I’m definitely guilty of the practicing “do as I say, not as I do” in my life and marketing is one of those areas. I have known for years what I need to be doing to properly market my business and reach my dream clients, but have I done it? No. Have I encouraged others to do it? Yes. And even though I’ve understood the power and methodology behind consistently putting yourself out there so that your service is top of mind when someone needs you, I have found it hard to get the motivation to do it. Sometimes to really find the push to do something you need a little inspiration, and that inspiration can come from anywhere – as I recently discovered.
I was talking with a friend the other day about some struggles she was having with her children (as mothers often do). As I listened to her I kept thinking about how we dealt with the same issues in our house and how I had recommended the solution to her months ago (which I assumed she didn’t like). Still believing that the advice I had for her was valuable, I offered up my experience and our solution to her once again. This time it stuck. She went straight home after our walk and implemented what I had taught her.
By offering my advice to her again (despite knowing I had mentioned it before) she was able to try a different tactic. Had I decided “well, I already told her once so I won’t say it again” I wouldn’t have been able to help her and she would still be feeling hopeless.
Now, she quickly discovered that what worked so great for us was not right for her family, but I’m OK with that. Just as in business, you and your solution may not be the right fit for everyone. However, I guarantee that if I offer advice to all of my mommy friends, at least a few will find what I have to say helpful.
So, just like offering advice to friends and family, it is imperative that we put ourselves and our businesses out there so that we are able to help those that need and want our help. Stay top of mind and stay valuable.