Episódios
-
“If you sit down and really make sure that your profile resonates and is truly you, it feels good, and you smile. Ultimately, you become a person who doesn't have to look for a job. Jobs find you. You become a person whose phone rings because there are opportunities, because people know you, remember you, have worked with you, and they want to work with you again.”
—Donna Serdula
The finer details of this episode:
Importance of personal branding on LinkedInShift in perception of the platformChallenges of creating and maintaining a professional presence on social mediaControlling one's personal brand and its impact on career opportunitiesShowcasing values, actions, and descriptions to create a strong and memorable brandBalancing professionalism with personal authenticity on LinkedInImportance of consistency and cadence in posting content on LinkedInEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddchttps://Donnanaserdula.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/toDonnana/Timestamps:
The importance of personal branding on LinkedIn (00:01:13)
Discussion on the psychology behind personal branding and deliberate control of perception.
The shift in perception of LinkedIn (00:02:07)
The change from a passive networking platform to a more active and personal branding platform.
The challenges of maintaining a professional presence on social media (00:02:44)
Struggles with the perception of LinkedIn as a purely professional platform and the fear of being too personal.
The evolving concept of professionalism on LinkedIn (00:04:25)
Debunking the traditional image of professionalism and the need to move away from the concept of a suit and tie.
The importance of personal branding for career growth (00:08:08)
Emphasizing the significance of personal branding for career development and the need to control one's brand.
Strategies for personal branding on LinkedIn (00:09:49)
Discussion on the vision, mission, and consistent portrayal of oneself to create a strong personal brand.
The value of personal connection in professional work (00:12:49)
The significance of bringing one's whole self to work and the impact of personal connections in professional settings.
The time and effort required for effective LinkedIn utilization (00:15:49)
The need for strategic planning, time investment, and iterative work to create a strong LinkedIn profile.
Overcoming psychological barriers to posting on LinkedIn (00:18:16)
Dealing with the negative psychology and vulnerability associated with posting on LinkedIn.
The positivity of LinkedIn (00:19:08)
Discussion about the positive and professional atmosphere of LinkedIn compared to other social media platforms.
Building a professional network (00:20:08)
The importance of surrounding oneself with positive and empowering connections on LinkedIn.
Creating an authentic LinkedIn profile (00:21:06)
Encouragement to take control of one's image on LinkedIn, making the profile authentic and aligned with personal goals.
Utilizing LinkedIn for professional relationships (00:22:00)
The significance of researching and checking out profiles on LinkedIn for business interactions.
Starting and maintaining a LinkedIn profile (00:24:43)
Encouragement for individuals to start their LinkedIn journey and the emotional component of personal branding.
Success on LinkedIn and real-world relationships (00:26:23)
Emphasizing the importance of moving beyond LinkedIn to build real-world relationships for professional success.
Consistency and storytelling on LinkedIn (00:33:42)
The importance of consistency in posting and sharing on LinkedIn, drawing parallels with a story from "The Little Prince."
Balancing positivity and authenticity on LinkedIn (00:37:01)
Encouragement to not overthink posting on LinkedIn and to share authentic experiences without worrying about being too cringey.
Personal Branding on LinkedIn (00:37:50)
Donna discusses the importance of posting on LinkedIn to develop personal branding and shares tips for creating engaging content.
Encouragement and Personal Growth (00:40:43)
The hosts and Donna share personal experiences and offer encouragement for those feeling behind in their professional journey.
Expanding Your Network on LinkedIn (00:43:08)
Donna advises expanding the LinkedIn network to gain diverse perspectives and avoid feeling stuck in comparison.
Investing in Personal Branding (00:45:18)
Donna emphasizes the value of investing in personal branding and recommends utilizing free resources for self-improvement.
Personal Life and Interests (00:46:38)
Donna shares personal insights about being a mother and having a son with special needs, offering a broader perspective for her work.
-
"Alignment is going in the same direction, fighting for the same things, and looking at the same big picture together.” – Rachel Gertz
The finer details of this episode:
● Importance of project management and operations in digital agencies and creative studios
● Challenges in project management and the need for alignment between sales and project management
● Solutions to improve communication and alignment between departments
● Importance of understanding client goals and business objectives during the sales process
● Concept of time in the sales process and optimizing operations for long-term efficiency
● The three questions of project management: "Where are we? Where are we going? Are we okay?"
