Before you even launch a business, there are lots of factors to consider such as a business name, whether or not to have a website, what products or services to offer, pricing and lots more.
Then, when you launch it’s about how you’re going to get people to buy from you, the methods you use, the sales tactics, strategy and so much more.
There is so much to consider and when you are doing it all by yourself, time plays a huge factor and so does playing to your strengths, you can listen to all the advice in the world but ultimately, it’s down to you.
Social media was my best friend
From autumn 2018, social media was my best friend. I’d invested a lot of time into it, I had nurtured relationships and it was paying off. I mainly used LinkedIn but I also got involved with Twitter chats and occasionally I dabbled with Facebook groups and Instagram.
My approach was to show up regularly, to share lots of tips and advice and to be supportive.
It worked, I grew a strong brand name, people recognised my name and my business name, I attracted inbound leads and opportunities. Those who only knew me on social media would recommend me whenever they saw someone posting looking for someone with my skill set and experience.
My content often received good engagement, I enjoyed it and my strategy for growth was going to plan.
From November/December 2018, I even started to mentor people on how to use LinkedIn effectively, I’d been an active user since 2010/11, I knew what worked and people were keen for me to help them.
So, what was my biggest business regret?
At the time, I was sharing lots on social media and I was building an audience.
I wasn’t by any means an influencer but my approach worked for me and it was all going well.
Fast forward to late 2019 and something happened, maybe it was an algorithm issue but suddenly my content was no longer receiving the reach it once did. I have never been interested in vanity metrics such as the number of followers I had or the number of likes but it was like a switch had been turned off.
Then 2020 hit and social media completely changed, at least it felt like it had for me.
I stopped seeing content from those I used to regularly engage with (no, I wasn’t in a pod – a group where you have to comment and like content from others) and they would tell me that they no longer saw my content either. It was all very odd.
Perhaps it was down to changes with the algorithm or maybe it was due to an influx in new people using LinkedIn or changes to social media habits, I’m really not sure but I don’t believe it was down to my content. I have tested it by repurposing old content and it doesn’t get the same levels of engagement or views it once did.
Louisa, get on with it… what’s your biggest business regret??
Yes, I’m getting to that now!
My biggest business regret was not starting a newsletter.
I know social media is like rented real estate but I was giving so much value via social media, I didn’t feel like I needed a newsletter. Yes, I know it was a silly decision but I genuinely felt it wasn’t needed for me, not for the services I offered at the time.
I think a big part of it was down to not being in the right headspace for it. A little bit of imposter syndrome probably kicked in with me thinking why would anyone want to sign up!
So, yes, my regret is not starting a mailing list 3-4 years ago but in my defence, I also had a lot going on and I didn’t want to feel overwhelmed with another thing to do.
What’s changed?
Well, here we are, 2021 and I have given myself a bit of a talking to.
This year I am in a very different headspace, I am taking back control and I have a lot of exciting plans, including the launch of my newsletter, Letters from Louisa.
In comparison to when I launched my business, it is now heading in a different direction and I think a newsletter will be a great avenue for keeping you informed of what is going on.
Don’t worry, I won’t be spamming you. If you like my social media content and you’re feeling frustrated because you rarely see my content, sign up to receive my newsletter.
When you sign up, I won’t spam you and at this moment in time, I won’t guarantee when I will send you it to you. I’m going to opt for the element of surprise but it won’t be daily… I don’t have time for that! ?
Don’t make the same mistake
I know it might not seem like a big deal to you right now but don’t make the same mistake I did.
It might not seem like a big deal but it’s never too late to start an email list.
Be clear in your own mind about why you want to do it, the purpose it will serve and remember, you own a mailing list, so it is down to you to keep your subscribers. Whereas when you’re reliant on social media, the space isn’t yours, you can’t predict the algorithms or any changes.
Who am I?
I’m someone who isn’t afraid to take calculated risks and to admit when they haven’t worked, in my opinion it’s all about growing personally and professionally.
I predominantly work with ambitious Coaches and Creatives, helping them with the practicalities of their business, looking at strategies and tactics to help them grow.
You can find out more about me here.
I would love to know, what is your biggest business regret? Message me now, I would love to hear from you.
Don’t forget, sign up to my newsletter now!
