In an unplanned and unorganized fashion, Vicky and Joe resume their conversation from last week about hostage negotiations. If you missed it, there are five stages to being an effective hostage negotiator. Vicky and Joe dive into the first stage, which is active listening. How can you be a good listener? Tune in to the show to find out more!
Key Takeaways:
[2:20] Vicky and Joe were at the pub Sunday night and…
[3:55] So, what’s the topic for today’s conversation? Hostage negotiations!
[4:35] Joe does a quick recap of the 5 stages to a successful hostage negotiation.
[7:35] Okay, Vicky is holding the chickens hostage, what should Joe do?
[8:35] If you’re dealing with a psycho chicken hostage-taker who needs eggs for cake, you now know what you have to do.
[8:45] How does this hostage situation apply to business?
[11:50] Another strategy hostage negotiators use is effective pauses within the conversation.
[14:05] Pointing at people is really aggressive. This is why they use the ‘Thumb of Power’.
[17:55] Mirroring is an important tactic. Repeat the last few words of what the customer said to let them know you’re listening.
[21:10] If something is not clear to you, be sure to clarify!
[24:50] Next week, Vicky and Joe will discuss the second stage to being a good hostage negotiator — the effective use of empathy!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
Businessforsuperheroes.com/borrow-my-brain
Vicky and Joe are a bit sick this week, so bare with them! Vicky starts off the podcast with something she learned on The Cracked Podcast. Apparently, people who suffer from PTSD can find a bit of relief through a combination of going to therapy and taking MDMA. In the context of business, Vicky discusses FBI hostage negotiation techniques and how you can incorporate them into your marketing persuasion strategy.
Key Takeaways:
[1:00] Both Joe and Vicky are sick this week :(!
[1:55] Somebody emailed Vicky the other day, letting her know how much he loved the podcast and her book. Thank you!
[3:00] Vicky loves The Cracked Podcast right now.
[3:55] Vicky hates the way drugs are handled in the UK and in the Western world.
[4:25] The Cracked Podcast was talking about PTSD and why the cure for it is illegal.
[5:50] It was basically a podcast episode about psychedelics.
[8:55] According to the podcast, giving people MDMA while in therapy has helped with their PTSD.
[10:50] FYI, Vicky is not telling you to go take drugs.
[12:40] Let’s make a quick topic transition from drugs to hostage negotiation techniques.
[13:15] Everybody who runs a business is in the business to persuade.
[15:10] Stage 1 of your marketing persuasion strategy is to actively listen.
[16:30] How do you really ‘actively’ listen to someone?
[20:55] Stage 2 is to practice empathy.
[22:05] Stage 3 is rapport.
[22:20] Stage 4 is influence.
[22:50] Stage 5 is behavioral change.
[24:40] Vicky is having a photoshoot tomorrow.
[27:40] We need to look like who we are and we need professional photos to help represent that.
[28:15] Remember! Vicky’s event is on the 3rd and the 4th of November.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/borrow-my-brain
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/events/who-are-you
Why The Best Treatment for PTSD May Be An Illegal Drug
Vicky is currently at a mastermind meeting in Ireland. Since Joe is back in England, Vicky sits down with her mentor, Jon McCulloch, to discuss premium pricing. The biggest problem that comes up at these mastermind meetings is that business owners are not charging enough, so how can they, and you, fix this problem? You’ll have to listen in for answers!
Key Takeaways:
[0:45] Vicky is in Ireland!
[1:00] The thing that comes up the most at Vicky’s mastermind group is that no one is charging enough.
[2:45] Jon shares an example of the times he’s charged too little.
[5:50] When selling a product you always want to emphasize to the client what they’re going to get out of it.
[7:00] Jon shares another story about a dentist and how the dentist sells his premium services.
[12:20] Why do businesses give discounts when the customer didn’t even ask for it?
[14:45] Don’t forget! Vicky’s event is on the 3rd and the 4th of November.
[15:30] What’s the easiest way to increase your prices?
[18:10] Don’t just settle on delivering a service, where you’re barely hitting your industry’s standard. Offer an out-of-the-box experience instead!
[21:55] You don’t have to double your prices overnight. Start by increasing your prices in increments.
[23:30] Stayed tuned for next week’s episode, featuring Joe!
