education-first” agency with long-term goals - what it means to Colby and how his agency provides free educational opportunities to team members. [24:51] Education through content marketing - how it builds credibility, draws interest to your services, and differentiates you from other marketers. [22:53] How the freelance space taps into the skill-based economy, not necessarily relying on educational credentials [26:46] How to get to know Colby Flood [27:16] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Colby Flood:
Connect with Colby: Email: colby@brighterclick.com
Tools and Resources: AdSignals (paid channel) Facebook Ads Experts (organic free channel) Andrew Foxwell (Slack channel and paid courses) Cat Howell (courses) | |||
| 07 Jul 2022 | The Freelancing with a Chronic Illness Class with Tammy Durden | 00:23:04 | |
How do you build a thriving business while dealing with a chronic illness? Today we’re joined by Business and Marketing Coach (and FreeU Mentor) Tammy Durden, who has dealt with severe chronic health conditions while at the same time building a successful business. Many students in our University can relate to Tammy’s journey because of their own chronic health issues. And this might be exactly where you are right now too. So, listen in and be inspired as we discuss strategies to overcome challenges and keep your business moving in the right direction!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Tammy Durden and the topic of building a thriving business with a chronic health condition - Tammy shares her story, leading up to what she does today.
Lessons Learned from Experiencing a Chronic Health Condition While Growing a Business [4:47] #1 How to bring the right people on to the team - the importance of having people who know what to do. [5:09] #2 How success is defined differently, and it’s okay to work from bed some days - examples of how Tammy overcame challenges and built a team of people also experiencing challenges.
How to Manage a Chronic Health Issue While Keeping Your Business Moving in the Right Direction [7:04] #1 Having a great team alongside you - examples of how the team took over and took pressure off Tammy. [8:11] #2 Working from bed - how it’s okay to do that. [8:16] #3 Doing freelance tasks and developing skills that are not urgent - examples of tasks you can schedule. [8:55] Types of services that are conducive to people who don’t know how they’re going to feel from day to day - examples of services that would be hard versus ones that would be ideal. [11:11] What to do if you don’t have a team - strategies to help manage your health and your work while being honest with clients. [15:18] Redefining what success looks like when you’re dealing with a chronic health issue - important illustrations and perspectives from Craig and Kelly’s and Tammy’s freelance journeys. [19:13] How freelancing offers unique benefits not found in other jobs - examples of how the freelance lifestyle is better for health. [21:27] How to get connected with Tammy [22:19] How to learn more about connecting with community and developing skills at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Tammy Durden: Website: Fearless Business Boss
Connect with Tammy: | |||
| 22 Jul 2022 | The Winning Lead Magnet Class | 00:20:10 | |
How would you like to learn a strategy that can grow your freelance or VA business in more ways than anything else you might have done? Today we’ll share a 3-Step Framework for creating winning lead magnets (free offers) that build your email list of prospective ideal clients. It’s the same sort of process we’ve used to build our own base of students at Freelance University. Join us as we discuss this crucial strategy — it’s had the greatest impact on our business over the last 14 years and can have the same impact on yours!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of creating winning lead magnets in your business - how it’s a highly successful strategy that’s had the greatest impact on Freelance University over the past 14 years. [1:53] What is a lead magnet - a description of how it works and an example of how Craig tapped into the power of using free offers and lead magnets to build credibility.
Psychological Triggers to Authentically Persuade People to Respond to a Lead Magnet [4:45] #1 Reciprocity - how a process of give and take occurs when you offer something of value. [5:47] #2 Proof - how a lead magnet can establish your credibility when people receive the content and apply it. [6:34] #3 Affinity - how you can establish the “likeability” factor when you provide valuable content and build a relationship through email. [7:01] #4 Authority - how providing valuable educational content establishes you as an authority in a particular area.
A 3-Step Framework to Attracting Your Ideal Clients with Lead Magnets (Free Offers) [8:42] A summary of the three-step framework and description of how you can diagram the framework as a triangle [9:15] #1 Audience - important strategies you can use to determine who you’re creating the lead magnet for and how it can address their needs and interests. [11:16] #2 Skills - how to determine what your best skills (dominant specializations) are and how you can translate them into services that match the unique needs of your audience. [12:50] #3 Offer - the “Three T’s” that help you come up with your offer and advice for how to apply the principles of Type, Topic, and Title to create a compelling lead magnet. [17:10] Summary of the “3-Step Framework” [18:25] Encouragement for freelancers and VAs - the importance of building your email list and nurturing a relationship with people who may turn into ideal clients. [19:24] How to learn more about leveling up your skills and creating lead magnets at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 09 Oct 2020 | The Online Traffic Class | 00:17:12 | |
Today’s topic is of utmost importance to anyone who has a website. If you’re selling courses, products, or services, you’re going to sometimes have a “traffic problem.” Many of you struggle with this and feel that no one is coming to your website or reading your blog posts. So, how do you consistently bring targeted people to your website and attract the right kind of audience? Join us as I share three common types of traffic that you can leverage to grow your freelance business and get more visitors to your website!
Podcast Outline: [0:43] Introduction to the topic of traffic problems and the importance of driving consistent traffic to your website [1:53] How the movie We Bought a Zoo illustrates the idea of traffic problems and how we’re always looking for the right kind of traffic to come to our freelance websites
Three Common Types of Traffic that You Can Leverage to Grow Your Freelance Business [4:23] #1 Owned Traffic (Warmed Traffic)
[9:47] #2 Earned Traffic
[13:52] #3 Paid Traffic
[15:36] Recap of the three main traffic sources [16:10] How to uplevel your skills in some of the areas we’ve talked about in this episode
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Mailchimp https://mailchimp.com/ ConvertKit https://convertkit.com/ ActiveCampaign https://www.activecampaign.com/ MailerLite https://www.mailerlite.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/business/pages Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/formedia/solutions/facebook-live Facebook Reviews https://www.facebook.com/help/434605260012677 Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ LinkedIn Recommendations https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/90/recommendations-overview?lang=en#:~:text=A%20recommendation%20is%20a%20commendation,from%20the%20sender%20on%20LinkedIn. Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ Twitter https://twitter.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ YouTube Live https://www.youtube.com/live_dashboard_splash?nv=1 Medium https://medium.com/ Google https://www.google.com/ Asana https://asana.com/ Toggl https://toggl.com/ | |||
| 30 Mar 2022 | The Productivity Class | 00:21:27 | |
Do you ever wish you could have more energy and focus better on your daily tasks? In today’s class we’ll discuss the essential strategies you need so you can add more time to your day, accomplish more in your business, and see better results. Join me as I walk you through ten helpful ways to ensure you have your most productive day ever!
Podcast Outline: [0:41] Introduction to the topic of having your most productive day ever - some questions to consider and reasons why people experience a lack of productivity.
Ten Ways to Have a More Productive Day [5:21] #1 Identify and eliminate your productivity pitfalls - examples of different types of pitfalls and how to overcome them. [7:46] #2 Make your to-do list the day before - what to include and how to format the list. [8:48] #3 Build regular morning rituals - the importance of having a regular routine and some examples of how it helps you get into the mental and emotional space to be able to do good work. [9:59] #4 Use the fine art of time blocking - how to create focus times to zero in on your Most Important Task (MIT). [11:29] #5 Batch your recurring tasks - how to designate a time for activities, like checking email and social media, to squeeze more out of the day. [12:28] #6 Keep a distraction list - the types of things to document so you can clear your mind and focus. [13:35] #7 Eliminate inefficient communication methods - the importance of putting boundaries on communication and some examples that could work when communicating with clients. [14:46] #8 Fill your tank with breaks - how to manage your energy and replenish your mind and body by stepping away from your computer at regular intervals. [17:06] #9 Daily sharpen your saw - the importance of preparation, how learning and development increase your motivation and confidence. [18:11] #10 Get plenty of rest - how adequate sleep at night and consistent sleep patterns give you good energy and focus during the day. [19:03] Recap of the 10 helpful strategies to have your most productive day ever [20:08] How to learn more about Freelance University programs and training
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
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| 16 Sep 2022 | The Recession-Proof Your Freelance Business Class | 00:22:56 | |
How do you build a recession-proof freelance business, able to withstand whatever circumstances you find yourself in? Today we’ll unpack seven strategies to help you prepare for a potential recession and even thrive in the midst of it. Join us as we look to the future with hope, discussing the resilience of the freelance and virtual assistant industries!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of building a recession-proof freelance business - Craig shares a story that illustrates how freelancing and entrepreneurship often flourish during a recession. [3:24] How a recession creates a level of anxiety and vulnerability that inspires innovation, creativity, and change
Two Types of People Who Emerge During Economic Recessions [4:27] Play It Safe Paul - how he embodies the characteristics of being stuck in survival mode. [5:37] Make It Happen Mary - how she embodies the characteristics we should aspire to as freelancers or virtual assistants. [6:33] Examples of businesses and professionals who showed innovation as they pivoted during the pandemic - how a recession can also open up opportunities for freelancers and VAs even in the midst of downsizing.
Seven Ways to Recession-Proof Your Freelance Business [9:19] #1 Increase your savings rate - how to plan ahead for feast and famine moments by shoring up your finances. [10:42] #2 Manage your business expenses - how to do a subscription audit to reduce and streamline your operating costs. [11:47] #3 Diversify your service offerings - how to level up your skills in areas where there is great demand. [13:53] #4 Reconnect with people in your network - how to position yourself for new opportunities with previous clients and other people who may want to work with you. [14:58] #5 Flex your marketing muscle - examples of how to fire up your marketing activities in innovative ways. [17:02] #6 Be nimble and adapt on the fly - the importance of being ready to shift and adapt where needed. [18:05] #7 Learn and grow - the importance of investing in yourself so you can diversify your services and pursue new client opportunities. [19:52] Summary of the Seven Ways to Recession-Proof Your Freelance Business [20:46] How to level up your skills at Freelance University - the value of learning how to master, market, and monetize a skill set. [21:39] How to join Freelance University - the benefits of being part of FreeU.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Freelance University Facebook | |||
| 14 Oct 2022 | The Social Media Manager Class with Latasha James | 00:18:12 | |
Are you interested in offering freelance social media management services? Today our guest is Latasha James, an online educator and content creator who has encouraged thousands of people to start and scale online businesses. Join us as we discuss how to build a thriving freelance business as a social media manager. Whether you’re currently offering these services or considering adding them to your business, you’ll be encouraged to hear the reasons why this niche continues to be in high demand!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Latasha James and the topic of building a thriving freelance business as a Social Media Manager - Latasha explains how she got started in freelancing and how things evolved to where she is today. [3:07] What Latasha learned from her corporate experience and other jobs - how every experience is a part of your story. [4:12] How Latasha knew when to pivot from a full-time corporate job to a full-time freelance business - the important factors that influenced her decision and advice for others making similar decisions.
Why Social Media Management Continues to Be an In-Demand Niche for Freelancers and VAs [6:37] #1 It’s constantly changing - how it’s hard for business owners to keep up with different platforms, algorithm changes, and best practices. [7:02] #2 All businesses can benefit from social media marketing - how post-2020 was a great awakening for business owners. [8:13] How social media has changed over the last couple years and the implications for service providers today - the growing importance of video.
How to Get Started as a Social Media Manager in 2022 [9:44] #1 Educate yourself - how to learn about the industry. [9:57] #2 Build a portfolio - examples of different ways you can do this. [11:00] How to stand out from a branding standpoint - the importance of specializing in a particular niche and platform. [14:02] The importance of listening to customer feedback - how their input can help you niche down too. [15:11] Final tips for people who are getting excited about being a Social Media Manager - how “data is how you make decisions.” [16:03] Reasons why an analytics skill set is important for Social Media Managers [16:59] How to learn more about Latasha James [17:40] How to level up your skills at Freelance University
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode
Learn more about Latasha James
Connect with Latasha
Resources and tools: | |||
| 13 Apr 2022 | The Thriving Freelance Designer Class with Elizabeth Averyanova | 00:30:10 | |
How do you build a thriving freelance design business that stands out in the busy web design or graphic design market? Today we’re joined by Elizabeth Averyanova, an architectural designer, digital course creator, business coach, online entrepreneur, and world traveler. She’s built an amazing boutique design agency from scratch and will share her journey from an unemployed architect to a multi-six-figure freelance designer! Podcast Outline: [0:42] Introduction to Elizabeth Averyanova and the topic of building a thriving freelance designer business - Elizabeth describes her journey from an unemployed architect to a multi-six-figure freelance designer. [5:45] How hitting a wall can lead to new opportunities, flexibility, and freedom you’d never have imagined [7:42] How to fit into the busy freelance design market, given the high volume of designers - the importance of finding a niche where you can serve a particular type of client. [9:36] How Elizabeth niched down - the strategies she used to figure out her audience and specialization in web design and branding design. [11:18] The importance of targeting an audience you’re interested in that has opportunities - some examples of how Elizabeth strategically chooses clients. [12:34] Main skills required to start a design business - examples of the crucial design skills and the business skills freelancers need. [14:31] The 3 C’s - how competency, character, and compatibility contribute to positive client relationships and communication. [15:41] Recommended design tools - some examples of key tools to master when beginning a design business. [16:55] Elizabeth’s thoughts about WordPress and other tools - some advice and recommendations from a web design standpoint. [19:15] The power of niching down - how to get clear on what you do and don’t do so your ideal clients can find you. [20:16] Pricing and packaging design services - recommended strategies for designers and thoughts about hourly vs. fixed packages. [22:40] How hourly is often the best starting point, but set packages eventually become more ideal - advice for communicating to clients when using hourly pricing. [23:36] How pricing is a progression - encouragement that it requires trial and error but will be refined over time. [25:22] Retainer services that designers can offer - examples of retainers, VIP Days, and multiple streams of income that help avoid feast or famine. [28:34] How to get to know Elizabeth and her business better [29:30] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Pricing Your Freelance Services course
Learn more about Elizabeth Averyanova: Free Resources: Free List of 175+ Services You Can Offer As A Freelance Designer:
Connect with Elizabeth: Her Branding & Design Studio Website:
Resources and Tools | |||
| 01 Jul 2021 | The Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile Class with Donna Serdula | 00:36:26 | |
In today’s episode, we discuss ways to optimize your Linkedin profile so you can better attract your dream clients. Right now, Linkedin is one of the most popular social media channels for virtual assistants and freelancers, but not everyone knows how to use it strategically. Join us as Donna Serdula explains how to create a profile that showcases who you are and reaches your target audience!
Podcast Outline: [0:50] Introduction to Donna Serdula and the topic of optimizing our LinkedIn profiles so we can attract better clients - Donna explains where she started and how she became passionate about helping people with LinkedIn. [4:17] Old-school LinkedIn profiles - how many people don’t think strategically about reaching their target audience. Donna stresses the importance of using keywords as you tell your story. [6:26] Strategies for making yourself easy to contact - how not including contact information is one of the biggest mistakes on LinkedIn. [8:04] Why LinkedIn is a key component for freelancers today - how it fits with the branding aspect and lets you showcase who you are so you can attract the right people. [10:05] How LinkedIn has a built-in Know-Like-Trust factor - an example of a strategy that works for targeting a particular audience.
How to Make Your Profile Stand Out Better and Showcase Your Personal Brand [11:45] #1 Concentrate on the imagery - the types of images to focus on and how to use them to illustrate what you do. [13:52] #2 Don’t forget the Featured section - how you can feature posts, imagery, and websites. [14:30] #3 The importance of the headline - what to include and how to think of the right keywords for your audience. [20:20] #4 Tips for creating your LinkedIn Summary (About section) - how to make it about you, not your company, and retain the human aspect. [22:56] What motivates people to click on your profile and take action - how to make it easy for them. Donna emphasizes the importance of showcasing who you are and the steps you've taken in your career.
The Best Ways to Reach Your Ideal Client on LinkedIn [26:46] #1 Follow hashtags related to your target audience - how to find the content creators in the area you're looking for and become familiar to them. [27:51] #2 Use LinkedIn as a search engine - how to use keywords and then filter searches to create a list and find your client. [28:33] How to reach out to a potential client - strategies for using their profile, interaction, and activity to assist or ask a question. [32:28] Donna’s pet peeve on LinkedIn and public service announcement - how pointing out typos is not recommended. [34:59] How to get to know Donna and learn more about working with her
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Donna Serdula: Free LinkedIn Headline Generator app | |||
| 16 Jul 2020 | The Freelancer to Course Creator Class with Lindsay Marsh | 00:27:10 | |
Today I’m joined by Lindsay Marsh, a prolific course creator, who has transformed her freelance business into an online education empire. Online education is experiencing massive exponential growth and providing exciting opportunities to set up a new income stream. Lindsay shares her story and outlines the steps that can help you get started as a course creator in 2020!
Guest Biography:
I have had many self-made titles over the years: Brand Manager, Digital Architect, Interactive Designer, Graphic Designer, Web Developer and Social Media Expert, to name a few. My name is Lindsay Marsh, and I have been creating brand experiences for my clients for over 15 years. As a freelance graphic designer, I have worked on a wide variety of projects both in the digital and print space. I have had the wonderful opportunity of taking classes at some of the top design schools in the world: Parsons at The New School, The Pratt Institute and NYU. I have had the pleasure of teaching over 200,000+ students globally online. I have provided private tutoring in the area of design and marketing for over 8 years. I am also now a Canva Certified Creative. The thing I enjoy most of all about being a teacher is seeing my students flourish and be able to start careers that are passionate and rewarding.
Podcast Outline:
[0:40] Introduction to the topic of online course creation and our guest, Lindsay Marsh [1:46] How Lindsay got started as a freelancer and the lifestyle she’s created working from home - the importance of referrals and how her experience changed how she crafts her courses [6:20] How learning has changed and the importance of constantly developing yourself [7:15] How Lindsay shifted from being a freelancer to an online course creator [10:46] Which platforms Lindsay used to launch her teaching business - how each platform worked differently and ultimately tripled her course revenue. [11:58] How your expertise can be packaged into courses even if you weren’t originally a teacher or course creator [12:43] What kind of trend Lindsay sees in the growth of e-learning as we move beyond the COVID-19 pandemic - the elements that will be considered valuable by clients and how this will impact traditional education [15:06] Why starting as a freelancer provides a good training ground to becoming a course creator
Steps for Getting Started as a Course Creator in 2020
[17:27] #1 Figure out what you’re going to teach - your top talents, skills sets, passions and target audience. [18:03] #2 Do some research on course platforms where you can watch preview videos - how to study them as a way of planning your courses. [18:27] #3 Start basic - what types of small courses to start with and how to progress to something bigger. [19:22] #4 Content creation is king - the importance of producing a lot of it and being consistent. [21:17] #5 Be a student of learning - how to create courses with the most impact for students. [23:27] #6 Don’t be too hard on yourself - how perfectionism can prevent you from launching your course. [24:57] How the Online Course Creation and Management Program at Freelance University can help you start your first course from scratch [25:25] How to find out more about what Lindsay is doing
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Where to find out more about Lindsay Marsh:
Udemy https://www.udemy.com/user/lindsay-marsh/ Skillshare https://www.skillshare.com/user/marshdesign?username=9342144 Photoshop https://www.adobe.com/ca/products/photoshop.html Adobe Illustrator https://www.adobe.com/ca/products/illustrator.html Adobe InDesign https://www.adobe.com/ca/products/indesign.html Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ Amazon Prime https://www.primevideo.com/ | |||
| 28 Oct 2021 | The Business Growth Class with Lisa Wells | 00:23:10 | |
What strategies can you put in place to grow your business over the next year? Join us as Virtual Assistant Trainer Lisa Wells provides practical advice on how to grow your revenues and profits by diversifying your freelance or VA business. Growth is an area we all struggle with, so today’s class is about feeling your fear and doing it anyways!
Podcast Outline: [0:36] Introduction to Lisa Wells and the topic of business growth - Lisa tells her story and explains how she’s serving the VA/freelance community. [4:55] How growth is an area we all struggle with - Lisa describes some common barriers to growth for a virtual assistant or freelancer.
