How self-belief and pitching your business can help you get your first clients online. Interview with Simply Sophie Designs

In this final episode of season 1 of the Small Biz Babes Community Podcast, I share my decision to take a step back from podcasting to pursue personal goals and new business opportunities.Reflecting on the journey that led to this decision, I discuss the concept of pivoting in business and share my guidance on recognizing the signs that indicate the need for a pivot, along with practical tips for navigating change in your business with confidence.In this episode, you'll learn:What it means to "pivot" your business and five actionable tips to help you navigate pivot in your business with confidenceThe key signs that signal the potential need for a pivot in your businessMy realization that my priorities and goals have shifted led me to take a step back from podcasting for a whileTools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearBranding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Today, I am thrilled to host a special guest: crafting influencer and educator Amy from Amy Makes That! She is living proof that in today's world, your business can be whatever you dream it to be, thanks to the magic of social media. Amy spills her secrets on how she turned her creative passion into a thriving business, from rocking a YouTube channel to mentoring and selling digital templates. Are you curious about how she does it all and how she, as a crafting mentor, can help you start a crafting business? Join us as Amy shares her story, from the early days of her business to where she is now. Plus, she's here for the real talk on entrepreneurship, success and hard-earned lessons she learned along the way! In this episode, we will cover:Amy's inspiring journey: How she turned her creative passion into a dream businessCrucial lessons for new business owners: What Amy learned about people through entrepreneurshipHow Amy can guide you to start and grow your crafting small businessReal talk on entrepreneurship, success, and the hard-earned lessons Amy's picked up along the wayAmy's Resources:The CBDP (Craft Business Digital Planner) Waitlist Free Niche Guide For Craft Businesses Ways to connect with Amy: AMT Blog Shop AMT AMT YouTube Channel AMT Instagram AMT TikTok AMT Pinterest AMT Facebook IG Broadcast ChannelMore about Amy Makes That:"Amy, also known as "Amy Makes That" is a seasoned Cricut crafter and content creator sharing unique project ideas, tips for beginners, and craft business advice. She is eager to help crafters reach their full potential with their cutting machine and hopes to inspire every person who comes across her platforms!" Tools mentioned in this episode:Try my productivity system Notion for free: https://affiliate.notion.so/2bdbz1rd1jx1 Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Feeling the weight of "doing it all" in your business and life? Not sure what to prioritize? Working hard, yet not moving closer to reaching your big goals?This episode is for you! Today, I debunk the myth of "doing it all," share the power of prioritization, and share how I create space for growing a business AND living a fulfilling life.If you're ready to break free from the social pressure of doing it all and embrace a more enjoyable approach to success, then you're in the right place. Let's dive in together and discover the secrets to growing a successful business on your own terms.In this episode, I dive into:Addressing the unrealistic pressure of "doing it all" often seen on social mediaThe importance of prioritizing and letting go in business and life so you can create space for what matters the mostMy personal experiences with "letting go" of opportunities and protecting my time so I could achieve my long-term goalsActionable guidance on how to prioritize tasks/projects based on their alignment with your goals.If you loved this episode, you will also love:E40: Small business success: Systems and mindset behind "getting it all done"  - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Start for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREWant or NEED better system to plan your goals and projects? Snag my Notion Goal Planner HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

We all know that consistency on Instagram is important to growing your community, driving engagement, building brand awareness, and ultimately getting sales to your business.However, keeping up with the demands of posting regularly can sometimes feel like a daunting task.That's why today I've got some tried and tested tips to make post creation easier for you so you can stay on track for the long term!If you are a busy business owner and want to improve your consistency with posting on Instagram, tune in to this episode and learn how to create content smarter, not harder so you can stay consistent on Instagram for your business!In this episode, you'll learn:7 actionable tips to help you stay consistent on Instagram for your businessclever hacks for boosting efficiency in Instagram content creationmy savvy strategies for making more posts with less timehow to streamline your content creation processstrategies for saving your time with content creationIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E8: 7 ways to boost your Instagram engagement that actually work- LISTEN NOWE18: How to stay consistent with social media for your small business - LISTEN NOWE35: Here is everything you'll need to start recording Reels and TikToks for your business - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Try my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERENeed a social media planner so you can finally stay consistent on Instagram? Snag my Google Sheets Social Media Planning Calendar HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Is it time to rebrand your business? If you've been asking yourself this question - you are in the right place. Today, we are going to be talking all things rebranding with Alexia, a brand and website designer for creative women!She is going to share with us her expertise, along with what are signs that you might need to rebrand your business when it's the best time to rebrand, as well as when it's NOT the time to be rebranding. Alexia will also share with us what a rebranding process looks like, what your options are and how she, as a brand and web designer, can help you with your rebranding process.In this episode, we'll cover:Knowing When Your Business Needs a New Look: Signs It's Time for a RebrandWhen Not to Change Your Brand: Instances Where Rebranding Isn't the Best MoveHow to Give Your Brand a Fresh Makeover: Understanding the Rebranding Process and the Help You Can Get from a Brand DesignerWays to connect with Alexia:Instagram: @studioalexiaxoPinterest: @studioalexiaWebsite: studioalexia.comMore about Alexia:Alexia is an English Literature major who turned into a self-taught brand and web designer, running a sweet little studio solo with the help of copious London fogs and an immeasurable love for what she does. Alexia is passionate about the loveliness of words, appreciating beautiful things, and seeing all of the good in humans. And she’s always ready to make more friends. Tools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDEHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, you probably know that making the most out of your week can be a challenge.And if you're like me and you're constantly striving to improve your time management and productivity, you are in for a treat!In this episode, I am diving into my weekly productivity system, including the nitty-gritty of my weekly smart scheduling. I'll be sharing with you how I time block my week as an owner of a multi-six-figure online business. No secrets here - this is what works for me and how I plan to make space for deep work as well as managing day-to-day operations. I will also share how I prioritise where I spend time in my business, introduce you to my daily work themes and how I plan for the week ahead! So, if you need a refresh to your weekly planning, maybe you can try a thing or two from my system! In this episode we will cover:The importance of time-blocking uninterrupted hours to work on projects dedicated to long-term business growthDeep dive into my exact weekly schedule, why it's set up this way and the daily themes you can implement to continuously make progress in your businessHow I batch time-consuming tasks in my business for increased productivityThe power of weekly reflection and getting clear on your schedule for the week ahead on Friday so you can avoid being overwhelmed when it's time to do the workIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E38: My daily routine for productivity as a full-time business owner - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Start for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereTry my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearTry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HERESave 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Do you sometimes find yourself juggling pile of tasks and ideas for your business, struggling to make meaningful progress on the main project? Perhaps you might even be losing sight of what the main project actually is because you always get too excited about a new idea or opportunity that comes your way.I used to look at other business owners on social media and see them doing all the things - running a digital shop, running a product shop, running a print-on-demand shop, offering consulting and launching membership - I'd felt like I needed to do all of it too. Ideally, start right away!I'd hear people saying - you need to be on TikTok. Others would say you can't rely on social media - you also need to have an email list. Others would say you need to go on Pinterest because Pinterest is so hot right now. And the list of opportunities goes on and on.On the outside, all of it may look like a good idea, potentially an opportunity to earn more, and it might even be important to implement for your business - at some point.But what we don't realize is that the social media world of distraction can be a recipe for disaster for your business. That is if you fall into shiny object syndrome and don't protect your priorities, time and resources.I had my fair share of shiny object syndrome, and at some point, I wasn't even aware of it! That's why, in today's episode, I am sharing with you what it is, the symptoms and practical tips that helped me to overcome the nasty "distraction syndrome" for good! In this podcast episode, you'll learn:The importance of focusing on your main project if you want to grow your businessLearn to identify if shiny object syndrome is hindering your success through common warning signsPractical steps to help you prioritize effectively and stay focused on making progress in your businessHow shiny object syndrome can hinder your business growthTools mentioned in this episode:Save 15% off my social media Canva templates and website template from Tonic site shop (CODE: MICHAELAF15) - SHOP HEREWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram hashtag helper Flick (affiliate link): TRY HEREStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREOutsource part of your social media delegation process with Fiverr - EXPLORE HERELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you a small business owner learning how to use Instagram to get customers or clients to your business?  