Unlocking the Online Customer Journey: From Drab to Amazing

Hey there fellow online store owners and entrepreneurs!

I just listened to an amazing podcast episode that delved into the world of customer journeys and how they can transform your online business. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on these valuable insights!

The episode starts off by discussing the importance of understanding the customer journey, both in physical retail stores and the online realm. Our guest speaker, Eric Melkor, emphasizes the need to treat online visitors as people, providing them with a pleasurable experience rather than bombarding them with annoying pop-ups and fake deadlines. After all, who wants to feel like just another click on a website?

But fear not, my fellow e-commerce enthusiasts! The episode also shares some fantastic examples of brands that have successfully improved their customer experience. Take Indestructible Shoes and Blanchette, for instance. These brands have found unique ways to engage their customers and create an unforgettable online shopping experience.

So how can you improve your own customer experience? Eric suggests taking a step back and evaluating your current approach. Utilize conversion rate optimization techniques and create custom reports in Google Analytics to gain valuable insights. And don’t forget about personalization, especially for your international customers. After all, who doesn’t love feeling special?

But wait, there’s more! Eric mentions a checklist offered by Optima Inc., a company that helps online store owners identify areas for improvement. They ask key questions like your cart abandonment rate and whether you’re building both an email and SMS list. Based on your answers, personalized recommendations are provided, giving you a clear roadmap to success.

Speaking of growing your email and SMS lists, Optima Inc. also integrates with platforms like Klaviyo, HubSpot, and Active Campaign. They even offer effective pop-up strategies, using them to welcome international visitors or tease new items. Plus, they’ve got an AI-powered smart headline generator for A/B testing – talk about cutting-edge technology!

Now, let’s talk about chatbots. Optima Inc. may not be a chatbot platform, but they’ve got an interesting alternative. They recommend sending personal videos to your customers, especially if you’re a smaller business with high-ticket items or in the services industry. It’s all about making that personal connection, baby!

But wait, there’s even more goodness to uncover! Eric introduces us to OptiMonk, a conversion rate optimization specialist. Their main focus? Increasing average

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

5 Lessons on Creating a Positive Business Environment and Attracting Opportunities

Hey fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts! Today, I stumbled upon an amazing podcast episode that had me nodding my head and taking notes like a maniac. So, I thought I’d share the top five lessons I learned from it with you all. Get ready to level up your business game!

Lesson 1: What’s a fractional CMO, you ask? Well, it’s the secret weapon for companies looking to level up their marketing game without going all-in. It’s like having a marketing expert on board, but without the full-time commitment. Intriguing, right?

Lesson 2: Marketing is no walk in the park. It’s a complex world that requires both strategic messaging and a deep understanding of consumer desires. You need someone who can think like a designer and a coder, and bring fresh perspectives to the table. Be cautious when someone claims to be a master of both!

Lesson 3: Marketing and sales go together like peanut butter and jelly. They’re the dynamic duo that keeps your business thriving. A fractional CMO can help bridge the gap, ensuring your marketing efforts complement your sales strategies and keep that pipeline warm.

Lesson 4: When hiring a CMO, don’t limit yourself to industry insiders. Fresh perspectives can bring new ideas and innovative strategies. Look beyond your comfort zone and be open to exploring different backgrounds and experiences.

Lesson 5: AI is a handy tool, but it still needs human guidance. Don’t rely solely on automation to do the job. Embrace the power of technology, but remember that a human touch and understanding are necessary to make it truly effective.

But wait, there’s a bonus lesson! Lesson 6: Helping others and providing value is the secret sauce to attracting opportunities. By solving people’s problems and helping them achieve their goals, you create a positive environment that magnetizes success. Be of service, and watch the magic unfold.

So, there you have it, my friends. Five (plus one) powerful lessons to take your business to the next level. And if you’re curious about the podcast, well, I can’t share the details here, but trust me, it’s worth checking out. Stay hungry, stay curious, and keep hustling!

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

Franchise Ownership: The Path to Freedom and Success

Hey fellow entrepreneurs!

I just finished listening to this incredible podcast episode about franchise ownership, and let me tell you, it’s got me seriously considering my options. The hosts, John Golden and Eddie Rodriguez dive deep into the world of franchising and shed light on why it might just be the golden ticket to financial independence and wealth.