Practical ways to scale your business and profits, based on Lisa’s experience [7:01] #1 Make more money per client by selling packages rather than charging hourly. [7:17] #2 Look for ways to create multiple streams of income - how it allows you to pivot more easily in your business. [9:18] #3 Deepen your existing client relationships - how it’s important to have a relationship progression and a proactive follow-up system to address clients’ emerging needs. [15:27] How Lisa made a mental shift to diversifying her services and income - Lisa shares advice she learned from her experiences. [18:32] The purpose of fear and how you need to feel it and do it anyways - Craig explains how opportunities exist to take your craft and package it into other products and services. [20:00] Final words for people who are ready to grow but still have fears - Lisa shares valuable ways you can position yourself and your business. [21:11] How to learn more about Lisa’s products, templates, and programs
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Lisa Wells:
Multiple Streams of Income by Andrea J Lee | |||
| 27 Apr 2022 | The Think Like a Boss Class with Nachum Kligman | 00:26:23 | |
How do you approach your freelance business with a boss mindset when you’re used to being an employee? Today we’re joined by Nachum Kligman, the CEO and founder of Book Like a Boss, a booking page builder that helps freelancers manage their schedules and lives. He knows a thing or two about being an incredible boss in his business and will share strategies for developing an entrepreneurial mindset. This will change the dynamic of your client relationships and help you present yourself with confidence!
Podcast Outline: [0:38] Introduction to Nachum Kligman and the topic of cultivating the mindset of a boss in your freelance business - Nachum describes his journey and how he’s currently serving freelancers. [6:09] How it’s easier to sell software than manufactured products - some examples showing the need for character and persistence in business. [8:37] Why it’s challenging to pivot from an employee mindset to a boss mindset - how to change your mindset so you can establish boundaries. [11:46] The importance of teaching clients how to treat you - how your clients may also bring an employee-employer mindset to the relationship. [12:45] The importance of having a high perceived value - some tips for presenting yourself with the mindset of a successful entrepreneur. [14:43] How to overcome imposter syndrome - Nachum shares his experience and describes the perspective you must have. [18:41] The importance of owning your expertise - how recognizing that can change the dynamic of your client relationship. [20:42] Strategies to help you fully come into your own as the boss of your freelance business - how you must take control of your life and business. [22:03] Seth Godin’s book Tribes says the world needs leaders - the importance of leading in your expertise and partnering in your client’s success. [23:00] Congratulations and encouragement to freelancers - Nachum applauds you for going out on your own and building your own business. [23:46] How to get to know Nachum and check out Book Like a Boss [24:58] The growth of freelancing - how to learn more about Freelance University and develop your skills.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Nachum Kligman: Software Website: Book Like a Boss Why Calendly Users Are Flocking to Book Like a Boss: NotCalendly.com
Connect with Nachum:
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 17 Jun 2022 | The 2022 Freelance Skills Report Class | 00:15:36 | |
Today we’re excited to unveil highlights from our 5th annual Freelance Professional Skills Report! In spite of economic uncertainty, a global pandemic, and global unrest, we’ve seen an extraordinary spike in the growth of freelancing. Join us as we unpack the report and discuss exciting things happening in the freelance space in 2022. Results indicate this is a great time to start or grow your freelance or virtual assistant business!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the 2022 Freelance Professional Skills Report - how to access the link and download the report. [1:00] How 2022 is a great year for you to grow your freelance or virtual assistant business - reasons why the freelance industry has grown. [2:39] The basis for the Freelance Professional Skills Report and how it’s generated
Highlights from the Report [3:20] Why people chose to pursue freelancing during the global pandemic - examples of compelling responses. [5:27] The percentage of freelance or VA survey respondents who are currently working either a full-time or part-time job while building their business - the challenges this presents and encouragement to persevere. [6:43] Top motivations for starting a business - examples of benefits experienced by freelancers and virtual assistants. [7:43] The percentage of respondents whose business either stayed the same or grew during the global pandemic - how this is a win for the freelance industry. [8:25] The top five most important hard skills that contribute to the growth of a freelance business - examples of top skills and how they benefit businesses. [10:49] The top three soft skills - examples of soft skills that are invaluable to a freelance business. [11:06] The best ways to find clients - examples of the most effective sources and strategies, according to respondents. [12:34] The #1 preferred social network for building a freelance business - how the result changed this year, compared to previous surveys. [13:49] In light of our current economic climate, the percentage of people who are encouraged that their businesses are going to grow - how the results indicate this is a great time to be a freelancer. [14:39] How to download the Freelance Professional Skills Report
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Download the 2022 Freelance Professional Skills Report Marketing in 60 Minutes a Day course | |||
| 23 Jun 2022 | The Healthy Social Media Mindset Class with Marion Wagner | 00:28:25 | |
How do you maintain a healthy social media mindset while still growing your business, presence, and influence? Today we’re joined by Business Mindset Coach Marion Wagner, a former school psychologist who helps entrepreneurs scale six-figure online businesses. She shares crucial strategies and insights so you can create healthy boundaries and choose the best social media channels to make authentic connections with your ideal clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Marion Wagner and the topic of building a healthy social media mindset - Marion shares her story and how she shifted from being a school psychologist to a business mindset coach.
Three Ways Social Media is a Blessing [5:26] #1 You can create connections and build relationships with people easily - an example of how it’s used to reach out to people. [5:54] #2 You can show a more human side or a behind-the-scenes look at your business - how it shortens the window of getting a cold lead to know, like, and trust you. [6:18] #3 You can easily showcase what you do and what you offer - some examples illustrating how an active social media presence attracts clients.
The Importance of Creating Boundaries with Social Media from a Business Standpoint [8:46] #1 Time - key questions to ask yourself. [9:23] #2 Identity - the importance of knowing who you are, what you offer, what you stand for, and why you’re there. [10:09] #3 Vanity metrics - the danger of giving too much weight to the number of followers or likes. [12:53] Social media channels that would best serve freelancers and virtual assistants - examples of strategies that would be most effective for you depending on who your ideal client is. [14:09] The importance of having a home base for your business online - how a branded website is an advantage. [15:38] Four signs that you might need some better boundaries for social media - important examples of how you can be consumed by social media.
Four Ways to Create Healthy Boundaries with Social Media [19:18] #1 Make a list of what you’re going to do before you open up a social media app - how it prevents you from getting distracted. [19:51] #2 Set a timer - examples of how it creates a sense of urgency. [20:12] #3 Remind yourself that social media is a business tool - how to set boundaries when you’re working on your business. [20:40] #4 When self-comparison pops up, ask yourself why you’re having that reaction - how it’s a good thing to recognize your thoughts and reframe them. [22:32] The importance of being strategic and intentional on social media - the challenge of maintaining time boundaries. [23:41] Words of encouragement to help you level up your skills in social media - strategies to ensure you spend your time wisely so you reach your ideal clients. [25:50] How both social media and your website are ways to provide people with solutions and build affinity [26:37] How to get to know Marion [27:48] How to learn more about Freelance University’s training programs
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Marion Wagner: Website: Marion Wagner Coaching Freebie: Social Media Mindset Makeover mini-course
Connect with Marion Instagram: @marionwagnercoaching
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 02 Jun 2021 | The Profitable Skills Class with Micala Quinn | 00:38:36 | |
In today’s episode, Micala Quinn explains how to build a profitable skill set that you can turn into an income. Even though we’re navigating an uncertain world during the global pandemic, we have access to untold opportunities as freelancers. Join us as we discuss a four-step process for finding these opportunities and the types of skills you need to create a long-term, viable, and profitable business!
Podcast Outline: [0:40] Introduction to Micala Quinn and the topic of how to build a profitable skill set [2:11] Micala’s freedom story - how she got started as a freelancer and pursued freedom, flexibility, and financial stability. Micala shares how she persevered to find online course work that used her teaching skills. [10:10] The benefits and challenges of working from home and raising a family - how to become an “accidental hero” while pursuing entrepreneurship. [11:51] What skill Micala developed to offer as a service when she built her freelance business - how she evaluated her current skill set and figured out how to translate it to other positions she was applying for. Micala and Craig explain the importance of transferable skills you can use to pivot and grow your business. [14:52] How “skills are the currency that will power your freelance business into a successful future” - Micala and Craig discuss this quote from Craig, how investing in your skill set is one of the best investments you can make. [18:04] Different types of skill sets that might be important for a freelancer to develop now - how to determine the right skill set to develop as a new or established freelancer. Micala and Craig describe different types of roles and the skill sets needed for them. [22:41] How freelancers and online business owners have thrived in the midst of uncertainty and a global pandemic - which types of niches Micala sees thriving and filling a need for business owners. [27:02] How it’s an exciting time to be a freelancer right now - Micala and Craig share stories illustrating how the freelance industry grew during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it’s possible to replace clients before your income feels a hit.
Steps to Selecting a Profitable Skill You Can Turn into an Income [30:24] #1 Do some brain dumping on a sheet of paper - think about what jobs you’ve done and the hard skills you used for them each day. [31:37] #2 For each of the hard skills (tangible tasks) you wrote down, think about the soft skills you have that allow you to excel at that tangible task. [32:15] #3 Evaluate your list - determine what stands out to you. [32:36] #4 Translate your evaluation into a freelance space - how to determine a niche for yourself based on your tangible/hard skills and soft skills. [34:14] How you can see a pattern of the way you’re wired and then attach it to profitable niches and opportunities [35:21] Some common services Micala sees women starting with in her area [36:45] How to get to know Micala
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Micala Quinn:
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| 14 Nov 2019 | The Local Facebook Ads Class with Keeley Cannings | 00:23:55 | |
In this class, I’m joined by my daughter, Keeley Cannings, who gives you valuable strategies on how you can use local Facebook Ads to target your client audience right in your own backyard. Keeley shares how she has leveraged local Facebook Ads to build a very profitable photography business for herself. Join us as we unpack 9 steps to launching a local Facebook Ads campaign so you can generate new client leads and ultimately build your business!
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:00 - Introduction to Keeley Cannings and the topic of Local Facebook Ads 2:08 - Keeley’s experience doing “Headshot Days” as a local photographer 4:02 - The benefit of Facebook Ads to freelancers:
6:00 - The “Echo Effect”
7:57 - Example of an idea you can use to generate client leads in your local area 9:26 - 9 Steps to take when launching a local Facebook Ads campaign:
23:20 - Final thoughts
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Keeley Cannings’ website: http://www.keeleyjoy.com Facebook Ads: https://www.facebook.com/business/ads WordPress: https://wordpress.org/ Contact Form 7 plugin: https://en-ca.wordpress.org/plugins/contact-form-7/ Local Ad Sets: https://www.facebook.com/business/help/706063442820839?id=802745156580214 Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/ | |||
| 21 Jan 2021 | The Selling (Without Being Salesy) Class with Jay Clouse | 00:39:31 | |
One of the greatest challenges that most freelancers face, or will face, is the ability to sell their services and sell themselves. This can be a daunting challenge. We may love a lot of facets of freelancing, but many of us don’t enjoy the sales process. Today I’m joined by Jay Clouse, who shares some effective strategies for selling your services without being salesy. Join us as we discuss how to negotiate and have genuine conversations with potential clients, especially during this global pandemic.
Podcast Outline [0:51] Introduction to Jay Clouse - Jay tells the story of how he got into the freelancing space. [5:17] How freelancers need to have an entrepreneurial mindset - the importance of treating your craft as a business to make it lucrative and successful. [7:05] How do you sell your services without being salesy - reasons why the average freelancer dreads the sales and marketing piece of their business. [9:58] Stereotypes we’ve seen around salespeople and top mistakes people make when selling their services. [11:53] Imposter syndrome - how it pours into your messaging and conversations and makes you sell yourself short. [14:04] The importance of negotiation and how it comes from a point of confidence - how the sale is often won before you even quote the price. [15:26] Should freelancers start charging less because we’re in the middle of a global pandemic? Jay gives advice for how to talk to a potential client, sell yourself, and negotiate. [21:29] Some channels people can leverage right now to sell services - Jay describes three different routes and provides tips on how to use them. [26:29] The importance of diversifying and building relationships when looking for clients - how we need to have the courage to be the first person to reach out. [29:03] How business relationships don’t start with a pitch - Jay explains how they start the same way friendships start and gives advice for how to have a conversation. [29:51] How do we sell well without being salesy? Jay gives specific ideas for how to sell yourself and provides examples of strategies and conversation topics. [34:52] The concept of pain points and having the confidence to communicate your ability to reach the client’s goal - how you can go into the conversation with the mindset that the person wants you to be the solution to their problem. [37:10] Jay shares some final tips about selling in the midst of the global pandemic. [38:07] How to connect with Jay Clouse
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: The Freelancing School http://freelancing.school/
The Creative Elements Podcast https://thepodglomerate.com/shows/creativeelements/ Unreal Collective https://unrealcollective.com/ The Accelerator Program https://unrealcollective.com/accelerator/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ LinkedIn Learning https://www.linkedin.com/learning/ Lynda.com https://www.lynda.com/ UpWork https://www.upwork.com/ FlexJobs https://www.flexjobs.com/ SolidGigs https://solidgigs.com/ Pat Flynn’s SPI community https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/pro/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ | |||
| 20 May 2022 | The Staying Motivated Class | 00:22:17 | |
How do you stay motivated to keep doing what you’re doing in your business every day? This topic is one of the most important factors to your long-term success in your virtual assistant or freelance business. So, today we’ll unpack seven practical strategies to help you stay motivated, even in the midst of adversity. They’ll give you the courage to continue striving for success and giving your clients your absolute best!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of staying motivated in your freelance or virtual assistant business - the importance of continuing even in the midst of adversity or waning motivation. [2:19] An example of motivation and the courage to continue - how Craig’s daughters achieved success during adversity.
The Difference Between Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation [4:30] Intrinsic motivation - its definition, importance, and examples of how it’s characterized by the three Ps (Purpose, Passion, and Personal Fulfillment). [9:55] Extrinsic motivation - its definition, importance, and examples of how it’s characterized by the three Rs (Relationships, Revenues, and Rewards).
7 Practical Strategies to Help You Stay Motivated in Your Business [13:55] #1 Know Your Big Why - how to create business and personal purpose statements to anchor you during the challenges in your business. [15:14] #2 Embrace the Freelance Lifestyle - how to embrace the many freedoms you can enjoy as a freelancer. [16:25] #3 Assess Your Niche - how to make sure you’re doing what you love so you receive personal fulfillment. [17:06] #4 Mix Up the Environment - how to switch up work locations to keep yourself motivated and on track. [17:30] #5 Celebrate Your Little and Big Wins - how to be aware of the good things happening in your business so progress can breed motivation. [18:18] #6 Update Your Skills and Keep Learning - how gaining mastery over a skill set breeds motivation and enjoyment of the work. [19:03] #7 Join a Community - how aligning yourself with people who are extrinsic motivators will lift you up. [19:37] How to learn more about Freelance University’s supportive community, small group masterminds, and mentorship designed to provide a support circle around your business [20:04] Recap of the 7 practical strategies and the characteristics of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 29 May 2020 | The Client Attraction Class with Hugo Finkelstein | 00:27:30 | |
How do you land your first client when you’re just starting out as a freelancer? And if you have an established business, how do you continue to approach and attract clients? Today I’m joined by Hugo Finkelstein, co-founder and CEO of Rise. He’ll teach us some unique and effective ways to reach out to clients, add value, and attract them to our businesses and services! Guest Biography: Hugo Finkelstein is the co-founder and CEO of Rise, an independent talent network and service marketplace for designers and writers. He was previously at LGO Launch, a marketing and consulting agency for blockchain-based projects. Podcast Outline: [0:48] Introduction to Hugo Finkelstein [1:30] How Hugo got started as a freelancer and why he’s passionate about serving the freelance community [3:42] In light of the global pandemic, why this is an ideal time to become a freelancer - Hugo and Craig share examples of how businesses need help from freelancers and how the interest in remote work is growing. [6:35] How the freelancer’s entrepreneurial mindset differs from that of an employee - Craig and Hugo explain how the freelance mindset provides freedom and benefits companies. [8:43] Why freelancers struggle with attracting and approaching clients - Hugo and Craig describes the skills freelancers need to attract clients and approach them in the right way.
The Dos and Don’ts of Approaching Potential Clients [12:30] #1 Warm intro or referral - how this is the best option for attracting clients. [13:22] #2 Cold emailing and cold messaging - the dos and don’ts of using this method. Hugo explains how to craft messages differently to gain a better response from potential clients. [14:22] #3 Building your own profile and brand - how this phase precedes the other approaches. Hugo describes the elements you need so you can give a concrete impression to potential clients. [14:54] How new freelancers can approach clients if they lack experience [17:22] How to effectively approach potential clients on LinkedIn - Hugo explains the two ways that have worked for him. [19:59] How new freelancers should read about PR strategies and approaching journalists - Hugo explains how these strategies can help pique people’s interests. [20:45] How one of the keys to attracting clients is to be visible - Craig explains how this can build a network for you. [21:19] How to provide value by presenting yourself as an expert in your field - Hugo and Craig talk about the importance of creating content and give advice on how to choose your content medium. [23:25] Final thoughts for freelancers who are struggling with the process of approaching and attracting clients - Hugo and Craig share some important tips that can help. [25:25] What Hugo does at Rise and how freelancers can get connected with him Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Rise https://www.riseworks.io/ Twitter https://twitter.com/ Square https://squareup.com/ Shopify https://www.shopify.ca/ The Winning Discovery Call Workshop https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/the-winning-discovery-call LinkedIn https://ca.linkedin.com/ Medium https://medium.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/solutions/facebook-live Instagram Live https://www.instagram.com/ | |||
| 30 Jul 2020 | The Discover Your Passion Class | 00:19:42 | |
How do you discover your passion and figure out what work you actually love to do? How does that process work out? When entering the freelance space, we often aren’t clear on what niche to pursue. In this episode, Craig debunks myths around following your passion and shares valuable insights to help you start the process of cultivating skills and passions that will lead you to work you’ll enjoy.
Podcast Outline: [0:54] Introduction to the topic of passion - how some people know what they want to do, while others are unsure. [1:52] Debunking some myths around the idea of discovering work that you’d love to do [3:34] Discussion Question - True or False: “Follow your passion and you’ll find the work you love?” Craig unpacks this and shares some interesting examples of how passion relates to skill sets. [8:03] The Tale of Two Bookkeepers - an example of how other conditions can make you passionate about a specific niche.
Three Things that Determine Whether You’re Going to Enjoy the Work You Do [10:34] #1 The Type of Work - how learning new skills can give you a sense of whether you’ll enjoy a particular niche [11:08] #2 The Autonomy of Your Work - the factors that lead to you feeling an affinity for what you do. [11:27] #3 The Conditions of the Work - how the choices you make and the environment you create can affect your enjoyment of the work.
Three Conclusions Related to Work Passions [12:03] #1 Career or Work Passions are Rare - how Steve Jobs cultivated his passion over time. [13:13] #2 Passions Take Time to Develop - how a cultivation process must take place before you can figure out whether you enjoy a niche. [13:54] #3 Passions are a Side Effect of Mastery - how you start to love a niche as you become more skilled, competent and experienced in it. [14:38] A discussion of the book Drive by Daniel Pink - three motivating factors that we need to have in our work in order to enjoy what we’re doing.
Three Traits that Define Great Work that You Can Love [16:03] #1 Creativity - how this can open up the opportunity for you to love what you do. [16:21] #2 Impact - how having an impact on your clients’ lives enhances your enjoyment of the work. [16:55] #3 Control - how this relates to having freedom in your work. [17:20] Last Takeaways - some encouraging advice to help you as you seek your passion and niche. [18:25] How Freelance University can help you explore and cultivate skills that lead to cultivating passions
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Do What You Love, The Money Will Follow by Marsha Sinetar So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport https://www.calnewport.com/books/so-good/ Apple https://www.apple.com/ Drive by Daniel Pink https://www.danpink.com/drive./ | |||
| 24 Jul 2019 | The Closing the Sale Class | 00:24:04 | |
In this class we talk about the art of closing the sale. Some of you may struggle with closing the sale as it can be a difficult process and you don’t want to disrupt the relationship you have already established with a prospect. But there are good ways to respectfully call potential clients to action and lead them to purchase your services. In this Podclass, I guide you through 12 steps that you can take to effectively close a sale with a prospective client.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:58 - Introduction to the topic of “Closing the Sale with a Client” 2:21 - Challenges to closing the sale:
3:25 - Two guiding principles to think about as you’re entering the final stage of turning people potentially from a prospect over to a client:
5:55 - 12 Steps to Closing the Sale with a Client:
23:10 - Summary and encouragement 23:24 - Where to access the handout on the 12 steps and sample questions 23:46 - Final thoughts
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Zoom: https://zoom.us/ Skype: https://www.skype.com/en/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/ WordPress: https://wordpress.org/ | |||
| 25 Nov 2021 | The Healthy Business Mindset Class with Amanda Kolbye | 00:34:19 | |
Today we're focusing on mindset — a topic that is critical to the success of your freelance business. Join us as Business Coach Amanda Kolbye shares key strategies and steps to cultivating a healthier mindset. These practices will help you navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship while maintaining day-to-day happiness and stability within your business!