● Importance of ongoing alignment, regular check-ins, and alignment exercises for client satisfaction and project success
Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
Connect with Rachel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-gertz-trainer/Check out Louder than Ten here: https://louderthanten.comTimestamps:
Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)
Introduction to the podcast and anticipation of the upcoming discussion with Rachel Gertz.
Insights from Rachel Gertz's Interview (00:00:14)
Discussion about the valuable tips and insights shared by Rachel Gertz in the podcast episode.
Improving Client Onboarding Process (00:00:36)
The importance of implementing new client onboarding strategies and the potential impact on client efficiency and improvements.
Implementing Advice from Rachel Gertz (00:01:11)
Encouragement to implement the advice shared by Rachel Gertz and the anticipation of positive outcomes from the episode.
Introduction of Rachel Gertz and Hannah (00:02:10)
Introduction of Rachel Gertz as the guest and Hannah as the special guest host for the episode.
Rachel Gertz's Background and Passion (00:02:35)
Insight into Rachel Gertz's background, passion for project management, and the focus of Louder Than Ten.
Rachel Gertz's Transition to Project Management (00:03:15)
Rachel Gertz's transition to project management, her background in teaching and education, and her passion for the softer side of project management.
Common Ailments in Project Management (00:05:14)
Identification of common challenges in project management and the impact of misalignment between sales and project management.
Improving Communication Between Departments (00:06:50)
The significance of communication between departments and the need for solutions to ensure effective communication among all departments.
Sales Process and Project Management Handover (00:07:43)
The impact of rushed sales processes and the importance of aligning project goals with business goals for successful project delivery.
Optimizing Sales Process (00:09:00)
Strategies for optimizing the sales process, including vetting criteria, involving subject matter experts, and aligning project goals with business goals.
Project Management Alignment Exercise (00:15:36)
Recommendation to use a client fit matrix for alignment exercises and the importance of regular check-ins to maintain alignment throughout the project.
Weekly Team Check-Ins (00:17:57)
Flexible approaches for weekly team check-ins, including the format, cadence, and the incorporation of project-related health questions.
Guiding Conversations and Asking the Right Questions (00:19:33)
The importance of framing questions to guide conversations and ensure the right answers during check-in meetings.
Each topic title is followed by the starting time of the segment in the podcast episode.
Project Management and Change Management (00:19:48)
Discussion about handling changes in project scope, involving project managers, account managers, and sales.
Flexibility in Project Scoping (00:21:46)
Exploring the idea of designing projects with flexibility and adaptability, and the impact on pricing and project direction.
Believability and Billability of Project Management (00:24:19)
Addressing the struggle of getting project managers and account managers billable, and their role in the project's success.
Post Project Evaluation and Continuous Improvement (00:26:28)
Importance and process of post-project evaluation, including setting a window for project closure and conducting lessons learned sessions.
Favorite Concerts (00:32:38)
Casual discussion about the hosts' favorite concerts and musical interests.
Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:35:28)
Guest's final thoughts on project management, operations, and the importance of slowing down, and sharing contact information for further resources and support.
-
Estão a faltar episódios?
-
“Standing out is great, but conversion is crucial.” – Jason Swenk
It’s hard to build a business if you don’t invest in systems.” – Jason Swenk
The finer details of this episode:
Analysis and insights on building a strong email listSales cycle and close percentageUnique marketing strategiesImportance of systems in building a successful businessConcept of "land and expand"Effectiveness of email marketing campaignsProviding quick financial statements with industry comparisonImportance of creativity and innovation in marketing strategiesEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcCatch the full episode of What All Successful Agencies Have in Common: How to Separate from the Pack, with Tim Condon here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-all-successful-agencies-have-in-common-how-to/id870206013?i=1000653823029Check out Jason here: https://jasonswenk.com/Timestamps:
The welcome (00:00:00)
Introduction to the show "Creative Agency Success Show" and its purpose.
Discussing Jason Swank's podcast (00:00:15)
Introduction to the podcast "The Smart Agency Podcast" and its relevance to the speakers.
Analyzing the podcast episode (00:00:43)
Introducing the episode featuring Tim Condon and discussing its potential impact on the audience.