[25:15] Email Jon and get a free book!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/borrow-my-brain
Vicky and Joe are back from holiday! Vicky dives right into the ethics of writing and why plagiarism is a huge no-no! She even recommends unsubscribing to all your competitors so you don't risk copying their style and tone of voice. If you really like a writer's stuff, instead of stealing it, post it on your blog and give them credit for it. It doesn't have to be complicated.
Key Takeaways:
[2:20] Vicky and Joe are back from Holiday!
[3:45] Vicky discusses how to not get on a podcast as a guest.
[6:50] Let's talk about plagiarism.
[7:20] What's a swipe file?
[11:35] Don't copy and paste other people's work!
[11:45] Vicky shares a story about plagiarism that happened to her mentor, John.
[15:45] Unsubscribe to all of your competitors!
[17:20] There's nothing wrong with reaching out to the original writer and giving them credit.
[18:55] Don't do your competitor's courses just to swipe the content of it.
[21:25] Look out for Vicky's event on November 3rd and 4th.
[21:35] If you book before the end of September, Vicky will pay for your hotel room!
[23:45] If you feel icky about what you're doing, then it probably is icky!
[27:05] Stay tuned to next week's episode about hostage negotiations!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
Vicky and Joe are on holiday in Kalymnos, so be prepared for a very unprepared podcast episode. Vicky and Joe do a quick summary of their trip so far on the island and the lovely hotel they are currently staying at. What business lessons can you learn from friendly hotel staff? Vicky shares some tips on this episode!
Key Takeaways:
[1:00] Vicky and Joe are on holiday!
[2:35] It's important to switch off and turn your business off!
[3:30] Kalymnos airport is the worst place in the world.
[7:40] Lots of walking happening here.
[8:40] The hotel staff have made Vicky and Joe's experience very lovely.
[8:55] People will accept lower quality if the service is amazing.
[13:55] Vicky is tired from the physically active trip she is having.
[16:15] Vicky and Joe haven't been able to do the Dirty Dancing lift yet.
[16:45] What is foot catch?
[17:50] Summary: Make people feel special when dealing with your business.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
Vicky invites Sean D'Souza, from Psychotactics, on the show today. Sean has been living in New Zealand for the last 16 years, but grew up in India. What's fantastic about Sean is that he offers a breath of fresh air in a word filled with immediate results. Sean discusses why feedback is so, so important to your success and shares a great and fun lesson from Calvin and Hobbes about tuna sandwiches, so stay till the end!
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Unfortunately Joe is not here to join us!
[1:40] Who is Sean?
[5:05] Sean has lived in New Zealand for the last 16 years.
[8:35] What does success mean for Sean?
[12:35] What's Sean's 'secret'?
[14:35] Why are Sean's products so different from everyone else's?
[19:15] It takes quite a long time to build the business that you want.
[20:15] So, what does Sean do?
[26:30] Sean really, really listens to user feedback.
[29:30] Sean gets around 100-600 pieces of feedback every year on his website alone.
[32:55] Feedback will help you get better and improve.
[35:00] Sean shares a Calvin and Hobbes story.
[36:10] Sometimes life is as simple as a tuna sandwich.
[36:45] So, audience, where is your tuna sandwich?
[37:55] What's next for Sean?
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.psychotactics.com/free/resistance-game
The Brain Audit by Sean D’Souza
The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
Vicky discusses why human beings tend to be forgetful. Most of the time when people are learning a new set of skills, it boils down to three reasons why that knowledge simply doesn't stick for them. Towards the end, Vicky also discusses what the 'Ebbinghaus curve of forgetting' is and why it matters!
Key Takeaways:
[0:50] Vicky and Joe are going on holiday!
[1:40] The chickens have also been on holiday...
[4:25] How do humans learn?
[6:10] Worried you're going to teach something too basic? Don't. People don't know what you know.
[8:25] Vicky tells a story about a trainer blasting jargon at employees.
[11:45] People forget most of what they learn.
[14:20] Most people aren't disciplined enough.
[16:45] The teacher tends to be very poor at following up.
[21:10] People are crap at making decisions and tend to make a choice at the last minute.
[22:15] Should we split this into two podcasts...?
[23:40] What is the 'Ebbinghaus curve of forgetting'?