Podcast Outline: [0:40] Introduction to Amanda Kolbye and the topic of developing the right mindset to run a thriving business - Amanda tells her story and highlights how mindset comes into play in your business. [4:39] How COVID-19 has been a wake-up call urging people to do what they want to do - Amanda explains how you want what you want for a reason. [6:18] The importance of mindset in any business - Amanda outlines two ways mindset contributes to your success. [8:25] The three traits of a successful freelancer - how these traits relate to the idea of mindset, especially grit and unstoppability. [10:16] Enemies to a healthy mindset that creep up and cause people to go back to self-doubt or self-deprecation - Amanda gives examples of how we assign meaning to certain situations and suggests how to recognize and combat it. [14:00] How freelancers sometimes feel like they don’t know enough when they launch a new service - Amanda and Craig give helpful tips to shift your perspective. Three Steps to Cultivating a Healthier Mindset [18:11] #1 Take time to question things and uncover your core beliefs and what narratives are fueling your subconscious thinking - how you can’t shift things if you aren’t aware of why and what’s happening. [20:00] #2 Make it a practice, not an end goal - how mindset needs to be a daily or weekly practice like exercise to fuel the thoughts and beliefs you want to be apparent in your life. [20:40] #3 Do the uncomfortable work - how entrepreneurship is 20% business and 80% personal development or mindset. [21:23] The cognitive triangle - how this applies to freelance business activities like charging what you’re worth. [24:47] How Amanda handles setbacks and adversity - some helpful and effective strategies that tie into mindset. [29:15] How community is at the heart of what Freelance University does and is one of the ingredients that make you unstoppable [30:52] The importance of having highs and lows while maintaining consistency - how you must figure out how to maintain your day-to-day happiness and stability within your business. [32:37] How to learn more about Amanda [33:34] How to learn more about Freelance University to level up your skills and become part of a community that will lift you up and help you accomplish your goals.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Amanda Kolbye:
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| 06 Aug 2021 | The Social Selling Class with Ryann Dowdy | 00:34:35 | |
How do you sell yourself and your freelance services? In today’s episode, Ryann Dowdy shares strategies for attracting your ideal clients with a concept known as social selling. If cold calling is a challenge for you, social selling will squelch those fears. And for those of you who aren’t natural salespeople, it might be exactly what you’re looking for!
Podcast Outline: [0:38] Introduction to Ryann Dowdy and the topic of social selling - Ryann describes her journey and how she became an entrepreneur. [4:57] How selling and cold calling can be a challenge for freelancers - Ryann explains how social selling can squelch that fear.
How a Freelancer Attracts Clients Using Social Selling Strategies [7:51] #1 Stop prejudging and start talking about your business on social media - how “your warm market is your fastest path to cash.” [8:41] #2 Start talking to people - the different types of people you can connect with and ask for help. [9:30] #3 Join Facebook Groups and other types of social media communities - some encouragement and tips for starting conversations with businesspeople. [11:13] How people understand virtual work more than ever before, making potential clients available within your network - Ryann and Craig discuss where the fear of selling might come from and how social selling compares with in-person meetings and conferences. [15:13] How to approach someone on LinkedIn who falls into your dream client category when you don’t know them or have a bridge to them through another relationship - Ryann outlines the steps she and her team would use to connect and start a conversation. [18:30] How some LinkedIn requests are self-promotional, but a personal, more relational connection makes a good first impression - some tips for what you shouldn’t say and some advice for letting go of expectations and being authentic. [22:42] Tips for introverts - how social selling can be fantastic for introverts, since being an introvert is a superpower. [24:48] Final tips on how to be confident at social selling - Ryann explains how confidence is built through practice and putting yourself out there. [27:21] How to set realistic expectations - two concepts that illustrate the importance of persevering even if the first contacts don’t work out. [32:58] How to connect with Ryann and learn more about what she’s doing [34:04] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Ryann Dowdy: On Instagram: @socialsellersacademy On Facebook: @socialsellersacademy
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| 16 Feb 2023 | The VA to CEO Class with Kristy Yoder | 00:27:56 | |
Are you interested in building an agency or multi-VA firm? Today our guest is Kristy Yoder, the founder and CEO of Smart VAs and host of the Master Delegator Podcast. She leads a team of more than 70 VAs and knows a lot about transitioning from a solopreneur virtual assistant to a CEO. Join us as we discuss the strategies and mindset you’ll need to have so you can overcome challenges and make a successful transition to CEO!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Kristy Yoder and the topic of transforming a solopreneur business into an agency or a multi-VA firm - Kristy describes her journey, how she started and then pivoted to an agency she runs every day. [5:19] How to release control - Kristy describes the strategies and mindset that help her delegate and release control to other VAs in her agency. [8:52] The “ceiling effect” - how you cap your revenues, energy, and capacity when you try to do everything instead of trusting other people. [9:22] The mindset you need to shift from a VA or freelance solopreneur to a CEO of a team - Kristy encourages solopreneurs and describes how she needs to be clear with her title and role as a CEO, changing from an implementer to a visionary, planner, and strategist. [13:17] How to start thinking like a CEO - the importance of envisioning your goals and plans and how you can wear that leadership cap even if you’re a solopreneur. [14:51] The challenges that must be overcome when pivoting to a CEO model and mindset - Kristy explains her main challenge that she’s still trying to overcome. [16:51] How you can be your own worst enemy in business - Craig describes the challenges you may face and the importance of self-awareness so you can get out of your own way.
Tips to Help VAs and Freelancers Make a Successful Transition to CEO [19:05] Slow down, but don’t procrastinate - the importance of coming up with a realistic plan for your business and focusing on it. [21:15] How to hire the right people for your agency - Kristy discusses her recruitment process and how her VAs must be in alignment with her core values, possessing the right skills and character. [23:25] The importance of character and hiring people you can trust [24:17] Resources on becoming the leader or CEO in your business - Kristy shares her favorite author and book. [27:11] How to learn more about leveling up your skills at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Kristy Yoder:
Connect with Kristy:
Resources and tools: John C. Maxwell’s book, Developing the Leader Within You
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| 07 May 2020 | The Podcasting as a Service Class with Sarah Mikutel | 00:24:51 | |
In the midst of the global pandemic, people are consuming digital content more than ever before. Today I’m joined by Sarah Mikutel, podcast expert and founder of the online course Podcast Launch Academy. She’ll share her insights on how to set up an in-demand podcast production service. What are the different types of services you can offer? And how can you make money doing this? The downloads on podcasts are at an all-time high, and this presents a unique opportunity for freelancers to position themselves as podcast producers for a whole variety of businesses!
Guest Biography:
Sarah Mikutel is a globetrotting podcast consultant and founder of the online course Podcast Launch Academy. Her podcasts Podcasting Step by Step and the Postcard Academy, have been named best podcast about podcasting and best travel podcast, respectively. Born and raised in the U.S., Sarah’s spent nearly a decade living the expat life in Europe and believes that true independence means the freedom to choose where, when, and how you spend your time and attention. She loves working with fellow citizens of the world who want to use the power of podcasting to connect to their global community and build a brand and business that supports a freedom-based life.
Podcast Outline:
[0:56] Craig introduces us to Sarah Mikutel and the topic of leveraging podcasting as a service for your clients. [2:19] Sarah describes the opportunities opening up in podcasting as a result of the global pandemic and social isolation. She explains how the growth has accelerated recently and how podcasting is as popular or more popular than online video. [5:59] How podcasts fit into our lifestyle and are cross-generational. [6:56] A list of services freelancers could offer in the podcasting space to generate income. Sarah begins by explaining the necessary elements of the best podcasts and how podcasting services are perfect for a VA.
Some Examples of In-Demand Services:
[9:23] Podcast Editor (audio editing/engineering) - the #1 service people want to outsource from the beginning. Sarah lists the software needed for this role and describes what’s involved. Craig stresses how important this role is! [12:11] Show Notes Writers - for those who have a writing background. Sarah describes the different ways you can create show notes and repurpose them. She explains the importance of incorporating SEO for discoverability. [13:40] Social Media - distributing and promoting the podcast to social contacts. Sarah and Craig outline the important elements of this role. [15:29] Podcast Guest Recruiter - a very in-demand niche right now. Craig explains the importance of this role and how it can lead to partnerships. [16:43] Producer/VA - a comprehensive role. Sarah explains what this role entails and how the producer can also send pitches to help podcasters get on other podcasts. [17:12] The best ways for a new VA or freelancer to find podcasting clients. Sarah and Craig explain some key strategies you can use to be proactive and target certain niches. Craig gives an example of a whole realm of people who are prime candidates for podcast services! [21:22] Sarah describes what she does in the podcast education space. She discusses how this is an exciting time of deeper reflection that can benefit our businesses. [23:13] How Freelance University prides itself in presenting opportunities for you to generate income from home right now.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Sarah Mikutel’s website: SarahMikutel.com https://sarahmikutel.com/ Online course: Podcast Launch Academy https://sarah-mikutel.mykajabi.com/podcast-launch-academy-1
Podcasts:
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Google https://www.google.com/ Spotify https://www.spotify.com/ Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads Audacity https://www.audacityteam.org/ Adobe Audition https://www.adobe.com/ca/products/audition/free-trial-download.html iTunes https://www.apple.com/ca/itunes/
Facebook Groups recommended by Sarah Mikutel:
She Podcasts https://www.facebook.com/groups/shepodcasts/ Podfest https://www.facebook.com/groups/podfest BuzzSprout Podcast Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/BuzzsproutCommunity/ Podcast Movement https://www.facebook.com/groups/podcastmovement Podcasters Support Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/podsupportgroup/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ | |||
| 03 Feb 2022 | The Thriving Virtual Assistant Class with Kathy Goughenour | 00:26:21 | |
In the early days of the virtual assistant industry, few people knew what a VA was. But now the industry has gone mainstream, and it’s growing faster than ever. Today we’re joined by business coach and trainer Kathy Goughenour as she talks about the keys to building a thriving VA business. You’ll also learn how to picture the future you want so you can live the life you want to lead! Podcast Outline: [0:50] Introduction to Kathy Goughenour and the topic of building a thriving virtual assistant business - Kathy describes how she got started as a virtual assistant and where she is now. [7:11] Why the VA industry is booming and why it’s an exciting time to be a VA - how the industry is expected to continue growing consistently over the next four years. [8:44] How the experiment of hiring a VA or freelancer during the pandemic turned out to be a success - Kathy shares statistics that point to the incredible savings businesses enjoy. [10:17] How it’s possible to get more work done when you’re working from home [11:19] The biggest challenges most VAs face - Kathy shares what she’s heard from VAs, what she thinks, and strategies she recommends to overcome the biggest challenge. [12:44] The importance of confidence and how it creates unlimited potential [14:05] The distinction between virtual assistants and virtual experts - how all the different levels are necessary. [16:32] The negative side of thinking about the word “expert” - the perils of comparing yourself to others and encouragement that there’s a VA for every person who needs one.
Words of wisdom for VAs who want to achieve a level of freedom and enjoy the work they do [20:32] Think about what you want - the kind of life you want to lead and what success is for you right now [23:11] The importance of picturing the future you want to have and carving out your own path in the VA space [24:28] How to connect with Virtual Expert
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Kathy Goughenour: Free 5-session video and DreamSheets at Virtual Expert - ExpertVA.biz
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| 16 Apr 2021 | The New PR Class with Brittney Lynn | 00:39:58 | |
How do you leverage traditional and digital PR to land new clients and to grow your opportunities? Today thought leader Brittney Lynn shares important insights on how you can leverage PR to build your freelance business and add clients. Join us as we discuss tips for overcoming imposter syndrome and ways you can offer services in the PR space!
Podcast Outline: [0:48] Introduction to Brittney Lynn and the topic of leveraging PR to build your freelance business and add clients [1:47] Brittney shares her story - how she got involved in the PR space. [5:40] What PR looks like for a freelancer in a digital age - recommendations for when you’re just getting started and building your client list. [9:54] How to overcome imposter syndrome - how it’s common with successful entrepreneurs and steps you can take to lessen it. [13:22] How PR could be a launching pad that leads to other opportunities that diversify your business and provide a more lasting, organic reach than paid advertising.
Steps to Move Forward with a PR Plan to Land New Clients [16:55] Know where your ideal customer’s audience is spending time - how to find the right podcast to pitch and how to focus on the audience. Brittney shares specific advice for making a pitch stand out. [23:44] Some hallmark characteristics of a good pitch - how to make a pitch concise, personal, clear, and captivating. Brittney gives specific examples of ways you can form your pitch. [29:06] How writers can prepare themselves to be published in a big publication - examples of ways you can showcase your work and network with other freelance writers. [32:00] How building a virtual team is a big growth area - tips to know what topics are hot and what you should pitch yourself on. [34:51] What VAs could do as a service for the PR space - how it’s going to become more and more popular as podcasts grow. [38:54] How to get to know Brittney Lynn
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Brittney Lynn: On Pinterest - Brittney Lynn | PR + Media for Entrepreneurs On Facebook - @brittneyllynndotcom Free pitch templates from Brittney Lynn
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| 19 Nov 2020 | The Recession-Proof Freelancer Class with Carol Tice | 00:36:52 | |
Today’s topic is of the utmost importance in these unprecedented times. I’m joined by Carol Tice, who shares insights about what it takes to become a recession-proof freelancer. Carol knows a lot about how to build a thriving freelance business in the midst of a major recession. She shares key strategies that you can employ right now to make sure you're building the best business, even in the midst of a global pandemic!
Podcast Outline: [0:46] Introduction to Carol Tice and the topic of building a recession-proof business [2:17] How Carol started freelance writing and became passionate about teaching writers to make a living online [8:29] The lack of community and online training years ago - how Carol recognized and addressed that gap [9:15] How many writers have a poverty mentality - what’s necessary to overcome that vision. Carol explains how stasis is the bad scenario, but change brings opportunity. [10:57] Introduction to the topic: How are we thriving as freelancers in the midst of an unprecedented global pandemic that has economic implications? [11:45] What Carol sees happening for the gig economy during this global pandemic - she describes the types of businesses that are busy right now, reopening and pivoting. [13:39] The big things Carol learned in the past recession that are applicable now - who’s currently positioned to be a winner [14:27] Insights from Carol’s ebook: The Recession-Proof Freelancer - Carol discusses the big things to remember during hard times and which industries are the winners. [18:10] How to develop a marketing discipline and the importance of not taking clients for granted - Carol explains how to use LinkedIn and virtual conferences to find leads and quality clients [20:58] How to avoid the “underworld of freelance writing” in a recession, leaving commodity clients and entering the world of value clients [24:42] Should freelancers discount prices - how to do it strategically as a form of marketing or as an introductory rate [26:40] The importance of big content creation projects - why book ghosting has boomed on sites like Reedsy as people think about the big picture and leaving a legacy [29:50] How online education and digital products are fueling the need for writers and freelancers to power clients’ businesses [30:25] The big takeaway - how business is not going back to the way it was [31:01] The importance of aligning yourself with people who are like-minded and have a long vision that the new normal could be better than you thought - Craig and Carol explain the importance of having a community of business-focused freelancers who are serious about what they’re doing and have positive energy. [34:34] How to get to know Carol and what she’s doing right now Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Carol Tice’s blog: https://www.makealivingwriting.com/blog/ Freelancer’s Writer’s Den https://freelancewritersden.com/ Carol’s free ebook: The Recession-Proof Freelancer https://www.makealivingwriting.com/ebooks/recession-proof-freelancer/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ LinkedIn Pulse https://www.linkedin.com/company/pulse-news/about/ Upwork https://www.upwork.com/ Reedsy https://reedsy.com/ Forbes Business Council https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesbusinesscouncil/ Medium https://medium.com/ Google https://www.google.com/ FlexJobs https://www.flexjobs.com/ | |||
| 16 Mar 2022 | The Fully Booked Business Class with Holly Marie Haynes | 00:23:29 | |
How do you build a fully booked VA or freelance business when you only have a part-time schedule? Today we’re joined by Holly Marie Haynes, a productivity coach and business strategist who is living that experience right now. She shares tips to help you take back control of your time so you can create a long-term business strategy and pursue your ideal schedule and lifestyle! Podcast Outline: [0:73] Introduction to Holly Marie Haynes and the topic of building a fully booked freelance or VA business when you only have a part-time schedule - Holly tells the story of how she became involved in entrepreneurship.
Three traits that characterize people who squeeze more hours out of the day [5:37] #1 Having a long-term strategy and vision - what that means and what strategies help you accomplish this. [6:40] #2 Being consistent - how consistency is manifested in your business and how it builds momentum. [7:37] How grit, consistency, and motivation are key to building your business - important examples of the impact these traits have. [9:26] #3 How do people know you - the importance of repurposing content behind the scenes into different mediums and social networks.
Barriers that hinder the average person from using time well in their business [10:37] #1 Distraction - the 3 S’s and strategies to overcome them. [11:34] #2 Comparison - how it’s okay to be different from other freelancers and focus on different goals. [12:18] The importance of doing a self-check to see which of the 3 S’s is your main issue - how building systems will help combat these distractions.
Practical strategies for building a full-time freelance or consulting business on a part-time basis [13:47] #1 What is your long-term goal and vision - how it serves as your guardrail while you’re doing the next steps and making daily decisions. [14:13] #2 Organize consistent business hours and designate theme days - some examples of schedules and theme days in a business setting. [17:34] How do you know when to make the leap from employment to full-time freelancing - some examples of criteria you may use based on what you want your ideal schedule and lifestyle to look like. [19:58] Tools that power Holly’s productivity every week - some advice and examples of how she uses them for different parts of her business and customer experience. [22:07] How to connect with Holly
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Holly Marie Haynes: On Instagram: @Holly_Marie_Haynes Crush the Rush Quarterly Planner
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| 06 Jan 2022 | The Never Freelance Alone Class | 00:15:34 | |
One of the primary components of a long-term, enduring business is a strong support network. In short, “Never Freelance Alone.” Today I’ll unpack four circles of support vital to the health of your business, along with five strategies for building a supportive community in 2022. Get ready for your best year yet with fellow freelancers and virtual assistants by your side!
Podcast Outline: [0:42] How to build a long-term, enduring business - the importance of incorporating the principle “Never Freelance Alone” into your freelance or virtual assistant business. [3:36] “How is your support network?” - Craig explains the roles a support network can play in your business and life.
Four Circles of Support Required to Build a Healthy Community for Your Business [5:05] #1 Your Business Champion - how this person can be your greatest support and a constant source of encouragement. [6:05] #2 Close Family and Friends - how they may not understand what you do, but they support and encourage you. [6:34] #3 A Coach or a Mentor - how you can learn from this person as they challenge you to get better and support you. [7:05] #4 Your Community - how you could learn from your peers in an online or offline group, build camaraderie, and receive support.
Five Strategies to Build a Supportive Community in 2022 [9:20] #1 Pick one or two online groups to actively participate in - how to choose them and regularly invest in relationships there. [10:21] #2 Research and identify any events you can participate in locally - how they can help build your support network and client base. [11:19] #3 Connect with some like-minded freelancers or VAs regularly - how to join a mastermind and receive constructive feedback from the group. [12:22] #4 Recruit a mentor or coach - how these people can influence you in a powerful way and help you grow even faster. [12:52] #5 Join Freelance University - how hundreds of people in our learning community actively support each other and benefit from training courses and resources. [14:41] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 09 Oct 2019 | The Referral Marketing Class | 00:29:56 | |
In this class we talk about referral marketing - one of the easiest ways to find clients and one of the best strategies to grow and scale your freelance business. But how do we do it well? How do we get ideal clients referred to us from people who know, like and trust us? I will show you a three-step system for how you can build a referral marketing machine into your freelance business!
