Adventures, Growth, and More in Q4.

How is it possible that there are only two weeks left in 2023? 🤯

Before I take a break to spend the holidays with the ones I love most, I'm pausing and looking back on a jam-packed Q4. In the spirit of practicing what I preach to my clients and network, I'm choosing to focus on everything I have done or had the privilege to be a part of in these final months of the year, not what I didn't get to on that To-do list. These are the things that fill my professional cup and remind me why I do what I do.

Helping business owners make more in '24

Emoji version of Lisa J. Smith CEO with the words "Make More $$ in '24"

I kicked off Q4 with two live webinars designed to demystify the sales planning process. My approach combines an organization’s strategic narrative and mission with financial goal setting, something most sales plan templates lack. Creating a frictionless sales planning process means businesses will be better prepared to make more revenue. I just love that.

Taking flight with the Women's Growth Collab 🦋

*Hard at work assessing our businesses.*

In October, I was granted a pair of wings to take my business to the next level because of the Women’s Growth Collab and their first-ever in-person retreat. I left inspired and determined. There’s so much more I need to learn and implement to realize my vision, but thanks to the amazing women in this group, I know I don’t have to do it alone. Such an important lesson and gift for a solopreneur.

Supporting women in business with the NAWBO Minnesota Catalyst Fund

I participated in a panel discussion with five other phenomenal women business owners and subject matter experts to coach other entrepreneurs starting or scaling their businesses. In a rapid-fire hot seat coaching session, we worked across HR, operations, Marketing, Sales, and Finance to answer questions and provide resources and support to their most burning questions. It sure felt great to reach back and pull other women forward.

Speaking and Sponsoring the Third Annual Ready. Set. Pivot. Conference

October was a whirlwind that began with a sponsorship and speaking gig through Ready. Set. Pivot. (RSP). 250+ women from all stages in their careers came together to transform their businesses and themselves. We had some powerful speakers, covering a variety of topics. My panel discussion got real about how hard it is to start and run a business. No matter your drive or passion, this SH*T is hard and it was a wonderful to be open and vulnerable about a difficult topic.

Building a support ecosystem in Milwaukee with WI/IL NAWBO

November didn’t disappoint. I spoke alongside an amazing panel of women to talk about preparedness for 2024 powered by Wisconsin NAWBO, a satellite of NAWBO Chicago. We talked about building business acumen through technology, financials and, you guessed it, SALES! I was honored, privileged, and humbled to share a panel with these expert businesswomen and executives.

A group of 5 women smiling at an event for NAWBO Wisconsin — *From left: Denisse Pachuca, Cheryl J Muldrew-McMurtry, me!, Tamara Burkett, & Brandy Riley*

Talking all things sales on LinkedIn and podcasts

I officially launched my LinkedIn Newsletter, The Sales Mindset Blueprint in 2023 to provide revenue-boosting tips and strategies. I dive deep and do the research so you stay ahead of the curve.

Throughout 2023, I learned how being a guest speaker on several podcasts could hone my message and reach a larger audience. From the Customer Service Academy to optimizing your mindset, every host taught me something about sales and myself.

*Another day in paradise. Keep the laughs coming.*

2023 had many ups and downs, victories and defeats, as I’m sure you experienced too. I never stopped having fun or lost my sense of humor.

I’m privileged to get up every day and work with you to take your business from surviving to thriving with a new sales mindset. I hope you have a fantastic holiday that’s safe, warm (or cool), and surrounded by light.

See you all in 2024.