[28:20] Let's revisit this topic not next week, but the week after that.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
Vicky challenges her dear listeners to think about their USP (Unique Stand Point). What is unique or different about your business? And no, you can't have more than one! You have to know what that one (one!) thing is that sets you apart from everybody else. Vicky discusses what her USP is on the show and why having that one USP for your business is so valuable.
Key Takeaways:
[0:50] What does USP stand for?
[2:40] Vicky has over-committed herself again.
[3:55] Vicky hates ladders by the way!!
[5:30] Let's talk about USPs!
[6:15] Standing out from the crowd makes you vulnerable, which is why so many people are afraid to do it!
[7:00] It's okay to learn from different people, but trying to copy them step-by-step is not good!
[8:10] What's your business's USP?
[9:25] You can only have one USP, you can't have several. What is the one thing that sets you apart from everybody else?
[10:45] What is Vicky's USP?
[11:50] What is Joe's USP?
[14:00] If none of your competitors are saying it, then claim your spot as the best!
[17:35] Mona Lisa is just another painting, yet people are fascinated by it...Does Vicky need more wine?
[21:05] What is it about you that makes you different?
[23:00] Vicky is giving you homework, dear listeners!
[24:15] Are you excited about Vicky's upcoming event? It's coming out November 3 & 4, 2016!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
Joe is back for this podcast episode! Vicky and Joe discuss the somewhat gray area of working for free. There are only four particular scenarios where you should really work for free, but everything outside of that, well frankly, you should moon the person asking you for free work in exchange for 'exposure'. Pull down your pants and moon them! These people are often manipulators who are out to take advantage of you.
Key Takeaways:
[1:50] The chickens are hiding their eggs and both Vicky and Joe are having to do a scavenger hunt to eat them.
[4:20] Write for free in exchange for exposure? How about...not...
[9:00] To be clear, Vicky doesn't have a problem with the Huffington Post's business model.
[9:05] Vicky does have a problem when people ask for stuff for free.
[9:45] If someone comes up to you and asks you to work for free, don't do it.
[11:00] Joe asks if Vicky is speaking from a point of privilege by this point, because she's already established and doesn't need the 'free' exposure?
[12:35] Vicky remembers very clearly when she had no money and no clients.
[15:00] Vicky tries to answer every email she receives, but some people are just really rude and filled with entitlement.
[16:25] When friends ask you to do work for free, they've overstepped on your friendship boundaries.
[19:00] People think it's acceptable to ask for free things from creative types, but can you imagine if the industries were changed? Can you imagine asking for free haircuts or food at nice restaurants?
[19:25] We stop this broadcast for a brief moment due to Vicky and Joe's crazy neighbor.
[21:20] Please write for me for free and when my business is successful, you'll have more work! What a scam!
[22:35] When you're first starting out and you're struggling, Vicky understands that it can be very tempting to take what comes along.
[22:55] Okay, so when is it appropriate to work for free?
[28:35] Remember! Vicky has her event in November and you don't want to miss it.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky and Dom Hodgson, a dog walker from Vicky's inner circle, conduct a bit of business banter on today's show. Dom launched his own book and Vicky shares creative tips on how he (and others) can leverage it. Also, final tip, there's a lot of trial and error to owning a business, which is why you should hire someone who is smarter than you!
Key Takeaways:
[0:55] Welcome Dom!
[1:30] Who is Dom and what does he do?
[3:15] What makes Dom different from other dog walker?
[7:05] What plans does Dom have for in the future?
[10:40] Dom has just finished his book! What's it about?
[11:30] Why did Dom write a book?
[12:55] How's the book doing now that it has been released?
[14:45] People who read Vicky's book are much more likely to buy from her.
[16:10] Vicky wonders who stressful it is for marketing people who have large lists.
[20:25] If you can get your audience to opt-in as they're buying the book, you can leverage your list even further.
[20:35] What advice does Dom have for those who are just starting out?
[21:00] If Dom's business didn't work out, he'd still be doing what he's currently doing.
