Enthusiastically Self-Employed: business tips, marketing tips, and LinkedIn tips for coaches, consultants, speakers, authors, solopreneurs & small business owners

Brenda Meller

Enthusiastically Self-Employed is designed for you if you’re self-employed as a coach, consultant, speaker, author, solopreneur, or small business owner. Listen in for business, marketing, and LinkedIn tips, sprinkled in with stories along the way.

Listen to Enthusiastically Self-Employed for education and insights to help you to be successful and support the love you have of your business, while also supporting your bottom line. That means growing your revenue, reducing your expenses, and optimizing your processes.

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Episodes

Why Mindset Matters In Business Growth with Terry Bean Ep 143
6d ago
Why Mindset Matters In Business Growth with Terry Bean Ep 143
Why Mindset Matters In Business Growth with Terry Bean Ep 143First aired on YouTube on March 26, 2024. Watch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/89y2g4ptRjo?sub_confirmation=1Key Tips from Terry BeanEmbrace a Growth Mindset: Be open to learning and improvement. Understand that challenges are opportunities for growth. (00:04:36)Cultivate an Abundance Mentality: Share knowledge and opportunities with others. Believe that there is enough for everyone to succeed. (00:06:28)Practice Co-opetition: Collaborate with competitors to create a stronger industry. Find ways to work together for mutual benefit. (00:06:49)Be Intentional: Focus on your core offerings and avoid distractions. Don't be afraid to say no to opportunities that don't align with your goals. (00:23:31)Invest in Personal Branding: Build a strong personal brand that reflects your values and expertise. This will attract ideal clients and opportunities. (00:21:23)Build Genuine Relationships: Network with others to build strong relationships. Focus on quality over quantity. (00:19:28)Continuously Learn and Adapt: Stay up-to-date on industry trends and develop new skills. Be willing to adapt to change. (00:04:36)LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
Transform Your LinkedIn Profile with a Mini-Audit Featuring Dr. Sina Smith Ep 142
Dec 9 2024
Transform Your LinkedIn Profile with a Mini-Audit Featuring Dr. Sina Smith Ep 142
Are you a solopreneur, business professional, or solopreneur looking to get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie? Listen to this LinkedIn profile mini-audit of Dr. Sina Smith - Medical doctor, speaker, author. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinasmithmd/TIPS we covered include:▪️ Optimizing your ABOUT statement to speak to your ideal target audience▪️ Setting up a company page. Video + blog: https://www.mellermarketing.com/blog/how-to-create-a-company-page-on-linkedin-free▪️ Adding in marketing messages in your LinkedIn Header ▪️ And more! Want a LinkedIn profile mini-audit? If you're a coach / consultant / solopreneur, download these 15 LinkedIn Profile tips -- or my "LinkedIn for Speakers" checklist, and follow the instructions in the final email: https://www.mellermarketing.com/listhttps://www.mellermarketing.com/linkedin-for-speakersLinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
Position Yourself as an Expert Filling your Calendar with Ready-to-Say-YES Clients - Ep 141
Dec 2 2024
Position Yourself as an Expert Filling your Calendar with Ready-to-Say-YES Clients - Ep 141
Position Yourself as an Expert Filling your Calendar with Ready-to-Say-YES Clients - featuring Laurie-Ann Murabito Watch it on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/sH9GrBsgOJ8?sub_confirmation=1Key Takeaways from the Interview: How to Position Yourself as an Expert and Attract Ready-to-Say-Yes ClientsUnderstanding Your Target Audience (00:04:25)Conduct market research to identify your ideal client's preferences and habits.Ask current and past clients about the associations and conferences they attend.Leveraging Your Network (00:07:34)Start with your warm market: approach associations and groups you're already a member of.Use the "open the door" approach: ask who's responsible for booking speakers and inquire about their process.Understanding Conference Dynamics (00:11:25)Research conference themes and identify gaps where your expertise can add value.Tailor your presentation topics to align with the conference's focus.Pay attention to the format and style of past presentations to understand the organizers' preferences.Crafting Compelling Pitches (00:13:46)Write provocative and engaging titles that grab attention.Offer flexibility in customizing your presentation to fit the specific needs of the event.Be prepared to provide multiple title options for the organizers to choose from.Building Relationships with Event Planners (00:21:16)Establish rapport with conference organizers and meeting planners.Be patient and persistent, as it may take time to secure speaking opportunities.Follow up with organizers to stay top of mind and express your continued interest.Utilizing Online Resources (00:23:53)Use Google to search for associations and conferences in your target industry.Leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to generate creative and engaging presentation titles.LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
