Are you thinking of selling your product or service at an online Christmas market?
Perhaps you’re wondering what to sell or how to put your offer together? And how do you make a gift voucher for a service look as attractive as an actual physical product?
Listen to this bonus podcast episode I’m sharing everything I’ve learnt from hosting my annual Facebook Live Christmas market.
Get my tips and techniques for selling your product or service at a Facebook Live without feeling selly or scammy.
Find out how to put your offer together and why it needs to be something that people want AND what could happen if you give people too much choice.
I’m sharing tech tips to make sure your Facebook Live is slick and professional and why you must look the part. And the essentials you need to hand - to make sure your Facebook Live runs smoothly.
Discover how to share your product or service with your Facebook Live audience and why you should show - but not tell people about your product or service. And why you need to think about the bigger picture - rather than how much money you make on the day.
PLUS tips on how to promote your Christmas market on social media and why it's much more powerful to promote your event as team effort.
Create your offer
Avoid being random
Don’t overwhelm people with choice. Create a focused collection rather than going to broad and confusing people with too much choice.
What would make a really great gift? What would people love to open on Christmas day?
If you’re a product-based business have a think about your products that go well together and focus on one part of your business. Or perhaps look at your highest selling products.
You can still do this with a service-based business but you just need to think what would make it a really great gift. How can you make a voucher more of an exciting gift. What could you include with it?
If you’re a service-based business - it needs to be something people REALLY want.
E.g.
Create a dedicated URL or voucher code so you can track sales
One of my clients Beth was able to tell me she’d made £750 on my Christmas market sale last year. Memorise the URL - use bitly to create a memorable link.
Think about how you can ‘show not tell’. Source any products/props that might be helpful for the broadcast. Even if you’re selling a service rather than a product, showing some of the things you use in your work - or even dressing in your work clothes (if you’re a therapist, baker or personal trainer for example) will help you tell the story of your business in a visual way.
Devise and practice your ‘ten-word top line’ for your product/service e.g. ‘pre-picked and gifts for Christmas stockings for two to ten-year-olds’ or ‘style consultations for men who hate shopping’. The more specific you can be about what your product/service is and how it helps people...the more you’ll sell.
Make a list of frequently asked questions. Write down every single question you’ve ever been asked about your product/service - or think you might get asked. That way, you’re unlikely to get ‘caught out’ on your Facebook Live.
Decide where you’re going to do your broadcast. Things to consider include: lighting (position yourself where you’re facing a window if you don’t have lighting), sound (if you have a lapel mic consider using it. If not, just make sure you’re in a quiet space), make sure you have a good internet connection.
Create a backup video - just in case you have a problem with your tech. I’m asking my Christmas market people to do this.
Promote the Christmas market to your followers. Don’t just post about it on social media (if you do, you’re likely to get very little engagement). Instead, think about how you can get your followers involved in the process.
For example, you could ask them which product/service you should be selling at the market, what you should wear on the live broadcast, how you might style your backdrop.
Make it as easy for people to engage as possible. As a general rule, closed questions generally work better than open. So instead of asking your followers what you should be selling (open question), give them a small number of options to choose from (closed).
Instead of asking them what you should wear (open), post a pic of yourself in two possible outfits (seen that somewhere before?!) and ask them which they prefer (closed). Instead of asking for advice on styling your backdrop (closed), ask them if they prefer location A or location B (with pics).
Other ways to promote your Christmas market to your social media followers:
Remember that your success is not just about what YOU do as an individual - promote others and make it a team effort.
Join my Christmas market as a seller here
Join my Christmas market as a seller here
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[385 ] How to sell on Instagram Stories without feeling sleazy (podcast)
[320] How to host a Christmas sale on Facebook Live (podcast)
Are you fed up with staring at a blank page and wondering what to write your social media posts about?
Would you love to make your content creation easy and fast?
Listen to this podcast episode I share three social media content strategies for creating quick social media posts that your audience will love.
Discover how to batch 30 days of social media posts in just 30 minutes - and how anyone can learn to create content fast - with my practical tips and techniques.
Learn how to stop overthinking your content and just get it done. And why you should NEVER just talk about business in your social media posts.
Find out why some of the best social media posts are so simple - and be amazed at how much time they save you.
PLUS you can get 12 instant social media posts that you can use for January awareness days.
I’d love to know if this helps you.
I really suggest that you listen to the other podcast episodes below the shownotes if you want to explore different types of content creation.
Find out about my Batch like a boss masterclass Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[343] The three audiences that you must build to create a profitable online business (podcast)
[374] How to create a year’s worth of content in one morning (podcast)
[381] How to use awareness days to create engaging content about your business (podcast)
[386] The four types of content to create that will help you make more sales in 2020 (podcast)
[390] How to stop overthinking your content (podcast)
[392] How to get more engagement on Instagram (podcast)
[405] The secret to creating bingeworthy content (podcast)
[407] How to turn boring topics into engaging content (podcast)
Are you thinking of planning and running an online virtual event? Maybe you’d love to know how much it really costs and if it’s worthwhile doing?
Listen to this podcast episode and find out everything I learnt from planning and running a sellout online virtual event 2021Sorted.
Discover how I moved my annual LIVE in-person content planning event to a LIVE online virtual event. I share the costs involved and what you need to consider - from event insurance and contingency planning to entertaining people and making sure your event isn't one long dreary Zoom call.
I explain the tech that was used to host and run my online virtual event - the essential things you need to have in place and what your team needs to do.
Find out how I created a buzz about an online virtual event, sold tickets and why it was worth investing in Facebook Ads.
PLUS how I made sure that everyone had the same networking opportunities that they would have at an in-person event.
Scroll down for more useful podcast episodes.
Join my 2021 Sorted Club
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of attending my 2021 Sorted virtual event (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[250] How to use email marketing to promote live events (podcast)
[343] The three audiences that you must build to create a profitable online business (podcast)
[421] Seven signs you're ready to run Facebook Ads (podcast)
Do you struggle to create content and stick to a content plan?
Would you love to show up online regularly and create great content - but you just can't ever make the time?
Perhaps you start with good intentions and you struggle with being consistent or you can't think what to post and it becomes days or weeks before you post anything again.
Maybe creating social media content has become just another thing on your to-do list? Or perhaps you spend ages creating BRILLIANT pieces of content and it goes out and NO ONE responds and you just feel like giving up?
If any of that sounds familiar you'll love this podcast episode.
I explain the seven problems that people have with creating regular content and how to overcome them.
Find out what type of content creator you are and what you need to think about BEFORE you create your content. Plus the ONE thing your content must-do if you're going to get people engaging with you.
Listen and find out what could be holding you back in your content creation and why you can't rely on your will power alone to make you do something if you're NOTfeeling the love for it.
Discover how to make content creation your thing and what to do if you really don't enjoy it.
Scroll down for more useful podcast episodes.
Join my live online event 2021 Sorted
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of attending my 2021 Sorted virtual event (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[343] The three audiences that you must build to create a profitable online business (podcast)
[374] How to create a year’s worth of content in one morning (podcast)
[381] How to use awareness days to create engaging content about your business (podcast)
[386] The four types of content to create that will help you make more sales in 2020 (podcast)
[390] How to stop overthinking your content (podcast)
[405] The secret to creating bingeworthy content (podcast)
[407] How to turn boring topics into engaging content (podcast)
Have you bought my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner and you’re wondering how best to use it?
Perhaps you struggle to create content about your business and you’d love some inspiration about how to think creatively and plan your content? If that sounds familiar then this special bonus podcast episode is for you.
Discover how to use my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner to plan an entire year’s worth of content around your business by creating yearly/quarterly/monthly/weekly content plans.
I share practical tips about how to get the most out of your diary and how to use your diary to inspire creative sparks that will help you plan and create content - that is REALLY engaging and starts conversations with your ideal clients and customers.
You’ll find out the ONE thing that you need to do BEFORE you start planning and creating your content.
I share examples of the types of content that you can create - so that you can get maximum results and engagement and why you don’t always have to talk about your business.
Find out how to use the awareness days in the diary to create sales points in your business (especially if you sell the same product or service all year round)
Haven’t got your 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner yet? Then scroll to the link below.
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my live online event 2021 Sorted
Find out about my 2021 Sorted Club and upgrade your diary here
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Find out more about my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you attend my 2021 Sorted content planning event (podcast)
[343] The three audiences that you must build to create a profitable online business (podcast)
[381] How to use awareness days to create engaging content about your business (podcast)
[407] How to turn boring topics into engaging content (podcast)
[422] Behind the scenes of my launch how I sold £10K of planners in 24 hours (podcast)
Want to become a better online teacher? And create online classes, that people can’t stop talking about and really make people sit up and listen?
Perhaps you've taught a few online classes but you’re worried that people get bored or you worry that you're doing it all WRONG?
Maybe you’re thinking of launching some online training or creating a webinar or masterclass? But you're not sure how to plan your lesson and how to engage people? If any of this sounds familiar then this podcast episode is a must-listen.
You’ll learn how to create lessons that people can’t get enough of and how to really stand out in the online teaching world.
I share the three questions that you need to ask yourself when planning an online class or training session - so that you can give people the BEST learning experience.
Find out how to bring your training to life and keep people interested and the most powerful thing that your online teaching can do for someone.
I’m sharing practical tips and quick wins that you can use to transform your online classes - which will help you generate MORE online income.
PLUS why you must take online training seriously if you're using it to build your authority in your industry.
Scroll down for more podcast episodes and resources that you can use.
Find out more about my masterclass: Teacher training for online course creators
Find out more about by masterclass: How To Plan And Create Awesome Teaching Resources For An Online Course
Join my live online event 2021 Sorted
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Find out more about my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of attending my 2021 Sorted virtual event (podcast)
[339] How to build an audience for an online course or membership (podcast)
[418] How long does it take to create an online course (podcast)
[419] How to share client testimonials without looking like a show-off (podcast)
[423] How to deal with freeloaders by creating a Power Hour (podcast)
Are you planning to launch a course or membership...but feel overwhelmed by the idea of all the content you might have to create?