One of the most eye-opening takeaways for me was the fact that franchises exist in various industries beyond just food. Eddie highlights industries like construction, wellness, CBD, pet care, and even travel. It’s mind-blowing to realize that there are already established and validated businesses waiting for us to jump in and make our mark. And here’s the kicker – over 80% of franchises opened today are still around 8 to 10 years later. Talk about a solid investment!

Technology to Marketing to Support

But what really struck a chord with me was the tremendous support that comes with franchising. From technology to marketing to operating support, franchises have got your back. It’s like having a safety net while you navigate the world of business ownership. And the best part? Franchises can cater to all kinds of goals, whether you’re looking to build a small business in your hometown or create a massive empire with multiple centers.

Now, I know what you’re thinking – does franchising mean giving up my creative freedom and being confined to a set system? Not necessarily. Eddie advises potential franchisees to embrace the idea of following a system and protocol established by the franchise company. It’s about finding a franchise that aligns with your goals and personality and creating a positive and collaborative relationship with the franchisor. It’s like a partnership or marriage, where both parties work together towards success.

But here’s a word of caution – success in franchising isn’t handed to you on a silver platter. Eddie emphasizes the need for hard work, realistic expectations, and smart decision-making. Having a clear vision of what you want out of life and your business is important. And don’t forget to closely work with the franchisor and utilize the franchise disclosure document to set realistic earnings expectations.

Now, more than ever, with the pandemic reshaping the business landscape, franchise opportunities have emerged in unexpected sectors. Eddie mentions some truly unique franchises, like a construction service business that turns garbage into dust and a physical therapy franchise specializing in balance issues. It’s all about finding your passion and aligning it.

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

Hey fellow entrepreneurs and marketers!

I just listened to an awesome podcast episode that blew my mind with some killer insights on how to kick-start your marketing without emptying your pockets. And let me tell you, it’s not just for dental marketing, but applicable across various industries.

The main takeaway from this episode is the importance of knowing your target customers and developing a unique selling proposition (USP) before diving into any marketing strategies. Chris Pistorius, the founder of KickStart Dental Marketing, explains that without a clear understanding of who you’re trying to reach and what makes you stand out, your marketing efforts might as well be shooting in the dark.

But that’s not all, folks! They also stress the need for a CRM system (Customer Relationship Management) to keep track of valuable customer data and behaviors. Having processes and procedures in place to handle incoming leads and customer interactions is crucial for achieving marketing success.

Marketing Goldmine of Knowledge

Now, here’s the really juicy part. They recommend reading the book “E-Myth Revisited” to level up your business building and scaling game. It’s a goldmine of knowledge for those of us looking to make a mark in the business world.

When it comes to marketing strategies, they stress the importance of finding quick wins and long-term investments. For quick wins, social media advertising and SEO take center stage. However, they caution against blindly throwing money at ineffective ads. Instead, they emphasize the need to know what you’re doing and target your audience with precision.

Regarding social media advertising, they suggest platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, where you can reach your potential customers directly. But beware, my friends, for Instagram ads can be seriously addictive!

One key point that resonated with me is the need to build relationships with your customers. Personalized content is the name of the game here. Show your audience who you are, and let your authenticity shine through. It’s all about staying true to your business’s culture and values.

So, if you’re looking to kick-start your marketing without breaking the bank, this podcast episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with practical advice, actionable tips, and a whole lot of wisdom. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Happy marketing, folks! Let’s make our businesses shine! 💪🚀

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

The Power of Creating a Positive Employee Experience for Business Success

Do you believe that creating a positive employee experience is crucial for improving customer experience and achieving business success? According to Gregory Neer, CEO of the Global Performance Institute and author of “The Tip Jar Culture,” it definitely is.

In a recent podcast episode, Gregory and host John Golden delved into the importance of employee engagement and capacity. They discussed how employers have a responsibility to keep their employees physically, financially, and emotionally in a state where they have more to give. This can be achieved through effective pay, opportunities for development, and managing employees’ emotional well-being.

Gregory also emphasized the need for leaders to create a positive work environment that values employee development and collaboration. He suggested that leaders should ask their employees what they want in their “tip jar,” beyond just financial rewards, to understand their motivations and provide opportunities for growth. He also highlighted the importance of incentivizing collaboration and aligning incentives to create a culture of teamwork and problem-solving.

But it’s not just about improving the employee experience for its own sake. Gregory emphasized that creating a positive employee experience ultimately leads to better customer experience and business success. Employees who are engaged and aligned with the company’s goals provide a consistent customer experience that ultimately drives business success.