LinkedIn Tips for Coaches & Speakers. A LinkedIn Profile Mini-Audit of Melissa Trumble Ep 140
Nov 25 2024
LinkedIn Tips for Coaches & Speakers. A LinkedIn Profile Mini-Audit of Melissa Trumble Ep 140
Are you a coach or speaker looking to get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie? Listen to this LinkedIn profile mini-audit of Melissa Trumble https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-trumble/Watch this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/o822Swv9BsATIPS we covered include:▪️  Updating your LinkedIn Header Image to match your current business goals, changing it as frequently as weekly, but at minimum once a year▪️ Zoom in on your Headshot Photo, to make you appear more important, approachable, and personable. ▪️ Creating a company page▪️ And more! Want a LinkedIn profile mini-audit? If you're a coach / consultant / solopreneur, download these 15 LinkedIn Profile tips, and follow the instructions in the final email: https://www.mellermarketing.com/listLinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
Leveraging Book Content for Effective Marketing with Pooja Arshanapally Ep 136
Nov 4 2024
Leveraging Book Content for Effective Marketing with Pooja Arshanapally Ep 136
Here are the key takeaways from the podcast discussion about Leveraging Book Content for Effective Marketing with Pooja ArshanapallyMarketing Strategy:• Start repurposing content on the platform where you already have the strongest presence/ROI• Test different platforms for about a month to measure effectiveness• Begin marketing 6-12 months before book launch to build anticipation and engagement• Consider the book as part of your overall business strategy, not just focus on book sales• Be consistent with posting and build relationships before pushing salesContent Repurposing Tips:• Break down chapters into bite-sized pieces for social media posts• Share content that didn't make it into the book as supplemental material• Create different formats (video, text, graphics) to reach different audience preferences• Use square images that work across multiple platforms• Don't worry if you've shared all the content - people prefer having it collected in book form• Focus on one book at a time if topics are different, or combine if themes are similarPlatform Selection:• Choose platforms based on where your target audience spends time• Test multiple platforms but track results to determine effectiveness• You don't have to be on every platform - focus on what works for you and your audience• It's okay to avoid platforms you strongly dislike, but consider stepping out of your comfort zoneContent Ideas:• Pull quotes from the book• Share testimonials• Create carousel posts explaining concepts• Develop series based on individual chapters• Share statistics and factual statements• Include behind-the-scenes content about writing processGeneral Advice:• Don't be afraid to repeat content - people appreciate repetition• Use content repurposing to support broader business goals beyond book sales• Build relationships with audience before pushing sales• Treat online marketing similar to in-person networking - build relationships first• Consider getting help with content repurposing if needed through consultation or execution servicesLinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
LinkedIn Profile Mini-Audit Featuring Barb Nangle Ep 134
Oct 21 2024
LinkedIn Profile Mini-Audit Featuring Barb Nangle Ep 134
Are you a solopreneur, business professional, or solopreneur looking to get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie? Watch this LinkedIn profile mini-audit of Barb Nangle, who is a coach and speaker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbnangle/TIPS we covered include:▪️ Having a zoomed in Headshot Photo, focusing mainly on your face▪️  Being intentional with your marketing message in your LinkedIn Header Image and changing the message periodically▪️ Linking your company page to your profile▪️ Suggested LinkedIn Headline updates▪️ And more! Want a LinkedIn profile mini-audit? If you're a coach / consultant / solopreneur, download these 15 LinkedIn Profile tips, and follow the instructions in the final email: https://www.mellermarketing.com/listOR if you're a speaker:I've created a "LinkedIn for Speakers Checklist" which you can download here: https://www.mellermarketing.com/linkedin-for-speakersLinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
Signs that Your LinkedIn Trainer Isn’t a LinkedIn Expert Ep 133
Oct 16 2024
Signs that Your LinkedIn Trainer Isn’t a LinkedIn Expert Ep 133