If so, you’ll love this podcast episode: The ultimate course launch checklist: how to plan and create content for a course/membership launch
Here’s what I’ll cover:
✔️ The two different types of content you need to create (and why it’s better to create one before the other)
✔️ My launch checklist (i.e. the essential content I think you need to create for a launch)
✔️ The three different launch phases (and what you should be publishing in each).
Discover how you can save time by repurposing content that you create and how much time you'll really need for your launch.
PLUS I have a free download where you can get a copy of my launch checklist (scroll to the end for the link)
Scroll down for more podcast episodes and resources that you can use
Get a copy of The ultimate course launch checklist
Join my live online event 2021 Sorted
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Find out more about my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
Scheduling tools Calendly or Acuity Scheduling
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner? (podcast)
[Bonus] How to get the most out of attending my 2021 Sorted virtual event (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will make you more sales in your business (podcast)
[414] How much does it cost to launch your own planner (podcast)
[418] How long does it take to create an online course (podcast)
[419] How to share client testimonials without looking like a show-off (podcast)
[422] How I sold £10K of planners in 24 hours behind the scenes of my latest launch (podcast)[423] How to deal with freeloaders by creating a Power Hour (podcast)
Attending my 2021 Sorted virtual event and wondering how to get the most out of the experience?
Perhaps you haven’t attended a virtual event before and you’re wondering how to get the most out of the experience.
Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of my 2021 Sorted content planning event.
If you're not attending my 2021Sorted virtual event and you'd like to know more about it then head to the links at the end.
Having a couple of days to work on your business rather (than in it) is a gift. So make sure you've got those days blocked out in the diary and have organised childcare. If you can, book a hotel... although make sure you have decent wifi.
Timings: 9:30am - 4:00pm both days
Virtual bar: 7-10pm
Event briefing: Tuesday October 27 @2pm GMT (30 mins)
Content planning masterclass: Nov 26
Coaching calls: Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4
Join the event Facebook group if you haven't already (and go introduce yourself).
Follow our Twitter lists for speakers and delegates. Make lists of others attending the event you'd like to connect with. What are you going to sell?
Create your own shareable #2021Sorted images with our Canva templates...and start telling people about the event. We also have generic images here.
Day 1 Keynote sessions
Day 1 Level Up sessions
Level Up sessions are guide discussions that focus on a range of issues that impact entrepreneurs - but dont always get the attention they need/deserve e. g. mental health, dealing with copycats/trolls, running your business around a family & more.
You'll hear from a panel of expert speakers, then break into groups (in Zoom rooms) and talk with other delegates.
Day 2 Keynote sessions
Day 2 Level Up sessions
Try to find an event angle:
For example:
Stylist - how to dress for a virtual event
Nutritionist - what to eat at a virtual event
Social media manager - how to create content for a virtual event
Take advantage of event SEO.
You are going to get more people visiting your website, your social media channels - so why not take advantage of the opportunity? Sort broken links, update offers, take down old offers.
Most conferences and events have a dedicated Twitter hashtag you can use before, during and after the event (#2021 Sorted) which can be a great way to find and stay in touch with other delegates.
Hashtags can get pretty busy during events though, so using an app like Hootsuite or Tweetdeck can help you stay on top of things.
Some may also have dedicated geofilters for Snapchat and/or Instagram, so if you're active on those platforms, do ask the event organiser about it.
Blogging and/or creating social media content before, during and after the event is a great way to stay top of mind with speakers - and other delegates.
E. g. snacks, stationery
Check your Speed
Noise
Arrive 10 mins before sessions - make a note of all the links you need etc.
It's easy to leave a conference full of brilliant ideas - that's what events are all about. Sadly, it's just as easy to get bogged down the minute you get back to your desk, forget everything you've learned and not follow up on the opportunities you've created. Make sure this doesnt happen to you by blocking out a few hours (ideally as soon as you get back to your desk) to reflect on what you've learned and follow up on the connections you've made.
Come to the virtual bar - the socialising is where the best conversations happen.
Ask for help if you need it.... we can't help if we don't know.
Level Up sessions - perfect for introverts...
BONUS: sign up as an affiliate and make back the cost of your ticket!
Join my live online event 2021 Sorted
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Find out more about my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you attend my 2021 Sorted content planning event (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
[400] How to build a large audience for a blog, vlog or podcast (podcast)|
[407] How to turn boring topics into engaging content (podcast)
[422] Behind the scenes of my launch how I sold £10K of planners in 24 hours (podcast)
Wondering whether you should attend my 2021 Sorted content planning event on Nov 3 & 4?
In this podcast episode (which you can also read as a blog post) I’ll tell you more about the event to help and the kind of results you can expect if you attend. By the time you’ve listened to this podcast episode (or read this blog post), you should be able to make a decision whether to buy a ticket.
While it’s tempting to start with the features of the event, I know what you’re really interested in is the potential transformation i.e. what kind of results can you expect if you attend. So first off, I’ll give you a quick overview of the event. Then I’ll share some success stories of people who attended the event last year.
2021 Sorted is my annual content planning event for coaches, creatives and entrepreneurs. The event is taking place on November 3 & 4. The aim of the event is to take the pain out of content planning - by giving you the accountability and support to create your 2021 content plan, live at the event.
It’s also about getting inspired. Which is why the event also features talks/workshops from some of the world’s leading content creators on how to plan and create engaging content that will help you generate sales for your business.
The event - which usually takes place in person - is now in its fifth year. And while it has moved online this year, due to government restrictions on large gatherings, it’s meant we can host more speakers and more sessions (more on that later).
With over £800 of content...investing in a 2021 Sorted ticket offers insane value - and support for the WHOLE of 2021 - and not just at the event.
This is what hospitality expert Mark Simpson has to say about the content planning strategies I teach at 2021 Sorted and how they have helped him.
But it’s not just about saving time. Showing up more consistently with your content - content that is well-thought out - rather than rushed out at the last minute - can make a huge difference to the bottom line of your business.
Attending last year’s Content Planning event inspired Amy Caiger to launch a podcast. She has now published 30 episodes and it’s helped her land speaking gigs, guest podcast interviews and more clients. This is what she has to say about how the event helped.
Day 1 (Nov 3) is all about Inspiration. You’ll hear from some of the world’s most inspiring content creators on how to create engaging content in 2021 and beyond.
Day 2 (Nov 4) is all about Implementation. This is the day when you’ll sit down and create your content plan for the coming year (I’ll literally walk you through it, step by step).
Day 1 keynote sessions
How to plan, create and launch a podcast in 2021 with Colin Gray aka The Podcast Host
Launch a profitable online course in 2021 with Janet Murray
Self-publish a book in 2021 with Sacha Black
How to launch a membership site in 2021 with Membership Guys founder Mike Morrison
Launch or revive your Youtube channel in 2021 with Steve Dotto
How to launch a live video show with Ian Anderson Gray
Level Up sessions are guide discussions that focus on a range of issues that impact entrepreneurs - but don’t always get the attention they need/deserve e.g. mental health, dealing with copycats/trolls, running your business around a family & more. You’ll hear from a panel of expert speakers, then break into groups (in Zoom rooms) and talk with other delegates.
And the support doesn’t stop on the day. This year, you also get FREE membership of my 2021Sorted Club - which means you get support with your content creation and planning - throughout 2021. This includes a weekly email from me with ideas on how to use the awareness dates in the diary, four quarterly coaching calls (which will give you the accountability to make sure your content plan is in place for the following quarter) and a digital version of the diary.
What’s included in the 2021 Sorted Club?
✔️ Your 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
✔️ A ticket for my 2021 Sorted event on Nov 3 & 4 (plus all the recordings if you can’t make that date or buy after the live event)
✔️ A digital version of the diary (both a pdf version and and file you can use to add the awareness days/key dates to your diary)
✔️ A weekly email from me with ideas on how you can use the dates in the diary to generate social media posts, blogs, newsletters etc
✔️ My Content Planning Masterclass on Thursday, November 26
✔️ Four group coaching calls across the year, to keep you on track with your content creation/planning
✔️ Additional resources and templates to help with your content planning
FAQs
I’m not sure if 2021 Sorted is right for my business
If you need to plan and create engaging content about your business in 2021 and beyond, 2021 Sorted can help (and yes that does include both product and service-based businesses).
There is a full list of the types of businesses it can help on the sales page for 2021 Sorted (and examples of the types of businesses who’ve attended in the past) but the bottom line is this.
If you need to create and plan content...it will work for you/your business. The only question you need to be asking about this...will you do the work to make it all happen?
I don’t have time to attend 2021 Sorted
Taking a couple of days out of your business to plan out your content will save hours of time in the long run. So the real question here is: do you really have time NOT to?
I’m not in the UK and some of the sessions are a bit early/late for me
That’s no problem...as you’ll get all the recordings.
I’ve tried content planning before and it didn’t work
Just because you tried something and it didn’t work, that doesn’t mean it will never work. I joined and left five gyms before I found one that suited me (and an exercise habit that stuck). And I’ve seen exactly the same thing happen with people who say that can’t do content planning.
Find out more about my 2021 Sorted event
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Find out more about my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[326] The one thing you need to generate a passive income in your business (podcast)
[348] How to write social media posts that sell (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
Want to generate additional income in your business?
Affiliate marketing can be a great way to generate additional income in your business - and leverage the audience you already have - without creating new products/services.
But what’s the best way to get started as an affiliate? How do you generate a decent income as an affiliate? And are there any downsides to being an affiliate?
Read on and find out.
PLUS find out how much you might expect to earn as an affiliate and you can become an affiliate for Janet Murray products/services.
Start by making a list of products/services you already use and love that - crucially - will also be relevant to your audience.
