How To Build A Business From The Ground Up
10/28/2021
Can I make a confession? When I started my photography business over 15 years ago, I knew nothing *yes, literally nothing.* about how to run a business. Starting seemed daunting, overwhelming, and nearly impossible. Now, with experience under my belt, I feel confident in saying I know how to build a business from the ground up. Want to know 3 of the best things I did to become one of the top 10 wedding photographers in the world? They may be a little different than you think… Here are the top 3 things I did to build my photography business from the ground up with:
1. Networked with other photographers who inspire me.Meeting others in my industry was one of the best things I did for my photography business. Not only did they inspire my work and keep me on my toes, but we also sent each other referrals if we were unavailable for a shoot. If you want to build your referral network, get out and get to know people. *Like, really know them.* Make friends, become invested in others, and find ways to help. >>The more you put yourself out there, the more chances you have to showcase who you are in a professional capacity.<< This means going to mixers/networking events, getting involved with an online forum as an active participant, and/or offering your assistance before expecting anything in return. 2. I created a schedule.I have strict office hours and this allows me to live the life I want. >>I crave freedom and living life without boundaries, so by adhering to a schedule outlining my work, I know where I can skimp and splurge on life’s special moments.<< Yes, I take long lunches on occasion and watch midday matinees with my husband, but it’s only because I’ve planned my schedule and know what needs to be done and by when. 3. I spent time with people smarter than me.They say you are only as successful as the 5 people closest to you, and man do I have to agree! I’ve met brilliant people as I’ve built my business and they’ve given me the most amazing gift: friendship. >>Being able to see success unfold for people around me offers a blueprint I can emulate in my life and business.<< They paint vibrant pictures with the same brushes I have, so I’m challenged to color the horizon the way I imagine. To help make your dreams a reality, too, I’d love to show you a peek at what an average workday looks like for me and how you can schedule your time to be the most efficient as well. Check out my Productivity Planner, complete with a sample from my daily to-do list! This is the exact system I use to manage my time from day to day. It’s a system I swear by and now it can be yours, too. Download it >>HERE!<< The post How To Build A Business From The Ground Up appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3Esx3Vg
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The Importance of Video On Social Media
10/26/2021
Okay, let’s have some real talk – just between me and you. What I’m about to say may sting. It may be the opposite of what you want to hear. But a true friend will call it like it is…. >>It’s time to use video.<< *I know, I knowwwwww. Believe me, I cringed at first when others told me the same thing.* I know what comes up for you is no, not today.
Does that sound about right? Listen, I know everybody is going to find a reason why they should wait to start producing video. >>But there has never been a better time to grab your phone and create something.<< And the beauty of it is, with so many options across all different platforms, you can create any form, type, or style of video you’d like.
The only thing standing between you and a prospective customer is your ability to create something they want to see. It’s never been easier… And yet it’s harder. We get in the way of our own selves because
Listen, I’ve heard it all – and I’ve said it all before myself. Today, I’m asking you to get uncomfortable, because there will never be a better time for us to make mistakes, learn, and iterate. >>Now is the time for the lion’s share to be swiped by those who are willing and humble enough to create something knowing it won’t be perfect… and to create it anyway.<< It might be awkward. It might be wrong. It might not be pretty. Know all of those things, and choose to say: “That’s okay.” As video continues to increase in popularity this year, next year, and every year to come, you will never regret getting in the game early. Use this opportunity to learn what you need to know two years from now.