Thinking of hiring someone to help you with LinkedIn? BEWARE of the so-called "LinkedIn Experts" who really aren't! In this podcast, I review these 14 Signs that Your LinkedIn Trainer Isn’t a LinkedIn ExpertOutdated headshot photo or photo isn’t zoomed in.URL is not simplifiedHeader isn’t optimized: information is hard to read on mobile; photos aren’t relevant for ideal target audience; name is larger than most other text in the header image.City instead of metro areaCompany page or education has a gray avatar in their top header cardContact info doesn’t have any websites, or websites are invalid / outdatedAbout statement is about them, not about how they help their clients.About statement is missing personal information; it’s all about their company only.Featured section isn’t enabled at all OR has outdated links (1+ year old)They aren’t posting at all, or they are posting more than once a day.Their posts aren’t getting any comments or they are ignoring comments on their posts. They aren’t spending any time Commenting on their connections’ posts.They are missing a CTA in their experience section.Zero recommendations received or given OR no current recommendations received or given (in the current year).LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
LinkedIn Trifecta Talks: Insider Insights and Expert Advice Ep 132
Oct 12 2024
LinkedIn Trifecta Talks: Insider Insights and Expert Advice Ep 132
Welcome to our LinkedIn Trifecta Talks! Speakers:Brenda Meller, LinkedIn CoachMichelle B. Griffin, Personal Brand PR StrategistMichelle J. Raymond, B2B LinkedIn SpecialistKey Points:LinkedIn Games: All three speakers found the new LinkedIn games to be confusing and a bad user experience. They questioned their value and suggested LinkedIn focus on improving existing features.The speakers discussed the games' complexity and how they distracted from more productive LinkedIn activities.Mobile Video Feed: Brenda, a beta tester, has limited experience with the feature and finds the content irrelevant. Michelle B. Griffin dislikes the short attention span nature of video feeds. Michelle J. Raymond expects the feature to be monetized heavily with ads. They all agree it feels like a copycat feature from other platforms. Brenda mentioned that the feed is difficult to find on the mobile app and lacks a clear purpose. Michelle B. Griffin expressed concerns about its impact on attention span and productivity. Michelle J. Raymond predicted that LinkedIn would use the feature to increase ad revenue.Premium Pages: Brenda has not seen the option for her pages, while Michelle J. Raymond finds the features underwhelming. They believe LinkedIn should have done better user research and offered features page admins would actually pay for. Brenda suggests LinkedIn involve LinkedIn coaches and trainers in discussions about platform development.Michelle J. Raymond shared her disappointment with the limited features offered by Premium Pages, which she felt were not worth the cost. She suggested that LinkedIn should have consulted with page admins to understand their needs.Books / Other Projects: Michelle B. Griffin is writing a book titled "Standout Women: How to Become an Authority in Your Space". Michelle J. Raymond is focusing on refining her existing work, including her co-authored book "Business Gold: The Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn for Business". Brenda Meller has launched a new membership program called Marketing with Meller, as well as continuing to launch her course "The Recipe for Social Selling on LinkedIn".Michelle B. Griffin discussed her experience writing her book and the challenges she faced. Michelle J. Raymond shared her plans to focus on refining her existing work. Brenda Meller talked about the benefits of her new membership program.Future Plans: Michelle J. Raymond is speaking at a conference in Denmark about LinkedIn company pages. Brenda Meller highlighted the value of her LinkedIn course and webinars for those looking to improve their social selling skills.Areas of Focus:LinkedIn Best Practices: The speakers provided insights on effective LinkedIn strategies, including content creation, networking, and lead generatioLinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
The New Yahoo & Google Email Deliverability Requirements w. Kendra Corman Ep 129
Oct 2 2024
The New Yahoo & Google Email Deliverability Requirements w. Kendra Corman Ep 129
A live chat with Brenda Meller and Kendra Corman on Yahoo and Google Email Deliverability RequirementsOriginally aired LIVE on Tuesday, April 9, 2024Questions Kendra answers during the podcast:What are the requirements for Yahoo and Google email deliverability? (3:44)What is the difference between a DMARC and DKIM code? (4:52)Does the one-click unsubscribe button at the top of the email unsubscribe from the entire list or mark it as spam? (6:58)How often should small business owners and solopreneurs clean their email lists? (9:09)What is the impact of inactive subscribers on email deliverability? (9:00)What is a good open rate for emails? (12:55)How can recipients mark emails as safe senders to avoid the junk folder? (14:54)What is the best way to get people on an email list? (16:55)What are the three most important things to consider when writing an email subject line? (19:58)Are there any tools recommended for testing email subject lines? (20:58)LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