For example, I am an affiliate for the transcription service Rev, the landing page tool Lead pages and the video editing tool Kapwing - all tools I use regularly in my work. Which makes it easy to create content about these tools for my audience.
While you can be an affiliate for any product/service you’ll find it much easier (and quicker) to create content about products you know and love.
And yes you will need to create content as an affiliate.
When it comes to making buying decisions, social proof is huge.
So it’s not enough to say you love a particular product/service. If you want to make decent money as an affiliate, you’ll need to show them how brilliant the products/services you recommend are. And how they could make a difference to their business/life
This doesn’t mean you have to create highly-produced trailers or demo videos.
Pictures, screenshots and/or simple videos shot on your mobile phone can be enough to show people it’s worth investing in the products/services you recommend.
For example, this blog post I created on how to add closed captions to your social media videos using Rev and Kapwing.
Once you’ve made your list of products/services you’d love to be head over to their websites. Many will have a dedicated affiliate page where you can sign up. If they don’t, shoot them an email to ask if they have an affiliate programme and take it from there.
As with anything in business/life, the more you put in, the more you will get out. So putting aside some time to create affiliate content is vital.
Some affiliate scheme owners will have dedicated affiliate packs, which will include swipe copy (sample copy) and artwork you can use to create content.
If this is available, do use it. Not only will this help ensure you are sharing accurate information about the product/service you are promoting.
It will also save you tons of time.
If affiliate content is not available, you can create your own:
A good affiliate pack will include:
✔️ Email marketing copy
✔️ Social media posts (different word lengths for different platforms)
✔️ Images
If you want to increase your affiliate income, you can add:
✔️ Demo videos
✔️ Blog posts, podcast episodes, Youtube videos
While there is more effort involved in creating full-on blog posts, podcast episodes and Youtube videos
Consider adding bonus content you think might appeal to your audience. For example, I have seen affiliates for Marie Forleo’s B-School offering dedicated Facebook groups, training sessions and even a mastermind day in Paris. But do be careful with this one.
For example, last year I noticed someone was selling Power Hours teaching people how to use Janet Murray’s Social Media Diary & Planner. They weren’t even an affiliate. For me this was a big no no, as I don’t currently offer a licence for people to teach my content planning system. If people want to be taught my content planning system, they can purchase my 2021 Sorted Club.
So if you are going to offer a bonus, it’s better to offer a complimentary product/service i.e. a resource/class that might also be of interest.
If in doubt, run your idea past the business owner first.
One of the biggest mistakes I see people making with affiliate schemes is focusing on the features rather than how the product/service can help people.
So before you start to create your affiliate content, start by making a list of the problems your product/services solves.
Let’s use my 2021 Sorted Club as an example.
The 2021 Sorted Club is for busy business owners who need help with content planning and creation. Their biggest problems are lack of time, ideas and struggling to stay consistent with their content (which stems from the first two problems).
So if I was an affiliate for my 2021 Sorted Club, rather than talk about the features of the product, I would share content that showed how the diary and resources helped me - and others - save time and money.
So my content list might include:
✔️ Videos of me showing the inside of the diary
✔️ Photos of how I use the diary to plan (some including me planning with my diary)
✔️ Screenshots of posts I’ve created using the diary/resources - particularly ones that saved me time, made me money and/or got more engagement than usual
✔️ Screenshot of the copy from the weekly Content Inspo email
✔️ Posts about me taking part in the group coaching
✔️ Social media and blog post(s) about how I used the diary to create content (that saved me time and money)
✔️ Social media and blog post(s) about how I am getting ready for the 2021 Sorted event and what I’ve gained from attending previous events
✔️ Content that tackles peoples’ objections
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Join my Janet Murray affiliate scheme
Rev
Kapwing
Buy a ticket for 2021 Sorted
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience Programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[324] How to stop talking about video and just do it with Dan Knowlton (podcast)
[346] How to look and feel more confident on live video with Ian Anderson Grey (podcast)
[347] How to create engaging social media videos (even if you hate being on camera) (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram Facebook and LinkedIn
Are you mystified by YouTube? Would you love some clear practical strategies to get people to watch your videos and get more subscribers on your YouTube channel?
If so then you'll love this podcast episode with YouTube expert Justin Brown. Justin demystifies YouTube and explains what you really need to do if you want to grow an audience on YouTube and get your videos seen by MORE people.
Listen and discover how the YouTube algorithm works (and how you can help te algorithm show your YouTube videos to MORE people).
Find out if subscribers are really more important than views and why keywords should be your number one priority on YouTube.
If you're just starting on YouTube then listen as Justin explains why your thumbnails are so important (and how to get them right), why optimisation is crucial and the five things that you need to do to make sure people stop scrolling and watch your videos rather than someone else's.
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme Build Your Online Audience programme
Justin's website
Justin's YouTube channel
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience Programme
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[324] How to stop talking about video and just do it with Dan Knowlton (podcast)
[346] How to look and feel more confident on live video with Ian Anderson Grey (podcast)
[347] How to create engaging social media videos (even if you hate being on camera) (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
Do people ever ask if they can pick your brain….but don’t seem to want to pay for it?
If that sounds familiar you need to create a Power Hour - an online consultancy session where you give specific advice/guidance...and actually get paid for it.
The great thing about a Power Hour is that you can ‘productise’ i.e. turn it into a rinse/repeat process that you go through with every customer who books one (saving you tons of time).
You can use a Power Hour as a paid ‘discovery call’ where you deliver value and - if your client seems like a good fit - upsell them another product/service afterwards. And to research ideas for bigger projects e.g. coaching/consulting packages, courses and events.
But how do you choose a topic for your Power Hour? What tech will you need to deliver it? And how much should you charge?
That’s exactly what I’ll cover in this podcast episode - along with tips on how to promote your Power Hour.
And yes, you can create one regardless of whether you have a product/service-based business
A Power Hour is an online consultancy session where you give specific advice/guidance...and actually get paid for it.
Contrary to the name - a Power Hour doesn’t actually have to be an hour long. It can be as short/long as you need it to be. You can call it a Power Session if you like (or something else entirely). The important thing is that you get paid for your advice/experience.
✔️ They’re a great way to deal with people who ask to pick your brain for free (you can just simply say ‘I’d love to help you with that....here’s a link to my Power Hour’
✔️ You can use a Power Hour as a paid ‘discovery call’ where you deliver value and - if your client seems like a good fit - upsell them another product/service afterwards.
✔️ You can use a Power Hour to research ideas for bigger projects e.g. coaching/consulting packages, courses and events. For example, when I was launching my Instagram Success Academy course, I did a number of Power Hours so I could understand what I should cover in my course
✔️ You can use a Power Hour as a downsell people for people who don’t have the budget for your high-end offer but still need your help
✔️ You can use a Power Hour to ‘top-up’ coaching programmes/memberships/courses. For example, if a member is being particularly demanding of your time in a Facebook community, you can invite them to book in a 1-2-1/additional call
✔️ You can turn your Power Hour into a rinse/repeat process that you go through with every customer who books one (saving you tons of time)
✔️ You can book clients in for multiple Power Hours for problems that take longer to solve
The important thing is that you get paid for your advice/experience.
As with anything in your business, the more specific/niche you can be the better. So while you can offer a general Power Hour (where anyone can ask you anything about your expert topic) you’ll almost certainly get more take up if you hone in on a specific type of customer/client and/or a common problem your customers/clients experience.
If you have two or three areas, you can offer a few choices (but not too many).
Here are some examples of effective Power Hours, created by my current/former clients:
Amy Caiger has a Power Hour that focuses on helping business owners find their niche.
Architectural technologist Jon Clayton has a Power Hour for people who are interested in renovating their house. He started charging £195 for an hour on Zoom or £295 for a local home visit. This resulted in £600 of sales immediately.
Diversity consultant Leyla Okhai offers a number of different options including diversity, worklife balance and wellbeing.
Can you create a Power Hour if you have a product-based business?
If you have a product-based business, you can still create a Power Hour. You can either offer something that relates to the problem you solve. For example, I sell a Social Media Diary & Planner. Although I don’t currently do this, I could offer a content planning Power Hour for people who want help creating their content plan. I could offer these sessions to existing diary owners as an upsell.
Or I could open them up to anyone who needs help with content planning and offer the diary as an upsell at the end of a consultancy session.
Or you could offer a Power Hour to other product-based businesses on how to do something specific that you are already doing successfully but they might be struggling with e.g. creating a marketing plan, setting up a shop on their website.
You can use video-conferencing software like Zoom which allows you to share your screen and participants share theirs with you. You can also share documents and chat ‘live’ with participants. And you can send them the recording afterwards in case they want to go over anything again. Zoom starts from £11.99 a month.
Alternatives to Zoom: Go To Meeting, Team Viewer, Join.me, Google Hangouts, Meet.me & BlueJeans.
If you’re worried your clients will be overwhelmed by the tech, it’s a good idea to send them written instructions and/or a video using a free tool like Loom showing them how to use it (including how to join).
To ensure the session is productive, I’d recommend you do the following:
These emails can be re-used and adapted - saving you hours of time in the long run. In fact, the whole process can be automated so people can book straight into your diary, are delivered the link to join the call and reminders before the call.
I include template/swipe files for these types of emails in my online masterclass: how to create and sell a Power Hour for your business.
If you’re worried that what you teach/coach can’t be delivered online, I’ve personally worked with a pilates instructor, bread making teacher, psychologist, personal trainer and jewellery- making teacher - all of whom deliver their training/consultancy online. And if they can do it, so can you.
Your pricing should reflect the transformation you can create for your client - not how long it takes you to prepare and deliver the session.
That’s said, you do need social proof. You can’t charge £500 + VAT an hour for a Power Hour if you haven’t achieved results - or helped others achieve results - that support that.
Many of my clients start with £99 to £149 and, as they get more experienced - and get more tangible results - put their prices up.
So start by thinking about the transformation you can create for someone and the impact that could have on their life/business.