Building a strong email list (00:02:20)
Discussion on the importance of building a strong email list and the shift in the agency's marketing strategy.
The importance of conversion (00:04:52)
Emphasizing the importance of conversion in marketing efforts and its relevance to the audience.
Sales cycle and close percentage (00:06:11)
Analyzing the sales cycle and close percentage, comparing industry standards, and sharing insights on reducing the sales cycle.
Unique marketing strategy (00:11:15)
Exploring a unique marketing strategy involving leveraging established brands to generate leads and its implications.
Best piece of advice for leaders (00:12:30)
Discussing the best piece of advice for leaders, focusing on utilizing assets and generating what is needed.
Using current assets for sales process (00:14:03)
Sharing an example of using current assets to establish credibility and aid the sales process.
Campaign carnival (00:16:53)
Discussing a unique marketing campaign involving giving away free pizza to generate leads and its success in achieving lead opportunities.
Building a Business with Hefty Systems (00:18:08)
Discussion on the importance of investing in systems for scaling and duplication in marketing and sales.
Developing a Sales Process (00:19:13)
Insight on creating a sales process and thought leadership approach for client acquisition.
Effective Email Marketing Campaign (00:26:44)
The effectiveness of targeted email marketing and the innovation of using a pizza giveaway program for email acquisition.
Land and Expand Sales Strategy (00:29:00)
The concept of quick sales to establish trust and expand client relationships, with a focus on providing a low-cost financial statement as an entry point.
-
“As you're building your business, you're building your agency, you're going to realize that there's some prospects that are just not right. You have to go through that Vegas buffet and get sick and food poisoning because you overate and you ate a lot of the bad shit and you tell yourself, ‘I'm not going to eat those raw craw legs anymore.’” -Jason Swenk
The finer details of this episode:
Jason Swenk's journey from agency owner to consultant and mastermind leaderImportance of knowing target audience and sales process for agency successValue of creating a community of like-minded individuals through mastermindsEmphasis on maintaining a high-quality community over quantity in mastermind groupsImportance of building strong client relationships and conducting thorough researchUnique approach to hiring by setting specific instructions for applicants to followSignificance of qualifying leads early in the sales processValue of personal challenges and experiences in shaping one's perspective and approach to businessEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Jason here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonswenk/Listen to Jason’s podcast here: https://www.agencymastery360.com/podcastCheck out Agency Mastery 360 here: https://jasonswenk.com/Subscribe to Jason’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/jasonswenkTimestamps:
Accidental Agency Owner (00:00:00)
Jason's accidental entry into the agency world and his agency's growth and eventual sale.
Transition to Consulting (00:03:08)
Jason's transition from running an agency to helping other agency owners and the inspiration behind his consulting practice.
Mastermind Community (00:04:45)
Jason's approach to running a mastermind community, its structure, and the experiences it offers to its members.
Exclusive Mastermind (00:08:28)
Jason's encounter with an exclusive mastermind and his decision to create a more genuine and impactful community.
Client Relationships (00:11:51)
Jason's insights on maintaining client relationships and the importance of delivering exceptional service.
Attract, Convert, Scale Methodology (00:14:32)
Jason's methodology for agency growth, focusing on attracting ideal clients, converting leads, and scaling the business.
Interviewing and Hiring (00:20:27)
Jason's advice on the interviewing process and the importance of knowing oneself and researching the client or employer.
Research and Applications (00:21:34)
Discussion on the importance of research in job applications and disqualifying uninterested candidates.
Lack of Research in Agency Pitching (00:22:47)
Personal anecdotes about pitching without proper research and the consequences.
Budgeting and Sales Process (00:25:48)
Strategies for asking for a budget in the sales process and the importance of understanding the client's budget.
Personal Question: Epic Experiences (00:30:29)
Sharing personal epic experiences, including hang gliding, paragliding, and winter backpacking.
Agency Mastery 360 (00:35:52)
Information on accessing free resources and masterclasses for building the ultimate sales team and attracting the perfect client.