The 2nd Time I Reached 67,000 LinkedIn Followers Ep 128
Sep 30 2024
The 2nd Time I Reached 67,000 LinkedIn Followers Ep 128
In this episode, I discuss that I reached 67,000 followers on LinkedIn for the 2nd time. Main points I discuss:Follower Growth: I recently reached 67,000 followers on LinkedIn for the second time.LinkedIn's Data Purge: I experienced a drop in followers due to LinkedIn's removal of fake accounts in 2023Tracking Follower Growth: I use Shield Analytics (use my code to get 10% off: https://www.shieldapp.ai/?via=brenda) to track my follower data and identify trends.Quality Over Quantity: I focus on creating valuable content for my target audience rather than just aiming for a high follower count.Celebrating Milestones: I'm excited to continue growing my LinkedIn following and reaching new milestones.Key Takeaways for YOU:Track your follower growth: Use tools like Shield Analytics to monitor your progress and identify trends.Focus on quality followers: Prioritize creating valuable content that resonates with your target audience.Celebrate milestones: Acknowledge your achievements and share them with your followers.Be patient: Building a strong following takes time and consistent effort.Learn from your data: Analyze your follower data to understand what works and what doesn't.LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
LinkedIn Profile Tips - a Mini-Audit of Michelle Gilbert by Brenda Meller Ep 125
Sep 18 2024
LinkedIn Profile Tips - a Mini-Audit of Michelle Gilbert by Brenda Meller Ep 125
Are you a solopreneur, business professional, or solopreneur looking to get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn Pie? Listen to this LinkedIn profile mini-audit of Michelle Gilbert. https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellebgilbert/LinkedIn Profile Tips from Brenda MellerHeadshot and Banner:Update your headshot regularly.Incorporate your logo into the banner for branding.Keep the banner visually appealing and relevant to your target audience.Consider changing the banner periodically to keep it fresh.Headline:Experiment with different wording to make your headline more engaging and optimized for search.Use keywords that your target audience would search for.About and Experience Sections:Highlight your expertise and how you can help your clients.Don't be afraid to repeat key information in both sections.Include a call to action in your Experience section to encourage engagement.Skills:Use skills strategically in both sections to improve your profile's visibility.Focus on the top five skills that are most relevant to your work.Consider using fewer skills in your Experience section to avoid truncation.Additional Tips:Post regularly to maintain a strong online presence.Consider adding a downloadable resource or email signup option to your profile.Use a consistent tone and style throughout your profile.Want a LinkedIn profile mini-audit? If you're a coach / consultant / solopreneur, download these 15 LinkedIn Profile tips, and follow the instructions in the final email: https://www.mellermarketing.com/listWatch this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gJ1_-X-KuO8LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)
Riding the Waves: Balancing Energy & Relaxation Through Ups & Downs Ep 124
Sep 16 2024
Riding the Waves: Balancing Energy & Relaxation Through Ups & Downs Ep 124
After a brief break from episodes -- I'M BACK! Key topics discussed in this episode:Reason for podcast hiatus: Increased workload and events, especially after back-to-school season.Balancing podcasting with business: Struggles of maintaining a regular schedule while focusing on client work.Seasonal fluctuations in business: Experiences of ups and downs in revenue throughout the year.Strategies for managing expenses: Adjusting spending based on income levels.Self-care and burnout prevention: Importance of rest and relaxation, as exemplified by a recent hammock experience.Future plans for the podcast: Incorporating audience questions and expanding on LinkedIn topics.Call to action: Encourages listeners to subscribe, review, and suggest topics.LinkedIn "Power Hours" (Single Session, x4, x12)Each package includes: LinkedIn consulting / coaching, personalized to your needs and focusing on your questions.Review of LinkedIn profile / company page to provide guidance / advice / recommendationshttps://www.mellermarketing.com/powerhour **************************************My name is Brenda Meller. I'm a LinkedIn coach, consultant, speaker, and author. My company is Meller Marketing and I help business professionals get a bigger slice of the LinkedIn pie. Visit mellermarketing.com Let's connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendameller (click MORE to invite me to connect and mention you listened to my podcast)