Diamond Effect - Success Strategies for Service Businesses

Maggie Perotin

This podcast helps service-based entrepreneurs and business owners scale their businesses in any economy without overworking or overwhelm.
Here, you turn your business into a client-attracting gem and become a high-performing CEO.

About the Host:

Maggie Perotin is the founder of Stairway to Leadership. As an international business and leadership coach, Maggie helps service-based business owners start, grow, and scale their businesses without overworking or being overwhelmed.

With her DREAM-PLAN-DO coaching model, her clients scale while transforming into high-performing CEOs of their businesses.

This is what USA Today wrote about this model in the article titled: "How Stairway to Leadership is turning small businesses into high-profit ventures."

"(...) her DREAM-PLAN-DO coaching model, she helps her clients align their mindset, business strategy, and high-performance habits to transform their businesses from an unreliable source of income to a super-productive client-attracting gem. Maggie adds that she uses all her knowledge and experience to help her clients grow their businesses in a strategic and innovative way while supporting them in building a successful business that consistently attracts their ideal clients. She specializes in helping them build a brand that showcases their uniqueness to reach their full potential, becoming the powerful CEO they’re capable of being."

Maggie has over 15 years of experience in corporate leadership in various business domains and coaching. She holds an executive MBA from the Jack Welch Management Institute.

Maggie lives in Toronto, Canada, with her blended family with four kids. She loves spending time in nature, traveling, reading, dancing, good food, and giving back.



To learn more, head to www.stairwaytoleadership.com
To work with Maggie and gain break-through clarity on why your business isn't scaling- schedule a free 50-min consultation https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call