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:49 - Introduction to the topic of Referral Marketing 5:00 - Two Types of Referrals:
7:02 - Two Keys to Getting New Referrals:
8:47 - Three Simple Steps to Building an Effective Client Referral System
28:32 - Encouragement to never ever be afraid to ask for a referral. 28:51 - Closing thoughts Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Nielsen Insights: https://www.nielsen.com/us/en/
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini: https://www.amazon.com/Influence-Psychology-Persuasion-Business-Essentials-ebook/dp/B002BD2UUC
Facebook Page Reviews: https://www.facebook.com/help/434605260012677
LinkedIn Recommendations: https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/90/recommendations-overview?lang=en
Starbucks Gift Cards: https://app.starbucks.com/gift
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| 19 Aug 2021 | The Protecting Your Business Class with Layne Lyons | 00:46:42 | |
How do you protect your business legally? Today’s topic is of the utmost importance because although we don’t usually think about it a lot, it’s a crucial ingredient for building and growing our freelance business with confidence. Join us as Layne Lyons shares six key ways to build a solid foundation with legal structures so you can sleep peacefully at night!
Podcast Outline: [0:49] Introduction to Layne Lyons and the topic of protecting your business legally - Layne describes her journey, how she created The Legal Umbrella and began serving entrepreneurs. [7:48] The benefits of being mindful about protecting your business legally - how building a solid foundation using legal structures gives you confidence to grow your business. [9:42] What happens when you’re not protected - how being sued is rare for the average entrepreneur, but drama-filled situations are inevitable. Craig and Layne discuss the importance of having a foundation that provides safeguards. The Umbrella Method - Six Core Areas for a Freelancer or Online Service Provider to Protect [11:40] Why it’s called “The Legal Umbrella” - how the six letters represent six areas to protect in your business. Layne explains how it's information and education to use as you grow your business, not a substitute for legal advice. [12:48] Four things you can do with the six areas - how it’s a rinse-and-repeat system that allows you to run and grow your current business with confidence and peace of mind. [14:20] The Letter U: Your Unique Content - what it is and what questions you can ask yourself to audit it. [15:26] The Letter M: Your Money - questions to ask yourself to ensure you keep the money you earn with strong legal protections. Layne explains the benefits of making sure you’re getting paid so you have the confidence to raise prices and offer a payment plan. [19:02] The Letter B: Your Brand - what it is and what question you should ask yourself. Layne discusses the importance of trademarks and how it can be devastating to have to change a business name and branding. [22:39] The cost of trademarks and recommendations for what services you should receive when applying for a trademark. [26:57] The Letter R: Your Relationships - how it’s the heart of any entrepreneur’s practice and the heartbeat of your business. Layne describes the real pitfall to look out for and a framework for looking at your contract. [31:26] The Letter E: Your E-Presence - what it is and how the scope is important. Layne explains how to ensure you’re held to the appropriate standard of care in the law’s eyes by asking yourself certain questions. [36:46] How to put the safeguards in place if you’re a website designer who builds a website that gets hacked - what type of contract to use and what it includes regarding results and disclaimers. [40:35] The Letters LLA: Your Love Life Attitude - how it’s your sanity and must be protected most of all. Layne stresses the importance of loving your life and being able to grow your business without fear by identifying where the legal leaks are so you can prevent drama situations. [43:42] Recap - the importance of contracts and identifying where you’re protected and not protected. [44:20] Where to learn more and connect with Layne
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Layne Lyons: Peace of Mind Legal Audit (15-page workbook) Platinum Protection Trademark Services
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| 26 May 2022 | The Freelance Strategist Class with Austin Church | 00:38:21 | |
Do you ever wonder how you can generate more revenue and get more meaning from your work in less time? Today we’re joined by writer, strategist and coach, Austin Church, the founder of FreelanceCake.com. He shares effective strategies for becoming not just an implementer, but a consultant and strategist for your clients in more than six different in-demand areas. These services will help you add a whole new layer of income to your freelance or virtual assistant business!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Austin Church and the topic of becoming a freelance strategist/consultant - Austin tells the story of how he became a freelancer and a strategist. [5:46] The challenge of how to generate more revenue and get more meaning from your work in less time - some reasons why freelancers struggle to move from being an implementer to being a strategist or consultant. [7:21] The challenge of routine - how we don’t always recognize how the aptitudes required in our tasks relate to consulting. [11:50] How we tend to overestimate how much clarity other people have - examples of ways you can use your expertise to lead strategy sessions with your clients. [15:13] How clients are enthusiastic in their gratitude after strategy sessions - the importance of using consulting questions before creating an actionable plan.
How to add a strategy service to your freelance business [18:21] #1 Paid Discovery or Project Roadmapping - examples of what this entails and the purposes it serves. [20:55] #2 Content Roadmapping and Content/Copy Strategy - examples of how you can help clients with their website content and questions you can ask. [22:06] #3 Social Media Strategy - how to strategize social media post topics. [22:36] #4 Product or Business Strategy - how it’s similar to being an ad hoc business partner for clients. [23:08} #5 UI/UX Strategy - examples of how this applies to software and user pathways. [23:20] #6 Website Strategy - how it involves mapping the customer’s journey through the website and clarifying the website’s job. [24:15] An example of how lucrative technology consulting can be - encouragement to be proactive with clients and offer a strategy service. [26:01] How to sell your strategy services - an example of what Austin’s sales funnel and packages are like. [31:27] How being a strategist builds credibility for your current services [32:22] A range of hourly rates for someone who’s just beginning as a strategist - the best rule of thumb to use when figuring out pricing and going into your first strategy session. [37:06] How to connect with Austin and get to know more about what he’s doing
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Austin Church:
Connect with Austin:
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 22 Dec 2022 | The Plan for Success Class | 00:25:32 | |
As you reflect on the past year and look toward the future, what does 2023 hold for you and your business? Even if you’ve had a difficult year or faced challenging economic times, you can face the new year with a positive perspective. In this episode, we share a 7-step formula on how you can plan for success in 2023 using the acronym FREEDOM – the hallmark of why we exist at Freelance University. Join us as we help you plan for a successful year in 2023!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of reflecting on what you’ve done in 2022 and pivoting to look at the future with a 7-step formula on how you can plan for success in 2023 [1:27] Craig introduces the acronym of FREEDOM to highlight the topic - he explains how this acronym is the hallmark of why Freelance University exists and embodies his goals and hopes for your business endeavors in 2023.
7-Step Formula to Plan for Success in 2023 [2:35] F: Find or fine-tune your niche - who you’re going to serve and what you’re going to offer. Craig discusses examples of the two types of niche you need to gain clarity on as you approach a new year. [5:02] R: Refine your vision and goals - your “Big Why,” your vision, and your goals. Craig shares examples of each area you need to refine and how refining them benefits you and your business. [8:15] E: Elevate your brand presence - the importance of making a website that will attract your audience. Craig lists examples of tools you can use to shine a good light on your brand, elements you need to include in your website, and training you can access through FreeU. [10:41] E: Evaluate and optimize your pricing and packaging - how you’re going to price your services and packages in the new year. Craig introduces an important 4-point criteria for pricing your services and deciding whether to increase them. [14:14] D: Develop your skills - what skills you could hone, heading into the new year, that would open up opportunities for you. Craig shares examples of skills that became in-demand during the height of the pandemic. [16:01] O: Organize your systems and tech - what your systems and tech look like right now. Craig lists the four different types of systems and recommends how to assess them. He also suggests questions to ask yourself when you’re doing a technology audit. [19:01] M: Market every day - blocking out an hour a day to consistently market your business. Craig explains why a yearly marketing plan is important and suggests specific ways to market your business. [22:05] Recap of the FREEDOM formula [23:23] How to learn more about Freelance University and join the waitlist to be notified of the upcoming intake - Craig invites you to a special event planned for Episode 100 of the podcast.
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile course Referral Marketing Success course | |||
| 05 Jun 2019 | The Solopreneur to Agency Class with Nathan Hirsch | 00:27:09 | |
In this Podclass, I am joined by the co-founder of FreeeUp.com, Nathan Hirsch, who shares his wisdom on how to successfully transition from being a one-person operation (solopreneur) to a multi-person agency. We discuss the advantages of delegating tasks to others, the steps you take, and how to figure out who would be the best fit for you and your business.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:03 - Introduction to Nathan Hirsch and Freeeup.com 3:06 - Nathan shares his story and background 6:33 - Craig shares how his story parallels Nathan’s 7:27 - What are the warning signs when it’s time for a freelancer or solopreneur to look for a hire or move into an agency model?
9:55 - How do you know if you’re cut out to actually manage a team, let alone a remote virtual team?
12:13 - The advantages of hiring freelancers to do different roles within your business 13:15 - How good hiring makes you want to delegate more 14:13 - How to make the transition from a one-person operation to a multi-person operation
16:53 - How to make the transition to a Freelancer Agency where others are taking over work with your clients 20:05 - The importance of being honest about how you’re approaching the new business model 20:20 - How to structure contracts to test-drive someone before you hire them long-term 22:17 - Last thoughts for people either considering or not considering transitioning to an agency:
22:58 - What Freeeup is and how to connect with Nathan
24:20 - Nathan’s philosophy related to different price points for freelancer services 26:22 - Final thoughts
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Entrepreneurs on Fire: https://www.eofire.com/ Freeeup website: https://freeeup.com/ Freeeup blog: https://freeeup.com/blog/ Freeeup YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqoq7EGvwLQXgiYuIG8_iMg Freeeup podcast: https://freeeup.com/podcast/
If you are a client looking to hire a VA or Freelancer, Create a free account at https://freeeup.com/ - Mention this podcast for a $25 credit. If you are a VA or Freelancer looking to offer services, apply on https://freeeup.com/. | |||
| 01 Jan 2020 | The Business Planning Class | 00:34:19 | |
How well are your regularly reviewing the growth and success of your business? As we begin a brand-new decade, it’s especially important to look at where we’ve come from and plan where we’re going. Join me as I outline 10 business areas you’ll want to evaluate to ensure your long-term success!
Podcast Outline:
[0:38] Craig looks back on his business and shares what he’s learned over the past 10 years. He introduces the topic of the podclass and discusses the importance of planning for success at regular intervals.
10 Areas to Plan for Success in Your Business
[5:48] #1 Mindset - How a healthy mindset leads to a healthy business and vice versa. Craig provides a list of important questions to ask yourself. [9:30] #2 Business Growth - Quantitative questions and examples to help you evaluate this area so you can set strategic goals for 2020! [11:23] #3 Technology - How to do an inventory of all the apps and tech tools you’re using. Craig discusses the importance of streamlining tools and choosing new ones if needed. [12:59] #4 Online Presence - How online presence is broken up into two areas and how to evaluate each area. [16:31] #5 Fulfillment - How this area is more qualitative and involves your feelings toward your business. Craig recommends key questions you should ask yourself. [18:10] #6 Work-Life Balance - A difficult balance to maintain. Craig shares how he has worked to manage this work-life tension in his own household and provides questions to ask yourself to evaluate this important area. [20:30] #7 Core Services - How to evaluate your services and determine any changes that need to be made. Craig also suggests strategies to evaluate and increase your rates. [22:57] #8 Marketing - The importance of regularly marketing your business. Craig describes four important areas to review. [28:39] #9 Systems - How to evaluate your business’s back end. Craig shares examples of the types of systems to look at. [30:07] #10 Professional Development - The importance of being a relentless learner. Craig suggests ways to quantify the types of learning you’ve done over the past year. [31:55] Recap of the 10 Business Areas [33:41] How to find out more about Freelance University and its next upcoming intake
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Link to the Mindmap: https://mm.tt/1380511749?t=Qk6Zp7ZzHD
Quote from Biz Stone: “Timing, perseverance, and ten years of trying will eventually make you look like an overnight success.” Quote from Earl Nightingale: "People with goals succeed because they know where they're going." The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran https://www.amazon.com/12-Week-Year-Brian-Moran/dp/0972963510 MindMeister https://www.mindmeister.com/ Trello https://trello.com/ Asana https://asana.com/ WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Weebly https://www.weebly.com/ Squarespace https://www.squarespace.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/facebookmedia/solutions/facebook-live YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Twitter https://twitter.com/ | |||
| 05 Feb 2021 | The Productize Your Services Class with Brad Hussey | 00:53:06 | |
How do you package your services into a product you can sell over and over again? Today I’m joined by Brad Hussey, who explains what productizing is and how it can benefit your freelance business. Whether you’re new or have been freelancing for a while, the idea of productizing your services might be perfect timing right now. Join us as we share examples and quick steps for how you can begin the process in your own business!
Podcast Outline: [0:38] Introduction to Brad Hussey - Brad shares how he got started in the freelance space and began teaching freelancers. [7:06] Encouragement from Craig’s and Brad’s stories - how you’re never too young or old to begin an entrepreneurial journey, even without an entrepreneurial background. [10:02] Introduction to the topic of productizing your services - Brad explains the difference between products and services and how productizing relates to freelancing. [13:08] The definition of a “productized service” - what it means and how you can apply it in your freelance business. Brad explains how it’s different from responding to demand. [17:05] The difference between a productized service and a package service - examples of how a productized service could be sold as a package. [21:45] The benefits of productizing your services - how responding to demand can be exhausting and unsustainable, as opposed to creating demand by productizing your services. [27:48] The concept of “choosing your people and ignoring everyone else” - Brad and Craig share examples illustrating the benefit of specializing and only doing one thing. [33:53] A practical example - how to productize WordPress maintenance and management services. Brad lists questions freelancers can ask themselves to get more specific and create productized services. [39:46] How a productized service can amplify - examples of other revenue streams that can spin off from the initial productized service. Brad explains the concept of “selling your sawdust.” [42:07] How productizing your services works well for those who want retainer relationships - an example illustrating the benefits of selling a repeatable outcome rather than selling your hours. [48:13] How productizing your services gets you out of an employee mindset and amplifies your success [48:54] Quick steps to productizing your services - questions to ask and methods for generating ideas. [51:43] How to get to know Brad and learn more about what he’s doing
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Brad Hussey’s websites:
Zoom https://zoom.us/ ConvertKit https://convertkit.com/ WordPress https://wordpress.org/ WebFlow https://webflow.com/ MailChimp https://mailchimp.com/ | |||
| 21 Aug 2019 | The Networking with Podcasting Class with Matt Johnson | 00:42:52 | |
In this class, I’m joined by Matt Johnson, a podcast expert who gives you valuable strategies on how to leverage podcasting as a networking tool to build your freelance business, land more clients, and ultimately increase your visibility. We’ll talk about it from a couple different angles - either hosting your own podcast or being featured as a guest on podcasts where your ideal client audience is hanging out. You’ll also learn about profitable opportunities available for freelancers and virtual assistants seeking to add podcasting services to their business.
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:53 - Introduction to Matt Johnson 1:57 - Matt shares his Freedom Story and what he’s up to now 4:26 - Matt describes his background as a musician 5:19 - The challenges of tapping into too many niches as freelancers
5:44 - Introduction to the topic of podcasting:
12:28 - Craig shares his experience with podcasting
13:45 - How freelancers can use podcasting to grow their brand and attract more clients
31:31 - How podcasts are not about volume and number of visitors 34:13 - How podcasting resolves the credibility problem 35:50 - How it takes a while to shed the imposter syndrome 38:26 - How to get to know Matt Johnson more and suggestions for how to expand services to podcasters 42:27 - Closing thoughts Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Matt Johnson’s website:
Access Podcast Pitch Templates: podcastpitchtemplates.com Libsyn: https://libsyn.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com Twitter: https://twitter.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com Alexa: https://www.alexa.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com NPR: https://www.npr.org/ | |||
| 23 Jul 2021 | The Freelancer to Agency Class with Shelby Fowler | 00:39:58 | |
Right now we’re in a massive growth phase In the freelance economy, and your business may be expanding. Are you wondering if you should pivot to an agency model? In today’s episode, we discuss how to turn your freelance business into a full-fledged agency. Shelby Fowler has recently gone through this journey and walks us through the steps she took. She’ll also explain some of the mistakes she made that led to valuable lessons learned along the way!
Podcast Outline: [0:43] Introduction to Shelby Fowler and the topic of expanding a freelance business to an agency model - Shelby shares how she got her start in freelancing, helping businesses with ads and growing a team. [7:11] Warning signs that it was time to move from a freelancer to agency model - how falling down in certain areas brought Shelby to the next level in her business. Shelby explains how everything is a skill set we need to learn, and failure provides valuable lessons. [11:47] Lessons learned when building a team - how mistakes brought insights that led to Shelby ultimately building a dream team. [16:19] The importance of mapping out the income-producing activities in your business when you’re shifting to an agency model. [17:04] The first roles Shelby hired for her agency - how to hire someone as an independent contractor first so you can train them in an internship role that helps them perform at full capacity. [19:48] How to choose the first person you hire based on your current needs and the freelancer’s skill set - Shelby shares advice about choosing the best person and roles to hire first. [23:51] Why it’s best for business owners to do sales calls themselves instead of delegating them - Shelby describes what types of marketing can be delegated to others successfully. [28:02] What tools make Shelby’s life simpler as she shifts to an agency model - recommendations for client communication, project management, and customer relationship management (CRM) apps.
Tips on How to Manage a Team Well [31:23] #1 How to have people intentionally step into roles that you struggle with but others thrive in [32:20] #2 How to create service standards for your business [35:10] The importance of making your agency distinct and accepting feedback from clients - emphasizing core values or service standards. [38:14] How to get to know Shelby
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Shelby Fowler: Shelby’s Facebook Group: The Fempire | Facebook Ads for High Ticket Coaches
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| 26 Mar 2021 | The Side Hustle to Self-Employed Class with Shannon Mattern | 00:32:01 | |
How do you turn a side hustle into a full-time VA or freelance business? Today Shannon Mattern shares her journey from side hustle to self-employed. She explains the mindset she needed to carry her forth and the skills that helped her diversify her income. Join us as we help you discover the traits that will set you apart and make the pivot to freelance freedom!
Podcast Outline: [0:45] Introduction to Shannon Mattern and the topic of turning a side hustle into a full-time business [2:15] Shannon tells her freedom story - how she started to build her own path and provide freelance work for clients. [5:37] How working a regular day job sometimes serves as motivation to pivot back to the freedom of full-time freelancing. [8:38] The mindset needed to shift from part-time to full-time as a self-employed entrepreneur - Shannon shares the mindset shift and boundaries she needed when she was transitioning to freelance work. [12:48] The importance of having a positive attitude towards your day job - how it provides a longer on-ramp to freelancing. [15:08] Signs to be aware of when it’s time to pivot to full-time freelancing - Shannon describes the goals she set and signs of burnout she observed. [18:07] The value of skills sets that help you start your freelance business - how the current need for remote work facilitates starting a side hustle. [19:13] The steps Shannon took to build a full-time freelance design business - the advantages of WordPress and the lightbulb moment that led to her discovering she could earn more income through teaching and affiliate commissions. [24:03] Some of the traits a freelance web designer must have to be successful now in 2021 - how your skills and solutions set you apart and let clients know you’re the one for them. [26:50] How skills are the currency that powers your success and diversifies your income - Shannon explains how everything she does now can be traced back to her WordPress skill, and Craig explains how the online learning niche produces diverse income streams. [30:19] How to learn more about Shannon Mattern
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Shannon Mattern: “Pep Talks for Side Hustlers” podcast
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| 25 May 2023 | Student Spotlight: Building a Web Design Business from Scratch with Lisa Doiron | 00:23:11 | |
How do you transition from being a stay-at-home parent to a freelance business owner? Today our guest is Lisa Doiron, a stay-at-home mom who built a web design business from scratch after years of taking time off to raise her family. As a long-time student at Freelance University, she has valuable insights to share about developing skills and leaning on a community for support. Join us as we talk about valuable lessons learned during the freelance journey and effective strategies for finding clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Lisa Doiron - Lisa shares how she got started in the freelance space and how it’s impacted her and her family. [3:04] Being a stay-at-home parent and then going back to work - Lisa explains what it was like making that transition. [3:43] The value of transferable skills - Lisa describes the core services she currently focuses on in her business. [5:06] Offering WordPress services vs. Squarespace or Wix - how WordPress has challenges but also valuable benefits that make it a pathway of opportunity for your business. [7:05] How Lisa’s skills have evolved as a freelancer - Lisa and Craig explain how committing to learning helps your confidence and skills grow. [8:26] Niching down vs. serving a broad audience - Lisa describes the type of clients she loves to work with and how that focus developed over time. Craig explains how you can niche down by speciality or by audience. [11:24] The value of being versatile - how offering a variety of services keeps you working during times where clients and businesses are struggling. Lisa explains how being versatile helped her discover what she enjoyed and gave her connections and experience she can share with her clients. [13:26] What Lisa has learned about herself through her freelance journey - Lisa shares the lessons she’s learned and how she’s evolved during this time. [14:24] The importance of being resourceful - Craig explains how the Freelance University Student Community helps students find the information they need so they can help clients solve problems.