Let’s do it! Currently, one of the best forms of video to create is Instagram Reels. If you’re ready to jump in, take a look at this Instagram Reels Checklist that will help you cross all the t’s and dot all the i’s. It makes showing up on video easy, straight-forward, and stress-free. Download it >>HERE<< and start creating today! The post The Importance of Video On Social Media appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3jC0H26 Working Powerfully With a Business Partner
10/22/2021
JD and I are often asked what it’s like to work together. We then turn and smile at each other, each knowing that an honest response would take more time than the person asking would have anticipated. The truth of the matter is that having a business partner is…
And we were told that working whilst married wasn’t recommended. *But we did it anyway.* >>I wouldn’t have it any other way, because we compliment each other in opposite ways. We also challenge each other in opposite ways, too.<< This video focuses on some of the biggest lessons we learned and how you can avoid the same mistakes: Whether you’re working with your spouse, diving into business with a friend, or expanding to include a new partner, there will be tough moments along the way. But despite those challenges, you will be able to serve in bigger and better ways because two truly is better than one. If you don’t have a partner but want to expand your offerings and ideas, maybe now is the perfect time to expand your team! Learn How To Hire Your First Team Member and experience the benefits of a different kind of partnership! You can find the workbook >>HERE.<< The post Working Powerfully With a Business Partner appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3m6HDe2 Work Smarter With Instagram Guides
10/20/2021
It’s no secret that I love to work smarter, not harder. >>I recognize that there is so much to do to run a business that if I didn’t maximize my time, there wouldn’t be any left for living life.<< One of the ways I do this is through repurposing content. You’ve probably heard me talk about this in a variety of ways, but one of the ways I still see so few people capitalizing on is through the use of Instagram Guides. So let me ask you this:
If you answered yes to any of the above, then Instagram Guides will be a lifesaver for you. If you haven’t made your first one yet, basically Instagram Guides are curated groups of posts, products, or places that you can offer your audience. >>With this feature, you have the ability to consolidate content around specific topics to act as a resource, making it easier for your account (and your content) to get discovered.<< Instagram Guides are exactly that: a guide of a specific flow of content chosen by the creator. Guides are essentially a creative long-form blog post or e-commerce promo, but most of the work is already done for you! Anyone *yes, friend, even you!* can use Guides as a way to grow their business. The biggest hurdle to overcome is taking the first step, and I’m here to help! Here are 3 different guides you can create for your business and provide value to your audience. Place GuidesPlace guides are a great option for physical-location businesses, because they showcase the area around yours. Thanks to the geo-tag capability, you can choose posts that are tagged to a certain location. Product GuidesAn obvious choice for product-based businesses, Product Guides allow the option to pull posts related to certain products available for sale. But, this is also a great option for service-based businesses who want to showcase their favorite tools or products related to their services. Post GuidesGiving access to consolidated, curated content, Post Guides are a great way for any type of business to collect posts that you’ve either created yourself or saved from other accounts. See how easy it is to repurpose content you’ve already created with Instagram Guides? Not only is it a way to work smarter, not harder, but I also love them because they’re shareable and searchable, so it’s really easy to get discovered by your ideal client! If you’re ready to create your first Guide, I’d love to, well… “Guide” you on your journey to serving your audience in a whole new way. Download my free resource, How to Grow Your Business with Instagram Guides. Download it >>HERE<< for FREE to learn more about the 3 different types of Guides, which one I recommend for ANY business owner to start with, and a worksheet to help you create your first one. It’s time to get your content in front of your dream customer’s eyes! The post Work Smarter With Instagram Guides appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3G7wVfe 2 Reel Ideas For Any Business
10/19/2021
If you’re not creating Instagram Reels to get more eyes on YOUR business, you’re missing out! The truth is, right now there are thousands of business owners doing EXACTLY what you do… and the way to stand out from the crowd is by grabbing your ideal customer’s attention. A great way to do that is with *yep, you guessed it* Instagram Reels! These short videos offer business owners the opportunity to create micro-commercials for their products or services while speaking directly to their ideal clients. *And you should be joining them!