[24:35] Thanks for listening everyone and stay tuned for next week's episode!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/borrow-my-brain
Free chapter if you go to: www.mydogssuperhero.com/dogdays/
Facebook Page: Pack Leader Dog Adventures
Vicky breaks down what she really means by Just Flipping Do It (JFDI). She doesn't mean you have to become a reckless individual and go out there unprepared, but it does mean you do need to lower your standards a bit (in a good way) and not be such a perfectionist with things. It might sound like Vicky is being a bit tough here, but it's only because it took her three years for her to be okay with letting go of certain responsibilities. Even to this day, it's still a work in progress for her.
Key Takeaways:
[1:25] If you can unplug just make sure you can unplug for a few days every year.
[7:10] Nike has created a billion dollar industry with their catch phrase - Just Do It.
[8:05] What does Vicky mean by her JFDI phrase?
[9:00] Vicky picks apart what's wrong with the phrase, 'If you want something done right, do it yourself'.
[10:40] There is no such thing as perfect.
[11:55] JFDI is not about doing things recklessly.
[14;00] Business owners have to 'let go' or delegate their tasks to others. Vicky understands how hard this is because it took her 3 years to do this.
[16:05] Don't think of it as a cost, think of it as an investment.
[17:45] Stop making excuses!
[19:25] Don't say, "This task can't be done." Instead, ask yourself, "How can this task be done?" The way you say things matters.
[22:00] There are only two things that are certain in life; You're going to die and you're going to have to pay taxes.
[25:15] Vicky is hosting an event in November! Listen here to find out more details.
[27:25] Vicky worries too much, but honestly, who doesn't worry 'too much'?
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky believes there's a misconception going around. Do you have any big life goals that you want to achieve? Vicky doesn't. Joe doesn't. Vicky believes most people don't have huge goals―the way Bill Gates and Sir Richard Branson do and that's absolutely okay. You do not need to have big goals in your life in order to be successful or happy. One of Vicky's goals was to buy a nice house and she's already done that. So, what's next?
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] What is a 'Womble'?
[7:00] What's Joe's life goal right now?
[7:25] We fall into this trap where we think successful people have big life goals.
[8:15] We sometimes think that if we ever hope to be successful, we too need these huge goals and this makes us feel inadequate.
[9:15] What's Vicky's life goal right now? She has no idea!
[10:45] Fun fact, Vicky loves elephants.
[11:10] What does Joe care about? Goldfish.
[12:35] Vicky has been going through somewhat of an existential crisis with her business lately.
[13:30] Most people are actually “river people”. Vicky explains what she means by that.
[15:10] You should have an idea of where you're going. Live your life with purpose. Right now, Vicky feels like she's drifting through life.
[16:55] What do you want people to say at your funeral?
[19:50] Joe is happy where he is today.
[20:45] Vicky is going to be spending the next few weeks figuring out what she wants out of life and her business.
[20:50] Will there be changes? Undoubtedly.
[23:15] Vicky is in the works with something fantastic. Stay tuned for her exciting event hosted in November!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
Vicky showcases the perfect example of a dedicated entrepreneur in today's episode. ShaoDow is a rapper with no label, no manager, and yet he was still able to sell over 20,000 albums on his own. How? He's dedicated. He understands his audience and makes the effort to go out there and physically meet his fan base. This man is so dedicated that he even learned French so he could expand his reach.
Key Takeaways:
[3:00] Vicky finally got to use her chainsaw!
[5:05] Vicky talks about the rapper ShaoDow.
[7:00] Good artists are very hard working and business savvy people.
[8:35] ShaoDow has sold over 20,000 albums, despite not having a manager or a label.
[11:35] You have to work at your craft every single day.
[13:25] You have to get off the couch and sell yourself.
[14:50] It's a scary thing to own your own business, but the rewards make it worth it.
[18:30] Don't work on projects you don't enjoy.
[23:00] There's nothing wrong with marketing your product to someone who can benefit from it.
[24:50] No matter what you're selling, identify your fan base and who you're selling to.
[26:00] ShaoDow puts in the effort and actually goes out of his way to meet his fans.
[26:10] He taught himself how to speak French, just so he can build his support base abroad.
[28:10] Hey! Did you know you can borrow Vicky's brain for 30 mins on Skype? Follow link in the show notes.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/inner-circle
Today Vicky invites Mark Cottle and his partner Cherry on the show. Joe unfortunately could not join them for this week's call, however they do discuss something incredibly important that all business owners should look into – outsourcing. Why and when should you outsource? Mark discusses some of the benefits.
