FFN #14: 2023 A Year Full Of Lessons

🤓 Share Your Knowledge!

With 2024 approaching, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what we have achieved this year and set fresh goals for Q1. For many of us that might be identifying how we can scale our businesses. One strategy we’ve come across is selling some form of digital services such as guides, templates, online courses, workshops or predesigned graphics and logos. Sharing your knowledge and expertise by creating an online course or guide can be a great way to diversify your income and reduce reliance on client work. To develop a successful product, and create an offering that addresses an issue your target audience faces, we like to use the Value Proposition Canvas to design services people will find useful. If you’re looking to create an online course we love using platforms like Teachable to host them.  

🫶 Make Sales Your New Bestie

In the freelance game, mastering the art of sales is non-negotiable (welp). We’ve found a few key tactics that can help you move the needle in your biz. First, polish up those social media profiles, making sure they mirror your true self and services. Keep your portfolio fresh, and your LinkedIn profile should scream “hire me”. Next, use the STAR Method. Showcase your Situation, Task, Action, and Results in your portfolio. Clearly define your target market and offerings. Forget the hard sell, be the educator. Understand your clients' needs and show them how your skills tackle their problems. If you can't offer the solution, be upfront; you never know who might throw more gigs your way. Last but not least, make sales a daily habit. Dedicate a small bit of time each week to network, prospect, follow up, outreach to potential clients, and gather referrals. This proactive approach helps avoid those panicked moments when you realise a client’s contract is finishing. 

💻 Step Away From The Computer…

As the curtain falls on 2023 it's vital not to underestimate the importance of rest. We know how difficult switching off can be as small business owners, our to-do lists are never-ending and December is notoriously busy for most of us. Despite the busyness, it's essential to allocate time to relax. So plan for a pause. Decide how many days you’re taking off and when, adjust deadlines accordingly, and stick to your plan. Recognize that not everything can be completed before the break, so categorize pending tasks as "must do," "should do," or "can probably wait." Then step away from the screen! It's time to detach from the digital world and immerse yourself in the real world. After a demanding year, reconnect with loved ones and rejuvenate- you deserve it!

Stellar Snacks

Snack hours got a whole lot better when we came across Stellar Snacks pretzels. Founded by the mother-daughter duo Elisabeth and Gina Galvin. Each variety of pretzels contains vegan, kosher, and non-GMO ingredients packaged in stunning artwork designed by emerging artists. I love that Stellar Snacks supports and sponsors various educational programs and events that empower women in their community. There’s nothing better than women supporting women!