Why do I keep waking up at 4am in a panic?
From stress, to financial insecurity, competitor threat, uncertainty, decision-making and operational issues, running a business is tough. But when...
Why it’s important to celebrate your achievements as a solopreneur
When we're heading up a team, we rarely forget to celebrate successes. But when we're working solo - as a one man or one woman band - we're a whole...
Why you need to know your target market (almost) better than they know themselves
Knowing your target market (almost) better than they know themselves allows you to tailor your products, services, and marketing efforts to their...
How can I stop overthinking?
Overcoming overthinking is a gradual process, that usually requires consistent effort and practice. Try some, or all of the things mentioned below,...
I don’t have time to post on LinkedIn
LinkedIn can be a valuable platform for casting your net wider, for positioning, and for generating opportunities for your business. But it does...
What’s a sales funnel?
Your sales funnel is the journey that people go through from not knowing much, if anything about your business to engaging and becoming a paying...
I only have a few connections on LinkedIn – is it still worthwhile posting?
The value of LinkedIn goes way beyond the number of connections you have. It's about building meaningful relationships, engaging with relevant...
I’m not happy with my website
There are lots of reasons why your website might no longer delight you. Most new clients I meet aren't happy with their website. It's usually...
What’s a sales process?
A sales process is a structured framework for managing customer interactions and helps you move prospects through the buying cycle with greater...
How can I motivate myself as an SME owner?
As I see it, although it's normal for motivation to fluctuate from time to time, when you're running your own business, your goal should be to have...
What’s a CRM?
The primary goal of a CRM system is to improve customer relationships by facilitating better communication, personalisation, and understanding...
How can I widen my reach on LinkedIn?
The great news is that widening your reach on LinkedIn isn't rocket science. Consistency, providing value, and engaging with your network are key to...
My business is small – do I need a CRM?
The bottom line is this - if you have a limited customer base and interactions are minimal, you'll more than likely be able to manage customer...
How can I map out my customer journey?
If you've never mapped out your customer journey - the most important thing is not to put pressure on yourself to do it in one sitting. Rushing...
Does print still have a place in today’s digital world?
In my view, the answer to this question is a big fat YES. Although print alone today is unlikely to tick all your business communication/promotional...
Is Strategyzer a good tool for mapping out my business model?
There's no doubt in my mind that Strategyzer's Business Model Canvas is one of the most valuable and simplest frameworks for mapping out your...
Why a simple coffee break could improve your whole day
No matter whether you prefer coffee, tea, water, or a short walk outside, a short, intentional break to refresh your mind and body, can lead to...
How do I write my LinkedIn headline?
When it comes to writing your LinkedIn headline, one of the most important things is to consider is who you want to attract or target. Tailor your...
What are the benefits of having a LinkedIn coach?
If you're not a natural 'LinkedIn-er', having a LinkedIn coach can be a valuable resource in helping you optimise your LinkedIn profile, expand...
How do I write my LinkedIn profile?
While your LinkedIn profile needs to be about you, even more importantly, it needs to be about the people you can help most. Getting clear on WHO...
Why does (even the notion of) posting on LinkedIn feel so awkward?
First and foremost, feeling awkward posting on, or even just thinking about posting on LinkedIn is way more common than you might imagine. In my...
I’m nervous about making a difficult business call
There's plenty of Top Tips below, but in a nutshell, in my experience, the best way to prepare for a difficult business call is to gather your...
I’m really disappointed with my website
If you're feeling this way, you're not alone. It's rare for people to be over the moon with their website - just ask people in your circle and...
Why you need to be clear on who the decision-makers are
Being clear on who makes the buying decisions in your sales process helps you align your sales efforts, communication, and strategies to...
I think I have a LinkedIn account but I can’t find it
Help - I think I have a Linkedin account but I can't find it Spoiler alert - this is a really common situation - particularly where people set up a...
Why is it important to be authentic on LinkedIn?
Authenticity on LinkedIn is important for establishing credibility, building trust, fostering genuine connections, and managing a positive...