-
“After almost 20 years of doing that nonstop, I started to lose myself a little bit. I started to wonder, is this what I want to do for the next chapter of my life? Is there something else out there for me? When I looked around in corporate America, what I realized and what I saw was that there were a lot of people like me. I really wanted to get off autopilot. I felt like nobody in my life was getting the best part of me.” – Traci Barrett
The finer details of this episode:
Review and analysis of The Root of All Success with The Real Jason Duncan’s Beyond HGTV Success Featuring Traci BarrettEmphasis on the unique thought of the episodeExploration of success and life transitionsImportance of identifying the right client fit and company cultureImpact of generosity on business relationships and company cultureTransformational impact of Traci's strategic life mapping processAppreciation for diverse perspectives on success from Jason Duncan's podcastEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Traci here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracischubertbarrett/Check out Navigate the Journey here: https://www.navigatethejourney.com/Check out Traci’s website here: https://www.tracischubertbarrett.com/Catch the full episode here: https://www.therealjasonduncan.com/podcasts/the-root-of-all-success-with-the-real-jason-duncan/episodes/2148159261Timestamps:
The unicorn (00:04:05)
Discussion on the most unique thought of the episode, focusing on success beyond money and titles.
Traci's journey (00:05:28)
Traci's transition from corporate world to entrepreneurship, and the realization of wanting more from life.
Defining success (00:08:03)
Traci's personal definition of success and the importance of using unique talents to have a positive impact.
Visionary vantage (00:13:12)
Discussion on identifying what one wants and why, and the journey to create a different and entrepreneurial company culture.
The client relationship dilemma (00:18:15)
Discussion on deciding whether to take on a lucrative project that doesn't align with company values.
Identifying the right client (00:19:44)
Exploring the importance of understanding if a client is the right fit for the team and the impact of a mismatched client-team relationship.
Learning from mistakes (00:21:29)
Reflecting on the consequences of trying to retain a client who mistreats the team and the importance of addressing such situations promptly.
Generosity and company culture (00:24:12)
Exploring the role of generosity in shaping company culture, fostering relationships, and creating a positive work environment.
The mic drop moment (00:34:55)
Reflecting on the significance of identifying personal motivations and goals, as well as the impact of building meaningful relationships in business.
The strategic life map (00:35:20)
Discussion about the impact of a strategic life map on personal and professional decisions.
Transition to second half of life (00:36:13)
Exploring the concept of transitioning to a new phase in life after achieving initial success.
Impact on personal and professional life (00:37:49)
Reflection on the ups and downs of life and how it influences relationships and career decisions.
Finding passion and purpose (00:40:09)
Discussion about the importance of doing what one loves and finding purpose in daily activities.
Identifying personal "why" (00:42:00)
Exploring the significance of understanding one's motivation and purpose in life and work.
Podcast review and conclusion (00:43:37)
Reflection on the podcast and its value, expressing anticipation for future episodes.
-
Episode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcTimestamps:
The podcasting journey (00:00:14)
Jamie recounts the evolution of the podcast, from its humble beginnings to its current loyal listener base.
Introduction of the new podcast format (00:01:04)
Jamie introduces the new format, inspired by the "Rewatchable" podcast, and discusses the idea of discussing existing material through 11 topics.
The 11 topics of the new format (00:02:49)
Jamie explains the 11 topics that will be used to discuss existing material, ranging from financial advice to marketing and pipeline strategies.
Excitement for the new format (00:08:28)
Jamie expresses excitement and anticipation for the new format, emphasizing the importance of being excited about the podcast's content.
-
“Shifting from advocacy to inquiry is really important, and I think most leaders today are probably advocacy heavy because it's the model that we see most.” – J. Scott
The finer details of this episode:
Importance of leading the way in marketing and working with clientsTransforming high-potential individuals into high-functioning teamsRationalizing tasks and initiatives to align with customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitabilityChange management and involving stakeholders in driving changeApproach to problem-solving and decision-making in leadershipBalancing advocacy and inquiry in leadership and marketingInvolving team members in leadership meetings and problem-solving processEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Jason here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonscott120vc/Check out 120Vc here: https://www.120vc.com/Timestamps:
Leadership and Change Implementation (00:00:14)
Discussion on leadership, change implementation, and project management with J Scott from 120 VC.
Marketing and Thought Leadership (00:00:29)
Transition from thought leadership to marketing strategies and leading teams in marketing efforts.