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Episodes

EP # 165 - 5 Reasons Your Sales Conversations Aren’t Converting
Yesterday
EP # 165 - 5 Reasons Your Sales Conversations Aren’t Converting
In this episode, we’re diving into the 5 most common mistakes service-based business owners make in their sales conversations that are costing them clients. If you’ve been struggling to convert leads into paying clients, it’s time to rethink your approach, and this episode will help you with that. Inside I'm breaking down the reasons why your sales conversations aren’t closing deals and what you can do to fix them so you can start signing more clients with ease.Here’s what we cover:Attracting the Wrong AudienceIs your marketing messaging aligned with your ideal clients? Learn why attracting the wrong people from the start means they won’t convert, and how to fine-tune your messaging to bring in the right prospects who are ready to buy.Talking Too Much in the Sales CallAre you spending more time talking than listening? I’ll explain why dominating the conversation leaves you blind to your prospect’s needs and how asking the right questions can uncover their pain points and goals, leading to higher conversions.Talking to the Wrong PersonDiscover how scheduling sales calls with non-decision makers—or when not all decision-makers are present—derails your sales process and wastes time. Find out how to avoid this pitfall so you’re always speaking with the right people.Not Tailoring Your Offer to the Client’s NeedsYou'll learn why a one-size-fits-all sales pitch fails to connect and how you can present your services as the perfect solution by tying your offer directly to your prospect’s pain points and goals.Avoiding or Mishandling ObjectionsDo you freeze up when a client raises a question or concern? I’ll share how to address objections confidently, uncover hidden concerns, and reassure your potential clients so they feel ready to move forward with your services.Tune in to learn how avoiding these 5 mistakes can drastically improve your sales conversations and help you sign more clients!And if you're ready to double your business without adding more work by up-leveling your sales skills, process, and conversions, I can help. Book a sales call with me here and let's talk - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-perotin-business-and-leadership-coach/
EP # 164 - 5 Most Telling Indicators Your Marketing Needs a Makeover
Aug 30 2024
EP # 164 - 5 Most Telling Indicators Your Marketing Needs a Makeover
With today's episode, I kick off a five-part series focused on marketing. I talk about five indicators that will show you, your marketing may be ineffective, such as:Lack of referralsWeak online presenceLow engagementFew inquiriesAttracting the wrong clients.You'll learn how to troubleshoot each one and understand how important messaging is.The episode aims to help service-based business owners evaluate and improve their marketing strategies to better attract and convert potential clients.If you'd like to receive free resources with 50+ strategies sot increase your visibility, e-mail me at magge@stairwaytoleadership.comAnd if you're ready to give your marketing a thorough makeover to make it strategically and consistently attract and convert only your ideal clients, book a sales call with me here https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-callKey Timestamps: Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)Maggie introduces herself and the purpose of the podcast series on marketing.Announcement of Series Start (00:01:36)Details about the five-part series beginning on August 30th, coinciding with her son's birthday.Definition of Marketing (00:02:40)Maggie explains marketing as getting messages to ideal clients and building relationships.Ineffective Networking (00:05:05)Discusses the first indication of ineffective marketing: lack of referrals from networking efforts.Online Presence Issues (00:06:12)The second indication is a weak online presence, including low social media engagement and website visits.Troubleshooting Online Presence (00:07:34)Maggie provides four pointers for improving online marketing effectiveness.Lack of Engagement (00:10:54)The third indicator is low engagement despite having followers, signaling ineffective messaging.No Inquiries from Audience (00:12:03)The fourth indicator is having followers but no inquiries about services, indicating a need for better marketing.Inquiries from Non-Ideal Clients (00:14:16)The fifth indication is receiving inquiries from clients who are not a good fit, highlighting messaging issues.Importance of Messaging (00:15:45)Maggie emphasizes the significance of clear and compelling messaging for effective marketing.
MM 164 - How Strategic Planning Can Double Your Business
Aug 26 2024
MM 164 - How Strategic Planning Can Double Your Business
Lack of a comprehensive strategic plan might be the reason why you've been struggling to scale your business successfully.A plan that would create a path for attracting enough new clients to scale whiledelivering your offers to them at the highest level without growth-related disruptions. Since the new fiscal year has started for some businesses or is coming soon for the rest, today's Magie's Moment talks about the challenges you can prevent by investing your time and effort to create a comprehensive strategic plan. And once you've listened to this podcast, continue reading below:). In today’s dynamic business landscape, having a clear, actionable strategy is essential for success. As a seasoned business coach and consultant, I specialize in helping my clients craft tailored strategies that align with their unique vision and goals. Moreover, I take my services even one step further guiding my clients with the most difficult part: operationalizing and implementing their strategy.Whether you’re looking to refine your business model, explore new market opportunities, or optimize your operations, I am here to guide you every step of the way.Online Strategy SessionsFor business owners who prefer flexibility, my online strategy sessions included in the coaching package offer a convenient way to dive deep into your business challenges and opportunities. Through these personalized sessions, we’ll collaborate to create a comprehensive strategy that drives growth, enhances profitability, and ensures long-term sustainability. With the convenience of remote consultations, you can access expert guidance no matter where you are.In-Person Strategic RetreatsFor businesses with small executive teams, my in-person strategic retreats provide a focused and immersive environment to develop and refine your business strategy. These retreats are designed to facilitate meaningful discussions, foster collaboration, and generate innovative solutions. By stepping away from the day-to-day operations, you and your team will have the space to look at your business from a fresh and zoomed-out perspective, think creatively, align on key priorities, and leave with a clear roadmap for success.Why Choose My Strategic Planning Services?Proprietary T.O.P. CEO Winning Strategy process with Tailored Owner-First Approach: Every business is unique, and so is the strategy I develop with you. I take the time to understand your specific needs and challenges to create a plan that works for you.Proven Expertise: With years of experience working with diverse industries, I bring a wealth of knowledge and proven methodologies to help you achieve your business goals.Long-Term Success: My strategies are not just about short-term gains. I focus on creating sustainable growth and long-term success for your business.Let’s work together to turn your vision into a reality. Whether you prefer the flexibility of online sessions or the immersive experience of a strategic retreat, I’m here to help you navigate the path to success. Ready to create a plan that will lead you to double your business without adding more work? Book a sales call with me here -  https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call