I’m not getting the leads, sales or conversions I expected
At the risk of giving every web developer in the world a huge 'cop out' here, the main thing to be aware of when it comes to online lead generation,...
Is LinkedIn better than Facebook for SMEs?
I get asked this a lot and ultimately, while it sounds like a bit of a cop-out, the choice between LinkedIn and Facebook depends on your target...
Why adding a note to a connection request on LinkedIn is important – and how to do it
Adding a note to your LinkedIn connection request is a small action with substantial impact. It humanises your interaction, makes you memorable, and...
Why is self-care important for SME owners?
In my view, if you run a business, self-care isn't a luxury, it's a necessity. It's an essential part of maintaining your physical, mental, and...
Where can I get a CRM for free?
I've listed several free CRM options here (info correct at the time of writing/publishing - but do check it for yourself). My personal favourite is...
How important is LinkedIn for B2B?
There's no getting away from it. LinkedIn is THE platform for targeting and engaging with the right professionals, showcasing your expertise, and...
Posting on LinkedIn feels fake and showy-offy
It's true that LinkedIn is a professional platform, but that doesn't mean you have to abandon your authenticity and end up feeling fake when you...
Should I activate LinkedIn’s creator mode?
LinkedIn's creator mode can be really helpful but it isn't necessarily suitable for every business owner. There isn't really a right or wrong answer...
How can doing LinkedIn alongside an established habit help me?
By attaching a task you dislike, avoid or fear to an established habit, you take advantage of the established habit's automatic nature and create a...
Why is growth driven design a good approach for a new website?
Growth Driven Design (GDD) is a really attractive way of building a website because it offers a more strategic and data-driven approach to website...
How daily rituals can help you succeed in your SME
As I see it, daily rituals are really important, and even the simplest can help elevate your day from bah to brilliant. I've shared a few here, but...
Is LinkedIn a good place for business owners to post?
There's no getting away from it, LinkedIn's a cool place for business owners to post as it enables you to target your best audience, position...
How will a LinkedIn coach help me get active on LinkedIn?
When you work with the right LinkedIn coach, you'll have access to expert guidance and support to help you develop a consistent and effective...
What is a LinkedIn headline?
Your LinkedIn headline is the brief statement or tagline that appears below your name on your LinkedIn profile. It's one of the first things people...
What information should be in the header of my website?
At a very basic level, your header should include your logo, navigation menu, contact information, search bar (if you have a content-heavy website),...
Why it’s essential to be crystal clear on your target market
Being clear on your target market means you can align your business strategies, marketing efforts, and customer experience to effectively reach,...
What are the advantages of LinkedIn group coaching?
LinkedIn group coaching combines the benefits of group learning, networking, shared resources, and expert guidance - in one affordable package. It...
How can I create a sales funnel for my SME?
Your sales funnel is the journey that people go through from not knowing much, if anything about your business to engaging and becoming a paying...
What are micro-actions and how could they help me?
Micro-actions are small and manageable actions that you can take to build positive habits or make progress toward your goals. By incorporating...
Is commenting on other people’s LinkedIn posts worthwhile?
Commenting on LinkedIn is a great way to actively engage with your target audience, establish your brand, build relationships, and generate business...
Do I need to become a LinkedIn expert to be a success on the platform?
This is such a common question - and the answer is simple - NO YOU DEFINITELY DO NOT need to become a LinkedIn expert to be successful on the...
What is LinkedIn premium?
LinkedIn premium is a paid service that gives you some bells and whistles you don't have in their free version. The main advantages of LinkedIn...
What information should I include in a useful client/customer persona?
The information you include in your personas will depend on your business and your sector, but here I've shared 8 Top Tips that should help you....
I’ve had enough – I feel like throwing in my business towel
It's natural and entirely normal to face obstacles in business, and persistence and resilience are key traits of successful entrepreneurs. If you're...
What’s cross selling?
In a nutshell, cross-selling is selling more to each customer. Successful cross-selling requires a good understanding of your client/customer's...
Why making a list in the middle of the night could help you get back to sleep
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night and your head's reeling with thoughts? Yes. Me too. Here I share why engaging in the process of...