It can help to spell out the return on investment for your clients. So for example, if I could give you some advice on your sales copy that would help 5x your investment, would you think £500 +VAT was expensive? Probably not. It’s all about how you frame it.
But you do need to have the experience to match your pricing. You can’t charge £500 + VAT for your Power Hour just because someone else in your industry is doing it (well you can, but you may not make any sales).
So if you haven’t yet delivered any Power Hours it can be worth offering a number of discounted sessions so you can gather testimonials. I wouldn’t recommend offering them for free. People generally don’t value what they get for free. Which means they’re more likely to cancel/show up late to the session and less likely to implement your advice. Even a modest fee will ensure they have some skin in the game.
If you already have an email list - great. Simply email your list, tell them about your Power Hour and (providing you’ve created the right offer for the right audience) you should get bookings. I’d also recommend doing some social media promotion too. If you have a blog/podcast/Youtube channel, it’s also worth sharing information about it there.
If you don’t have an email list (or only have a small list) you’ll need to use proactive outreach. That means making a list of people you know (e.g. current/former clients) who might be interested in your offer. PLUS asking for recommendations/referrals from friends/colleagues. If you’re not sure how to get started with proactive outreach, the first module in my Build Your Online Audience programme focuses on exactly that topic (and includes email/message templates you can adapt for proactive outreach).
Need help building your email list? Check out: 39 Surprisingly easy ways to increase your email subscribers
I also have an email list building programme inside my Build Your Online Audience programme
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Join my Build Your Online Audience Programme
Find out about my How to create and sell a power hour masterclass
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[339] How to build an audience for an online course or membership (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will help you make more sales in 2020 podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
[414] How much does it cost to launch your own planner (podcast)
Are you looking to launch a new product or service in your business?
Or maybe you’ve tried to launch something in the past and it’s flopped?
Find out the secrets of a successful launch in this podcast episode - I’m sharing behind the scenes of my recent launch of my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner and how I made 10K of sales in 24 hours.
Discover the five-step process that I've used for the past five years to successfully launch and presell my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner. Discover how I build excitement and desire about my Social Media Diary & Planner and how you can use this process in your business.
PLUS why building authority is so important if you want to launch a new product or service and why it really does come back to your content.
Buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
Find out more about my Getting started with Facebook ads course with Emma Van Heusen
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme here.
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[Bonus] Should you buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner (podcast)
[337] The tools I am using to build my online audience (podcast)
[339] How to build an audience for an online course or membership (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will help you make more sales in 2020 (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Are you wondering whether you should buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner?
Perhaps you already have a favourite planner and are wondering whether you’d actually use it?
Or maybe you’re a fan of digital diaries and are not sure how you’d get on with a paper planner?
It could be that you’ve bought diaries/planners in the past and haven’t used them as much as you hoped (if at all). Maybe you even bought my Social Media Diary & Planner last year and didn’t use it as much as you hoped.
Or maybe you’ve heard about my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner and 2020 sorted
In this podcast episode (which you can also read as a blog post) I’ll help you decide whether to buy my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner.
I’ll explain what kind of results you can expect if you invest in my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner.
PLUS the difference between my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner and my 2021 Sorted Club. And whether you should invest in the Full On Janet Murray Experience (2021 Sorted PLUS my signature programme Build Your Online Audience programme).
By the time you’ve listened to this podcast episode (or read this blog post), you should be able to make a decision whether to purchase.
Not a member of my Build Your Online Audience programme but want to join? Join my Build Your Online Audience programme here
Thinking about joining my Build Your Online Audience programme? Listen to this podcast
[BONUS] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme (podcast)
[339] How To Build An Audience for an Online Course or membership (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast
[381] How to use awareness day to create engaging content for your business (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Are you wondering whether you should be using Facebook ads in your business?
Perhaps you’re worried it’s too early on in your business. Or you’re not sure what kind of budget you need to get started. It could be that you’ve tried using Facebook ads in your business...but didn’t get the results you hoped for.
If any of this sounds familiar, you’ll love this podcast episode (also available to read as a blog).
In it, I share seven signs you’re ready to run Facebook ads (and what to do if you’re not).
PLUS I also answer some of your burning questions about Facebook ads including - how much do I need to spend on ads to turn a profit and is it worth running a Facebook ‘likes’ campaign.
It sounds obvious, but paying for Facebook ads is no guarantee of sales.
If you want to make sales from Facebook ads, you need a great product that people actually want to buy.
Which leads me into point 2...
Have you successfully sold the product/service you want to run ads to? If not, what makes you think people will buy it?
Remember that when you pay for Facebook ads, you’re paying for traffic - not sales.
So just chucking money at ads, is no guarantee of sales. If it’s a poor product and/or you don’t understand how to sell it to your ideal customers/clients, no amount of Facebook ads will help you sell it.
Most people need seven or eight touch points with you before they buy.
Which means it’s unlikely they’ll buy from the first ad of yours they see. They’ll need to get to know you first.
This means you’ll need to build a sales funnel i.e. you need to map out the steps a new prospect might need to take from not knowing about you to becoming a customer/client.
Which might mean running ads to an email lead magnet (a free resource you create to encourage people to join your email list) or hosting a webinar or live challenge in order to help your ideal customers/clients get to know you...then retargeting people who engaged with those ads with your paid offer.
This will almost certainly mean split-testing multiple types of ad copy and creative - because you won’t know exactly what will resonate with your audience until you try.
It will also mean knowing how to install Pixels (tracking code) on your website so you can track your results.
One of the most common questions I get asked about Facebook ads is this: how much will I need to spend to make a profit.
The rather unsatisfactory answer is: it depends.
There are many factors that influence the cost of your Facebook ads - from the price of your product/service to the audience you’re targeting to your geographical location.
So if you haven’t done Facebook advertising before, it can be difficult to predict how much you will need to spend to achieve your target sales.
Knowing how much it costs you to acquire one customer/client can at least give you a starting point.
Knowing how much you’re currently spending to acquire one customer/client can at least give you a starting point on budget.
Think you’re not currently spending anything on marketing?
Think again.
...you ARE investing in sales/marketing
Working out how much you’re currently spending to acquire a new customer/client can be tough - because you’re probably using multiple marketing strategies and not paying specifically for each lead.
But calculating how many hours you’re spending on acquiring new business and/or your total monthly marketing spend (including tools, apps and outsourced services) can give you a starting point.
Dividing these costs by the number of clients/customers you’ve acquired in a specific period can give you an idea of how much it costs you to acquire a single customer/client. And how much you might be willing to spend to acquire similar customers/clients.
Don’t forget to include your time (because time is money).
If you want your Facebook ads to work, you have to make sure you’re targeting the right people.
When I hired a new Facebook ad agency recently, I had to fill out a long questionnaire about my audience - not an ideal customer avatar (i.e. fantasy) but information about the customers/clients who buy from me.
To run successful Facebook you need to (a) understand the problem your product/service solves and (b) understand your ideal customers/clients’ pain points.
But understanding your customers/clients is not enough.
You need to be able to create content that really resonates with them and really speaks to their pain points.
So when you’ve successfully attracted them into your funnel (via a lead magnet for example), you’ll be able to create follow up content that will convert them from browsers into buyers.
People don’t engage with Facebook ads because someone has paid for them.
They engage because the content is ENGAGING.
So you can chuck as much money at ads as you like. But if your content is boring…if you don’t know how to write a decent social media post, select/create engaging visuals and/or shoot a decent video on your smartphone - you may as well burn your cash.
And yes, if you have the budget, you can hire a Facebook ads strategist to do all that for you (and make sure you’re targeting the right people).
But if you don’t know how to nurture your audience. If you don’t understand about the buyers’ journey and how to turn leads into sales via your content…your ads will not convert.
So it’s only when you understand how to create engaging organic content - and make sales from it - that you’ll be able to get a return on investment on your ad spend.
So it’s only when you understand how to create engaging organic content - and make sales from it - that you’ll be able to get a return on investment on your ad spend.
Most Facebook ads strategists recommend a ‘testing budget’ (i.e. a sum of money you’re willing to spend with no expectation you will get it back in sales).
Most Facebook ads strategists recommend a minimum of £300 as a testing budget.
So if you’ve got that budget and you’re willing to blow it on testing, that’s a sign you could be ready to start running ads.
What if you’ve read this list of signs and feel you’re not ready for ads?
You have two options.
Are you ready to build your online audience? Join my Build Your Online Audience programme here.
Find out more about my Getting started with Facebook ads course with Emma Van Heusen
Get on the waitlist for my 2021 Social Media Diary & Planner
[Bonus] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
[358] 13 Ideas for engaging social media posts (podcast)
[366] What to post on your Facebook page to get more engagement (podcast)
[371] How to develop a Facebook page strategy (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will help you make more sales in 2020
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Are you easily distracted?
Do you feel like you could get SO much more done if you just could settle down and focus ONE thing.
And it’s not just about the little everyday distractions, like social media, email, and text messages.
Sometimes you get distracted by the BIG things - like opportunities/projects that take you away from the core focus of your business.
If this sounds familiar, you’ll love this podcast episode with productivity expert Mike Vardy.
In it, he talks about how to deal with distractions in your business. He also shares his unique approach to productivity - time crafting - and how this can help you do more in less time.
{Click on the player above to listen to the podcast episode and/or read on for a detailed overview. Scroll down to the bottom to read the show notes including all the links mentioned in this episode.}
Podcast shownotes
Resources
Mike Vardy website
Mike Vardy’s $5 guarantee
Other useful podcasts
[Bonus] How I discovered my ADHD superpower (podcast)
[406] Mindset problems that can slow your audience growth with Osmaan Sharif (podcast)
[413] How to get more done in less time and build your audience faster (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Have you recently joined the Build Your Online Audience Programme and want to make sure you get the most out of the programme?
Or perhaps you’ve been in the Build Your Online Audience programme for a while and want to make sure you get the most out of your membership?