* If I’ve thoroughly convinced you to jump on the Reel train, here are 2 Instagram Reel ideas you can create right now to entertain your audience and establish yourself as an authority in your industry. Reel Idea #1: “4 Simple Steps”In this Reel, you’ll share a few Simple Steps to do something your ideal client or customer would like to achieve, like: Clean Out Your Closet, Make the Perfect Cup of Coffee, Build a Budget… you get the idea. It doesn’t have to be exactly 4 steps. It can be 3, 5, 7,… but if you’re working with just 15 seconds, I’d recommend not going over 5 steps max. To make this Reel nice and simple, use a trending song in the background and create a 15-second clip of you pointing in the air of the steps to a process that you teach OR the ways you can use a product you sell. Yes, it’s that easy! Now, don’t forget: at the end of every Reel you create, you should include a Call-to-Action. Asking a question, encouraging your audience to tag a friend, or letting them know how to purchase your product or service gets people talking back to you and, of course, increases your post’s visibility in the algorithm. Reel Idea #2: “Do This to Get ____”Ooooooh, that headline is juicy! Now it’s your turn to fill in the blank with something your ideal customer wants. Something like: Do This to Get Noticed on Social Media…. To Get Your Artwork in a Gallery… To Get Clear, Beautiful Skin… and so on. To create this Reel, you could follow the same process as the previous one and point to text that pops up on the screen. Or, to make it even easier, you could use props to demonstrate your points and add more visual interest. However you decide to do it, it should be simple. Don’t overthink it, just think about what your ideal client wants to achieve, write out 3-5 steps to help them accomplish it, and hit record! Honestly, the first few Reels you create may not go viral. They may not even be “good!” But with each additional Reel you create, you’ll learn something for the next one, and the more you learn, the better you’ll get at creating them. Want more easy Reel ideas, download my free guide, 10 Easy Reels You Can Make for Your Business (with step-by-step instructions included!) to learn how to educate, entertain, and empower your audience through video and create lasting relationships that turn followers into customers. You can get the guide right >>HERE.<< The post 2 Reel Ideas For Any Business appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3nbrdQK Creating Content For Multiple Platforms
10/15/2021
Do you ever wonder if there’s a better way to make the most of your time when it comes to creating content and showing up consistently on social media? Like running multiple errands on the same day instead of throughout the week, or creating blocks in your calendar for specific tasks. But here’s my question for you: have you applied this sentiment to social media? The truth is, there are so many business owners who spend a lot of time creating content, but they don’t do it efficiently. They’re constantly brainstorming ways to bring value to their audience and by creating multiple pieces of content per week across a variety of platforms, but this is not necessarily the best way to approach social media. >>I don’t think you should do MORE work, I want you to take what you already have and capitalize on it!<< That’s why I recommend creating just ONE main piece of content per week that is repurposed in multiple ways across all of your social media platforms. *And that’s exactly what I’m going to share with you today!* But before we get to that point, let me point out two things that will make this concept a little easier:
This means that it’s extremely unlikely that your ideal client is going to see the same piece of content multiple times as long as you repurpose strategically. Let’s dive in to how! Select Your PlatformsFirst, select your pillar platform and repurposing platforms. Your pillar platform is where you’ll fully invest above all else. This will be where all of your content is posted FIRST. It’s usually where you can post longer-form content, where your dream customer hangs out the most, and where you feel most comfortable. Your repurposing platforms are the secondary platforms, where your content will be posted to second, third, or fourth. Plan and Post Your ContentThen, plan your pillar content for the week. Every single week, I want you to choose one pillar content topic that will be posted first on your pillar platform, and will then be repurposed onto the others. Repurpose to Other PlatformsFinally, repurpose your content the following week. I recommend posting on different days, at different times, so that when people platform hop (ie. jump from Instagram to Facebook, etc.) they aren’t seeing the same content posted on multiple platforms at the same time. For me, that is one week and four hours after the original post. Do you see how this is going to help you work smarter, not harder with just ONE piece of content to create every week? If you want to go even deeper with this topic, I got you. You need my free guide, How to Turn One Piece of Content Into Ten, where you’ll learn exactly how to create your own repurposing strategy, and it even contains a content repurpose checklist to keep you on track. You can download it >>HERE<< for free. I can’t wait to see how you make the most out of the incredible content you create. Happy repurposing! The post Creating Content For Multiple Platforms appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3lJpIKf Your 30 Second Elevator Pitch
10/13/2021
If explaining what your business is to family and friends (or even a stranger on an elevator), causes your tongue to get tied in knots and you want to bang your head against a wall, then this post is for you! It may be a tough pill to swallow, but being able to explain your business to anyone and everyone that asks is part of the job. *And let me tell you, friend: people WILL ask… a lot.* >>If you can’t explain what you do in less than 30 seconds in a way that anyone could understand, you’ll have a hard time getting people to invest in you.<< We call this an elevator pitch because it’s something quick, memorable, and should only last the length of an elevator ride. Before I start sounding all high-and-mighty like an elevator pitch is something that comes easily for me, I have to confess that I used to stumble over my words whenever someone asked about Social Curator.