So, if you’re a leader or business owner, it’s time to start prioritizing the employee experience. As Gregory put it, “making work for everyone” is crucial for achieving success and creating a positive impact in the world. And suppose you want to learn more about how to do that, check out “The Tip Jar Culture” or consider hiring Gregory for your next keynote or corporate training workshop. In that case, his piano playing will make education fun and engaging!

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

Embracing the New Normal Mindset: Lessons from a Paralympic Athlete

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes we are faced with challenges that can completely alter the course of our lives. In this podcast episode, former world-class hurdler and Paralympic athlete, John Register, shares his journey of overcoming adversity and embracing a new normal mindset.

John emphasizes the importance of having a support system during difficult times and developing a belief system that is greater than oneself. He also outlines his three-step process for overcoming adversity, which involves reckoning, recognition, and redemption moments.

Another crucial step in the process of overcoming adversity is making a commitment to change. John talks about the three forces that hold us back from making a commitment: other people, society, and ourselves. He encourages us to surround ourselves with people who support our dreams and challenge limiting beliefs imposed by society.

One of the most inspiring aspects of John’s story is how adversity can lead to new opportunities and connections. He encourages us to be open to new experiences and set our attention on our desires, as the universe will conspire to make those things happen.

John now works as a professional keynote speaker and helps others hurdle adversity, amputate fear, and embrace a new normal mindset. His journey serves as a reminder that we can overcome adversity and achieve our goals with the right mindset and support system.

So, what challenges are you facing in your life, and how can you embrace a new normal mindset to overcome them? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

How to Be a People-Centric Leader

Are you tired of the traditional top-down approach to leadership? Do you want to be a leader who truly cares about your team members and their well-being? Look no further than Steven Howard, creator of the Human-AI Leadership approach to people-centric leadership.

In a recent podcast episode, Steven shared his insights on how stress and anxiety impact decision-making and how leaders can better manage these emotions. But he also emphasized the importance of being a humble leader and building trust with your team members.

Howard believes that everyone is a leader, regardless of their position, and that leaders should lead each person differently. He also notes that managing people is a thing of the past and that leaders should focus on leading people, not managing them.

Authenticity is key to building trust with your team members, according to Howard. Be yourself and show a little bit of humility. You don’t have to provide all the answers, but you should focus on building trust with your team members and colleagues.

In a world where stress and anxiety are prevalent in the business world, it’s refreshing to hear from a leader who puts people first. If you want to learn more about Steven Howard and his approach to people-centric leadership, check out the episode and his impressive collection of 22 nonfiction books.

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.

The Power of Nurturing Your Audience for Repeat Business

Are you neglecting your most valuable marketing asset? In today’s digital age, many businesses have forgotten the power of word-of-mouth marketing and the value of their existing network of clients, past clients, referral partners, family, friends, leads, and lost prospects.

In a recent podcast episode, John Golden and John Hinson discuss the importance of nurturing your audience and staying in touch with them to generate more referrals and repeat business. They compare the difference between hunting and farming, where farming is cultivating what you already have and hunting is the cold lead generation.

So how can you consistently stay in touch with your audience? John Hinson introduces the concept of a content loop, which is a perpetual loop of consistently staying in touch with your audience through valuable content, social media, and a robust website. Even just sending out one email newsletter a month with valuable content can bring back multiple referrals and requests for repeat business.

But it’s not just about sending out any content. The speakers stress the importance of differentiation and providing value to your audience. It’s about building a connection and trust with your audience by providing valuable information and resources, and not just being a transactional service in their lives.

So don’t neglect your existing network. By consistently nurturing your audience and providing value to them, you can generate more referrals and repeat business. It’s a long game, but it’s a game worth playing.

Our Host

John is the Amazon bestselling author of Winning the Battle for Sales: Lessons on Closing Every Deal from the World’s Greatest Military Victories and Social Upheaval: How to Win at Social Selling. A globally acknowledged Sales & Marketing thought leader, speaker, and strategist, he has conducted over 1500 video interviews of thought leaders for Sales POP! online sales magazine & YouTube Channel and for audio podcast channels where Sales POP! is rated in the top 2% of most popular shows out of 3,320,580 podcasts globally, ranked by Listen Score. He is CSMO at Pipeliner CRM. In his spare time, John is an avid Martial Artist.