Maybe you’ve haven’t joined yet and just want to get a sense of what’s involved (all fine).
If so you probably have questions like:
Find out why your mindset is important and the content that’s included in the programme and the differences between the two versions of the Build Your Online Audience Programme. Plus the support that you will get inside the membership from myself and my team.
If you're not a member - you might want to start this podcast - Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme.
{Click on the player above to listen to the podcast episode and/or read on for a detailed overview. Scroll down to the bottom to read the show notes including all the links mentioned in this episode.}
While it’s tempting to start by listing out features of the programme, I know what you’re really interested in is the potential transformation i.e. what kind of results can you expect if you join. Which is why I’m going to start with getting into the right mindset.
Managing your mindset
While the Build Your Online Audience programme includes some fantastic resources and support….what will really make the difference to your progress is the mindset with which you approach things.
With that in mind, here are a few things you need to bear in mind.
1. Being successful in a membership programme isn't about how much time you spend in it.
People use membership communities in different ways. Some like to work through all the resources, show up to live calls and post in the Facebook group every day. Others prefer to dip in and out as and when they need help. Either is fine.
Getting a return on investment is NOT about how much you ‘use’ the membership i.e. how often you log into the membership area, how many live calls you attend, how many masterclasses you watch (in fact that can be a form of procrastination!).
For example:
✔️Leadership coach Blaire Palmer generated £42k in sales from one class (Science of Audience Building). Even if she never watched anything again, I think she’d say she got a return on investment.
✔️Canva expert Gemma Cormack took her income from £240 a month to £3950.00 per month. She has also added 2k new Instagram followers after completing my Instagram Success Academy course. Again, even if she never accessed another resource, I think she’d say she got a great return on investment.
✔️Camille recently launched a membership and generated 8k in sales - adding 100 new members (she’d predicted 50)
✔️Fashion consultant Trisha Sakhlecha, used our Get It Done accountability sessions to create a sequence of emails that helped her generate five coaching enquiries and three sales
✔️Victoria Rose launched a podcast (using the podcasting course), increased her Instagram following by 180% and generated almost £1800 in sales
✔️Claire Gleave launched her Activewear company Natal Active and generated £6.5k in her first month of business (she predicted £1.2k). Also added 2k Instagram followers
It’s about results. So while there’s tons of useful content in the membership, you may find that there’s just ONE thing that delivers the biggest investment for you. It could be one piece of advice (from me or something else in the group), one recommendation, one relationship, one conversation or one collaboration.
2. You will need to be patient
Forget about the ‘get rich quick’ stories. It takes most people a good year to build an engaged audience online.
At LEAST.
Which means you’ll need to keep showing up, consistently, and publish high-quality content. You’ll need to focus on building your email list - however frustrating it might feel. And you’ll need to keep tweaking and testing until you learn what works. And keep tweaking and testing some more. Because NO ONE gets it right first time. And doing it wrong (or even just ‘ok’) is how you learn how to do it right.
The good news is, you’ve got my support - and the support of the Build Your Online Audience community - to keep you going, even when it feels hard.
To ensure you have money coming in during that time you have the Science of Audience Building class.
3. You may need to be courageous
If you’re not used to putting yourself/your business out there…you may need to be courageous and try things you haven’t done before. But just think what it will do for your confidence.
4. You will need to take responsibility
The Build Your Audience Programme has all the resources and support you need to succeed including our fab Get It Done sessions - focused co-working sessions that will help you get things done.
Ultimately though, it’s up to you to take action. That’s the only bit I can’t help you with. If you don’t do the work, you won’t get the results. It’s that simple.
You will need to prioritise
But make sure you reach out to Sam our Community Manager.
5. You will lose your mojo
I can tell you right now...there will be times when you need to take time out from the membership programme: when your workload gets crazy, you have family issues to deal with or over the holiday period, for example. At times like this, you may feel like you’ve lost your mojo, and wonder how you’ll ever get it back.
If you’re feeling like this, rest assured this is perfectly normal. Life gets in the way for all of us from time to time. The key thing is to get back on track as soon as you can.
Whatever you do, don’t beat yourself up about it. We’ve all bought resources or signed up to online training programmes we haven’t used as much as we’d like to. Sometimes life or business (or both) just gets in the way. That doesn’t mean you can’t or won’t be able to. Remember, getting value out of a membership programme is NOT about how many classes you watch
If you’ve had to take a break from your membership community - or are struggling to keep up - you may experience a range of emotions: embarrassment, frustration or even anger, for example. You may feel annoyed at yourself that you’ve paid for something you’re not using or isn’t getting you the results you hoped for.
When you feel like this, it’s tempting to ‘hide’ and hope no one notices your absence, but the longer you leave it, the harder it will be to make a comeback. So be brave and let us and know how you’re feeling. Drop us a line on janet@janetmurray.co.uk and we’ll do our best to help.
Finally...people join membership communities for the content and stay for the community. So don’t underestimate the power of being part of a supportive business community.
The content in my Build Your Online Audience Programme
What is included in the Standard programme?
The standard programme takes you through the exact steps you need to take to build your online audience - from getting clear on your niche (the all-important first step) to getting more followers on social media, building a loyal following for your blog/vlog, podcast (if you have one) and building your email list.
SESSION 1: Nail your niche
Find the right niche for your business (or refine the one you have) so you can become the market leader.
SESSION 2: Developing your brand voice
Create brand voice guidelines for your business so you never get stuck on what to say about your business (and how to say it).
SESSION 3: Creating your visual brand
Create a visual style sheet for your business - or refresh the one you have - so people fall in love with your brand (over and over again)
SESSION 4: Choosing your platforms
Choose the content platforms that are right for your business (i.e. blog, Youtube, podcast, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and/or Twitter).
SESSION 5: Creating bingeworthy content
Learn how to create content that’s more addictive than your favourite Netflix series.
SESSION 6: Unforgettable social media
Create irresistible social media content that attracts new followers and fans - every single day.
SESSION 7: Email marketing 101
Get started with email list building (even if you feel daunted by the tech).
SESSION 8: Email magnetism
Create a compelling email lead magnet (and learn zillions of ways to get new email subscribers).
SESSION 9: Nurture and Grow
Learn how to write compelling email marketing copy - including welcome sequences, nurture sequences and email newsletters people actually look forward to receiving.
😮 INCLUDES FIVE DONE-FOR-YOU EMAIL SEQUENCES YOU CAN ADAPT FOR YOU OWN BUSINESS 😮
Also included:
✔️Bonus classes on the key social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram Facebook, LinkedIn and Canva
✔️A weekly group coaching call featuring guest experts who focus on the ‘mindset’ side of building your online audience (monthly themes include money mindset, productivity, motivation, goal-setting, planning and prioritisation and confidence)
✔️Facebook Community where you can get daily help/support from myself and other business owners who are committed to building their online audience
What is included in the Premium version of the programme?
All of the above PLUS: ACCESS TO MY ENTIRE ADVANCED MASTERCLASS LIBRARY
Includes the following classes (worth £792)
PLUS additional courses/classes (worth £1782)
✔️ Getting started with Pinterest
✔️ Blogging Success Formula
✔️ Instagram Success Academy
✔️ Getting started with Facebook ads (coming later in the year)
✔️ Getting started with Youtube (coming soon)
✔️ Getting started with live video (coming later in the year)
✔️ Launching your own podcast
✔️ Blogging Success Formula
BONUS course: How to create awesome sales copy (worth £497)
🐝 GET IT DONE SESSIONS 🐝
The Premium version also includes my popular Get It Done sessions. These focused co-working sessions where you can work with other members on a specific task/set of tasks (related to your audience building).
What is the format of the classes?
Each class is typically around 90 minutes and includes a video tutorial and comprehensive workbook.
Many of the classes are taught live, but there is no need to worry if you can’t attend live as all the classes and resources are available in the membership area (usually within 24 hours of the class - often sooner).
Classes are delivered via Zoom video conferencing and are generally very interactive with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get feedback.
Making the most of Office Hour
Our weekly Office Hour takes place on Mondays - alternating at 11am/4pm (GMT/BST). If you want to check the time for your specific time zone, you can do that here. It takes place online (we use the video conferencing software Zoom) and is a chance for members to ask questions about any aspect of their marketing and get feedback from myself and the rest of the group. At the start of the call, I also update the group about membership news e.g. upcoming events and/or challenges.
Occasionally the time of the Office Hour might change - for example, if I am speaking/travelling. If this is the case we will let you know via our member bot. We will attempt to give you plenty of notice, but please be aware this may not always be possible.
Attending the weekly Office Hour call is not only a chance for you to ask questions, but it’s also an opportunity for you to get to know other members, build your support network and create opportunities for collaboration.
How to prepare for Office Hour
You don’t need to prepare anything for the call - apart from making a note of any questions you would like to raise.
However, when you join the call, you may be asked to introduce yourself to the rest of the group in ten words or less (on video), so it’s a good idea to craft your ‘ten-word top line’ before you get on the call e.g. ‘I sell gift boxes for new mums’ or ‘I’m a business coach, specialising in working with introverts’.
Due to time constraints this really does need to be a ten-word top line...and the more specific you can be the better. If people are confused about what you do, they’re far less likely to remember you/your business.
A replay of the call, along with summary notes (which are time-stamped so you know what has been discussed) will be available in the membership area and Facebook group afterwards. This should be uploaded within 24 hours - often much sooner - but you may need to bear with us at busy times.
What's not included in the Build Your Online Audience programme
1-2-1 calls with me
Personal responses to your questions via social media messaging (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter) or phone
Personal responses to your questions via email (please use the Facebook group to ask questions)
If you feel like you need more personalised attention, drop us a line on janet@janetmurray.co.uk to find out about upgrading your membership to one of our coaching programmes
The support you get in the Build Your Online Audience programme
About Team JM
As you can imagine, I have hundreds of clients and there’s only one of me...so I rely on these guys to look after you so I can focus on the content/teaching.
