A little embarassed?

[Justin Lukasavige]

I just found this discussion and was surprised to see that no one has started anything, yet I talk with business owners every day that have problems. I have a feeling some may be a bit embarrassed.

Here's the thing, if you have a problem in your business, chances are that the business next door to yours has the exact same problem. Don't let it get so far that your only option is to go somewhere for help. Take something good and make it great! Take something mediocre and make it fantastic!

Don't wait until your business is headed downhill.

Here's my question:

What are you struggling with most in your business?

[Pat Howlett]

Hey Justin, No need to be embarassed. I just started this Forum Category yesterday to coincide with what Leslie Flowers and the other Coaches are putting together with your Coaching Group.

I thought that the Group would be where you coach types hang out and get to know each other - and this seperate forum area would be where other inSiders could post questions.

There is a wealth of Coaching talent here in a varity of different areas that I'm sure it could be win-win.

I'm going to close this discussion down and we'll let folks post the questions or challenges that are of interest to them as you Coaches get things going over in your Group.

PS. Really like seeing the whose joining that Group and glad you're one of em.

[Justin Lukasavige]

I think this is a great place for folks to ask questions Pat. I think there may be some hesitation for folks to join a group where only coaches hang out.

Better yet, I think that every member of this site should be able to see and answer these discussions, rather than only those of us in the coaching group.

[Pat Howlett]

I think it's okay for some to be hesitant to join a 'Coaches Group' and would encourage them to NOT join that group.

Coaches getting to know each other and sharing - just like a Realtor Group, Guitar Player, Gardening, or a Design Professionals Group (small focused shared interest goups) could prove very dynamic.

Now this companion "Forum' area is open to everyone. Folks asking questions, and others 'to include' Coaches helping. I am mindful that there are business owners who might not be practicing coaches - who have a ton to bring to certain conversations - let those conversations begin.

[Leslie Flowers, Change Agent]

Hi Justin, only coaches can be part of the coaching collaborative. I should have set it up as a membership only. I may still shut it down and reopen it with only coaches there. I sent specific invitations to coaches only.
I'm going to chat with Pat about it again. Good points, Justin. Here everyone can see everything. Typically when one person has a question, there are numerous others that want to know the same thing. Leslie

[Shery V]

Well Justin
I am just starting a Massage Therapy practice. Re-located here about a year ago and really don't know many people. What would be my best bang for the buck so to speak in getting myself out there? I have been doing some cold calling in the area that the office I am working out of.. Just looking for ideas!
Thanks
Shery

[Anora McGaha]

Sherry,

In addition to what Justin may have to offer, check out this discussion on free advertising which has 27 replies.

[Justin Lukasavige]

I do hope that other people (even other than coaches) will chime in to the discussion. I don't want to limit this to just myself.

I think in your line of work Shery, the best way to get the word out is to inform others of what you're doing. Build up a network of clients and ask for referrals. You probably won't see much return from cold calling. Start with your friends and other people you know. Work for free so prospects can test-drive your services. If you want to build your practice fast, try giving away anything you can. Offer a 30-minute free massage. You might gain a client for life.

I am swamped with clients and I'm asked all the time where they come from. Here's the secret; they don't come from just one place. Over the years I've built everything up so if I lose one source or referrals it won't matter. In fact, that's one of the reasons many business will never turn 6-figures.

You might also check out this free group I lead at 48days.net. The focus there is on growing your business to be a 6-figure business in less than 2 years. It's very possible by the way. Right now we're going through the top reason's why many businesses never hit this important milestone.

[Pat Howlett]

Sherry of course I"m paid to say the following (although not very well) but I think that inSide919 is your best bang for the buck.

It's free and if you keep asking questions, posting blog entries (many will see the post you just added: What are the benefits of a massage? and reaching out to make connections with others - it WILL work.

Also the event you posted What is a Chair Massage? will get noticed (even if no one shows up).

When you joined the 919 Barter Group - you put yourself on the radar screen of others.

This was all done from your keyboard and trust me - it might not bring microwave like results - but think of these as seeds that will grow your presence, reputation and connections - and in turn your business. I do a Friday Help Radio show where you can ask me specific questions on "HOW' to do more efficiently.

[Michelle Gower]

Sherry, Pat is right. You may get a couple of overnight results, but for the most part think of this network and marketing in general as a garden. You will see sprouts from the seeds you plant right away--but nothing will be fully formed and produce long-term nourishment for some time. But you still go out every day and weed the garden, water the greens, etc. because you know in due time your garden will be lush and rewarding. Same thing here--I've been on 919 for 7-8 months now and I'm not swimming in business directly from it, I'm swimming in new friends from it--who bring me business. 919 is the best arsenal in my marketing plan. Have faith, and patience, and stick to what you set out on...short-term results only equal short-term business...

[Kim Walker]

Sherry,
I suggest the following:
1. Network! Online and Offline. Online networking is wonderful - a great tool to add to your marketing toolbox. You should mix it up though - it will not replace the value of face-to-face networking. There are some great face-to-face networking opportunities out there. Check out: www.chixinbusiness.org - www.wbon-cary.org - www.nawbo.org - and of course the Chambers and BNI (www.trianglebni.net ).
2. Strategic Alliances! Develop valuable strategic alliances with other companies within your industry and with other business owners reaching the same target market that you are trying to reach.
3. Chair Massage! Offer chair massages at events such as expos and events hosted by your strategic alliances. Try offering a free chair massage to teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week at their schools. Set it up in the teachers lounge where they can come during their lunch or planning period.
4. Referral Program! Develop a referral program for your current clients referring to you. Try to offer a referral gift to one of your strategic alliances businesses or to a great gift store (I love Swagger Gifts www.swaggergifts.com ).

Good Luck! Have fun!

[Teresa Molter]

I am interested in talking with coaches about their experiences (if any) with coaching teens.

Thanks!

Teresa

[Justin Lukasavige]

Are you looking for a certain area that a coach has worked with teens Teresa? I've done career coaching but not any other area.