Key Takeaways:
[1:10] Mark is an accountant but he hasn't done any accounting in about 2 and a half years.
[1:40] Mark decided to outsource his company to Philippine workers.
[2:30] Mark and Cherry now help other companies do the same thing.
[6:30] Why do companies outsource?
[7:00] Companies are finding it hard to find talent.
[7:45] Cherry talks about what she does for the business.
[8:50] Their business is greatly growing!
[9:25] What can people even outsource in the first place?
[11:40] Make sure your outsourced team is documenting what they're doing, so that you can use their work as training materials in the future.
[17:25] Vicky recommends all her inner-circle members document every single second of their day so they can see where they waste their time. Facebook is a huge time suck!
[18:05] Most of what you're currently doing can be done by someone else. They could even do it better than you.
[21:00] Although Vicky does not have anyone in the Philippines right now, she does have someone working for her. An extra set of hands is incredibly helpful.
[21:20] Feel like you can't let go of something? Let go of one thing as a start.
[21:40] Upwork can be a bit hit or miss, but if you want to test this outsourcing idea out, try websites like Upwork.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky and Joe discuss what you have to do to get better paying clients in your industry. It really is not as hard as it seems, all you have to do is go the extra mile and offer services your clients would be happy to pay for. Successful or busy people will not mind paying extra for things that will save them time. Vicky dives into the topic and shares some key examples of what she means by providing 'extra services' for you to get a better idea on how to correctly position yourself.
Key Takeaways:
[1:25] What's the difference between an attic and a loft?
[7:30] People always care about their own problems.
[8:45] How do you get high-paying clients?
[13:00] Increase your prices. If you do lose clients, the increase in prices will cover it.
[14:30] Great service is not a 'feature'. You're expected to do great service. Build relationships with your clients instead.
[16:25] Can you imagine paying $40,000 a night at a resort? Why would anyone spend that much money?
[18:00] Avoid highlighting the basic service, instead highlight the high-end stuff you do provide.
[20:40] What really pisses people off in your industry?
[24:35] Gold nugget! Listen to hear Vicky's copy writing advice.
[27:10] Find out who your best customers are and focus your marketing on those types of people.
[27:20] We'll continue this topic another time!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky went to a networking event! If you've kept up with the podcast, you would know that Vicky would rather stick pins in her eyes than go to a networking event. Well, her good friend Todd sneakily invited her to one and she went...and it wasn't terrible! Today, Vicky talks on how she crafted her 40-second introduction pitch that ended up attracting quite a bit of positive attention and made her stand out from the crowd.
Key Takeaways:
[4:45] What is Vicky talking about this week?
[5:25] Networking! It's such a dirty word!
[7:15] Joe talks about a sleazy sale's tactic that was pulled on him.
[10:30] Vicky enjoyed her networking event.
[11:15] Vicky talks about the networking format.
[12:50] You can't fire me because I quit!
[13:15] If you have a chance to stand up in a room full of people, don't waste it.
[13:30] Don't be afraid to be yourself.
[13:55] If you want to be successful, you have to be a real person.
[15:35] Are you having a hard time with your elevator pitch? Drop Vicky an email as she is working on a program to help you through that!
[17:55] Vicky talks about the people she met at the event. Hi James!
[23:05] Are you a plummer? Contact Vicky.
[25:00] Tune in next week! Thanks for listening everyone.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Vicky is disgusted about the racism that has come out of the woodwork since the Brexit decision. She encourages everyone to stand up against it as it should not be supported or ignored by any means necessary. Vicky also dives into what you can learn about the Brexit decision on a business level later in the show. But politics aside, Vicky and Joe continue their conversation from last week about the AIDCA acronym and what it means for your marketing.
Key Takeaways:
[1:45] Vicky is sad/angry about the Brexit.
[2:40] Vicky doesn't recognize the country she lives in right now. Lots of racists have come out of the woodwork.
[4:05] Stand against racism.
[5:00] Last week we left you hanging on the AIDA/AIDCA acronym.
[7:30] If you want to know what not to do? Look at the yellow pages. The adverts are boring!
[11:25] What does Joe do to attract clients?