But I’m lucky enough to be supported by a fab team and here’s what they can help you with.
Sam Hill, Community Manager
Sam helps look after the Build Your Online Audience Community. This includes: creating the show notes for our weekly Office Hour, supporting me on online classes and events. She also helps with moderation in the Facebook group (including directing you to relevant resources and connecting members’ with common interests). She can also help if you can’t log into your account (just tag her into a post in the Facebook group).
Julie Williams, Tech Support
Julie manages the Janet Murray inbox and provides technical support. So if you’re locked out of your account, have ordered something from the website that hasn’t come through or are struggling to access the learning resources on the members’ site, Julie is your first port of contact.
Lisa Crossland, Events Manager
Lisa handles the financial side of the business and looks after the fulfilment of all of the physical products (books, diaries etc), She is the person to speak to if you have a query about a payment, are looking for a VAT invoice…anything money related really.
Lisa also deals with all my event logistics - from booking the venue, to managing the speakers (including booking their hotels/travel) to arranging the printing of the workbooks. So if you have any logistical questions e.g. ‘where’s the special lunch I ordered?’ ‘what time is the group dinner this evening?’ or ‘can I have an invoice/receipt?’ she’s the person to talk to.
Tracey Tester, Design & Creative
Tracey is the creative brain behind the Janet Murray brand. She is responsible for all the on and offline visual branding, including my popular Social Media Diary & Planner. Tracey also works closely with me on the development of content ideas, including online courses, publications and live events.
Kim Willis, Social Media
Kim helps me with social media management - primarily relating to the promotion of my podcast.
Sarah Mulcare, Messenger Bot
Sarah builds and manages our member messenger bot which is the main communication tool we use in the Build Your Online Audience programme. The bot will remind you about all our upcoming classes/coaching sessions. If you think you don’t like messenger bots...I’d urge you to give ours a try. It really is the most convenient - and least intrusive way - to keep you up to speed with everything that’s going on.
We’re all mums combining our roles with bringing up school-aged children, which means we sometimes keep slightly unusual hours (e..g evenings and weekends) and tend to work less during school holiday periods. Occasionally this can mean we take a little bit longer to get back to you…but we do surprisingly well, considering.
If at any time you have a question - or need some help or advice, please do tag myself, or Sam into your Facebook posts or send an email to janet@janetmurray.co.uk which will be picked up by someone in the team.
Key Information
WORKING HOURS
1. My working hours are 9-5pm (BST/GMT) Mon-Fri although this may vary when/if I am travelling. This means if you email/post a question relating to the programme during those hours, you can expect to receive a reply within 24 hours if it’s a working day (longer if it’s the weekend). You may receive a reply from myself or from one of my team members.
2. My team members keep the same hours…so please respect their right to have an evening/weekend. This includes private messaging them on their personal Facebook accounts. If you do want to contact the team via Facebook please go via my page but we really do prefer email. If you send your message to janet@janetmurray.co.uk one of the team can pick it up there.
RESPONSE TIMES
1. Due to the high numbers of students enrolled in my online programmes, I am not able to answer individual questions via email. If you would like to book a 1-2-1 consultation with me please email janet@janetmurray.co.uk for fees and availability.
2. If you have a question, please tag me in and I will reply within 24 hours if it’s a working day (working hours listed above). Please appreciate I get a LOT of notifications so if I miss your post, it is not intentional - so just re-tag me and or nag one of my team members starting with your community manager Sam Hill.
YOUR PARTICIPATION
This Build Your Audience Programme contains all the information you need to build your online audience. If anything is unclear you can also ask me questions in our dedicated Facebook community.
But ultimately the only person who can do the work is YOU.
So if you don’t use the membership materials and/or use the Facebook community to get support, the only person you can blame if you’re not successful is YOU.
To that end, you must take personal responsibility for your own learning. Which includes asking for help if you need it.
Not a member of my Build Your Online Audience programme but want to join? Join my Build Your Online Audience programme here
Thinking about joining my Build Your Online Audience programme? Listen to this podcast
Podcast shownotes
Resources
[BONUS] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme (podcast)
Other Podcast episodes
[339] How To Build An Audience for an Online Course or membership (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Do you ever struggle promoting your business success and telling everyone how great you are?
Perhaps you'd love to be one of those people that tells everyone how amazing they are - but you don't want to come across as an arrogant braggy show-off - so you just keep quiet and hope everyone will just notice you?
If that sounds familiar then this podcast is for you. I explain why you must shout about your success and how to show potential clients how fabulous you are - without using contrived website testimonials.
Find out how to use your client success stories to showcase your highlight reel and why you need to think carefully about the problem you solve - before you rush off to pitch to a client.
I explain the steps you need to take to make sure you get a great testimonial from a client that has clarity and impact - rather than just a load of meaningless wimpy words.
Plus how to make sure your testimonials show how brilliant you are - rather than just tell.
And why testimonials aren't just for potential clients or customers but why you current clients and customers need to hear how great you are too.
Join my Build Your Online Audience Programme
[337] The tools I use to build an online audience (podcast)
[339] How to build an audience for an online course or membership (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
[BONUS] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Would you love to launch an online course - but you're not sure how long it will take or you may be wondering how long it will take you to create the resources and get it online?
There are so many factors to consider. For example:
This podcast episode (which you can also read as a blog post) will take you through the key things you need to consider to estimate how long it will take you to create your course.
The first and most important decision you need to make about your course is the topic.
Choose a topic you know well and/or have already created content on as this can vastly reduce the amount of time needed to create your course - and get it to market.
For example, my first course, Soulful PR for Starters was a beginners course on how to do your own PR. I had already created a cluster of blog posts on this topic. For example:
So I was able to use the blog posts I had already created (which were tried and tested ideas) to quickly create an outline for my course.
Had I been starting from scratch it could have taken HOURS of research.
This will have the biggest impact on your time as the longer your course, the longer it will take you to create the materials.
According to Teachable, a starter course might be just five – 20 lessons and cover a smaller aspect of a wider topic e.g. How to create a high-converting lead magnet or it may cover it at a beginner’s level of detail e.g. Soulful PR for Starters.
A typical price to sell a starter course might be $50 – $200.
A flagship course like Build Your Online Audience might be 20 – 100 lessons and cover all aspects of a topic in lots of depth with plenty of additional resources and maybe a community aspect to the programme too. It could sell for $200 – $2000+.
Bonus tip If it’s your first course, try a starter course as part of a funnel. A tripwire. Then you can measure how long things take you.
As a minimum, most online courses contain:
Some course creators also provide audio versions of their courses (which is a great idea for accessibility) and transcripts.
This means that at a very minimum you will need to:
If you are planning to do it all yourself, you may need to factor in time to learn about video editing, design. However, I really recommend using a professional designer and perhaps even an audio editor. I’d recommend outsourcing if you can.
Bonus tip: Don’t forget to factor in time learning new skills or costs for outsourcing.
It’s typically quicker to create live content (as you have to do it all in one ‘take’) but depending on how perfect you want your content to be - you may want to edit your content afterwards and cut out any unnecessary bits. But see point 6 - it can be quite nerve-wracking teaching online (or teaching at all if you haven’t done it before).
For a masterclass that’s 90 mins - 2 hours long it takes me:
If you’re a confident, competent online teacher, go for it live.
As with anything in life, you tend to get quicker. When I first started creating online courses, it could sometimes take me up to three hours to create an online class. Now I do it all in one take. I don’t even edit out mistakes unless they are REALLY big.
While I don’t advocate creating your course upfront before knowing if anyone will buy your course. Creating one session to see how long it takes you might be an idea. OR try a masterclass or webinar first before you launch a course to see how long it will take you.
Bonus tip: Start with a masterclass or webinar first before you launch a course. Make sure you presell before you create.
I am - so it takes less time but what about you? If you’ve never taught anything before it will take you longer than someone who is experienced in teaching.
Make sure you research the different learning styles that people have - some people learn visually others from listening or reading.
It’s important to mix up your styles so that you reach different people at different times.
Bonus tip: Do some research on different learning styles on how people learn etc. Think about the accessibility of your course.
Make sure you presell your course before you create it. This way you'll know if it's got legs. The worse that can happen is that you have to refund people as you haven't had enough interest.
If you haven't got a big online audience to sell to - you might consider starting small with a webinar or masterclass to build interest from and then build your online audience.
Ready to know more?
Join my How To Plan And Create Awesome Teaching Resources For An Online Course
Join my How To Plan And Create Awesome Teaching Resources For An Online Course
Join my Build Your Online Audience Programme
Rev.com Affiliate link with $10 off for new customers
[337] The tools I use to build an online audience (podcast)
[339] How to build an audience for an online course or membership (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[372] How to build an engaged online audience (podcast)
[BONUS] Should you join my Build Your Online Audience Programme? (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Are you considering joining my Build Your Online Audience programme but aren’t sure whether it’s right for you?
If so you probably have questions like:
While it’s tempting to start with the features of the programme, I know what you’re really interested in is the potential transformation i.e. what kind of results can you expect if you join.
As with anything in life you get out what you put in but here’s what some members have achieved:
✔️ Leadership coach Blaire Palmer generated £42k in sales from one class (Science of Audience Building) Achieved within 90 days.
✔️ Canva expert Gemma Cormack took her income from £240 a month to £3950.00 per month. She has also added 2k new Instagram followers after completing my Instagram Success Academy course. Achieved within 90 days.
✔️ Fashion consultant Trisha Sakhlecha, used our Get It Done accountability sessions to create a sequence of emails that helped her generate five coaching enquiries and three sales. Achieved within 90 days.
✔️ Victoria Rose launched a podcast (using the podcasting course), increased her Instagram following by 180% and generated almost £1800 in sales
Achieved within 90 days
✔️ Claire Gleave launched her Activewear company Natal Active and generated £6.5k in her first month of business (she predicted £1.2k). Also added 2k Instagram followers
You don’t NEED to build an online audience. If you’re getting enough leads/sales online - and/or you only need a small number of clients each year and you can get them via your existing contacts - you don’t need to do anything.
