How I'm Showing Up Differently Part Two – Setting Up For 2023
The ambiguity around whether or not we are in a recession continues to make sales forecasting difficult as businesses look ahead to 2023. According to Forrester’s 2023 Planning Report, planning for the coming year will require precision and discipline.
As a small business owner and entrepreneur, I’m committed to leveraging what I learned in 2022 and doubling down on what’s been working for my business.
Here’s what I’m putting into action for the year ahead.
I’m focusing on my target like a laser.
In part one of showing up differently, I discussed how I hired a business coach to help identify my target market. Now that I have a clear sense of who my ideal target is, I am now aligning all of my sales and marketing activities to reach that target in a meaningful way. This means I will be both more efficient and effective, something every small business owner needs. One important channel I use to reach my target is social media.
I’m expanding my social media footprint.
Social media isn’t perfect and I'd be lying if I said it never forced me to step outside of my comfort zone. However, if you are selling professional services, it might be one of your most useful sales tools.
I started with one platform first and now I have expanded from LinkedIn to Instagram and YouTube. As a result of my investment I’ve tripled my LinkedIn profile views since the beginning of 2022 and reached a follower milestone. And while an increase in views and impressions is significant, what’s more important is that I’m making connections with the right prospects for my business and the services I offer.
My “Vote For Lisa” social media campaign was a blast AND secured me a spot on the main stage at Twin Cities Startup Week 2022.
As I expand this platform, this means you might see more of my sales strategy tips, tactics, musings, and more on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and who knows–maybe even TikTok. Never say never!
I’m prequalifying my prospects.
Properly vetting the potential client relationship is so critically important to your B2B sales strategy. Not every prospect is going to be the right fit, and that’s okay. Establishing and clearly communicating guardrails and asking the right prequalification questions saves both sides time, money, and precious mental energy for you and your prospects.
2023 is going to be a VERY BIG YEAR.
Let’s face it, the economic forecast is murky at best and it’s easy to maintain the status quo or cut back on expenses. I share the same anxieties and uncertainties as other entrepreneurs and business owners, but I refuse to lose the momentum I’ve worked so hard to build over the past year. I am doubling down and investing while others pull back so that I show up because I believe in my service offering and the results they receive to propel other small businesses to achieve greater results.
So how am I feeling heading into 2023? Well, in the words of one of my favorite artists Lizzo, I’m feeling good as hell.