[12:10] Vicky shares what she does to attract clients.
[16:20] People will be worried about being ripped off.
[16:35] Vicky never guarantees results when she is marketing because there's no legitimate way to do so.
[16:55] Address your customers’ concerns before they do.
[18:10] Seems simple, but you have to ask for Action.
[19:15] Reiterate to your potential customer the consequences of not taking action and why they must do it with you.
[20:10] You don't need weird and sketchy marketing tricks to get people to buy from you.
[20:40] Why do you pick the products that you pick at the supermarket? Think about it and then translate that conversation into your business.
[22:10] What lessons can be learned from Brexit?
[24:55] Throwing logic and facts at someone who is emotional isn't going to work.
[25:55] Vicky believes this has done a lot of damage to the British economy.
[27:55] Thanks for listening!
Mentioned in This Episode:
This is a followup on last week’s conversation about sketchy marketers using ‘ninja tricks’ to fool their audience. Vicky and her husband Joe discuss what the AIDCA acronym means and why you should always apply it to every article you write. She shares her personal tricks on what makes a good article catchy, honest, and engaging.
Key Takeaways:
[6:00] Vicky does a quick recap of last week’s episode.
[6:45] After the podcast, go to www.tinyurl.com/bfs-ninja.
[8:20] This week Vicky is expanding on her topic of non-ninja marketing tricks you need.
[10:05] Joe explains the ‘AIDCA’ acronym - Attention, Interest, Desire, Conviction, Action.
[11:25] Every article you write needs to have AIDCA.
[13:40] A good article has a compelling headline that screams out a specific problem.
[15:00] You need to find your customers’ dog poo.
[15:40] Don’t be clever or funny with your headline.
[16:25] Don’t do click bait titles either!!!
[17:35] Marketers are starting to use click bait titles, but it creates distrust.
[18:55] Once you’ve got their attention, you have to move on to the interest.
[20:55] Don’t be boring. If you follow this formula, it’ll be difficult to become boring.
[21:10] Did you know, this podcast would make you not boring!!
[21:25] Don’t make people say, ‘so what?’ when reading your article.
[22:25] What makes you special compared to your competitor?
[23:45] Why do you choose specific brands when you do your shopping? What makes those brands special?
[24:25] You’ll have to come back next week for a detailed explanation on the Conviction and Action part of the acronym!
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky has an issue with a certain type of bragger marketer that tries to sell you secret marketing tips and ninja tricks to help you become 'successful'. She believes this type of marketer is often dishonest and flashy for a very strategic reason – to get you to buy their stuff. In reality, these flashy and bragger types are broke with maxed out credit cards. Be careful who you try to emulate as it can create unrealistic expectations of success and what you truly deserve.
Key Takeaways:
[2:10] Joe saw an owl in the backyard!
[2:45] You don't need ninja tricks to succeed with your marketing.
[3:15] Know a marketer that's 'crushing it' and is a huge bragger? They're wankers.
[4:00] People trying to sell the 'secret' formula = a red flag.
[4:40] Most of what those marketers are talking about is bullshit.
[5:00] Those marketers don't understand what they do themselves and try to make it extra complicated when it really isn't that hard.
[8:40] All this 'bragging stuff' tends to be very fictional and filled with lies.
[9:15] People can be deceiving. Flashy people tend to be broke!
[10:40] Those flashy people are just trying to put up a show for you.
[11:20] Sometimes you don't know certain things until you try them out, but just be upfront and honest.
[12:15] Beware of what people are actually doing vs. saying they're doing.
[12:30] Success isn't always measured in pounds. It's measured based on how you choose to live your life.
[12:55] So, the point? You don't need ninja tricks to make your marketing effective!
[13:15] Vicky shares an example of what not to do.
[15:35] Did you know copywriting is actually the fourth most important thing you could do?
[19:50] You don't have to be a good writer, but you also can't get away with being illiterate.
[21:15] Long copy or short copy? Vicky explains.
[23:15] What should your sales copy contain? Next week Vicky and Joe will talk about that topic in much more detail!
Mentioned in This Episode:
Vicky discusses a conversation that stirred up in her inner circle about 'being professional' to a client who, quite frankly, is a complete twat and treats his freelancer like dirt. Vicky says screw professionalism. Life's too short to have horrible clients under your belt! If they're making you unhappy, if they're not paying you, ditch them!
