The Blog
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Winging it won't work - tighten up your business strategy to achieve better results
I see you! Having worked with hundreds of small service-based businesses, I know the majority of you are winging it. You might not think so, but do you have a clear direction, a proper plan, and actionable goals? If the answer is no, that’s causing you problems.
The year that was: a different way to reflect on your business
As the year winds down, there’s no shortage of posts telling you to review your goals, celebrate your wins, and set new intentions. But let’s be honest—most small business owners are already knee-deep in to-do lists, exhausted from the year’s challenges, or just trying to tie everything up neatly before a much-needed break
Why always saying "yes" to clients is hurting your business (and what to do about it)
We’ve all heard the phrase, “The customer is always right.” But let’s be honest—when it comes to managing your business, that approach can leave you overwhelmed, stressed, and delivering subpar work.
How to Save 5 Hours a Week: Essential Tools for Service-Based Business Owners
As a service-based business owner, your time is precious. Juggling client work, operations, and growth can feel like a full-time job in itself. What if I told you that you could save up to 5 hours a week by leveraging some of the tools I use in my own business?
The Hidden Power of Quarterly Planning
Most small business owners know they should plan. But when was the last time you sat down and intentionally mapped out your next 90 days? Let’s be honest—many are just winging it, hoping that if they keep pushing, results will follow.
But here’s the truth: without a plan, you're running blind.
Why Selling Feels Hard—and How to Simplify It
Let’s be honest—selling can feel like one of the hardest parts of running a business. You know your service inside out, you’re great at what you do, but when it comes to turning those skills into sales? That’s where a lot of business owners get stuck.
Big changes ahead for The Pocket Strategist
After taking a step back over the summer to focus on my family and what truly matters, I’m returning with fresh energy and some exciting changes to share.
How to respond when someone asks to discount your services
How to Respond When Someone Asks for a Discount on Your Services
A common client question I get is, "How should I respond if someone asks for a discount on my services?"
Short Answer: "Let me see if I have something else to meet your budget."
The Long Answer: I am not a fan of discounting.
How to stand out in a crowded market
A common question I get asked is, "How do I stand out in a crowded market when it seems like everyone else is better than me?"
Short Answer: Who says everyone else is better than you? That's not true. You are unique, and that's exactly what will help you stand out. Be more you, and you will attract the right clients.
From burnout to thriving.
This was me, 9 years ago, before I burnt out spectacularly.
I was not looking great right?
A single Mum to a 2 and 3-year-old, going through a divorce, commuting an hour to and from work with a big team of over 20 to manage and support.
Single Mum, Business Owner, and Organised - The tool I use to manage it all
As a single mum and business owner, I know all too well the challenges of juggling a million tasks while trying to maintain my sanity. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed when you've got a never-ending to-do list and countless responsibilities vying for your attention.
What it takes to grow your service-based business
In the world of entrepreneurship, achieving a standout month is a milestone that many strive for but few openly discuss the mechanics of.
Behind the Scenes of My Best Business Month: Strategies That Work
As small business owners, we're naturally curious creatures, aren't we? I've received countless questions recently about what steps I took to make this my most successful month to date. Well, it's no big secret, I’ll share what worked for me and how you can tailor these strategies for your own business.
The secret to more sales!
Let's talk about the thing that keeps many small business owners up at night: sales. You've poured your heart and soul into your product or service, but somehow, the customers aren't exactly lining up at your door.
Ditch the Guesswork: 5 Proven Steps to Build a Sustainable Small Business
Alright, let's be honest, running a small business is a bit of a rollercoaster. You're the CEO, the cleaner, the marketing whizz, and everything in between. You work like crazy, but growth can feel like a distant dream.
My year of scrappy business growth - month 1.
As a Business Strategist and single Mum juggling running a business, I am known for being focused, structured and organised. And I am.
What to do when it’s time to grow.
What to do when it’s time to grow.
Congratulations! Things are going well! Your clients are happy, you're earning a good living and you’re generating regular interest in your services. This is an incredible place to find your business and I couldn’t be more pleased for you.
I’m determined not to burnout again - Part Two.
I’ve got non-negotiables within my business and I’ve got ways of working that I stick to pretty rigidly because I just know that I have to. I’ve learnt that I have to protect myself, so offering these full day strategy days allows me to have control over my calendar, have the income that I need and I’m continuing to grow.
Key Focus Areas in Your First Year as a Service-Based Business Owner
If you are in the first year of starting your business, here are some suggestions to help you keep going…
Be Patient - building a business takes time
Top 12 Lessons I Learnt in 2023
Running a business is a journey and growth is created through the lessons. Here’s my top 12 from 2023…