Sounds crazy, right?! Not being able to describe something I worked towards day in and day out?! That just goes to show you that everyone struggles with an elevator pitch right out of the gate. Your 30 second elevator pitch is something that takes practice, and LOTS of it. In fact, I used to sit in front of a mirror for hours trying to get to a point where my explanation of Social Curator would roll off my tongue. It took me a very long time to get there, but here is what I now say whenever someone asks: “Social Curator is a monthly social media subscription empowering business owners to build their brand and market it on social media with new tools and resources we provide each month to save time and remove overwhelm.” Now, let’s break down the three pieces that every elevator pitch must contain. The “Who”Lead with WHO your business model is for. This helps people identify whether or not they relate to your target audience. Anyone who doesn’t fall into that group won’t necessarily get much out of your pitch because they don’t identify with them, and that’s OK! The BenefitsThe second part of your elevator pitch should also include the benefits of what it is you do. This is the meat of your pitch, where you explain (in a simple way) what people would get out of using your product or service. The Intrinsic ValueLastly, the final piece of an elevator pitch is: The Intrinsic Value. I want you to dig deeper into what people will really get out of your business, more than just the surface-level benefits. Again, make sure this is easy for anyone to understand. In case you haven’t gotten the memo yet, everyone should have an elevator pitch. *I know, I know… Add that to the long list of unexpected responsibilities of running a business.* But I swear, it’s crucial as you grow your business! You need to develop a fool-proof, easy-to-understand elevator pitch. I only ever ask you to do things that I’ve also done myself. Because I’ve done this, I know it works. Before I could manage to get through my pitch without stuttering, and before I could confidently describe to anyone what it is that I do, I had to sit in the “suck” of practicing over and over and over. After years of sitting in front of a mirror and repeating this to myself over and over again, my elevator pitch has become a vital resource for my business. I believe that you have what it takes to develop an elevator pitch, even if it means spending time in front of a mirror rather than behind a TV or phone screen. Practice makes progress, and before you know it, you’ll have the perfect formula for filling that awkward elevator silence! To help get clarity on the “Who” it is you serve, use this Ideal Client Workbook to create that clarity and dial in all the details about your ideal client. Download it >>HERE<< and then go out and use that knowledge to deepen your connection through your 30 second elevator pitch! The post Your 30 Second Elevator Pitch appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3DCFuNg 3 Tips To Get What You Want
10/12/2021
Are you asking for what you want in business, or are you simply letting your business happen to you? No matter what you’re doing in business, you’ll need to learn to master the art of asking for what you want. Let me explain more in a second, but I have to start with the truth: >> I was NEVER the type of person who asked for things. Mostly I just HOPED people would see what I needed, and then offer it.<< Or sometimes I’d work or volunteer or help others in hopes that they’d want to help me out in return. And guess what? It never worked out the way I hoped. It wasn’t because other people were mean or selfish. In fact, looking back, I don’t think they even knew what I needed. Why? Because I didn’t ask for it. Two years ago, I invited my friend Lewis Howes on my podcast, the Jasmine Star Show, to discuss what greatness means in business, how to take control of your business, and getting what you want. In the episode, Lewis defined greatness as discovering your unique talents and gifts and then pursuing your dreams by using those gifts. And you know what? >>Sometimes using those gifts requires you to get uncomfortable.<< Whether it’s having a difficult conversation with a client who doesn’t want to pay you what you’re worth, asking for the sale on social media, or pitching a collaboration to a fellow business owner, it’s important to know the value to bring others and be able to convey it effectively! So, let’s dive into 3 tactical tips for asking for what you want. Lead with valueHow does asking for what you want benefit them? It’s important to create win-win opportunities whenever possible like in a collaboration with another business owner, when pitching yourself for a podcast, or selling your product or service. Always be sure to show that you’ve considered how this can benefit them and it will bring value to their life because it can’t be one-sided or seem like you’re out to get a bigger piece of the pie! If you’re asking for something and can show that it’s a win for them, you’re much more likely to get what you want. Be DirectYou know I love to tell it like it is, but this is not just a part of my personality, it’s also a crucial reason for my business success. Don’t beat around the bush when presenting an opportunity to someone and use the least amount of words possible. Be clear about what you’re asking for and when you want it. If you’re not specific about the details, how can anyone give you what you need? No Means Not NowIt took me a long time to realize this, but when a potential client, business owner, or anyone else you’re asking to work with says “No,” that doesn’t usually mean “no forever.” I always choose to think it means “No, not right now.” When you look at your propositions, or what you’re asking for, from this lens, it makes sense to follow up with these people in a few months to see if they’ve changed their mind, and ask for what you want again. Except this time, lead with even more value. Whenever I invite business owners to join Social Curator, my subscription for social media marketing resources, and they don’t join, I remind myself that “if not now, then soon….” Soon you’ll join and when I ask again, I’ll add an extra juicy bonus to get you to reconsider! At the end of the day, the most important part of asking for what you want is to lead with value, be direct, and to do the work consistently. Because when you do this, you become someone people want and need to say yes to! So go take action and ask for what you want.