EP # 163 - The Daily Practice of Business Success: Building Unshakeable Belief as a CEO
Aug 23 2024
EP # 163 - The Daily Practice of Business Success: Building Unshakeable Belief as a CEO
In this episode, we'll dive into the crucial mindset shift that every small service-based business owner needs to make to achieve their next big goal—especially if it's something you've never done before. We explore how cultivating a strong belief in your business success is not just about hoping or wishing for it but expecting it with certainty.Key Topics Covered:Building Your CEO Identity:Discover how to step into the identity of the CEO who has already achieved the results you desire.Understand how this version of you feels, acts, and makes decisions.Learn practical steps to embody this identity every day.Expecting Results with Certainty:Learn the difference between hoping for success and expecting it.Why certainty is key to achieving your business goals.How to cultivate this mindset daily to reinforce your belief in your inevitable success.Daily Practice for Strong Belief:Why this mindset doesn't just happen on its own.Simple, actionable tips to make believing in your business success a daily habit.How to integrate this practice into your routine to stay focused and motivated.Action Steps for Listeners:Start identifying the characteristics of the CEO you want to become.Reflect on how that version of you would handle current challenges and opportunities.Implement daily practices to reinforce your belief in your business’s success.Thank You for Listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with other small business owners who would benefit from these insights. Let's continue to grow and succeed together!And if you're ready to double your business without adding more work with my T.O.P. CEO Performance Enhancer Formula, tailored to your unique situation through private coaching with me, book your initial sales call here - https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call
EP # 161 - A Guide for High-Achievers: What to Do When You Don't Feel You're Doing Enough to Double Your Service Business
Aug 9 2024
EP # 161 - A Guide for High-Achievers: What to Do When You Don't Feel You're Doing Enough to Double Your Service Business
Welcome to this week’s episode of "High-Achiever’s Hustle," where I tackle the pressure of feeling like you’re never doing enough, especially when it comes to scaling your service business. Today, we're diving into three key strategies to help you recognize and affirm that you're on the right path to doubling your business without falling into the trap of hustle culture. 1. Aligning with a Tailored Strategy: Success isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things. 2. Trusting Your Actions and Tracking Results: Confidence in your efforts is crucial. I delve into the importance of trusting that your actions are sufficient while simultaneously setting up effective tracking mechanisms.3. Recognizing and Managing Hustle Culture Anxiety: Finally, I address the anxiety that often comes with the pressure of always being "on" and constantly busy. Understand how to break free from the need to hustle and focus on meaningful, results-oriented actions.Tune in to get actionable insights and practical tips that will help you feel more confident and assured in your journey to business growth.And if you're ready to double your business without adding more work while having the best coach by your side helping you to get there faster, and easier while saving yourself a lot of mistakes, wasted time & money, let's talk. Book a sales call with me here today - https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call
EP # 160 - 5 False Beliefs Preventing You From Getting Things Done Consistently
Aug 2 2024
EP # 160 - 5 False Beliefs Preventing You From Getting Things Done Consistently
In today's episode, I discuss five common false beliefs hindering entrepreneurs' productivity. These beliefs often stem from previous employee mindsets and can prevent consistent task execution. You'll learn strategies to shift thinking, prioritize effectively, and embrace delegation. If you are ready to double your business through strategic small actions taken consistently without adding more work to your schedule, I can help. Book a sales call with here today and let's talk about how - https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call Key Time Stamps:Importance of Mindset (00:01:26)Maggie emphasizes the significance of mindset in achieving business success and effectiveness.False Belief #1: Task Obligation (00:02:37)Discussion on the belief that entrepreneurs must complete tasks they dislike stems from an employee mindset.Perspective Shift: You Are the CEO (00:04:57)Maggie encourages listeners to recognize their autonomy in decision-making as business leaders.Owning Your Choices (00:06:00)Listeners are urged to commit to their choices, even when faced with discomfort or challenges.Self-Relationship and Leadership (00:09:43)Maggie highlights the importance of self-acceptance and confidence in leading oneself and the business.False Belief #2: Doing It All at Once (00:12:17)Discussion on the misconception that one must accomplish everything immediately, leading to overwhelm.Prioritization Strategy (00:13:31)Maggie introduces the Pareto Principle, emphasizing the importance of focusing on key tasks for maximum results.False Belief #3: Delegation Doubts (00:14:51)Exploration of beliefs that hinder effective delegation, including fears of losing control or finding capable help.False Belief #4: Overwhelm from Too Much to Do (00:17:11)Maggie challenges the belief of having too much to do, stressing the importance of realistic boundaries.Proactive Planning (00:19:24)Listeners are encouraged to be proactive in planning to avoid feeling overwhelmed by unexpected tasks.CEO Power Hour (00:21:34)Maggie introduces the concept of a weekly planning hour to help entrepreneurs gain perspective and prevent overwhelm.False Belief #5: Uncertainty in Starting (00:22:47)Discussion on the common fear of not knowing where to start, leading to inaction and confusion.Constructive Questioning Technique (00:22:47)Maggie suggests asking oneself what if they knew how to start, to shift from confusion to problem-solving.Identifying Help Needed (00:23:54)Discussion on recognizing when help is needed and exploring various sources for assistance.Delegating Tasks (00:24:47)Emphasis on the importance of delegating tasks and overcoming discomfort in executing familiar tasks.Focusing on Critical Tasks (00:25:53)Encouragement to concentrate on 20% of tasks that yield 80% of business results for effective growth.