Why do I keep going on LinkedIn to read other people’s stuff but not posting?
First and foremost, this is a really common problem. Lack of confidence, perfectionism, time constraints, unclear reasons why and fear of rejection...
How do I determine the purpose of my website?
The purpose of any website is to serve as an accessible, informative, and interactive platform to achieve your specific goals, whether it's selling...
Why does running an SME feel so lonely?
Running an SME can feel incredibly lonely at times. Normally, when things are going well you feel almost invincible, but if and when things aren't...
I never know what to post about on LinkedIn
Most of the SME owners I work with find deciding on topics to post about a real struggle at the start of their LinkedIn journey. That said, once...
What information should be in the footer of my website?
Here you'll find 15 things you might want to include in your website footer, but remember to keep your footer clean, well-organised, and visually...
How can I identify my WHY as a business owner
Taking time out to rediscover your WHY is a valuable business journey, albeit it may require time, reflection, and experimentation. Be open to...
Is it important to show up consistently on LinkedIn?
The answer to this one is - yes - absolutely. Showing up consistently improves your opportunities for positioning, relationship building, staying...
As a business owner is it okay to post personal stuff on LinkedIn?
The bottom line is this - of course it is. While the primary goal of LinkedIn is to build professional connections, showcase your expertise, and...
How can I map out my sales process?
Mapping out your sales process involves the visualisation and documentation of every step in your customer journey. It's not an easy or fast...
Is sharing other people’s content a good strategy on LinkedIn?
Sharing other people's content is a great way to spread some LinkedIn love and to get your own journey started or boosted. I've outlined some of...
What are the different types of post on LinkedIn?
From simple text only posts, to photos, videos, polls, celebrations, events, cross posts and articles, LinkedIn let's you do pretty much everything...
Do I even need to be on LinkedIn?
Does this sound familiar? You've been thinking about getting active on LinkedIn for ages but other things always seem to get in the way. You're...
Do fast reactions to my LinkedIn posts help my audience reach?
While there is evidence that fast reactions increase audience reach on LinkedIn, it's not something I'd recommend you sweat over UNLESS it's...
What is self-care in business?
Self-care in business is about recognising that your well-being directly impacts the success and sustainability of your business. By investing in...
Why getting out of breath and sweaty could be good for you and your business
Exercising doesn't have to be intense or time-consuming to have a positive effect on your business success. Even simple activities like walking,...
Do I really need a website?
The answer is more than likely 'yes you do need some sort of web presence'. BUT -as far as I'm concerned - if you can - start with a well planned,...
Are LinkedIn coaches worth the money?
There are any number of ways a LinkedIn coach might help you be more successful on the platform but when it comes to assessing whether it's worth...
Is there a free tool that will help me size images for LinkedIn?
There are lots of free tools that are easy to use and typically provide pre-set dimensions for LinkedIn images, such as profile pictures, cover...
Do I need to understand my customer journey?
The answer to this is probably "yes". Why? Because continually monitoring and updating your understanding of the customer journey, you can adapt...
Why do some SME owners find it really difficult to ask for help?
Lots of SME owners I meet wait until the last minute to ask for help. Pride, fear, trust - whatever the reasons may be, asking for help is a...
Is blogging still worthwhile?
Albeit a big-ish commitment, there's no doubt that blogs still play a hugely valuable role in your communication strategy today. A fabulous way to...
What’s outsourcing?
Outsourcing is a strategic business practice that allows business owners to leverage external expertise, streamline operations, and focus on their...
I’m forever burning the midnight oil to get stuff done
There are periods when we find ourselves working 'all hours' but it should be the exception rather than the rule. Sustainable productivity is about...
Why you should never be afraid to ask for help
The advantages of asking for help are huge and I've outlined some of the main ones below but my main message here is - if you're afraid to ask for...
What is LinkedIn group coaching?
LinkedIn group coaching is a great option for individuals who want to receive motivation, accountability, guidance and support to enhance their...
Should I speak in my own voice on LinkedIn or do I need to be more formal?
When it comes to 'voice', for me, the most important thing on LinkedIn is being authentic - being the real you - the you you are when you're...