Effective Strategies for Finding Clients [15:57] #1 Talking to anyone and everyone about what you do - making connections with colleagues who serve the same industry but in a different way. [16:26] #2 Trying to provide value wherever you can - setting yourself up as an expert so clients think of you first. [16:39] #3 Marketing all the time - keeping up your momentum and marketing even if you don’t feel like you’re ready. [17:11] #4 Being vigilant to know that clients can come from anywhere - tapping into your network. [17:30] #5 Using content marketing and social media - connecting with clients through social media content and answering questions in Facebook Groups. [17:58] Lisa’s experience with Freelance University - how it’s helped her get to where she is with her web design business. Lisa shares the amazing ways it opened her mind to the possibilities and allowed her to explore them all and have a support system. [20:48] The confidence Freelance University gave Lisa when working with clients - how she could go there to find training or answers when a client needed something she didn’t know. [21:16] How to learn more about Freelance University’s community and training center you can join through its 24/7 open enrollment. [22:08] How to learn more about Lisa [22:42] How to access Freelance University’s free training resources Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: The Transferable Skills Class with Janine Kelbach
Learn more about Lisa Doiron: Website: LisaMarieCreative.com
Resources and Tools:
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| 02 Jun 2022 | The Focus Class | 00:26:51 | |
Lack of focus can be a real business killer, derailing you from accomplishing what you need to grow your business. But how do we regain our focus? Today we’ll unpack 10 practical ways to improve your focus in your business and get more things done. These strategies will help you regain and even increase your focus so you can complete your weekly priorities in both life and business!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of how to regain and increase our focus so we’re completing our weekly priorities and accomplishing what we need to grow our business - reasons why focus is important. [0:58] “The nothing box” - how you can do something without a clear focus and not be aware of what you did or accomplished. [2:32] Why we become so incredibly unfocused - examples of physiological, mental/emotional, and organizational things that make us lose focus.
10 Practical Ways to Improve Your Focus in Your Business and Get More Things Done [7:10] #1 Get clear on the distinction between the urgent and the important tasks you need to get done in the week - how it’s about prioritizing and blocking time. [9:12] #2 Set clear and tangible goals every day and week - an example of how Craig maps out goals and priorities. [10:40] #3 Time-block your schedule - examples of important tasks you might want to dedicate time to. [12:05] #4 Discover your ideal work times - how you need to figure out the times when you’re at your best. [13:28] #5 Manage your energy, not your time - reasons why your level of energy affects your focus and the importance of taking breaks. [15:47] #6 Eliminate your dominant distractors - examples of distractors and how to eliminate them. [17:14] #7 Be healthy - examples of healthy habits to implement in your life to fuel your energy. [20:38] #8 Get organized with your taskmaster app of choice - examples of project management apps and how to use them strategically. [21:43] #9 Change your environment and pick a different place to get some work done - how it’s a great way to renew your focus. [22:49] #10 Make meaningful connections with others - examples of ways to connect at Freelance University and in your business and personal relationships. [24:14] Recap of the 10 ways to improve your focus and get more things done [25:42] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 08 Apr 2021 | The Personal Branding Class with Christine Lieu | 00:28:46 | |
Today we're talking about personal branding for freelancers — how do we brand ourselves in a way that attracts our ideal clients? Join us as Christine Lieu explains how to cultivate a distinctive and compelling personal brand for our freelance business. And discover how quirks are actually superpowers that help you stand out and define the key characteristics of your brand!
Podcast Outline: [0:45] Introduction to Christine Lieu and the topic of personal branding [2:24] Christine tells her freedom story - how she got started and built her own freelance branding business. [4:55] The challenge of trading a corporate lifestyle for a lifestyle business - how it’s not easy, but the benefits are immeasurable. [5:41] The definition of a personal brand and why it’s important for freelancers - how it’s a process, but it takes refinement to make yourself distinctive. [7:37] The benefits of freelancers spending time on their branding - Christine shares a list of intangible aspects that are often overlooked but should be included in branding. [8:44] How building a brand is a progression - a helpful analogy to think about when deciding to invest in branding. [12:08] Some common pitfalls or mistakes businesses or freelancers might make with their branding. [15:11] How to meld your professional side with your personal side to attract certain types of clients to your business - how it’s a controversial topic, but quirks are some of the biggest superpowers and magical traits that help you stand out and define the key characteristics of your brand. [18:56] The role of social media in cultivating personal brands - how personal and business aspects blend together to create your brand. [19:34] Steps and strategies to figuring out your personal brand - how to pause and audit aspects like visuals (e.g. color and font choices) and the experiential side (the customer journey). [23:13] Quick tips for creating an About Page that attracts your audience and shines a spotlight on your brand - how to decide what’s appropriate to share to make a connection point. [27:32] How to learn more about Christine Lieu and her work. Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Christine Lieu: CL Designs christineldesigns.com Instagram series - 3 things to consider when creating for Instagram
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| 17 Sep 2021 | The Future-Proof Your Business Class | 00:11:53 | |
How do you future-proof your business? Today I share a five-step strategy, the 5C Formula, that will set you up for success heading into next year. Understanding this strategy could have a transformative impact on your freelance success moving into the future!
Podcast Outline: [0:32] Introduction to the 5C formula for future-proofing your business - how it could have a transformative impact on your freelance success moving into the future. Craig explains how four C’s equal the fifth C. [2:04] First C is Clarity - how you need a clear road map or plan for what you’re going to do to build your business. Craig describes how Freelance University builds clarity through in-demand core learning pathways. [3:53] Second C is Currency - how it’s important you have up-to-date, current, cutting-edge skills that clients need right now. Craig stresses that since learning is part of your success journey, Freelance University provides courses that develop current skills that will lead to income. [5:34] Third C is Confidence - how it can make or break an entrepreneur. Craig shares how skills breed confidence that will help you in your business. [7:28] Fourth C is Community - how it takes a village to raise a great entrepreneur or freelancer. Craig describes how community is the key to building a great business and how Freelance University is all about connecting with instructors, peers, and mentors to gain support. [9:03] Fifth C is Clients - how the first four C’s help you land more clients and opportunities. [10:21] How the Five C’s make up the heart of why Freelance University exists [11:16] How to learn more about registering for Freelance University’s final intake of 2021
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Register for Freelance University’s final intake of 2021
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| 09 Dec 2021 | The Overcoming Life's Disruptions Class with Franklin Taggart | 00:33:36 | |
How do you continue growing a thriving business when you’re interrupted by an illness or crisis in your life? Join us as Career/Business Coach Franklin Taggart shares strategies that helped him build his business during some of his greatest life challenges. His story will inspire and equip you to face the disruptions of life with hope and resilience!
Podcast Outline: [1:03] Introduction to Franklin Taggart and the topic of building a thriving business while surviving the disruptions of life - Franklin tells his story and how it led him to what he’s doing today. [11:00] How a defining moment can change the trajectory of your life - Craig shares how he and his wife, Kelly, continued to pursue their goals in the midst of health challenges.
Lessons Franklin learned as he was battling the difficult disruption in his life [13:59] #1 Don’t let your insurance lapse - the importance of maintaining this support no matter how hard business gets for you. [14:18] #2 Don’t wait until something is critical before you take action - the importance of paying attention to symptoms and seeking care. [14:54] #3 Have contingency plans - examples of things to put in place to prepare for certain situations.
How adversity can be a great teacher and make us better entrepreneurs [19:57] #1 Don’t get lost in the deep emotions of adversity - how to acknowledge their importance while focusing on emerging opportunities. [21:14] #2 Prevention is better than a cure - how it’s important to take care of yourself. [22:31] #3 No matter how difficult it gets, it’s not going to last forever - how it’s important not to create catastrophes in your head. [23:22] How adversity increases your capacity to deal with future problems and sometimes creates opportunity - Craig shares an emotional and powerful story from a FreeU student. [27:23] Ways freelancers can get prepared for disruptions in their life and their business - the importance of staying connected and being engaged in a community. [31:05] How to learn more about Franklin [32:52] How to learn more about the Freelance University community and its next intake
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Franklin Taggart: Podcast: Your Own Best Company Facebook Group: Your Own Best Company Free 1-Hour Best Next Step Call
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| 01 Sep 2022 | The Corporate Employee to Freelancer Class with Lindsay White | 00:29:30 | |
How do you successfully transition from being a corporate employee to a freelancer? Today we’re joined by marketing authority Lindsay White, who left her corporate job in 2019 and created a profitable freelance marketing agency. Join us as we discuss strategies to leverage your transferable skills and enjoy the flexibility and autonomy offered by the remote work lifestyle!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Lindsay White and the topic of successfully transitioning from a corporate employee to a freelancer - Lindsay shares the story of how she made the journey from corporate to freelance. [5:05] How freelancing is now becoming more mainstream and desirable as a lifestyle - Lindsay shares her predictions about a corporate exodus toward remote work. [8:54] Predictions about the growth of freelance need - how many businesses have started outsourcing their work to freelancers. [9:50] The concept of autonomy - how the remote work lifestyle motivates people to do better work.
How to Make the Awkward Transition from Corporate to Freelance [11:34] #1 Start freelancing on the side and build up three months of your corporate income - advice on how to manage freelance work while raising a family. [12:20] #2 Find four retainer clients - how they prevent you from having to find new clients all the time. [13:45] #3 Think about your values from a non-monetary perspective first - how to figure out what structure of business works best for you. [14:45] #4 Learn to work smarter, not harder - how you can accomplish more deep work in less time by designing your own strategies and schedule. [18:00] How a new freelancer can leverage their corporate skills in their new service-based business - how to inventory the tasks you’ve performed and find the bottom level skill that can be translated to freelancing. [21:31] An example of how to offer clients services using your transferable skills - the importance of owning the skills you’ve cultivated over the years and bringing them forward. [23:45] Who would be a good freelancer - the characteristics that show a desire to learn something new.
How to Shift from a Corporate to a Freelance Mindset [24:47] #1 Determine how you’re going to be successful - note all the tasks you’ll need to perform to run your freelance business. [25:15] #2 Treat your business like a business - the importance of separating your work from the rest of your life at home. [27:33] How to learn more about Lindsay [28:50] How to learn more about leveling up your skills at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Lindsay White: Free Offer: Director of Marketing Roadmap
Connect with Lindsay:
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 17 Apr 2019 | The Confidence Class | 00:24:28 | |
In this class we unpack the important role that "CONFIDENCE" plays in your success as an entrepreneur, freelancer, or virtual assistant. Craig speaks from personal experience how his lack of confidence really impacted him, shaped his journey and made it more difficult. All of us will experience self-doubt at times, but a constant lack of confidence impacts our business in very adverse ways. In this class, you will discover 5 ways to build your confidence so that you can attract ideal clients, charge what you're worth and ultimately create the freelance business that you always wanted!
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:27 - Introduction to topic: Confidence and how it shapes our outcome 2:57 - Craig’s story 5:27 - Truth to take to heart: “You are better than you think.” 6:27 - Disclaimer 7:29 - How to talk to yourself 7:54 - Five Ways to Develop More Confidence and Reduce Self-Doubt
20:36 - How Craig has developed confidence in his course creation skills 21:28 - Recap of “Five Ways to Develop More Confidence” 23:24 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to check out what Freelance University has to offer Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
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| 25 Nov 2022 | The Promotions & Discounts Class | 00:24:38 | |
How do you run effective promotions and discount offers in your freelance business? And should you even offer them? Today we’ll unpack six types of promotions and discounts, with examples of how you could apply them in real-life scenarios. Join us as we discuss the benefits of running discounts not just on Black Friday or Cyber Monday but at other strategic times in your business.
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of running effective promotions and discount offers in your freelance business - Craig also discusses the question of whether or not you should run promotions and discounts. [2:43] Black Friday and Cyber Monday - how the holiday season can be a slow time for freelancers and reasons why it might be a strategic time to run a promotional offer that includes a discount. [4:33] The psychology of running discounts - how creating scarcity and urgency can be effective because our audience is conditioned to pursue opportunities for discounts. [6:10] Why it’s good to run a discount and who it would be ideally suited to - Craig describes five scenarios when a discount could build momentum in your business.
Six Types of Promotions and Discounts You Can Run in Your Freelance Business [10:44] #1 BOGO (Buy One Get One) - Craig defines the term and suggests possible promotions you can offer and the benefits of these kinds of specials. [12:35] #2 Special First-Month Discount for New Customers - Craig explains when you’d offer this promotion, what it looks like, and why it’s effective. [14:18] #3 Loyalty Discount - Craig illustrates a scenario when you might offer this discount and explains why it’s beneficial at certain times of the year. [16:29] #4 Referral Discount - Craig gives an example of industries that offer this, how they format it, and how it could benefit your business. [18:37] #5 Coupon Code Discount - Craig shares an example of what it could look like and why it’s effective. [20:11] #6 Freebies - Craig defines this type of promotion and suggests the kinds of freebies you could offer strategically. [22:18] Recap of the six types of promotions and discounts you can run in your freelance business [23:40] The benefits of joining Freelance University and info on how to join the waitlist so you’re notified about the next registration period
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Referral Marketing Success course Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert B. Cialdini, Ph.D. | |||
| 02 Sep 2021 | The Work From Home Wellness Class with Toni Frana | 00:33:31 | |
How do you avoid burnout and minimize stress while growing a freelance business from home? Whether you feel fully burnt out, are recovering from burnout, or are on the verge of burning out, it’s important to recognize the signs so you can stay healthy and productive in your career and life. Join us as Toni Frana from FlexJobs shares simple strategies that alert you to potential signs of burnout so you can prevent it from happening in your business!
Podcast Outline: [0:56] Introduction to Toni Frana and the topic of avoiding burnout and minimizing stress while growing your business from home - Toni describes her journey and how she got involved in the remote workspace. [4:46] How FlexJobs champions the remote work movement - the rise of remote job listings and people wanting to work remotely. [8:05] Warning signs that a freelancer or remote work employee may be experiencing burnout - how it’s important to recognize the signs so you can continue to be productive and healthy in your career and life.
How to Avoid Burnout [14:48] #1 Mindset: Think positively and know your WHY - how you can return to those reasons when things become off balance. [16:05] #2 Structure: Provide direction and focus - how it allows you to be productive, minimizing stress and therefore burnout. [18:05] #3 Disconnect: Turn off notifications, close computers - how disconnecting and taking breaks helps prevent burnout. [21:14] Examples of breaktime activities - how they allow you to escape completely and engage in something totally different.
Action Steps for People Who Have Experience Burnout [23:35] #1 Incorporate personal activities - how to come up with a system and step back. [24:49] #2 Change the environment - how this can rejuvenate you. [29:22] Final points on dealing with stress in general - how communication is key. [31:59] How to connect with FlexJobs
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: How to connect with FlexJobs: FlexJobs.com https://www.flexjobs.com/ Freelance sites for freelance workers https://www.flexjobs.com/guide-freelance-gig-job-platforms/tasks Top categories for finding freelance work https://www.flexjobs.com/jobs Job Search Resources https://www.flexjobs.com/career-advice-tips-resources
The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz https://www.amazon.com/Power-Full-Engagement-Managing-Performance/dp/0743226755 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ | |||
| 17 Feb 2022 | The Specialty Niche Class with LaToya Russell | 00:22:09 | |
Have you considered finding a specialty niche so you can add new clients and expand what you’re doing with current clients? Today we’re joined by Online Business Manager (OBM) LaToya Russell, who unpacks strategies and tips for making the transition to a specialized, in-demand service. LaToya has discovered her specialty niche, and in this episode, she inspires you to figure out yours!
Podcast Outline: [0:38] Introduction to LaToya Russell and the topic of finding a specialty niche - LaToya shares her story and how she got started as an Online Business Manager (OBM). [4:32] Some of the fears people have about switching to a specialized niche - LaToya and Craig discuss common reasons why people think they shouldn’t specialize and compelling reasons why they should. [8:36] How “Software as a Service” (SaaS) is a great specialty to offer as a freelancer or VA - Craig and LaToya explain the benefits of niching down into this service. [10:18] Specialty niches that are in demand in the automation/technology space and beyond Strategies for making a successful transition to a specialty niche [11:59] Stagger your transition - strategies and reasons why you should choose certain clients rather than blasting notifications to all your clients. [16:17] How to navigate the challenge of offering generalist VA services and specialized automation services to the same client - strategies and examples for pricing each type of service.
Final thoughts and tips for those who are ready to specialize in a niche [17:46] #1 It’s okay not to know exactly what you want to do - examples that illustrate the importance of being able to try a speciality and change it if necessary. [19:03] #2 Have meaningful rates - the importance of taking it step by step. [19:59] The types of clients LaToya works with - the stage they’re at and the specific needs they have. [21:15] How to learn more about LaToya
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about LaToya Russell:
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| 14 Oct 2021 | The Declutter Your Digital Workspace Class with Brittany Dixon | 00:27:07 | |
How do you optimize your workspace so that you can maximize your productivity and reduce your overwhelm? Join us as Business Strategist and Productivity Coach Brittany Dixon outlines the four-step Road to Scalability Method to help you get to the root of any problems with your processes. It’ll help you create a freelance digital workspace without all the digital clutter!
Podcast Outline: [0:45] Introduction to Brittany Dixon - Brittany shares her background in organization/wedding planning and how it led to her freelance business offerings. [3:46] Creating a digital workspace without the digital clutter - Brittany discusses the trends taking shape now that the world understands how to work in a digital remote space. [7:11] How to define a digital workspace - what it is and a number of issues that can cause wasted time and lack of productivity [9:48] How to overcome the challenges of Shiny Object Syndrome - how it’s not the tool...it’s the system within the tool. Brittany gives advice for selecting tools in a way that prevents lost productivity.
How to Create a Workspace without the Clutter: The Road to Scalability Method (Recognize, Optimize, Automate, Document and Delegate) [13:43] #1 Recognize - auditing which tools you’re using and whether you need them, figuring out what’s working and not working before optimizing the systems in the tools. [15:39] #2 Optimize - the biggest step, making sure your system, checklists, and use of tools is streamlined. [18:34] #3 Automate - how it’s important not to automate broken processes and systems and how you must implement the big-picture strategy. [20:30] #4 Document and Delegate - the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), making checklists and training videos so you can pass them off to a VA. [22:15] Recap of the Road to Scalability Method - how you can put anything into this system and get to the root of the problem with your calendar and other processes. [22:56] How you can deepen your relationships with clients by pitching this system to them and building a package to serve your clients well [23:24] A few technology tools that can help you thrive in the digital workspace as a freelancer - Brittany lists some recommendations and highlights her favorites. [25:19] How to learn more about Brittany [26:37] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Brittany Dixon: The Process for Profit Show https://processforprofit.co/podcast/ The Productivity Pod Community hustletoflow.co/community (redirects to https://hustletoflow.mn.co/)
Zoom https://zoom.us/
Note-taking Tools GoodNotes https://www.goodnotes.com/ reMarkable https://remarkable.com/
Google Chrome Workspace Google Drive https://www.google.com/intl/en_ca/drive/ Google Calendar https://www.google.com/calendar Gmail https://www.google.com/gmail/
Automation Tool Zapier https://zapier.com/
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ Facebook Live https://www.facebook.com/formedia/solutions/facebook-live
Appointment Scheduling Acuity https://acuityscheduling.com/
Password Management Tools LastPass https://www.lastpass.com/ DashLane https://www.dashlane.com/
Work Management Tools Trello https://trello.com/en Asana https://asana.com/ ClickUp https://clickup.com/ Monday.com https://monday.com/
Course Creation Tools Thinkific https://www.thinkific.com/ Kajabi https://kajabi.com/
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Tools Streak https://www.streak.com/
Client Onboarding Tools PandaDoc https://www.pandadoc.com/ Dubsado https://www.dubsado.com/ HoneyBook https://www.honeybook.com/
Online Marketing Tools Kartra https://home.kartra.com/ ConvertKit https://convertkit.com/ MailerLite https://www.mailerlite.com/ Ontraport https://ontraport.com/
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| 25 Sep 2020 | The Social Media Marketing Class | 00:18:10 | |
Because of COVID-19, everything has gone online, but virtual conferences aren’t the same as networking with potential clients in person. So, in today’s podclass we focus on how to attract clients by leveraging social media. This is a longer term strategy, but over time it can bear incredible fruit, and you can build a thriving client base just using social media marketing. Join us as I provide core principles and practical strategies for each social media platform so you can find your next ideal client!