But if you want to sell one-to-many i.e. you want to sell your products/services in the hundreds and thousands. And you don’t want to have to do personal outreach for every sale, you need an online audience.
To put this into context, the average conversion rate for online sales is just 1-2%. Which means for every hundred people in your audience, only a handful will buy. So if you’re looking to sell at scale i.e. products, online courses, membership...you need a much bigger audience than you think you do.
There are two levels to the programme: Standard and Premium.
Standard: is £240/£36 pcm
Premium: is £440/£66 pcm
As a monthly member - no minimum numbers of months.
The Build Your Online Audience programme is the only dedicated membership programme aimed at helping you build an online audience i.e. more fans, followers and subscribers.
Because the more of the right kind of people you have in the audience, the easier it will be for you to make online sales.
Key topics covered in the Standard programme are:
✔️ Social media marketing: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
✔️ Content planning and creation
✔️ Content strategy (blogging, podcasting, video marketing)
✔️ Email marketing (including how to create a lead magnet and build your email list).
We also focus on the mindset part of building your audience, with weekly group coaching sessions on relevant topics including: money mindset, productivity, motivation, goal-setting, planning and prioritisation and self-confidence.
The standard version of the Build Your Online programme takes you through the exact steps you need to take to build your online audience - from getting clear on your niche (the all-important first step) to getting more followers on social media, building a loyal following for your blog/vlog, podcast (if you have one) and building your email list.
SESSION 1: Nail your niche
Find the right niche for your business (or refine the one you have) so you can become the market leader.
SESSION 2: Developing your brand voice
Create brand voice guidelines for your business so you never get stuck on what to say about your business (and how to say it).
SESSION 3: Creating your visual brand
Create a visual style sheet for your business - or refresh the one you have - so people fall in love with your brand (over and over again)
SESSION 4: Choosing your platforms
Choose the content platforms that are right for your business (i.e. blog, Youtube, podcast, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and/or Twitter).
SESSION 5: Creating binge worthy content
Learn how to create content that’s more addictive than your favourite Netflix series.
SESSION 6: Unforgettable social media
Create irresistible social media content that attracts new followers and fans - every single day.
SESSION 7: Email marketing 101
Get started with email list building (even if you feel daunted by the tech).
SESSION 8: Email magnetism
Create a compelling email lead magnet (and learn zillions of ways to get new email subscribers).
SESSION 9: Nurture and Grow
Learn how to write compelling email marketing copy - including welcome sequences, nurture sequences and email newsletters people actually look forward to receiving.
😮 INCLUDES FIVE DONE-FOR-YOU EMAIL SEQUENCES YOU CAN ADAPT FOR YOU OWN BUSINESS 😮
Also included:
✔️ Bonus classes on the key social media platforms: Twitter, Instagram Facebook, LinkedIn. PLUS a Canva masterclass.
✔️ A weekly group coaching call featuring guest experts who focus on the ‘mindset’ side of building your online audience (monthly themes include money mindset, productivity, motivation, goal-setting, planning and prioritisation and confidence)
✔️ Facebook Community where you can get daily help/support from myself and other business owners who are committed to building their online audience
The Premium version of the Build Your Online Audience programme includes:
All of the above PLUS: ACCESS TO MY ENTIRE ADVANCED MASTERCLASS LIBRARY
Includes the following classes (worth £792)
PLUS additional courses/classes (worth £1782)
✔️ Getting started with Pinterest
✔️ Blogging Success Formula
✔️ Instagram Success Academy
✔️ Getting started with Facebook ads (coming later in the year)
✔️ Getting started with Youtube (coming soon)
✔️ Getting started with live video (coming later in the year)
✔️ Launching your own podcast
✔️ Blogging Success Formula
BONUS course: How to create awesome sales copy (worth £497)
🐝 GET IT DONE SESSIONS 🐝
The Premium version of the Build Your Online Audience programme also includes my popular Get It Done sessions. These focused co-working sessions where you can work with other members on a specific task/set of tasks (related to your audience building).
Who is the Build Your Online Audience for?
The Build Your Online Audience programme is suitable for anyone who wants to build an online audience i.e. more followers, fans and subscribers.
It’s suitable for:
✔️ Service-based based businesses (including hospitality)
✔️ Product-based businesses
✔️ Online business
✔️ Offline businesses
✔️ New businesses
✔️ Established businesses
✔️ Freelancers/sole traders
✔️ Solopreneurs/entrepreneurs
✔️ Small/Medium-sized businesses
✔️ Colleges/universities
✔️ Charities
And if you need more reassurance, here’s a list of some of the types of business owners I’ve helped with audience building:
Glamping site owners, genealogists, costume designers, social media managers, accountants, psychologists, personal trainers, coaches/consultants, holiday cottage owners, estate agents, wedding planners, website designers, jewellery designers, artists, writers, vocal coaches, nutritionists, business coaches, universities, cake makers, hairstylists, jewellery designers.
Absolutely yes. The audience-building strategies you use to build an audience for a product-based business are exactly the same as those you’d use for a service-based. Because a service IS a product, right? To put that into context, I use exactly the same strategies to sell a digital product like my Build Your Online Audience programme as I do a physical product like my Social Media Diary & Planner.
Here is a list of some of the product-based business owners I work with:
✔️ Hand-made jewellery
✔️ Evening dresses and gowns
✔️ Dance costumes
✔️ Face masks
✔️ Vegan handbags
✔️ Subscription boxes
✔️ Personalised baby/toddler gifts
✔️ Recipe kits
✔️ Skincare and makeup
✔️ Books/planners
✔️ Yoga wear and accessories
✔️ Children’s clothes
✔️ Activewear for mums and mums-to-be
Not at all. Whether you’re new in business - or you’re looking to pivot/or create an audience for something new, the Build Your Online Audience programme can help.
Is the Build Your Online Audience programme suitable for new business owners?
Definitely. Whether you’re completely new in business - or you’re looking to pivot/or create an audience for something new, the Build Your Online Audience programme can help.
Each class is typically around 90 minutes and includes a video tutorial and comprehensive workbook.
Many of the classes are taught live, but there is no need to worry if you can’t attend live as all the classes and resources are available in the membership area (usually within 24 hours of the class - often sooner).
Classes are delivered via Zoom video conferencing and are generally very interactive with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get feedback.
It’s never too early to start building your audience. And I would recommend joining BEFORE you launch your new product/service. Otherwise, who are you going to sell it to?
As with anything in your business you get out what you put in?
You get out what you put in. Shared success stories of 90 days
Absolutely yes. Paul Couchman (great growth in his Instagram 1500 new followers) historic food, Mahmood Reza accountant (helped launch an awareness day) Jon Clayton architectural technologist (£600 of sales from Science of Audience Building).
Minimum of two hours a week.
You don’t have to do everything
Join my Build Your Online Audience programme here
[339] How To Build An Audience for an Online Course or membership (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[380] How to set goals for audience growth in 2020 and why you should (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will help you make more sales in 2020 (podcast)
[417] How much does it cost to launch your own planner (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Would you love to make more sales from your website? Maybe you'd love to know the type of content to create to attract more people to your website?
Find out how to attract more website visitors and increase your sales in this podcast with online marketing consultant and website optimisation expert Vicki Jakes.
Vicki explains the key things that your website must-do if you’d like to sell more of your product or service. Including the four main website pages that any website should have and why your call to action needs to be really obvious.
Find out why your website content and the language you use is more important than using fancy pants keywords - and how to make Google really fall in love with you and show your content to a bigger audience.
Vicki shares simple, practical tips to get your website do the hard work for you. And the key things to consider when optimising your website to make it rank higher in search.
Discover the three main Google Analytic metrics that you must monitor and how to keep people on your website longer.
PLUS why knowing your best performing content will help you save time creating new content.
Vicki Jakes website
Find out more about my Build Your Audience Programme
Keywords everywhere website
How to write a blog post every day 21 tips to get you started (blog post)
Why you need
[236] Why you need a blog for your business (podcast)
[330] How to write awesome sales copy for your business (podcast)
[336] How to make sales from your business blog (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[380] How to set goals for audience growth in 2020 and why you should (podcast)
[386] The four types of content that will help you make more sales in 2020 (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Does your relationship with money hold you back in business?
Perhaps you struggle with pricing your goods or services or you’re too quick to discount. Or you always undercharge because you feel guilty charging the full price?
If this resonates with you then you’ll love this podcast episode with financial coach and planner and host of the podcast 'In her Financial Shoes' Catherine Morgan.
It’s a deep dive into how money mindset issues can really hold you back from growing your audience and building your business.
Find out how those little phrases from your childhood like ‘money doesn’t grow on trees’ and deep-rooted beliefs and preconceptions that have been passed down the generations (even if they're not true!) can really affect your relationship with money.
Catherine reveals the three most common types of relationship people have with money. Find out what type you are and how this impacts how you show up in business.
Discover why people get so addicted to taking courses and why over-giving is really common in online entrepreneurs. And what prevents some people from spending ANY money in their business. PLUS what this means for the content that you create in your business.
Catherine shares two steps that you can take right now - to start understanding your relationship with money - and how you can take your mindset from scarcity to abundance.
Catherine Morgan website
Catherine Morgan Money Personality Quiz
Catherine Morgan podcast In her Financial Shoes
Find out more about my Build Your Audience Programme
[Bonus] How I discovered my ADHD superpower (podcast)
[217] How to find your entrepreneurial superpower with Osmaan Sharif (podcast)
[390] How to stop overthinking your content (podcast)
[406] Mindset problems that can slow your audience growth with Osmaan Sharif (podcast)
[413] How to get more done in less time and build your audience faster (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
Wondering if TikTok is right for your business? But not really sure if it’s your ‘thing’? Perhaps you think it’s just for teens and you’ve got no idea where to start?