EP # 159 - How to accomplish more in less time - factors you've never considered before
Jul 26 2024
EP # 159 - How to accomplish more in less time - factors you've never considered before
In this episode of the Diamond Effect podcast, Maggie Perotin, an international business and leadership coach, discusses how business leaders and entrepreneurs can achieve more in less time. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth in three key areas: skill set development, time (focus) management, and emotional capacity. Maggie explains that tasks become more complex as businesses scale, requiring leaders to continuously improve their skills, manage their time effectively, and enhance their emotional resilience. She shares personal anecdotes and stories to bring the topic to life. If you're ready to double your business without adding more work to your days, book a sales call with Maggie here https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-callKey Time Stamps:Introduction to the Episode (00:00:01)Maggie introduces herself and the podcast's focus on achieving more in less time.Referring to Previous Episode (00:01:21)Maggie discusses the importance of inner work and delegation mentioned in episode 157.Complexity of Business Growth (00:02:39)As businesses scale, tasks become more complex, requiring ongoing skill development.Skill Set Development (00:03:49)Maggie emphasizes the importance of improving skill sets for efficiency and quality in business tasks.Time Management and Focus (00:10:05)Effective prioritization and planning are crucial for maximizing productivity and managing time.Emotional Capacity in Business (00:11:25)Maggie explains how emotional resilience impacts decision-making and handling business challenges.Examples of Emotional Capacity Growth (00:13:08)She shares examples of how emotional capacity evolves as entrepreneurs gain experience.Handling Client Complaints (00:16:44)Maggie discusses the need for quick decision-making when addressing client complaints as businesses grow.Managing Finances and Emotional Resilience (00:20:14)The emotional capacity to handle financial changes is essential for business growth and stability.Conclusion and Call to Action (00:21:27)Maggie invites listeners to engage further and provides contact information for coaching inquiries.
EP # 158 - Running a successful mortgage brokerage  in a way that makes you happy with Dan Wowk, owner of Zoom Mortgage
Jul 19 2024
EP # 158 - Running a successful mortgage brokerage in a way that makes you happy with Dan Wowk, owner of Zoom Mortgage
In this episode, Maggie interviews one of her clients Dan Wowk, a successful mortgage broker, and the owner of Zoom Mortage Brokerage. They delve into Dan's entrepreneurial journey, exploring the stages of his business growth, overcoming challenges, and key learnings from our coaching relationship. Key Moments in the Episode:1. Introduction to the Guest: The episode kicks off with Dan sharing his background, explaining his passion for the industry, and the reasons behind choosing this particular career path.2. Stages of Business Growth: Dan recounts the main stages of his business growth, highlighting both the prosperous and challenging times. We discuss how he adapted and pivoted in response to various challenges, sharing specific examples and strategies that helped him navigate through the tougher periods.3. Maintaining Motivation: In this section Dan shares personal anecdotes about what kept him going during harder times, emphasizing the significance of having deeper motivations and a strong support system.4. A-HA Moments from Coaching: As my business coaching client, Dan reflects on some of the biggest A-HA moments he's had during coaching. We discuss how these insights have impacted his approach to business and how he plans to implement these learnings moving forward.5. Final Thoughts and Advice: The episode concludes with Dan offering additional advice to fellow entrepreneurs that you don't want to miss. To connect with Dan, visit his website:https://www.mortgageweb.ca/danwowkwww.zoommortgage.ca
EP # 157 - How to double your service business and end work by 4pm
Jul 12 2024
EP # 157 - How to double your service business and end work by 4pm
In this episode of the Diamond Effect podcast, international business and leadership coach Maggie Perotin shares strategies for doubling your business and finishing work by 4 pm. She emphasizes the importance of elevating one's CEO mindset, strategic planning, and prioritizing impactful actions. Maggie highlights the role of business owners as leaders and the necessity of personal growth for business success. She discusses effective delegation, outsourcing, and the development of leadership skills. Maggie provides practical advice on creating streamlined processes and time management.Ready to double your business and finish work by 4 pm to enjoy the fruits of your hard work? Book a sales call with Maggie here - https://calendly.com/maggie-s2l/discovery-call - to talk about how you can get there given your specific situation. Timestamps:The importance of mindset (00:00:01) Maggie emphasizes the role of mindset in business success and the need for personal growth as a leader.Changing work habits (00:01:40) Maggie discusses the possibility of reducing work hours, taking Fridays off, and the importance of intentional preparation for business growth.Creating a structured business (00:02:51) Maggie emphasizes the need to intentionally prepare the business structure to support reduced work hours and vacations without compromising business goals.Starting with a strategic plan (00:04:00) Maggie highlights the importance of starting with a strategic plan to understand the current state of the business and identify areas for improvement.Implementing the strategy (00:07:48) Maggie discusses the importance of implementing the strategy and prioritizing actions to achieve business growth.Commitment and boundaries (00:13:59) Maggie addresses the need for commitment to finishing work by 4 pm and the importance of setting boundaries for personal time.Delegating and outsourcing (00:21:43) Maggie explains the significance of delegating and outsourcing tasks to create more opportunities and generate revenue in the business.Delegation and Outsourcing (00:24:10) Maggie discusses the importance of proper hiring systems and delegating tasks that are not your strengths.Bookkeeping and Business Growth (00:25:17) The significance of delegating tasks as your business grows and focusing on CEO responsibilities.Streamlining and Automating (00:26:23) The need to streamline and automate processes before outsourcing administrative work.Developing Leadership Skills (00:27:28) The importance of developing leadership skills to manage and lead a team effectively.