Many content creators and service providers emphasize how easy it is to start a business. While this is technically true, starting a business on paper and building a company that is profitable long-term are two different endeavors. I focus on the latter- offering strategic advising services to help independent LGBTQIA+ service providers, freelancers, content creators, and other small business owners launch & grow their professional service businesses. Efficiently, effectively, affordably, in a manner that produces quick profits from quality clients. No gimmicks, no get-rich-quick schemes. Sound strategies that deliver results. So follow along and visit my Linktr.ee page for additional helpful content on your preferred digital channel. All are geared toward helping you launch your professional service business and become your own boss.

A Six-Dimensional Approach

Six core interrelated dimensions are important factors in running any service business. You’ll learn valuable information about each dimension, be provided with helpful tips, and I’ll highlight useful resources. Every freelancer and small business owner can benefit from reviewing each dimension in further detail to learn new information or be reminded of important concepts. The dimensions are Strategy, Finances, Operations, Information Systems, Marketing & Branding, and Sales.

Most readers have a firm grasp on at least two dimensions, have at least two they would like to strengthen and fall somewhere in the middle on the others. We’ll briefly explore what each entails and why they are important to growth. Comment on which of the six dimensions you feel most knowledgeable

Dynamic Strategic Planning

Entrepreneurs with a plan are 129% more likely to push forward beyond the initial start-up phase, while businesses that continuously track against a plan grow 30% faster. We realize traditional business plans aren’t designed for today’s economy, so we provide dynamic, results-driven solutions. We do not treat strategic planning as a one-time exercise but rather an ongoing process. We continuously plan, forecast, evaluate, and refine the plan to keep you profitable and competitive. All other dimensions of your business are impacted by strategy execution. You’ll get many helpful resources to create and refine your strategy and launch your business.

Smart Financial Management

Managing your business finances the same way you handle your personal bank account is often a big mistake. There are special considerations when tracking business expenses, calculating taxes, and recording sales. Different sources of funding to consider to start your company and fund ongoing operations that aren’t available to consumers. The use of credit and debt are viewed very differently, with special considerations for independent service professionals. I provide helpful information on best practices and solutions to help you stay on top of your future firm’s finances.

Integrated Info Systems & Efficient Operations

Inefficient operations plague many large and small companies due to clunky manual processes because core software programs don’t work well with one another. Many small business owners quickly fall into the pitfall of using a patchwork of ‘free’ services when they start. Often those free programs don’t integrate well with other core software, wasting valuable production time that could be spent helping more customers and making money. We introduce you to tools and resources that help you automate routine tasks and communicate seamlessly with customers. We help you ‘get in front of it by adopting an ‘info systems-first approach to your operations.

Marketing & Branding for Optimal Growth

Your brand is much more than your name, logo, and tagline. Every interaction a client has with you in the real and virtual world creates perceptions about your brand, which greatly impacts your bottom line. Customers need to know that you create value for them, whatever that value may be. If you take stock of places you do business with- from national chains to your local cafe- chances are you’ve formed impressions about their brand. Companies that are fast and cheap usually aren’t known for service and quality (think McDonalds). Conversely, companies with a reputation for service and quality (i.e., Apple) aren’t cheap or particularly quick. We provide tools and resources to help you position your small business and brand positively across all physical and digital channels. Your clients and prospects will know they are getting quality service at a competitive price from a provider that is easy to work with.

Needs-Driven Selling that Adds Value

As a former Sales & Service Manager, Coach, and Trainer, needs-based consultative selling is a topic I am passionate about. We use our simple yet highly effective B-R-A-N-D™ framework to help our clients increase sales across all channels. We provide guidance on engaging your clients and prospects IRL and in the virtual world to build lasting, profitable relationships. Sales and marketing go hand-in-hand with this methodology, directly supporting marketing activities and fostering positive perceptions about your brand. Learn “the little things” that surprise and delight customers, how to ask high-impact and non-invasive questions that get prospects to open up, and more.