Will posting on LinkedIn help me grow my business?
When you start out on your LinkedIn journey, it's essential to be realistic about the possibilities. That said, if you're consistent, provide value...
Why getting out in nature is great for business owners
Incorporating regular outings in nature into your routine as a business owner can provide a valuable balance to the demands of work. It allows you...
How to get comfortable on LinkedIn
Embracing LinkedIn doesn't mean jumping headfirst into posting content. You have the power to build your confidence gradually by observing, liking,...
My website cost a fortune and it’s not helping me grow my business
Your website is a powerful tool in helping clients/customers choose your option rather than a competitor's, but making it effective takes time and...
Why it’s important to live in the present in business
Fasten your seat-belt for this one because it's a biggie - living in the present in business enhances focus, productivity, opportunity recognition,...
What’s LinkedIn?
In a nutshell, LinkedIn's a cool social media platform, that, when used properly gives you a great chance to position your business, engage with...
I’ve done lots of client/customer personas but I’ve never found them useful
For customer personas to be useful, they need to feel alive and part of your business. Maybe in the past you've gone through the motions but not...
How can I grow my connections on LinkedIn?
Growing your connections on LinkedIn is a really important part of your LinkedIn journey - but always remember that quality wins over quantity every...
I feel too old to post on LinkedIn
LinkedIn is a diverse and inclusive community, and you definitely shouldn't let your age be a limiting factor for you. Irrespective of your age,...
Does a social media manager need to understand my value proposition?
There are no two ways to this one. It is absolutely essential for someone posting on LinkedIn on behalf of your SME to have a clear understanding...
As a relative newcomer, how often should I post on LinkedIn?
The secret here's to find the sweet spot that works for you and provides value to your audience. It's better to post consistently and maintain...
Should I include memberships, accreditations and awards in my website?
While my argument is always that your website aim to be around 80% about your website visitor, and not about you, including memberships,...
I need to hold myself more accountable
If you're someone who keeps starting projects, full of great intention and never finishing them, you could be lacking a bit of accountability. If...
Why is your value proposition important?
A strong value proposition is essential for differentiating your business, attracting and converting customers, gaining a competitive edge, and...
What’s overthinking in a business context?
Overthinking in a business context refers to the tendency to excessively analyse, dwell on, or ruminate about business decisions, problems, or...
Are LinkedIn articles a good idea for SMEs?
In a nutshell, well written LinkedIn articles are a really smart way to cast your net wider on LinkedIn as they allow you to showcase your expertise...
How often should I re-visit my business model?
The bottom line about this one is that business models aren't static and should evolve as your business and market conditions change. Regularly...
I’m crippled with fear about the future of my business
A certain amount of fear can be a healthy way to stay ahead in business. But too much fear can stop you from being productive, creative and...
Should I brand Linkedin post images with my company logo?
The decision whether or not to brand LinkedIn images with your company logo depends on your photo skills, the time you have available, your brand...
I’m stuck in a rut in my business
It's a tough one to accept but very business faces challenges, and it's essential to adapt and evolve continuously. By taking proactive steps and...
What is growth driven website design?
Growth-driven website design enables businesses to create websites that are ultimately more user-friendly, more effective in achieving business...
Are LinkedIn recommendations worthwhile in business?
Recommendations on LinkedIn are extremely worthwhile as they enhance your credibility, give insight into your value proposition, showcase your...
What’s a customer journey?
Your customer('s) journey refers to the process or path that a customer follows when interacting with your business, from the initial awareness...
What’s the difference between features and benefits?
In essence, features describe the attributes or functionalities of a product, while benefits explain the advantages, improvements, or positive...
Should I have my LinkedIn notifications switched on or off?
Whether you have your LinkedIn notifications switched on or off depends entirely on your personal preference, availability, and how you want to...
How do I get recommendations on LinkedIn?
LinkedIn recommendations are easy to get and are a great way to gain credibility. If you're starting your LinkedIn recommendation journey start by...
I don’t have the confidence to post on LinkedIn
It's really important not to overthink this. Start by taking small steps, be consistent in your efforts, and gradually push yourself to share more...
