Is it possible that you are so used to the way you do things that you are missing out on a better way?
Are there tools available to you that could help you market, make your life easier, or increase productivity? This month we are exploring this idea.
I’ve been working on a presentation for the ICF Midwest Regional Conference over the past several weeks. My topic is cutting edge online tools for coaches. In order to create a meaningful presentation I had to go outside the usual suspects and explore what is actually out there.
It’s been a fascinating trip and I have uncovered some really fabulous tools that are good for all kinds of businesses. In addition to the tools I’m discovering I’ve learned a couple of valuable lessons.
1. Complacency is dangerous
It is so very easy to get comfortable with what we know. After all, we’re busy and taking the time to explore potential opportunities can feel overwhelming. When will we find the time??
However, if we don’t take the time we can miss out on opportunities, resources, and tools that can elevate our growth. There is value in setting aside even a small amount of time to explore what’s new.
2. Opportunities abound
I don’t know about you, but I had really gotten used to the idea that there were really only a handful of valuable online resources and the rest were simply trying to duplicate what was already there. The big 5 seemed to be all that was needed. And then I started exploring. What I found amazed me. There are all kinds of affordable, intuitive, results-oriented programs available for web and phone that are designed to help us in our businesses.
3. Step out
Step outside the bubble that is the known tools and explore what else may be out there. I’ll give you an example. In my travels I came across a site – erlibird.com. This is a place where you can find out about cutting edge programs that have just launched or are launching. And you can sign up as a beta tester. You get to use the site for free and then provide feedback. Through this site I found something called 12ish. It’s a platform you set up where people can sign up and pay for 12 minutes of your time. It’s like a micro consultation. I love this idea and am in the process of finalizing setup so I can offer it through my site, blog, etc. It’s a unique way to interact with your prospect base.
And there are others out there as well. The list was amazing! Check it out for yourself. Or Google a topic and see what comes up.
The point is to commit to yourself that you’ll take some time to explore the world of options and opportunities. You’ll agree to avoid complacency and realize that new things are being created every day. And some of those things might just be invaluable to your business success.
Is there something you’ve discovered that works well for your business? Share it with me and I’ll pass it on to my connections.