Podcast Outline: [0:42] Introduction to the topic of using social media to attract clients - how social media marketing is a long game, not a short game.
Timeless Social Media Principles to Be Mindful of When Marketing Your Business [3:55] #1 Create and share educational, informative, and interesting content - examples of different media you can post. [4:44] #2 Start conversations on social media - how to build relationships and be available. [5:06] #3 Practice social listening and monitoring - how conversations and relationships can emerge from this strategy. [5:41] #4 Encourage social recommendations - how asking for recommendations and showcasing them on your social media profiles can boost your credibility. [6:20] #5 Have consistent branding across the different platforms - the elements that need to gel with your website. [7:08] #6 Focus on the long game - how to set aside time for social media marketing and be consistent.
How to Recruit and Attract Clients on Each Platform [8:17] Twitter and Instagram - how to use and search for hashtags, link to a special offer page on your bio, and track people who follow, comment, or interact with your post. [11:02] Facebook - how to target three different types of Facebook Groups and decide how many to join and invest in. Craig also discusses how to use Facebook Pages and profiles to attract the right audience. [14:34] Pinterest - how to provide relevant content that links to a post on your blog and website. [15:21] LinkedIn - how to constantly improve your profile and nurture new and existing connections. [16:58] How to uplevel your skills at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Facebook Pages https://www.facebook.com/business/pages Facebook Reviews https://www.facebook.com/help/434605260012677 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ Instagram Stories https://help.instagram.com/691455604353423?ct=t(April_2017_Newsletter_13_28_2017) LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ LinkedIn Recommendations https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/90/recommendations-overview?lang=en Twitter https://twitter.com/ WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Linktree https://linktr.ee/ Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/ Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ | |||
| 27 Oct 2022 | The Reputation Class | 00:18:52 | |
In the social media age we’re living in, you can lose your reputation in the blink of an eye. And that’s a problem, because your reputation is everything in the freelance industry. But never fear — today we’re talking about 10 different ways you can establish your reputation as a freelancer or virtual assistant. Join us as we discuss practical strategies you can implement right now to impress both current and potential clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to the topic of building a great reputation as a freelancer - Craig explains the importance of your reputation and tells a story that illustrates how companies can quickly earn a bad reputation.
10 Ways to Build a Good Reputation as a Freelancer or Virtual Assistant [3:20] #1 Design a great online presence - the importance of having a good website that will impress potential clients, along with other key elements to include in your online presence. [6:14] #2 Specialize your services - two options for specializing your services and reasons why they establish a good reputation with your audience. [7:41] #3 Publish good content - tips on how to be a content marketer and examples of different platforms you can use to publish content. [8:46] #4 Build your email list - how giving away free value-added content allows you to nurture relationships and ultimately establish your reputation. [9:43] #5 Overdeliver on your services - examples of how you can serve clients well and exceed their expectations. [11:00] #6 Contribute to your community - an illustration of how you can invest in local networking or online communities in a way that will inevitably build your reputation. [11:59] #7 Solve problems with your services and content - how to be solution-focused with all the content you’re sharing online and presenting on your website in your services page. [13:20] #8 Showcase your portfolio and/or testimonials - advice for different types of testimonials to put on your website and different items to put in your portfolio to leverage the power of social proof. [14:35] #9 Onboard with excellence - how to create a seamless onboarding process to impress new clients. [15:58] #10 Actively learn new skills and gather certifications - the value of certifications and how they demonstrate your commitment to professional development. Craig shares examples of certifications and badges you can share on social media and post on your website. [16:59] Recap of the 10 ways to build your reputation as a freelancer or virtual assistant - Craig explains how you can implement these strategies in your own business. [18:02] How to learn more about acquiring new skills and leveling up your current skill sets at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: | |||
| 08 Dec 2022 | The Winning Proposal Class with Eman Zabi | 00:30:51 | |
How do you create proposals that turn into ideal clients? Today our guest is Eman Zabi, the founder of Scribesmith, a copywriting agency, and Terrain, an online learning business. She warns of mistakes you can make with proposals and suggests valuable tips for building a personal connection with potential clients. Join us as we discuss the best ways to ensure you deliver a winning proposal that has both relevance and excellence!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Eman Zabi and the topic of creating winning proposals that turn into ideal clients - Eman tells the story of how she got into the freelance space. [4:52] The benefits of fast-tracking skill development with bite-sized training [5:56] The topic of proposals - Craig explains how the freelance marketplace industry is growing and shares an example that illustrates the importance of writing a relevant proposal.
Mistakes We Can Make with Our Proposals [7:39] #1 Generic proposals - Eman suggests practical ways to avoid making this mistake so that you address the client’s priorities. [9:29] #2 Incorrect tone - Eman and Craig stress the importance of tailoring your voice to the level of the company and brand you’re applying to. [11:24] #3 Grammar errors - Craig explains the importance of delivering a proposal with excellence. [12:33] #4 Lack of professionalism - Eman shares examples illustrating the need to follow instructions. [13:30] #5 Lack of work experience - Eman recommends ways to establish credibility by sharing appropriate work experience. [14:02] #6 Lack of process - Eman and Craig emphasize the importance of talking about your process in a concise way. [15:26] Elements we should include in a proposal - Eman lists the crucial elements that will win over a potential client. She and Craig share examples of proposals that contain these elements. [18:23] The question of proposal templates - Eman discusses the benefits of using proposal software. [20:47] How a personal connection is made in the initial email - Eman outlines the steps involved in connecting with a potential client before sending a proposal. [22:45] How to submit a proposal when you aren’t able to make a personal email connection - Eman and Craig suggest tips for researching a company and making a good impression when you’re applying through a marketplace. [26:08] The use of Loom and video in the context of proposals - Eman and Craig discuss when a video would be effective and when it wouldn’t. [28:40] How proposal creation can become a repeatable process that helps you win clients [29:19] How to get to know Eman [30:04] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode:
Learn more about Eman Zabi: Website: Scribesmith Online Learning Business: Terrain
Connect with Eman: Twitter: @Eman_Zabi or @Terrain_io Instagram: @Terrain.io
Resources and tools: | |||
| 02 Feb 2023 | The Canva Design Class with Rhiannon Rosas | 00:19:02 | |
Canva is arguably one of the most popular design tools in the world right now. But how do you use it to offer a value-added service to your clients? Today our guest is Rhiannon Rosas, a graphic designer and social media manager who helps service providers stand out online with attractive content that’s cohesive to their brand. Join us as we discuss key graphic design opportunities and important steps for freelancers who want to get started in the Canva niche.
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Rhiannon Rosas and the topic of using Canva to offer a value-added service to your clients - Rhiannon shares the story of how she became a freelancer and what she’s doing today. [2:22] How Rhiannon dove into Canva and how important it is to her business now - Rhiannon explains how easy Canva is to use and how it helps people who are starting their businesses. [3:37] How Canva’s changed the game for companies like Adobe - Rhiannon and Craig describe features from Photoshop and InDesign that are being added to Canva. [5:01] The entrepreneurial story of Canva - how the founders created a digital tool that morphed into Canva. [5:33] Opportunities for freelancers that relate to Canva or graphic design in general - Rhiannon and Craig list examples of design projects you can do for clients and how you can niche down. [9:07] Clients who need Canva services now - Rhiannon shares examples of hot markets for people who want to start offering Canva services in specific niches.
Steps for Freelancers to Get Started in the Canva Niche [12:16] #1 Have a portfolio ready - how to create and share designs for a specific industry or client you’d love to work with. [14:15] #2 Teach in Canva through content marketing - how maintaining a presence in blog posts and social media show you know your stuff and emphasize you’re an expert in this area. [15:55] How Canva allows everyday people with giftings and abilities to turn it into an income - the value of having a tool and a playground in Canva to leverage your creativity and transform it into a service you offer. [17:34] How to get to know Rhiannon [18:11] How to learn more about Freelance University’s Canva Specialist program and other courses and training tracks
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode:
Learn more about Rhiannon Rosas: On Instagram: @rhiannonraedesigns
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 01 May 2019 | The Freedom Class | 00:28:18 | |
In this class we talk about the many freedoms that come from owning a flexible, location-independent virtual business. We share five different kinds of freedoms that you can embrace in your business so you’re living the lifestyle you’ve always wanted. We also discuss six ways that you can make sure you are staying free and alive in your virtual business.
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:18 - Introduction to the topic of “Freedom”
3:05 - How the freedom lifestyle was marketed in the past 5:54: Five Different Types of Freedoms:
17:08 - The importance of self-care 17: 58 - Six Strategies to Stay Free in Your Business
26:23 - Summary of Six Strategies to Stay Free in Your Business 27:15 - Closing thoughts Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
“Freelancing in America Survey”: https://www.upwork.com/i/freelancing-in-america/2018/
Freelancers Union: https://www.freelancersunion.org/ Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/ Zumba: https://www.zumba.com/en-US/ Freelance University: https://www.freelanceu.com/university/
Freelance University Courses: “Setting Boundaries and Building Healthy Client Relationships”: https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/setting-boundaries-and-building-healthy-client-relationships
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| 12 Dec 2019 | The Client Appreciation Class | 00:18:47 | |
Today we discuss a topic that is highly relevant during the holiday season. How do we make our clients feel valued besides providing incredible services and delivering high-quality work? In this class we show you five tangible, affordable ways you can express appreciation to your clients. We also share some tools and strategies you can use to show gratitude and solidify your client relationships!
Podcast Outline:
[0:42] Craig introduces the topic of showing appreciation to our clients and discusses why it’s important. He shares examples of both negative and positive customer service quality. [3:43] How client appreciation leads to client retention and the importance of showing gratitude in tangible ways
Five Ways to Show Client Appreciation:
[6:09] #1 Send a handwritten note on a notecard that has your branding. Craig shares some examples of how personal handwritten notes are powerful. [8:04] #2 Send a follow-up email after an invoice. Craig explains how the content of that email is important and gives some valuable tips and examples. [9:51] #3 Send a thoughtful or personalized gift. Craig provides some examples and sites you can check out for ideas. [14:26] #4 Do a business shoutout. Craig explains what that is and how you can express gratitude and solidify the client relationship with it. [15:18] #5 Refer people to your clients. Craig shares how referrals can be a token of appreciation and make you an asset to your clients. [15:52] BONUS #6 Show up every day and provide the absolute best service you can to your clients. [16:47] Recap of the five ways to show client appreciation [17:34] How to find out more information about the next intake of Freelance University to upgrade your skills, tap into a new niche or start a freelance business from scratch. Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ New Voice Media Study https://www.newvoicemedia.com/en-us/resources
Quote by John F. Kennedy: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
Vistaprint https://www.vistaprint.com/ Paperless Post https://www.paperlesspost.com/ SendOutCards https://www.sendoutcards.com/ Greetabl https://greetabl.com/ Box Fox https://shopboxfox.com/ Sweeter Cards https://www.sweetercards.com/ Amazon https://www.amazon.com/ Starbucks gift card https://www.starbucks.com/card Freelance University https://www.freelanceu.com/university/ | |||
| 10 Dec 2020 | The New Year Preparation Class | 00:22:07 | |
It’s fair to say that we have not had a year like we had in 2020. It was unprecedented on every scale. And I would imagine that 2020 has not been your only difficult year. You may have lost clients, you may have had spouses who lost jobs, and you may have dealt with health crises or economic crises. So, today we’re going to discuss 10 tips to prepare your freelance business for a New Year. Join us and be encouraged as we get ready to welcome new opportunities with a sense of hope and gratitude!
Podcast Outline: [0:35] Introduction to the topic of preparing our freelance business for the new year - how 2020 was an unprecedented year with adversity. Craig shares an example illustrating the importance of gratitude.
10 Ways to Prepare Your Freelance Business for 2021
[4:01] #1 Update Your Freelance Website - how to assess where it’s at by auditing certain aspects that may or may not appeal to your target audience. Craig suggests important parts that should be updated and/or changed. [6:22] #2 Leverage List-Building Opportunities - the importance of a free offer, how it showcases your knowledge and grows your network of potential clients. [7:53] #3 Nurture Client Relationships and Past Leads - how to show appreciation and solidify your relationships with existing clients, reconnect with past clients, and check in on any promising leads. [9:22] #4 Confirm Your Niche - three questions to ask yourself and reflect on the scope of services you’ll offer in the New Year. [10:56] #5 Identify New Learning and New Skills You Want to Develop - the importance of creating a learning plan that can grow your income opportunities. [12:25] #6 Review Your Back End Systems - which systems to assess and recommendations for new systems to add or upgrade. [13:53] #7 Review Your Tech - how to look at the suite of tools you’re using and figure out what’s working well, what can be added, and what can be eliminated. [15:10] #8 Set SMART Goals, Not Resolutions - the problem with resolutions and the benefits of setting strategic goals. Craig suggests a challenge for you to map out your goals. [15:55] #9 Prepare for Uncertainty - how our lives have been impacted this year and how the freelance movement has come to the forefront and created opportunity. Craig discusses the need to be flexible and shares examples of how FreeU students adapted to change. [18:42] #10 Focus Your Mindset on a New Year Full of Possibilities - encouragement and inspiration to pursue opportunities and invest in your life and business. [19:57] How Freelance University can help grow your opportunities in the New Year [20:30] Recap of the 10 Ways to Prepare Your Freelance Business for 2021
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
SEO Yoast https://yoast.com/wordpress/plugins/seo/ HoneyBook https://www.honeybook.com/ Freelance University’s “Productivity Power” Course https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/productivity-power FreshBooks https://www.freshbooks.com/ QuickBooks https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ Asana https://asana.com/ The 12 Week Year https://12weekyear.com/ | |||
| 04 Mar 2020 | The Changing Your Niche Class | 00:21:55 | |
Regardless of how long you’ve been freelancing, you’re going to face this challenge at one point or another: How do you move from the core service you’re offering to something significantly or slightly different? How do you listen to the warning signs that it’s time to make a change in your freelance business? There are lots of different reasons why you may need to switch gears. In this episode, we’ll walk you through five key steps to successfully transition to a new niche! Podcast Outline: [0:39] Craig introduces the topic of how to effectively change your niche. He suggests possible reasons that might lead you to make this decision. [1:32] Craig talks about the movie “You’ve Got Mail” and how it illustrates the need to switch gears in a business when you come to a crossroads. [3:14] Craig outlines the 6 key warning signs that reveal it’s time to make a change. Be sure to do some self-evaluation as we go through the list!
Five Key Steps to Successfully Transition to a New Niche
[8:36] #1 Assess your current offerings and service niche - What do you like about it and what do you enjoy doing? What don’t you like about it? Craig suggests a list of questions to ask yourself and decide what changes you could make. He also introduces a resource called the Niche Identification Matrix. [11:58] #2 Evaluate your fit with your current target audience - Do you enjoy working with this audience? What audience would you best serve? Craig provides an example of a FreeU student who works with a particular audience in an industry she loves. [13:22] #3 Consider how to amplify your existing niche - What additional services could you add on to your existing services? Craig shares an example of how a niche can be amplified and how to identify complementary services. [15:13] #4 Research new niches that might interest you - How to think outside the box and figure out options. Craig talks about a FreeU student who switched to a completely different niche that suited her. [17:39] #5 Test the niche and see where it takes you - How to avoid being stuck in a rut and switch if you need to. Craig encourages us to avoid feeling like we have to choose a niche and stay with it whether we love it or not. [19:02] Summary of the five key steps to successfully changing your niche [20:04] Craig shares how Freelance University gives students access to all different tracks so they can try out courses and figure out what they want to do. He describes the types of resources and courses you can access.
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Niche Identification Matrix Infusionsoft by Keap https://keap.com/infusionsoft WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Freelance University training: https://www.freelanceu.com/university/ | |||
| 11 May 2023 | Student Spotlight: School Teacher to Asana Specialist with Paula Holsberry | 00:35:21 | |
With all the innovation we’re seeing these days, how do you stay on top of technology and even offer freelance services in that area? Today our guest is Paula Holsberry, who has journeyed from being a school teacher to a freelance Asana specialist with her business, Tessera Virtual Business Solutions. Join us as we discuss some important principles and strategies about niching down and turning a software into an income stream. We’ll also share Paula’s best strategies for developing your expert status and finding clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Paula Holsberry and the topic of staying on top of technology and offering services in that area - Paula shares how she got into freelancing, what she did in the past, and where she’s at today. [4:46] Does your niche find you, or do you find your niche? - how Paula’s experience shows that her niche discovered her and used transferable skills from her past career. [6:48] What is Asana? - Paula explains how Asana works and breaks down the services she offers in her business. [10:07] How Asana was transformative for Freelance University - Craig explains how it allows him and his wife/business partner to break down different tasks and projects by different groups and teams. [11:22] The importance of niching down in Paula’s business - Paula describes how it was a pivot point in terms of her business growth, success, and freedom. [14:31] How niching down is important from a branding perspective - Craig describes the ways niching down allows you to be distinctive in the marketplace and brand yourself in a way that tracks with your ideal audience. [15:15] How niching down keeps you in a certain lane - Paula describes how it prevents her from getting distracted. [15:47] A good principle for freelancers to remember - how what you’re doing today may not be the same thing you’ll do in the future. [16:11] Software as a Service (SaaS) - what it means to freelancers and how you can package it into a service you provide to clients.
Suggestions for Freelancers Interested in Turning a Software into an Income Stream [17:59] #1 Think about what technology you love using - how seeing its value is a huge boost. [18:54] #2 Think about the places (industries, niche groups) that would benefit from using the technology - how that uncovers areas you can focus on as you start learning how to use it. [19:16] #3 Think about how much time you can commit to learning the technology - tips for finding a learning track or other training resources you can follow. [20:25] #4 Just start - the importance of learning as you go and remembering you won’t be an expert in the beginning. [21:42] An important principle to remember - Craig explains how you just need to know more than the client does. He shares an example from his own experience that illustrates how learning a tool enough may lead to repeat work from clients.
Paula’s Best Strategies for Finding Clients [24:17] #1 If you’re working with a specific software, see if they have a directory you can be part of - how people often will go to the software’s website for help and may find you in the directory. [24:56] #2 Become part of other directories - Paula shares examples that can connect you with clients. [25:34] #3 Create lots of content - how there’s never a lack of material to use for your content creation and marketing when you’re learning software. Paula explains the importance of producing and sharing content so you can develop your expert status. [27:44] How content is key to establishing your credibility - Craig shares encouragement and examples of content you can create around your domain of expertise. [29:23] Basic lessons Paula has learned as she’s journeyed from being a teacher to an Asana specialist - how it’s important to know when to say yes and when to say no. [32:33] How Freelance University has helped Paula in her journey - Paula shares examples of the huge role it’s played and how she keeps coming back to the courses, Facebook group, mentoring, and coaching as her business evolves. [34:00] How to learn more about enrolling in Freelance University and benefiting from the FreeU community
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Freelance University Directory
Learn more about Paula Holsberry: Tessera Virtual Business Solutions The Ultimate Guide to Your First 5 Asana Projects
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 15 Jul 2021 | The Conversations to Clients Class with Jasmine Williams | 00:33:55 | |
How do you transform social media interactions and direct messages into potential clients for your business? Today, Jasmine Williams shares her wisdom and strategies for making yourself memorable so you can turn simple conversations into clients and contracts. Join us as we discuss ways to win your dream clients through this low-risk, high-reward channel!