What information should I include in the about us/me on my website?
The "About Us/Me" section of your website isn't just about showcasing achievements but also about connecting with your audience on a deeper level....
I don’t know how to post on LinkedIn
Posting for the first time on LinkedIn can be a scary process, but if you get yourself into the right mindset then set aside a quiet and calm 5 to...
LinkedIn’s a marathon, not a sprint
Being successful on LinkedIn is a marathon because it requires consistent effort, relationship building, thought leadership, and a long-term...
Why overthinking stifles success in SMEs
Overthinking can cause analysis paralysis, confusion and delay which can impede your decision-making process, cause you to miss opportunities,...
Is it better to post on my personal or my business LinkedIn profile?
It's important to strike a balance between personal and business posts on LinkedIn. That said, personal posts may have the potential for greater...
How can I nurture my network as an SME?
Networking's all about building genuine relationships, offering support, and nurturing connections. It takes time and effort but pays huge...
Where can I get free images that I can use on LinkedIn?
There's no getting away from the fact that most often, the photos you snap on your phone generate the biggest engagement on LinkedIn, the good news...
What is upselling?
In a nutshell, upselling is selling more to each customer - either more in terms of a higher priced solution or simply more. When done correctly,...
As an SME owner, what could I outsource?
Outsourcing can be a really smart solution for SME owners. As a small business owner, you can't always justify hiring someone but you need support....
Is LinkedIn group coaching risky from a confidentiality point of view?
A low cost and potentially highly effective option, LinkedIn group coaching is a great solution for most people, and shouldn't give rise to...
My CEO’s asking me to post on LinkedIn – what should I do?
Help - my CEO's asking me to post on LinkedIn - what should I do? Lots of companies are looking to leverage the power of LinkedIn and who better to...
What’s a value proposition?
A strong value proposition is a clear, unique, statement that's relevant to your target market. It should address the pain points, desires, or...
Is it a good idea to hire a social media manager to post on LinkedIn for me?
In my view and experience, handing your LinkedIn posting and content strategy over to a social media manager can be a great idea and a nightmare....
Do I need a sales process for my business?
While sketching out or writing down your sales process can sound a bit of a faff, you most probably should do it if you're seeking to optimise your...
What is LinkedIn creator mode?
LinkedIn's creator more is a cool, free tool that lets you target your content creation more accurately as well as giving you access to more...
How can I recover my LinkedIn account?
You'd be amazed at how many people I meet who say "I think I've got a LinkedIn account, but I've got no idea how to access it". If this sounds...
How will a LinkedIn coach help me achieve my LinkedIn goals?
The right LinkedIn coach can help you with everything from goal setting to showing up regularly and saying the right things to the right people at...
What are LinkedIn notifications?
LinkedIn notifications are designed to keep you informed and engaged with your professional network and the activities happening on the platform....
Will taking more breaks improve my productivity?
There's lots of evidence to suggest that taking regular breaks is a great way to boost your mental energy, increase your creativity, focus your...
What should I include in the banner of my website?
I've shared 6 elements below that I suggest you include in your website banner, but the key thing is that your banner should be visually appealing,...
What’s the real value of regular reading in business?
Regularly reading the right stuff in business provides knowledge, professional development, inspiration, critical thinking skills, networking...
Why finding joy in business can be a game-changer
Running your own business is tough. There's no one behind you pushing you when you don't have the motivation. There's no one to inspire you around...
Is LinkedIn advertising a good idea for my SME?
The effectiveness of LinkedIn advertising for SMEs can vary depending on industry, target audience, campaign objectives, and competition - as well...
What’s a business model?
A business model is a framework and structure that outlines how a company creates, delivers, and captures value. It is a strategic plan that defines...
Is LinkedIn premium worth the money?
In my personal experience, before committing to LinkedIn Premium, you need to be sure that a free account won't do all you need it to do - in most...
Is encouraging my team to post on LinkedIn a good idea?
CEOs who encourage their team members to post on LinkedIn are leveraging a powerful strategy that brings a multitude of benefits. From enhancing...