Well, hold onto your smartphones because today, we're putting the spotlight on the time-wasting pitfalls that many entrepreneurs stumble into on Instagram.  Get ready as we delve deep into seven Instagram mistakes that might just be hindering your growth and, more importantly, your ability to attract customers.But we are not here to just point fingers. We are here to give you actionable tips so you can learn, improve and see your Instagram efforts pay off! In this episode we'll cover: The seven most common Instagram mistakes that often trap new business ownersHow to spot the subtle signs of 'desperate energy' in your Instagram strategy and understand its impact on your resultsWhy sending your audience to your bio link might be costing you potential customers and what to do insteadThe importance of nurturing authentic relationships and trust within your Instagram strategyIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E18: How to stay consistent with social media for your small business - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

Are you a service-based business owner trying to figure out how to get your first client online? You are in luck because today, I have a special guest for you - Sophie from Simply Sophie Designs - a small business mentor and businesswoman behind a marketing and design agency that helps brands tell their unique story through eye-catching designs and powerful messaging. Today, Sophie will be sharing with us her secrets to getting clients online, as well as her inspiring story of how she turned her passion for design into her dream business!In this episode, we'll cover the following:How pitching yourself and building relationships can help you book your first (or next) client onlineThe power of not letting fear prevent you from showing up for your businessSophies, the vulnerable story behind what it REALLY is like growing an online business and walking forward even if you don't have all the answersMore about Sophie:Sophie is the designer behind Simply Sophie Designs, a marketing + design agency that help brands tell their unique story through eye-catching designs and powerful messaging. Simply Sophie Designs started with Sophie selling custom portraits from her college dorm room to classmates in 2019. Her business has since grown and evolved into a service-based business, which allowed her to quit corporate and pursue her own dreams full time in 2022. When she’s not creating one of a kind pattern designs, beautiful illustrations, social media posts, or writing and designing marketing emails for her clients, she can also be found teaching a module in her signature course, the Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program a live, cohort-style class for business owners.Sophie is also the co-host of creative entrepreneurship podcast, The Art of Small, and has had her illustration work published in magazine spreads and books alike. She currently lives in Indianapolis with her husband and their bernedoodle, Dolly (affectionately named after Dolly Parton).How to connect with Sophie:Instagram:FacebookYoutubePinterestWebsiteTools mentioned in this episode:Try my email marketing platform (affiliate link): Flodesk 30 days free trial + 50% off your first yearGet Sophie’s freebie: The Client Magnet Blueprint: 5 Power Moves to Score Your Next (or First) ClientWant more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREHow to connect with the host of Small Biz Babes Community Podcast (Michaela):Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our private Facebook group hereWebsite: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.

If you are planning to sell your products or services on Instagram in 2024 and are not really sure how to do it, this episode is for you.Growing business on Instagram is NOT the same as just growing your Instagram account. As business owners on the platform, we are not just looking at likes and followers numbers, but we want to make sure that the effort we are putting into our account will not only attract potential leads and customers to our business but also generate revenue for our business.In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of Instagram, uncovering essential marketing strategies and highlighting specific features that can help you get more customers/clients from Instagram!In this episode, we will cover:How to attract followers that want to buy from youActionable tips to apply on Instagram if you want to get more customers/clients from your Instagram effortsMust-know marketing strategies for business owners on InstagramSpecific Instagram features to elevate your business gameIf you loved this episode, you will also love:E4: Instagram profile makeover for your business - LISTEN NOWE39: What to post on Instagram stories for your small business to convert your followers into customers - LISTEN NOWTools mentioned in this episode:Want more help growing your business on Instagram? Join Instagram for Small Business Academy HERETry my Instagram automation tool ManyChat (affiliate link): TRY FOR FREE HEREJoin our private Facebook group hereStart for free in my productivity system Notion - START HEREJoin the waitlist for Social Media Planning Masterclass - JOIN HEREResources:Branding checklist for your small business - FREE GUIDEInstagram profile makeover for your small business - FREE GUIDELet's connect:Follow me on Instagram: @‌smallbizbabescommunityJoin our podcast-exclusive private Facebook groupVisit my website: https://michaelafong.com/smallbizbabescommunitylinksDon't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.Some of the links in resources are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through the link I shared (at no additional cost to you). This helps me to continue creating this podcast and share more valuable resources with you.