Podcast Outline: [0:40] Introduction to Jasmine Williams and the topic of turning social media direct messages and conversations into clients and contracts - Jasmine shares how she got started in freelancing and the importance of having people support you in your endeavors. [4:50] Why social media is still the place to be for businesses and freelancers building their client base - how it’s a low-risk, high-reward channel where you can show off your personality and what you do. [7:14] How social media lets you reach out to your dream client faster than any other platform - Craig and Jasmine discuss the importance of pursuing the audience you want to target. [8:44] How social media provides a point of credibility and is an extension of your website [10:13] How freelancers should begin to find their audience - some key strategies to get you started so you can learn your audience’s social media habits. [13:28] Jasmine’s approach to converting initial direct messages to potential free consults, discovery calls, and clients [17:48] Ways to make yourself memorable when you’re reaching out to potential clients so you can avoid being a spammer in direct messages - the importance of empathy and clarity about why you’re reaching out. [25:15] How trust is the great currency of business
Insights and Tips for People Who Want to Land More Clients Through Social Media [26:11] #1 Optimize your profiles for searchability (SEO for social media) - how to attract more people inbound. [27:26] #2 Don’t be all work and no play - how to help people get to know you. [28:17] #3 Make it easy for people to learn about you and see your work - the types of information, links, and apps to use. [29:39] How simplicity and ease in connecting with you builds the know-like-trust factor with potential clients [32:25] How to get to know Jasmine and what she does
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Jasmine Williams: On Instagram: @jasminewilliamsmedia
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| 07 May 2021 | The Virtual Skills Summit Preview Class Part Two | 00:18:46 | |
Today’s special episode is our second preview event gearing up for our Virtual Skills Summit. Join us as I introduce 10 amazing speakers who will be presenting at this year’s Summit. I’ll explain why I chose them and why they each bring unique skill sets that I think will have a profound impact on your business!
Podcast Outline: [0:46] Introduction to the Virtual Skills Summit Preview - where to find the Summit schedule and when the sessions and Q&A times will take place. Craig explains the Summit format, the importance of attending the live sessions, and how to purchase an All-Access Pass. [5:10] Two reasons why these particular speakers were chosen
Speakers Featured at the Summit [6:38] #1 Craig Cannings (Online Course Creation and Management) - how his experience and passion for course creation have contributed to the system he will share in his session. [8:10] #2 Abbi Perets (Email Marketing Sequences) - her story and how she was able to specialize in the skill of email marketing sequences. [9:17] #3 Jay Clouse (Online Community Management) - how his experience makes him the perfect person to share about a terrific area that you can specialize in. [10:13] #4 Shannon Mattern (Website Conversion Design) - her story and how it led to her teaching people to build their own websites. [11:12] #5 Sarah Noked (Online Business Management) - how she got into the online business management industry and developed wisdom she will share with you. [12:15] #6 Bob Sparkins (Online Marketing Funnels) - how he’s a terrific teacher with skills and experience speaking at many VA events. [13:03] #7 Cynthia Trevino (Creative Content Creation and Repurposing) - her story and experiences that led her to become an entrepreneur and then teach entrepreneurs how to create amazing content. [14:00] #8 Tasha Booth (Online Product Launches) - her background in the arts and how she started a VA business, specializing in online product launches. [15:11] #9 Rob Balasabas (YouTube Video Marketing) - how he’s the best mind when it comes to understanding YouTube and Livestream and will share a blueprint for you to use with clients. [16:17] #10 Julia McCoy (SEO Writing) - how she began freelancing as a writer and how she’s a great asset to the FreeU Summit. [17:31] What will happen at the final live session with Craig Cannings [18:02] How to upgrade to an All-Access Pass
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Find the Virtual Skills Summit schedule and your FREE PASS here. Upgrade to an All-Access pass here. Pat Flynn Smart Passive Income She Markets book by Cynthia Trevino | |||
| 16 Mar 2023 | The Website Set Up Class with Brian Hall | 00:37:13 | |
How do you design a great website for your freelance business? Today our guest is Brian Hall, a conversion optimization consultant. He’s helped big brands like Udemy, L’Oreal, and Ghirardelli increase their website revenue and now helps small business owners and freelancers improve their website strategy. Join us as we discuss the single most important element of a successful freelance website and recommended platforms to choose from. We’ll also share some effective alternatives to help you keep it simple and still reach your target audience!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Brian Hall and the topic of setting up a great website for your freelance business or your clients - Brian explains how he started freelancing/consulting and where he’s at today. [4:32] How Brian’s transition to freelancing finally worked - Brian shares three important things that contributed to his success. [6:39] Craig describes his experience starting a business while implementing similar strategies - the importance of joining a mastermind group and lowering your cost of living to give yourself a longer runway. [8:28] Should freelancers have a website today - Brian shares his thoughts about whether or not you need one and how it can help you. [10:25] How your choice to have a website depends on what focus you want to have - Craig explains how creating a branded website doesn’t have to be complex these days. [11:12] The most important elements of a successful freelancer website - Brian describes the one important element that’s worth 80-90% of your attention.
Three Basic Types of Offers (Calls to Action) for You to Choose and Optimize [12:18] #1 A scheduling embed or calendar link - so people can book time to talk to you so you can sell them your services. [12:30] #2 A “contact me” form - so people can send you a message. [12:46] #3 A lead magnet or newsletter - so people can read or download something of yours. [13:24] How a website differs from a resume - Craig explains how a website needs to focus on an offer and the headline. Brian describes how the headline wraps up with the offer to attract your audience. [15:35] Personal branding - Brian explains whether an “About Page” is necessary and important. Craig shares an example of how some people include anecdotes on their LinkedIn profile to showcase their personality. [18:49] One of the best reasons to have a website - Brian explains how it gives you the opportunity to be yourself, express yourself, and share things about yourself. [19:39] The need for a balance between being fun and offering value - how you need to decide how to serve your audience best on social media. [21:05] How it’s good to experiment with social media platforms and trends - the importance of noting the outcome and putting your effort into the offer on your website. [23:00] The recommended website platforms for freelancers to consider - Brian suggests questions to ask yourself to help determine what type of platform you need. [23:28] Platforms for a one-page website - Brian lists the elements you need and a common platform that would work. [24:23] Platforms to help you focus on lead magnets and an email list - Brian suggests tools that support marketing automation and lead magnet download by letting you create a landing page. [25:00] The importance of considering different options and starting with the thing that’s closest to your offer - Brian explains how there’s no single recommendation for a multi-page website platform. [26:20] The value of WordPress - Craig explains how getting to know WordPress better gives you the option of offering WordPress services to clients. [27:11] The importance of following your joy - Brian shares his insights on WordPress and the additional elements you need to think about. He also proposes another way to choose a platform. [28:42] The importance of keeping it simple - how you can start with a simpler platform and then transition to a more complex website later on. Craig and Brian discuss how building a website helps but can also become a distraction from building your business and networking. [30:42] How the energy you spend thinking about your offer is not wasted if you later redesign your website or migrate to a different platform [32:27] How “ugly converts” don’t matter - Brian and Craig advise against worrying that your website design will cost you business. [33:51] When does design matter - Brian explains how the design can get in the way of people finding your offer on the website. [34:20] How to access Brian’s recommended resources and offers [36:05] How to level up your skills and access free resources at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: The Building Your Authority Class The Marketing with Content Class with Julia McCoy The Winning Discovery Call course
Learn more about Brian Hall: Links to Brian’s recommended resources Freelance Website Blueprint course
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 29 May 2019 | The Finding Ideal Clients Class | 00:40:21 | |
The most common question the FreeU support desk receives is what is the best way to find great clients. At one point or another you may have struggled, or are struggling, to find clients. And often it’s the deciding factor for many service providers on whether they will continue or quit. In this class I unpack the four best ways to find great clients: referral marketing, networking, content marketing and strategic cold calling.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:47 - Introduction to the topic of Finding Great Clients 3:02 - Four Ways to Find Great Clients:
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/ Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/ Google: https://www.google.com/ Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/ Rotary Clubs: https://www.rotary.org/en BNI: https://www.bni.com/
eWomenNetwork: https://www.ewomennetwork.com/page/homepage
WeWork Coworking and Office Space: https://www.wework.com/ Work Nicer Coworking: https://www.worknicer.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/reg/join
iTunes: https://www.apple.com/ca/itunes/
Google Analytics: https://analytics.google.com/analytics/web/
Freelance University courses:
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| 04 Nov 2022 | The SEO as a Service Class with Danielle Gagnon | 00:25:36 | |
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services are vital for any business that’s looking to level up their game in Google and get more visibility. But how do you begin offering those services as a freelancer or virtual assistant? Today our guest is Danielle Gagnon, an SEO specialist and lover of all things content creation. Join us as she describes the types of services you can offer, along with key steps you need to follow to launch those services. This is the first time we've ever talked about SEO in the FreeU Podclass, and it’s a discussion you won’t want to miss!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Danielle Gagnon and the topic of search engine optimization (SEO) as a service - Danielle explains how she became a freelancer with a passion for SEO and shares what she’s doing today. [3:56] An example that shows the power Google can have in your business, but only when you’re targeting the right audience and content in your blog posts [5:05] How the average business owner today still struggles with SEO - Danielle shares examples of ways clients need help as they realize the importance of an online presence. [6:51] Craig shares an example that illustrates how profitable SEO can become - the advantage of getting ahead of your audience using SEO versus other methods that interrupt their content consumption. [9:21] How SEO has changed throughout the years - new trends Danielle has seen happening and examples of content that works well and needs to be provided as a service. [12:59] The importance of writing great content to the audience instead of just writing for the search engines - how the algorithm is more about good quality long-form content and people’s search intent.
Types of Services Recommended for New Freelancers or Virtual Assistants [15:16] #1 Blog writing - Danielle describes valuable opportunities for freelancers who would rather not offer the more technical SEO services. [15:55] #2 Updating existing blog posts - optimizing and fixing them up for SEO when they’re no longer performing well. [16:17] #3 Repurposing content - turning podcasts and YouTube videos into keyword-rich or SEO-rich content [16:27] #4 YouTube SEO - Danielle reassures us that there are many different things you can specialize in that don’t involve a lot of technical knowledge. [16:44] #5 Keyword research - researching new keywords and long-tail keywords people can optimize for. [17:00] Tools for researching keywords - Danielle shares her top three recommendations and describes the benefits of her favorite one.
Steps for Freelancers Planning to Launch an SEO Service [18:44] #1 Think about who you want to serve with SEO - Danielle shares examples illustrating how SEO strategies are applied differently to different businesses. [19:48] #2 Start and be okay with learning, testing, and tweaking - encouragement that anyone can learn SEO and suggestions for ways to practice with your own content first. [20:42] Quick tips on how to find SEO clients - Danielle and Craig share suggestions for how to network online in Facebook Groups and partner up with related businesses to connect and build authority. [23:37] How to connect with Danielle [24:57] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode:
Learn more about Danielle Gagnon: Free Guide “Rank Secrets: 10 Simple Steps to Go from Buried to #1 on Google”
Connect with Danielle: Instagram: @daniellegagnon_seo Danielle’s Podcast: Content Cash Machine
Resources and Tools: | |||
| 28 Jan 2022 | The Top Freelance Success Traits Class with Tricia Sciortino | 00:27:35 | |
Today we’re joined by Tricia Sciortino, the CEO of BELAY, discussing top traits of the top 3% of applicants to this successful VA agency. What separates average freelancers from extraordinary freelancers? Join us as we outline the essential soft skills you need to embody so you can build the best possible freelance or virtual assistant business for yourself! Podcast Outline: [0:42] Introduction to Tricia Sciortino and the topic of key traits that separate average from exceptional freelancers - Tricia tells the story of how she entered the remote workspace and what led her to become the CEO of BELAY. [5:13] How remote work trends shaped Tricia’s business and what she’s seen happen during the pandemic - Tricia describes how it’s been a season of growth and education. [9:32] How the VA industry has introduced a new life with new income opportunities and freedoms people have never tapped into before [11:07] The onboarding process at BELAY - Tricia explains how recruitment works and how it focuses on the top 3% of applicants. [14:39] How a comprehensive vetting process can be valuable - Tricia reassures us that the vetting process allows for both VAs and clients to have a quality experience.
[16:23] Common Traits of the Top 3% of Successful Freelancers and VAs [17:25] #1 Resourcefulness - teaching yourself how to do tasks so you take the burden of proof from your client. [18:18] #2 Proactivity - getting ahead and projecting what’s next so you can get ahead of your client. [21:24] #3 Self-discipline - being intrinsically self-motivated and self-guided in how you schedule and keep yourself on task. [23:35] Final tips for people who would like to join BELAY or be a successful freelancer - Tricia shares advice for traits and education to pursue. [26:01] Next steps to take if you’d like to be a contractor with BELAY [26:37] How to learn more about hard skills training at Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Tricia Sciortino: | |||
| 31 Jul 2019 | The Digital Nomad Lifestyle Class with Robert O'Kruk | 00:40:58 | |
In this class, I’m joined by Robert O’Kruk, a Digital Nomad expert who shares his insights on how to build a thriving freelance business working from anywhere in the world. He unpacks three key principles to help you be successful on remote work platforms and other client networking opportunities. And he shares his opinion on the top three destinations for Digital Nomads. The principles discussed here can help you achieve the lifestyle you want and make a positive impact.
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:05 - Introduction to Robert O’Kruk 2:26 - Robert describes the journey that led him to freelancing as a Digital Nomad 5:33 - The pros and cons of being your own boss 6:36 - Craig’s journey and the benefits of working remotely 8:30 - Is a Digital Nomad or Laptop Lifestyle attainable? 12:10 - The importance of a supportive community
12:51 - Practical steps to building a Digital Nomad lifestyle:
15:46 - Three key principles people need to cover to be successful using remote work platforms:
34:38 - Dispelling some myths about Upwork 37:12 - Advice for applying the three principles in other ways 37:35 - Robert’s top three destinations for Digital Nomads 39:33 - Final thoughts and how to find out more about Robert Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
How to connect with Robert O’Kruk:
The Tactically Tailored Template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vvo-UtSMxekpqCiVoM92cQjHt4nahwrLWPJ05Hdryrk/edit?usp=sharing
Google in Canada: https://www.google.ca/ Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/ Blogtrottr: https://blogtrottr.com/ Visualping: https://visualping.io/
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| 12 Jan 2023 | The Top 100 Freelance Jobs Class | 00:29:13 | |
To kick off a new year and celebrate the 100th episode of the Freelance Podclass, we’ve created a brand new guide called “The Top 100 Freelance Jobs for 2023.” In this episode, we’ll share important aspects of the top 100 jobs and go through many of the categories that will be in demand this year. This guide is the result of intensive research and surveys that uncovered the most in-demand opportunities heading into 2023. It’s our hope that this 100th episode will inspire you to take action by moving in a new direction, tapping into a new niche, and pursuing new opportunities!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Craig shares the vision of Freelance University and the reason why this podcast was created - how FreeU’s focus is helping freelancers learn skills that create opportunities and potentially translate into new income streams. [1:48] Craig introduces the topic of “The Top 100 Freelance Jobs for 2023” - he explains how the different categories were broken down, with jobs selected for each category.
Seven Major Categories From “The Top 100 Freelance Jobs for 2023” Guide [4:04] #1 Design - a growing industry with a variety of niches you can pursue and many tools you can use to launch a design business. [7:33] #2 Social Media - falls under the larger umbrella of digital marketing, but deserves its own standalone category since there are many roles you can do within social media, starting with a broader role and niching down into more specialized roles. [10:48] #3 Digital Media and Events - a fast-growing area with a wide variety of opportunities, from technical roles to virtual event management roles to voice-over roles. [13:32] #4 Digital Marketing - a category with so many freelance jobs you can drill down into and provide specific services while specializing in different tools and platforms. [17:40] #5 Business Management and Support - Admin type jobs that are essential for keeping executives or busy entrepreneurs organized by managing documents, teams, help desks, or other important parts of their business. [21:47] #6 Content - jobs that involve writing or editing, with opportunities to create specialized content for specific niches. [24:48] #7 Technology - an important category with certain jobs that will be in demand in 2023, with specific tools and platforms you can specialize in. [26:28] Craig emphasizes all the possibilities of the things that you can do as a side hustle, as a part-time freelance job, even as a full-time gig - how even in a down economy, the freelance industry can and will flourish, and you can capitalize on that by honing your skills, tapping into in-demand areas, and getting creative. [27:55] How to access our upcoming 2023 registration to Freelance University
Resources and Tools Discussed in this Episode: Register for FREE Masterclass and receive the Top 100 Freelance Jobs Guide! | |||
| 19 Feb 2021 | The Marketing with Content Class with Julia McCoy | 00:31:16 | |
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen digital content consumption increase like never before, leading to significant growth in freelance opportunities. Today I’m joined by Julia McCoy, who will teach you a 4-step process for building a content marketing system in your freelance business. We’ll share important content marketing strategies so you can grow your influence, client base, and income streams!
Podcast Outline: [0:47] Introduction to Julia McCoy and the topic of content marketing - Julia describes how she started her freelance journey and where she is today. [5:40] How Julia’s book Skip the Degree illustrates how passion and opportunities led to an important pivot in her career and freelance journey. [7:02] How the freelance movement is growing exponentially during the COVID-19 pandemic with increased digital content consumption - Julia and Craig discuss how this trend will continue with remote work going mainstream. [12:25] How picking a content channel allows freelancers to leverage their expertise - Julia and Craig discuss the concept of mastery and share some important content marketing strategies (e.g. the website first approach) that build trust in your audience. [18:17] The importance of consistency and how you’ll see success with content over time - how content is a long game and builds an enduring freelance business. [19:46] Getting started with a content marketing initiative - Julia recommends a process you can follow to achieve success and create your own self-started career based on your passion (the 4 L’s). [23:04] The value of mentorship - how students at Freelance University come for the courses but stay for the mentorship and support. [24:11] Further steps to levelling up once you have the skills, the mentor, and the knowledge - how you can build a legacy and create something that’s rewarding as you pick a channel and delegate the rest. [26:44] Final insights for freelancers who want to have a great year in 2021 - how the freelance market and opportunities will help you thrive and how it’s important to stay in your “zone of genius.” [28:41] How you can grow your freelance business and seek opportunities that bring other streams of income. [29:52] Where to learn more about Julia McCoy
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Julia McCoy on Twitter https://twitter.com/JuliaEMcCoy and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fementrepreneur/
Julia’s websites: Content Hacker https://contenthacker.com/ Express Writers https://expresswriters.com/ The Write Blog https://expresswriters.com/write-blog/
Julia’s book on Amazon: Skip the Degree, Save the Tuition https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08S5SC61H
Upwork https://www.upwork.com/ Google https://www.google.com Clubhouse https://www.joinclubhouse.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/en Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ Instagram Reels https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/introducing-instagram-reels-announcement IGTV https://about.instagram.com/features/igtv Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads | |||
| 22 Apr 2020 | The Work (and Thrive) From Home Class | 00:33:56 | |
The concept of remote work has suddenly come to the forefront, with more of us working from home than ever before. But how do we work from home well? How do we do it in a way that allows us to be more productive and purpose-filled, as opposed to being apathetic and distracted? That is our focus today as we unpack 10 ways to work, and thrive, from home!
Podcast Outline: [1:02] Craig introduces the topic of thriving in the midst of unprecedented circumstances while working from home. He stresses the importance of using this time well to help move our businesses forward. [2:19] Craig shares his story and his experience of working from home for 17 years and adapting to the new normal. [3:59] Craig lists a number of pain points you might relate to as you transition to working from home. Some pain points may create apathy, while others can be leveraged for good! Craig shares an interesting example of Parkinson’s Law from his college experience.