>>But if you don’t start, you won’t make mistakes. And if you don’t make mistakes, you won’t learn how to do better next time.<< I can’t wait to see how you take action on what you learned to elevate your brand, increase your sales, build relationships and create win-win opportunities for you and another business owner. If you’re ready to ask for what you want, be sure to dive into this free guide on How to Collaborate With Another Business Owner, made with just that purpose in mind. Click >>HERE<< to download it and start getting what you want in business… and life! The post 3 Tips To Get What You Want appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3v7Tn32 How To Collaborate
10/8/2021
At the risk of sounding like I’m tooting my own horn, I have to tell you about a talent I have… Can you guess what it is? No, it isn’t consuming an exceptionally large amount of coffee each day *although I do that, too!* it’s finding great people who share similar values and aspirations. I love connecting with like-minded people who have a similar drive and passion for serving others. This ability to connect with others has been such an asset to my business and allowed me to serve in even bigger and better ways! Does that sound like something you want to do? I hope so! If you’re ready to level up your business and the service it provides to your ideal client, it’s time to collaborate with others and bring something new to the table. Share An Ideal ClientBecause you want this collaboration to provide value to your audience, it’s important that you find other people and businesses who serve the same target demographic. Take a few minutes to create a list of potential collaborations who fit the bill! Reach Out and InviteThe second step may feel uncomfortable: you need to reach out and present an invitation. Being vulnerable is never easy, but stepping out of your comfort zone is the only way to bring new growth to fruition. Find A Mutually Beneficial CollaborationOnce a person or company agrees to a collaboration, it’s important to focus on mutual benefit. What can the two of you do together that will grow both of your businesses and serve both audiences well. Are you the type that likes to have a worksheet and checklist to guide you through it all? Look no further. I created this How to Collaborate With Another Business Owner guide with just that purpose in mind. Click >>HERE<< to download it and start brainstorming now! The post How To Collaborate appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3BwdHNW 3 Elements Of Successful Speaking
10/6/2021
I didn’t learn to read until I was 11. Sometimes I find that hard to believe considering my love for it now. Once I learned how to read, the world opened up to me, and I began devouring it with every turn of the page. But reading isn’t my only love… When I learned to read, I developed a love of the written word. A love for the emotion it can evoke. And a love for writing myself.
But what I didn’t anticipate was how this love for the written word would also translate into another skill set I would need in business: public speaking. Would you believe me if I told you that speaking, whether on stage or in front of a camera, is no different than writing a high school paper? *I know, I know. Don’t let that deter you, stick with me!* Whether in the books we love to read, the podcasts we love to listen to, or the shows we love to watch, the elements that keep you hooked are the same. *And here’s where it gets exciting!* >>You can leverage these basic elements in the videos you create to capture your audience’s attention and serve them up something of value.<< You can use these in any type of speaking format, be that on a stage, pre-recorded video, or a live broadcast. Ready to dive in? ThesisAnytime you prepare to speak, you’ll want to have one central idea or point of the message. It can be tempting to wing it in the name of being casual or relatable, but the truth is you won’t be either of those things if your message doesn’t have a logical flow. Having a thesis, or a main point, to your message allows you to plan to direct the conversation from one point to the next. Supporting ElementsOnce you know what your thesis statement is, you need to prepare to bridge the gap between where your audience is and where you’d like them to be by the end. You help them along this transformation by providing two or three supporting elements that proves the original point. ConclusionYou’ll want to finish in a way similar to where you began: by reiterating the main point and the value of it. Loop it around and bring the conversation full circle so your audience can now connect the dots with their newfound knowledge. These basics will serve you well regardless of the type of speaking you do. I hope you get out there and take that messy, scrappy action, friend. If you want to learn more about what this process looks like and how to implement these strategies, I’ve got you! Check out this Business Owner’s Guide to Going Live that will walk you through creating a plan and executing it well. Download it >>HERE<< and I’ll see you Live soon! The post 3 Elements Of Successful Speaking appeared first on Jasmine Star. via RSSMix.com Mix ID 8230553 https://ift.tt/3lh3kYl |
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