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] A shout out to Keith from Vicky's inner circle!
[2:30] Joe reads out what Lyn said in the inner circle.
[2:55] Do you have an anti-avatar? An outline of the client you know you should avoid?
[3:40] Awful clients know exactly what they're doing to be jerks.
[5:15] Despite knowing how awful the client is, Lyn doesn't want to drop him.
[6:05] If someone's not paying you, why continue working with them?
[7:00] The customer is quite frequently a twat.
[7:25] Client/Freelancer relationships are a partnership, not a hierarchy.
[8:20] What is professionalism? Vicky defines it.
[11:45] The moment you give a discount off the full price, you cheapen your services.
[14:00] Life's too short to have awful clients. Ditch them! It's easier than you think.
[16:00] There are no rules when it comes to running a business.
[18:15] An inner circle is so helpful by giving you the encouragement you need from people who have been there before.
[18:35] Vicky shares a story on why you should always listen to your gut.
[26:35] Don't let other people run your own business.
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Joe joins Vicky this week to discuss being overwhelmed by 'all of the things'. A main problem a lot of people have is that they compare themselves to others and note what others are doing to promote their business. Vicky says to “Stop this bad habit at once!” Instead of looking over your shoulder to see what your neighbor is doing, take the time to focus on one thing and see if it works for you - and if you like it. If you like it, great! Build on that momentum to create something great for you and your business. If you don't like it, that's fine too. Move on and find the next thing to focus on.
Key Takeaways:
[0:40] Joe is back!
[2:35] Vicky has a new journal and it's extremely organized.
[5:20] People who write what they're grateful for everyday end up being happier.
[7:10] Vicky and Joe talk about being overwhelmed.
[9:40] Most people compare too much to what other people are doing.
[10:40] Today is all about listening to yourself.
[11:00] What is Snapchat?!
[12:55] Vicky talks about one of her subscribers who has been on her list for 18 months before he bought anything from her.
[13:20] You don't need your own podcast if you don't want it!
[14:00] Pick one thing and then try it. If you don't like it, stop!
[14:20] Do stuff, but don't do everything all at once.
[15:30] Vicky talks about some of the things she does personally.
[16:15] Vicky love email marketing because it's easy and cheap.
[17:00] Re-purpose your emails into blogs!
[18:05] Should Vicky turn her podcast in to a book? Let her know!
[21:30] Vicky still doesn't understand Snapchat.
[24:55] Should you lead people directly to a social media platform? Vicky says no!
[26:55] Copy writing myths? Tune in next week for more.
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Vicky invites Adam onto the show to answer some of his questions on how to get and keep clients. Adam is a newbie copywriter who has only been freelancing for the past five months or so, and is struggling in some key areas. Vicky answers his questions and also talks about how to weed out the guys who are just looking for free services.
Key Takeaways:
[0:40] This week Joe is not here!
[1:05] Adam asked Vicky if he could have a telephone chat with her. As you may know, Vicky doesn't do those!
[1:20] Adam is a newbie copywriter and has some questions for Vicky, so she asked him to join her on the podcast.
[2:30] Believe it or not, a lot of copywriters are awful at what they do.
[2:45] Want to become a copywriter? Study your craft.
[3:45] What is Vicky's sales process?
[4:15] Vicky has two sales processes. Her private clients and her inner-circle group.
[4:55] Word of mouth clients will be the best clients you will ever have.
[9:10] People who want to pick your brain also want to pick your pocket.
[11:00] If people want to meet you for coffee/lunch, charge a consultation fee. It will help you weed the not-so-serious people out.
[12:45] Always go to a meetings with an action agenda. Vicky explains what this means.
[18:25] Although you should present yourself as the expert, you also want to sit and listen to what the client's biggest pain points are vs. promoting/selling yourself for the job.
[20:00] The sales process is all about building relationships.
[22:55] What would be a good way to make yourself stand out when approaching people on LinkedIn or Email?
[25:35] Vicky shares creative direct-mail examples that she and her clients have used.