10 Ways to Work and Thrive from Home [8:57] #1 Shower and groom yourself - how to get yourself prepped and ready so you’re motivated to work. Craig stresses how this strategy is important to implement early on. [10:38] #2 Establish a clear schedule and routine - how you need to course-correct when your routine has been disrupted. Craig shares examples of how to map out a schedule and explains how it combats distractions. [13:12] #3 Pick the right technology tools to manage your schedule and your life - the different categories of tools and apps you can choose from. Craig shares some helpful examples and strategies for picking tools. [15:23] #4 Create a task list for each day and week - how to plan out and evaluate your week. Craig explains how this process can motivate you and show where you can improve. [17:30] #5 Practice time blocking - how it can be an effective strategy for organizing your day and making sure you complete projects. Craig suggests examples of effective ways to block your time. [19:57] #6 Identify and conquer your productivity pitfalls - Craig shares examples of what might be distractions in our lives right now and how conquering them can make us better versions of ourselves. [22:35] #7 Create an aesthetically-pleasing workspace - how it helps create a good work-life rhythm. Craig describes some elements that can be inspiring and suggests how you can work with what you have. [25:22] #8 Build in some self-care activities - the types of activities and habits that are important to keep you healthy and make you more productive in your work. [26:50] #9 Track your accomplishments every week - an example of how you can track your execution of tasks in a way that’s motivating even in the midst of a crisis. [28:30] #10 Set healthy boundaries between work and personal life - how to ensure your personal relationships grow and develop during this unique time together. Craig stresses the importance of creating these boundaries and shares an example from his own life. [30:50] Bonus: Be grateful - how we can nurture gratitude in our life and business. [32:18] Recap of the 10 ways to work and thrive from home
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: The Freelancer’s Checklist to Working (and Thriving) from Home https://www.freelanceu.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Freelance_Home_Checklist.pdf
Asana https://asana.com/ Todoist https://todoist.com/ Trello https://trello.com/ Google Tasks https://support.google.com/tasks/answer/7675772?co=GENIE.Platform%3DDesktop&hl=en My Hours https://myhours.com/ Toggl https://toggl.com/ Harvest https://www.getharvest.com/ Pomodoro Technique https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique Twitter https://twitter.com/ Amazon https://www.amazon.com/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/ The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington https://12weekyear.com/ | |||
| 29 Sep 2022 | The Exceptional Subcontractor Class with Sue Harrawood | 00:33:09 | |
What are the qualities of an exceptional subcontractor? Today our guest is Sue Harrawood, founder of Peace of Mind Virtual Assistance. She’s been working in the VA industry for almost 20 years and knows a thing or two about subcontracting. Join us as we discuss the qualities of exceptional subcontractors and how you can prepare to be one. Whether you’re interested in hiring subcontractors or becoming one yourself, you’ll benefit from these valuable strategies and insights!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Sue Harrawood and the topic of being an exceptional subcontractor - Sue tells the story of how she got started in the VA industry and launched her business. [3:13] What it was like leaving corporate and working in a remote context - the challenges Sue faced and how she received help from others. [6:06] What it was like to hire a team - how Sue started the process of meeting and hiring team members. [9:33] How the know-like-trust factor plays a role in building a team [10:08] Why subcontracting is a great strategy for someone starting out or continuing long term - how the benefits outweigh any disadvantages and can provide a level of contentment.
Specific Criteria Recommended for Subcontractors [14:14] #1 Personal and professional presence - how dress and appearance are important to Sue and her clients. [14:53] #2 Professional communication - examples of how to respond and communicate. [15:43] #3 Taking initiative - how to be in community, ask for help, and give guidance. [15:59] #4 Applying for a job posting - options for how you can show up professionally with attention to detail. [16:30] Craig’s “Diamond in the Rough” strategy - the importance of hiring team members with good soft skills and giving them additional training in technical skills.
How to Prepare to Be an Exceptional Subcontractor [18:39] #1 Know who you are - how this helps you figure out what you want to do and achieve longevity. [19:17] #2 Communication is king and queen - the importance of communicating promptly when you’re on a team. [20:21] #3 Develop your talents - how to prepare for upcoming interviews and be singularly focused. [21:23] #4 Be professional and well rounded - the importance of having a life outside of work. [21:32] #5 Know about the agency you’re applying for - the importance of doing research to respond specifically to the subcontracting opportunity. [24:50] #6 Don’t be a gossip - the importance of getting along with your team and making a good impression. [25:07] How your qualities, soft skills, and professionalism will be the deciding factor even if you have less experience than other VAs applying for an opportunity [26:24] The value of FreeU’s training - how it’s the right place for new and old VAs. [26:47] How new subcontractors can protect themselves as they enter an agency - important strategies to help them set boundaries. [30:43] How to learn more about Sue Harrawood [32:13] How to keep your skills current and learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Sue Harrawood: Website: Peace of Mind Virtual Assistance
Connect with Sue:
Resources and tools: | |||
| 07 Aug 2019 | The Online Business Manager Class with Sarah Noked | 00:37:33 | |
In this class, I’m joined by Susan Noked, an Online Business Manager (OBM) who teaches some of the principles of how you can become an OBM for your clients. So many businesses out there are looking for a point person who can manage their team, manage their finances, manage their launches, and put effective systems in place. Learn what it takes to take on this valuable, in-demand role!
Podcast Outline:
0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:54 - Introduction to Sarah Noked 2:04 - Setting the stage for the topic of Online Business Management (OBM) 3:28 - Sarah shares her freedom story 8:47 - The growth of the OBM industry and the importance of VAs 10:48 - How entrepreneurship and online businesses are becoming more popular
14:00 - The role of the OBM
16:40 - How tasks can be delegated to a VA and overseen by an OBM using systems 17:40 - The importance of getting experience as a VA before becoming an OBM 18:29 - The importance of systems and how an OBM can organize businesses
19:43 - Steps to coming into a client’s business as an OBM
21:08 - How to guide someone from one role to a different role as an OBM:
25:41 - How the business is your client
27:04 - How an OBM can be a voice of reason for clients 27:20 - The growth and advantages of the OBM industry
27:52 - Pricing and packaging as an OBM:
29:10 - Understanding the client’s business:
30:08 - How every business needs a VA, but not every business needs an OBM 32:15 - How the role of strategist complements the role of OBM 35:00 - How you can begin with a simple project and move towards the OBM role 35:50 - How to learn more about Sarah and what she’s doing in the OBM space 36:43 - Final thoughts Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Sarah Noked’s website: https://www.sarahnoked.com/ Access Sarah Noked’s Done-For-You Onboarding SOP for free! https://www.sarahnoked.com/podclass/ The Online Business Manager Training and Certification program with Tina Forsyth: https://certifiedobm.com/ International Association of Online Business Managers: https://onlinebusinessmanager.com/ Ryan Deiss Traffic and Conversion Summit: https://www.trafficandconversionsummit.com/ Facebook Ads: https://www.facebook.com/business/ads | |||
| 03 Sep 2020 | The 2020 Freelance Report Review Class | 00:16:43 | |
In today’s podclass Craig shares some highlights from our recently-released annual Freelancer Report. We discuss how COVID-19 has affected actively working freelancers and share the top technical and soft skills that are most important today. We also reveal the most requested services for freelance businesses during this global pandemic and the most effective ways to find new clients. These important findings that will be both beneficial and impactful to your business moving forward!
Podcast Outline: [1:07] How the freelance industry is growing by leaps and bounds - Craig shares some reasons why this is happening and how the way people work has changed.
Highlights and Trends from the Annual Report [3:03] The primary motivation for being a freelancer or virtual assistant and why respondents started their businesses in the first place [4:00] The business impact of COVID-19 - some encouraging results from respondents about how their businesses have been affected [4:58] The top five technical skills that are most important in freelancers’ businesses [6:34] The top three soft skills that freelancers thought were most important to the success of their businesses [7:41] The top three ways to find new clients - examples of how FreeU students are finding ideal clients [9:02] The most popular website platforms that freelancers are using - how having WordPress skills is ideal right now. [9:46] The top three social networks that are most important to freelancers right now [11:12] How the majority of respondents believe the freelance economy, industry and opportunities are increasing during this global pandemic and how there are prime opportunities for existing and new freelancers [11:58] Three core skill areas that will make you successful as a well-rounded freelancer who builds a long-term, enduring business - some important examples of how Freelance University teaches these skills [15:27] Where to find resources and information about Freelance University and how it provides valuable ongoing education to help you build a successful freelance business
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Infusionsoft https://keap.com/infusionsoft WordPress https://wordpress.org/ Squarespace https://www.squarespace.com/ Weebly https://www.weebly.com/ GoDaddy https://ca.godaddy.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ Freelance University Course: Cold Calling Success in a Digital World https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/cold-calling-success-in-a-digital-age Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ Mailchimp https://mailchimp.com/ Netflix https://www.netflix.com/ | |||
| 26 Jun 2019 | The Multiple Streams of Income Class | 00:26:28 | |
In this class we talk about practical ways that you can add more income to your freelance business. Some of you may be looking at ways to scale your income, while others may be trying to smooth out your cash flow on a month-to-month basis. In this Podclass, I unpack 6 excellent income streams to help you grow the business you’ve always wanted.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 0:45 - Introduction to topic: Adding more monthly income to our business and stabilizing our income 2:46 - Six Different Income Streams to Add to Your Business:
24:40 - Recap of the different types of income streams 25:29 - Final thoughts and how to get on the notification list for Freelance University Resources and tools discussed in this episode: ActiveCampaign: https://www.activecampaign.com/ WordPress: https://wordpress.org/
Pat Flynn - Smart Passive Income: https://www.smartpassiveincome.com/
Infusionsoft: https://keap.com/infusionsoft Skillshare: https://www.skillshare.com/ Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/
Teachable: https://teachable.com/ Thinkific: https://www.thinkific.com/ Kajabi: https://kajabi.com/
Amazon Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/Kindle-eBooks/ Kindle Direct Publishing: https://kdp.amazon.com/en_US/
Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/
More info on Freelance University: https://www.freelanceu.com/university/
ActiveCampaign workshop at Freelancer University: https://my.freelanceu.com/courses/mastering-active-campaign
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| 01 Jul 2020 | The Virtual Assistant Class with Tawnya Sutherland | 00:25:56 | |
Where is the virtual assistant industry trending right now, and what are the most popular niches to pursue? Today I’m joined by Tawnya Sutherland, a thought leader and pioneer in the VA industry. She shares valuable insights and practical tips to help you build a VA business from scratch and find your first clients. With remote work becoming more of a norm, now is the perfect time to begin a fulfilling career in this thriving industry! Podcast Outline:
[0:48] Introduction to Tawnya Sutherland and how the VA industry has grown in the last 20 years [3:45] How Tawnya broke into the VA field and positioned herself as a thought leader in this space [5:02] “The Epidemic of Loneliness” - how our culture is more lonely than ever before and how it’s led communities like VA Networking to thrive [6:32] Where Tawnya sees the VA industry trending now and how working remotely is becoming more of a norm [9:27] The most popular VA niches right now - how many types of online marketing are now in demand because of COVID [12:07] Being a generalist vs being a specialist - how there’s still a demand for generalists who provide virtual administration and online business management How to Start a VA Business from Scratch
[15:27] #1 Do some research - how to make sure virtual assistance is something you want to do. [15:42] #2 Write down the services you could do - how to create a list to find a target market. [16:11] #3 Develop your business structure and marketing plan - the importance of a website and a list. [17:14] Where VAs are finding their first clients right now - some good ways and good places to go [22:29] Final words of wisdom from Tawnya - the importance of finding community [23:49] How to get to know Tawnya and what she’s doing to help VAs get started and retain clients
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
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| 30 Mar 2023 | Student Spotlight: Military Spouse to Freelance Affiliate Manager with Emma Marriott-Predmore | 00:33:49 | |
Today we’re thrilled to present a student spotlight with Emma Marriott-Predmore, a military spouse who’s been a virtual assistant since 1999 and now works as a freelance affiliate manager. She’s built a thriving VA agency and referral networks that benefit military spouses and dependents who work remotely and relocate often. Join us as she shares her story and provides many valuable takeaways that will have a profound impact on your business!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Emma Marriott-Predmore and the topic of working as a virtual assistant - Emma shares her journey and how she arrived at her current role. [4:17] Emma describes her VA agency - how it includes military spouses or dependents who relocate often and would like to have a job that doesn’t depend on physical networks. Emma explains how her family members also work as virtual assistants. [6:17] How the VA industry has grown up - Emma and Craig discuss how you can diversify your VA offerings in an era where people now understand what a VA is. [9:46] Emma explains the type of clients she works with and what services her agency focuses on - how her niche involves talking to a client and problem-solving for them. [11:56] Emma’s role as a freelance affiliate manager - Craig and Emma explain how Clickbank facilitates affiliate marketing and how Emma’s agency uses it. [14:47] How specializing in a particular software is a good direction for freelancers who enjoy working with technology - Emma talks about the different challenges her agency helps clients with. [16:39] The benefits of referrals - Emma explains how she’s built her referral network. Craig explains how referrals are one of the most successful ways to have a client relationship. [19:24] Emma’s role as a military spouse - how it’s helped her as an entrepreneur by teaching her that you can’t control everything. Emma outlines strategies you can use to face challenges and plan ahead in both life and client relationships. [22:17] How it’s important to embrace the adventure of the freelance/VA industry - Craig describes how you need to be ready to move and shift when necessary so you can capitalize on opportunities that emerge out of a recession. [23:07] The importance of changing your niche when you need to - how your niche should be both enjoyable and profitable. [24:17] Emma shares her best strategies for scaling her business as a busy mom - how Emma networks by talking to people so she can build connections and promote her business. [27:25] How clients are everywhere - Craig discusses how we’re entering an era where people understand and see the value in remote work. [27:55] Emma shares advice for freelancers who are seeking to grow their business this year - how it’s important to embrace change and be open to new opportunities and new skills. [29:19] How Freelance University has helped Emma - Emma explains how FreeU courses have helped her update her skills and knowledge by allowing her to dabble in a wide variety of different courses. [31:25] How FreeU spots the trends for you and creates courses so you can be prepared for the next opportunity coming your way [33:07] How to learn more about Freelance University and networking with the FreeU community
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
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| 11 May 2022 | The Branding Your Business Class with Nikki Arensman | 00:34:13 | |
How do you create a compelling brand that actually attracts clients? Today we’re joined by Nikki Arensman, who is a brand designer, strategist, and host of “The Business of Branding” podcast. She’s the perfect candidate to explain how to do branding the right way, from scratch, so you can stand out and connect with your ideal clients!
Podcast Outline: [0:00] Introduction to Nikki Arensman and the topic of creating a compelling brand that attracts clients - Nikki tells the story of how she became a brand designer and strategist. [7:25] The competitiveness of the product industry and how branding is the way you can stand out
Reasons freelancers or VAs struggle to create a compelling brand [9:48] #1 Thinking branding is not exciting - some examples of the core elements that make up a brand. [11:39] #2 Thinking you aren’t established enough - the benefits of thinking through who your clients are, how to speak with them and connect with them. [12:43] #3 Focusing too much on the visual elements of a brand - the importance of having the “meat” to back it up. [14:35] An example of effective branding - how the brand identity and business elements can connect with an audience and win a client. [15:45] The paradigm shift of recognizing that as a freelancer, you are both a business and a brand - Nikki shares some examples from her experience. [17:48] How many people come from an employment background - the challenges of creating a brand instead of writing a resume. [19:41] How your brand identity sometimes needs to catch up to where your business has grown - the benefits of aligning your brand identity with all other business elements.
How to do branding the right way, from scratch [22:11] #1 The logistical perspective - examples of what you need to think about. [22:52] #2 The brand strategy - elements that help you figure out the who, what, and why of the business. [23:50] #3 The brand visuals - examples of how you could also create these elements before the preceding two steps to create initial momentum in your business. [28:12] The importance of having a first win and starting with a low-cost brand identity when your business is still evolving [29:16] How to access the Brand Identity Breakthrough kit - what the kit includes and how to use it. [33:39] How to learn more about Freelance University
Resources and tools discussed in this episode:
Learn more about Nikki Arensman:
Connect with Nikki:
Resources and Tools:
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| 24 Apr 2019 | The Winning Discovery Call Class with Forest Linden | 00:42:21 | |
In this Podclass, I am joined by the founder of Claritylab.co, Forest Linden, who shares his insight and unpacks 11 pillars to conducting a winning discovery call that turns prospects into ideal clients. Forest also talks about how he sells his packages right from that first discovery call.
Podcast Outline: 0:00 - Opening thoughts 1:03 - Introduction to Forest Linden 2:58 - Forest tells his “Freedom Story” and describes his business lifestyle.
8:19 - Introduction to Topic: “The 11 Pillars of Winning Discovery Calls”
38:33 - Recap of the 11 Pillars to a Winning Discovery Call 39:30 - The importance of being a good person Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Clarity Lab: https://claritylab.co/ Slack: https://slack.com/ Zoom: https://zoom.us Kajabi: https://kajabi.com/ | |||
| 11 Mar 2021 | The Memorable Introduction Class with Cynthia Trevino | 00:33:03 | |
How do you make your self-introductions memorable in the context of a virtual world? Today I'm joined by Cynthia Trevino, who'll teach you a framework for making a good first impression. Join us as we explore five steps to creating a memorable self-introduction that stands out, repels non-ideal clients, and attracts your dream clients through online networking!
Podcast Outline: [0:49] Introduction to Cynthia Trevino and the topic of making self-introductions memorable in a virtual world [2:39] Cynthia's backstory and how she serves her clients right now [5:11] Craig shares a story that illustrates the importance of preparing an introduction so people can grasp the business concept you're introducing. [6:34] How to speak directly to the people you want to serve [8:03] How the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people network to find their ideal clients
Five Steps to Making a Memorable Self-Introduction [9:53] #1 Decide what you want to accomplish with your self-intro - how to stand out to the right people, your ideal clients. [11:25] #2 Choose a format - examples illustrating how to connect on a personal level and be intentional using stories that relate to your ideal clients' deepest pain points and desires. [18:40] #3 Explore how to make yourself more memorable - ways to refine your story and online copy to position it in a way that relates to your clients' problems. [22:55] #4 Be very specific and repel your non-ideal clients - how to appeal to the people you most want to serve as you niche down your business. Cynthia also shares an example of what to say if your niche is broad at the beginning of your business. [26:18] #5 Test, rework, and refine - how to choose one of these ideas, practice them, and then listen for the clues (the "tell me more" moment). [27:18] Recap of the five steps to making a memorable self-intro [29:39] How your self-intro will morph and evolve over time as you grow in experience or niche down [30:26] How to get to know Cynthia Trevino and access additional resources
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Cynthia Trevino on her website: https://shemarketsmentor.com/ Blog post: "How to Polish Your Pitch and Connect with Ideal Clients" https://shemarketsmentor.com/how-to-polish-your-elevator-pitch-and-connect-with-ideal-clients/ Free Cheat Sheet: "21 Practical Tips to Become a Consistent Content Creator" cynthia123.com https://shemarketsmentor.mykajabi.com/Create_Content_Consistently Cynthia's book: She Markets: A Guide for Women Entrepreneurs on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/She-Markets-Guide-Women-Entrepreneurs/dp/0990825299/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1615426582&sr=8-1
Zoom https://zoom.us/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com Facebook Groups https://www.facebook.com/groups/ Facebook Ads https://www.facebook.com/business/ads Facebook Messenger https://www.messenger.com/ The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferris's https://fourhourworkweek.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/ | |||
| 19 May 2021 | The Leverage Your Time Class with Abbi Perets | 00:35:05 | |
If you have a full-time job, a family, or other commitments, how do you squeeze in the time that's necessary to grow your freelance business? Today, Abbi Perets will walk you through some steps to maximize your time and your schedule. Join us as we share strategies to help you build a thriving business when you only have short blocks of time!
Podcast Outline: [0:58] Introduction to Abbi Perets and the topic of building a thriving business when you only have short blocks of time - Abbi shares her story, how she got into freelance writing and started her business. [7:07] Some of the common pitfalls that prevent people from getting stuff done - Abbi gives some important tips on tracking your time and thinking about it in the context of a week. [9:33] How to make tweaks to your life that give you back hidden time - the importance of tracking time and being honest. [10:36] Strategies to make the best use of time while family members are home - how to create priorities and stop treating calendars as “aspirational documents.” [13:34] How to be consistent in short blocks of time - the importance of systems and processes and how to create an effective to-do list that’s broken down into tasks. [19:04] The importance of learning how to say no and scheduling effectively - how to set boundaries with clients.
Strategies for People Who Are Working Full Time and Want to Build a Freelance Business [22:00] How to make your business a priority and use the first hour of your day for building your business [24:01] How to get creative with your time - Craig and Abbi share examples of using time strategically in a way that’s rewarding and gives time back to your life. [30:21] How to pick what you value and choose how you want your life to look [33:22] The importance of creating time blocks where you get work done [34:00] How to get to know Abbi Perets
Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Learn more about Abbi Perets: Facebook Group: Successful Freelance Writing Moms
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