Running a small business or a creative venture often feels like juggling a dozen balls at once. As a business mentor, I often draw on my background in project management—a structured method for managing projects—to help business owners find calm in the chaos. Don't worry, this doesn't mean you need complex charts or rigid rules. It just means applying a little structure to help your passion project thrive. Recently, I worked with Lucy, a café/deli owner, and we uncovered three simple pillars that can transform any business, from a local artist’s studio to a local group. 1. Community: More Than Just Customers In project management, we talk about "stakeholders"—the people who affect or are affected by your work. For a small business, your community is your biggest stakeholder. Lucy’s café/deli intuitively understands this. She supports a local charity for the homeless and donates leftovers to childcare providers. These aren't just nice gestures; they are proof of he...
Finding Your Social Media Sweet Spot: A Guide for Small Business Owners In the fast-paced world of social media, it's easy for small business owners to feel overwhelmed. You know you need to be active, but what should you post? One day you're a salesperson, the next a storyteller, and the day after a community manager. This constant juggling act often leads to an inconsistent feed that’s heavy on sales pitches and light on connection. The secret to breaking this cycle isn't posting more; it's posting with purpose. By achieving the right balance in your content, you can create a social media presence that not only attracts followers but also converts them into loyal customers. The most effective way to do this is by using a content pillar strategy. What Are Content Pillars and Why Do They Matter? Content pillars are the core topics or themes you talk about in your marketing. Think of them as the foundation of your content house. Instead of randomly deciding what to post ...