Mentioned in This Episode:
Vicky is currently in Cork for a mastermind and discusses why she goes out there every three months. Believe it or not, Vicky has self-confidence issues and she discusses some of her issues on the show today. She hates listening to those marketing gurus who seem to project that their life is perfect, especially when everyone knows it's not. She started this podcast to talk to people who were similar to her and in similar positions, because being in business for yourself can get quite lonely.
Key Takeaways:
[1:40] Vicky received an email from someone, but she has two problems with what they wrote in it.
[7:40] Why is Vicky in Cork right now?
[9:00] There's very little support for people who have their own business.
[9:15] It's also hard to find the right kind of support because there are people who try to sell bullshit.
[12:40] It may sound funny, but Vicky and other female business owners have self-confidence issues.
[14:00] Vicky believes not enough people talk about it, even the marketing gurus and supposed 'leaders'.
[16:55] Vicky talks about what's been bothering her lately.
[18:40] If you're not confident about the way you look, then it’s going to negatively impact your business.
[18:55] Vicky knows other women who feel so negatively about their appearance, they won't step on stage for an event.
[19:15] If it's bothering you, fix it.
[20:30] We will come back to this topic on another day, because it's not something that's talked about enough.
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Today's podcast is without Joe! Instead, Vicky interviews Graham Todd, the Group Leader for 4Networking. Graham explains why 4Networking is different than your typical networking event and how this particular networking group can benefit you and your business. Vicky has had bad experiences with networking groups and would rather put pins in her eyes than go out to these events!
Key Takeaways:
[1:10] What does Graham do?
[2:25] Because of 4Networking, Graham will be speaking at The Business Show in London.
[3:50] Vicky hates going to network meetings. It was just people hustling each other.
[4:20] Graham agrees with Vicky. It can be quite terrible.
[5:50] Vicky feels like networking events are so fake and filled with people looking to fulfill their own personal gain.
[6:25] Graham breaks down how 4Networking works.
[8:00] Is this a bit like speed dating?
[9:30] You're not going to get instant relationships when you network. You will have to cultivate them.
[11:30] Vicky is slowly being converted to the dark side.
[11:45] Thinking about going to a networking event for the first time? Listen to Graham's advice here.
[13:45] How would someone accurately prepare for their first network meeting?
[15:45] What is Graham's 40-second elevator pitch?
[17:10] Don't miss the opportunity. Your pitch is like a powerful headline.
[18:45] Vicky's unique hook is that she ran away with the circus.
[20:45] What's the best networking tip Graham has heard? Just fucking do it!
[22:10] Feel free to contact Graham and let him know you want to join!
[22:20] 4Networking is all over the UK.
Mentioned in This Episode:
www.businessforsuperheroes.com/
Vicky shares another insightful episode with her husband Joe on specific things that Trump is doing to grab attention during his Presidential candidacy. Do not ignore Trump because he irritates you, he is an excellent marketer and there are powerful branding lessons you can learn from him.
Key Takeaways:
[1:10] Let's talk about Donald Trump.
[2:05] The entire UK is surprised that Trump has gotten this far.
[2:15] What are we watching?!
[4:25] Let's take a look at the people who have won the Presidential election in the past.
[4:35] People are predicting Trump is going to win the election because he is the most charismatic person.
[4:40] Obama and the Presidents before him had more charisma than their peers.
[6:40] Trump pretty much doesn't care what other people think, which is a bit refreshing.
[7:15] That's one powerful lesson you can take away from Trump: Be Yourself.
[7:35] Don't want to watch him because you can't stand him? That's foolish. You need to study him.
[9:30] Humans are lazy. We'll always take the path of least resistance.
[9:45] There's so much stupidity on Facebook.
[13:00] It doesn't matter what Trump says, it's the way he says it.
[14:00] Being the same as everybody else is not one of the things Trump gets criticized for.
[15:15] Words matter and the way Trump uses them is very, very powerful.
[16:45] Use short and simple words if you want to make someone do something.
[17:45] Mark Cuban likes Trump because he gives honest answers as opposed to prepared answers.
[18:25] Vicky, too, would much rather hear honest answers from politicians than a prepared answer.
[23:05] Trump knows his audience.
[25:35] Next podcast there will be no Joe!
[26:00] Vicky would rather stick pins in her eyes than go networking. Next week's guest will try to convince her otherwise.
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