If that sounds familiar then this podcast episode with marketing expert Sam Bearfoot is a must-listen. Sam explains exactly how you can use TikTok to build your online audience and promote your business.
Find out the best type of content to create on TikTok and why being authentically 'you' - will help you create content for TikTok and help you stand out amongst the crowds.
Discover how you can use TikTok to get people into your messages and grow your other social media platforms like Instagram.
Even if you’ve never used TikTok before - Sam explains how to get started with TikTok and how you can get inspired and begin creating content for TikTok (and why it doesn’t have to just be dancing!).
Plus how you can save time by repurposing the content you create on TikTok on your other social media platforms.
Sam shares so much value in this episode - I’d love to know if you’re inspired to start.
Find out more about my Build Your Audience Programme
TikTok accounts recommended by Sam
[347] How to create engaging social media posts even if you hate being on camera (podcast)
[377] How to write super engaging copy about your business with Jo Watson (podcast)
[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[373] How to get more followers on any social media platform (podcast)
[384] How to be more yourself in your social media content with Natalie Lue (podcast)
Connect with me on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn
With sales of planners and organisers topping $386 million last year, we're clearly a generation obsessed with planning.
And since I launched my Social Media Diary & Planner, back in 2017, I get asked tons of questions from people who want to launch their own.
So in this podcast episode, I answer your burning questions, including the number one question: how much does it cost to launch a planner?
The rather unsatisfactory answer to this is: it depends on a number of things, including
If you don’t have all of this information to hand, you won’t even be able to get a quote from a printer.
So if you want to launch your own planner, one of the first things you need to do is sit down and plan out exactly what you will include on every page of your planner - even down to how many pages you want for each month of the year. This is generally known as a flatplan. I include flatplan templates in my online masterclass: How to launch your own planner.
This is important because you can only print a perfect bound book (and, essentially, your planner is a book) in multiples of four pages. This means that if you decide to add or take away content at a later stage, it could have a big impact on your project (and your budget). If you go for spiral bound, you can add or take away pages in multiples of two, but if you don’t plan out your content thoroughly beforehand, you could still create problems for yourself further down the line.
it’s difficult to estimate how many pages you will need without knowing how your planner will be laid out. Sites like Canva and Creative Market have planner templates you can browse for inspiration. Pinterest is also a great place to look for inspiration.
At this stage, you also need to do some research on the correct paper weight for your planner and best method of binding. If you want to create a product people can use (and possibly carry around with them) for a full year it needs to be hardy. The last thing you want is people complaining/asking for refunds because the pages are ripped and/or the ink is seeping through.
So the best thing you can do at this stage - is to create a flatplan of your planner, then contact a number of printers for a quotation.
Most printers will be happy to advise you and/or send through paper samples. It’s important to touch/feel the paper yourself before you get anything printed. I’d also suggest buying some different planners so you can compare size, binding and layout plus how easy they are to use.
There are instructions on how to create a flatplan for your planner (and flatplan templates), a checklist of information you need to supply a printer with in order to get a quote and a list of all the printing terminology you need to know in my online masterclass on how to launch your own planner.
Once you’ve got quotes from printers (I’d suggest getting a minimum of three).While it may be tempting to outsource your printing overseas this may not be the best practical solution. While it can be cheaper, if there is a problem with the printing, it’s much more difficult to fix if your printer is in China. This is definitely something to bear in mind if you want to launch a seasonal planner i.e. one that runs from January to January. Not only will you need to allow additional time for the initial print and delivery, if you are unhappy with any aspect of the printing, it could take weeks (or even months) to fix. This is not to say it is a bad idea, but for your first planner, it may be best to stay local.
Once you have some printing quotes, you can estimate how much it will cost you to produce each copy of your planner. Then, based on how much profit you want to make (and research on similar products on the market) you can decide on the price of your planner.
When costing out your planner, remember you also need to include things like:
There is a checklist of all the costs you need to consider in my online masterclass on how to launch your own planner.
If you don’t want the hassle of organising your own printing, there is the option of using a print-on-demand service like Createspace, Lulu or Ingram Spark. With this option, you upload your artwork file for your planner to their website and, every time someone orders a copy, it is printed and sent to them. This cuts down on packaging and fulfilment costs, but you will still need to pay for design, editing and proofreading.
While print-on-demand is often less expensive per copy, you also have less control over the process. So if something goes wrong, it can be much more difficult to fix. Many people mistakenly think that using a large, established platform means you have a ready-made audience to buy their planner. This couldn’t be further from the truth. You will still need to work really hard to market your planner.
There is a detailed comparison of DIY printing versus print-on-demand in my online masterclass on how to launch a planner for your industry.
Ideally yes...otherwise who are you going to sell your planner to?
Most online sales convert at just 1-2%, so if you’re hoping to sell hundreds or thousands of copies of your planner, you will need a large enough audience to sell to. You can use my audience calculator to see if you have enough people in your audience right now to make your target sales.
If you don’t have a big enough audience, you have two choices. You can either focus on building your online audience to the size you need to launch a planner. This may take at least a year but could save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Here’s how to build an audience.
Or you can explore the idea of doing a short print run to test your idea. This will almost certainly reduce your profit, as shorter print runs are generally more expensive. But it will also reduce the risk of you making a loss on your planner (and ending up with a stack of planners gathering dust in your loft/garage).
At this stage, you should also ask yourself some tough questions about whether you have the authority to launch a planner on your chosen topic. For example, if you want to launch a planner for yoga teachers, but you’re currently working in banking, you may find you don’t have the credibility to make enough sales. In this case, it would be better to spend some time building your audience before launching a planner.
Absolutely yes. In fact, if you don’t want a stack of planners you can’t sell (and a hefty printing bill) I would absolutely recommend it.
The reality is, you can carry out tons of research, but won’t know for sure if anyone wants to buy your planner until you ask people to pay you money for it.
This is why I believe you shouldn’t print your planner until you have made enough sales to at least break even.
This is why I recommend creating a test offer. This is where you get a designer to create an image of your diary, create a simple landing page (a web page where people can only do one thing i.e. order your diary) and invite people to pre-order their planner at a reduced cost on the understanding that they may need to wait a bit longer for their planner.
I share my test offer strategy (including a checklist of the steps you need to take and the resources you need) in my how to launch a planner masterclass.
Unless you are a designer yourself, I really wouldn’t recommend it.
If you want your planner to look professional, I believe you need to use a professional - ideally someone who has a background in book/magazine publishing.
Not only will this ensure your planner has a professional look and feel, they should also be able to advise you on any potential problems with the design. For example, a professional designer will be able to advise on font size/type, what type of content is best on right and left-hand pages, potential problems with user experiences (e.g. left-handers). You only know that stuff if you’ve worked in publishing.
Sites like Canva and Creative Market have planner templates you can browse for inspiration. Pinterest is also great for inspiration. But, unless you are a designer, I would use it just for that - inspiration.
This isn’t actually on my list of frequently asked questions, but I’ve included it because it’s something people generally don’t give enough thought i.e. they create a planner they want to create - rather than something people actually want to buy.
Remember, nice-looking stationery is all very well, but if your planner doesn’t solve a problem for people, you’ll struggle to sell it.
Let’s take my media diary as an example. It’s an A4 desk diary that features key dates and awareness days that can help you plan out your content for the coming year. It also has planning templates that help you create annual, quarterly, monthly, weekly and daily content plans. So the media diary solves two key problems for the people who buy it: not being able to think of any/enough content ideas and not having a clear content plan to follow. Not publishing regular content can decrease your visibility, authority and credibility - which can have an impact on the bottom line of your business.
Remember that your planner doesn’t necessarily have to solve a practical problem e.g. not being able to think of ideas. It can also solve an emotional problem/need, such as wanting to look stylish around your peers.
But it does need to solve a problem...otherwise it won’t sell.
I have a planner viability test in my how to launch a planner masterclass.
Audience Calculator: Work out the audience size you need that you need with my audience calculator
Self publish with Amazon Create Space
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[343] The three audiences you must build to create a successful online business (podcast)
[355] How to create and launch a planner for your industry (podcast)
[374] How to create a year's worth of content in one morning (podcast)
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Hands up...I’m not the most organised person in the world.
But I AM insanely productive - publishing hundreds of podcasts, blogs and social media posts every year - and rarely missing a deadline.
My recent ADHD diagnosis made me question how I’d managed to stay so productive - despite being disorganised.
If you haven’t heard of it before, that stands of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - a disorder that affects the functioning of the brain and includes symptoms such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Problems with memory, forgetfulness, organisation.
And it made me realise I’d actually developed coping strategies to stay productive - which I share with you in this episode.
They’re actually really good strategies that can help anyone who struggles to get things done (which we all do at times).
Here are five things that help me stay productive.
This is why I do the same thing at the same time every day. For example:
Experts believe it can take as little as 21 days to adopt a new habit. So if you can get into the habit of posting your blog post on a particular day and/or planning your social media posts at a particular time each week, this can be really powerful for your productivity.
For example, this month (July 2020) I’ve launched a Pinterest course in my membership programme Build Your Online Audience. Knowing it was coming up, meant I could schedule a relevant week of content ahead of the launch, including a podcast on getting started with Pinterest , a cool messenger bot quiz on whether Pinterest is right for your business and tons of relevant social media posts.
However, I’m hyper-aware that some people might find working with strangers of the internet kind of awkward. So this week I’m trialling my own ‘Get It Done’ sessions for members of my Build Your Online Audience programme.
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[Bonus] How I discovered my ADHD superpower (podcast)
[374] How to create a year's worth of content in one morning (podcast)
[390] How to stop overthinking your content (podcast)
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[406] Mindset problems that can slow your audience growth with Osmaan Sharif (podcast)
[409] How to use Pinterest to grow your online audience with Kate Beavis (podcast)
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