Creating High Performing Teams (00:01:32)
Introduction to the topic of creating high performing teams with J. Scott from 120 VC.
Transforming Cost Centers to Profit Centers (00:02:32)
Discussion on transforming groups from cost centers to profit centers and focusing on customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitability.
Working with Fortune 1000 Clients (00:02:58)
Details about working with Fortune 1000 clients and the process of transforming various teams within those businesses.
Shifting Mindsets and Canceling Initiatives (00:04:23)
Insights into shifting mindsets, rationalizing initiatives, and repurposing existing team members to create growth.
Impact on Smaller Teams (00:06:17)
Exploration of how smaller teams can contribute to the three pillars of customer satisfaction, team member satisfaction, and profitability.
Applying Marketing Principles to Business (00:08:06)
Comparison of marketing and leadership principles, emphasizing the importance of understanding the underlying business problems.
Creating Demand and Stakeholder Engagement (00:13:27)
Explanation of creating demand for initiatives and engaging stakeholders through experience sharing and shifting mindsets.
Improving Customer Satisfaction through Tools (00:15:59)
Discussion on improving customer satisfaction through the implementation of tools, focusing on the impact on call center operations.
Empowering Teams and Overcoming Obstacles (00:17:37)
Insights into empowering teams, addressing obstacles, and ensuring alignment with day-to-day responsibilities during project implementation.
Crowdsourcing Requirements and Demand (00:18:25)
J. Scott discusses the importance of crowdsourcing requirements and demand from employees to improve business solutions.
Effective Group Problem-Solving (00:20:39)
The conversation explores the effectiveness of group problem-solving and the value of involving employees in the decision-making process.
Balancing Advocacy and Inquiry (00:29:57)
J. Scott emphasizes the importance of shifting from advocacy to inquiry in leadership, seeking input and collaboration from team members.
Final Thoughts and Contact Information (00:32:37)
The speakers share their final thoughts on effective leadership and provide contact information for further engagement.
-
“Clients don’t want to ask us for new ideas; they want us to come to them with new ideas.” Hannah Hood
The finer details of this episode:
● Shortening of the sales cycle indicating a positive shift in the industry
● Trend of clients seeking specialized services from agencies
● Emphasis on the need for agencies to specialize and market their expertise effectively
● Importance of being proactive in presenting new ideas to clients and pricing services based on value
● Significance of building trust with clients and maintaining long-term relationships
● Communication of the value of agency services effectively
● Strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of the agency industry
Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
● https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahchood/
Timestamps:
The welcome (00:00:00)
Introduction and purpose of the podcast episode.
Hannah's agency events (00:00:14)
Discussion about Hannah's experiences at agency events and their importance.
The Build Better Agency Summit (00:00:53)
Highlights from the Build Better Agency Summit and the value of attending such events.
Impact of COVID on the industry (00:01:52)
Discussion on the industry's recovery from the impact of COVID-19 and changes in client behavior.
Shift in client needs and agency specialization (00:05:22)
Insights into the evolving client needs and the importance of agency specialization.
Value-based pricing and client relationships (00:08:20)
Importance of value-based pricing, building client trust, and maintaining long-term relationships.
Pricing strategies and advice (00:12:22)
Insights into pricing strategies, price pressure, and the importance of building trust with clients.
Post-event reflection and team communication (00:16:10)
Recommendations for post-event reflection and team communication to share insights and implement learnings.
Denver Experience (00:17:55)
Discussion about the food, weather, and environment in Denver, and the impact of altitude on the speaker's health.
Effects of Altitude (00:18:30)
The speaker's experience with altitude sickness and the importance of drinking water at high altitudes.
Dryness and Humidity (00:18:54)
The impact of dryness and high altitude on the body, and the need to stay hydrated in such conditions.
Future Plans (00:19:43)
Plans to visit Denver again, and the possibility of meeting up with the hosts for dinner during the next visit.
Appreciation and Conclusion (00:20:00)
Thanking the guest for sharing information and experiences and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in events.
-
Episode Notes:
“Delegation is challenging; it requires a lot of thought process and a lot of preparation. But you shouldn’t try to do everything on your own; use your team. Delegation is about giving them enough information so that they know what the end goal is.” Vicky Brown
The finer details of this episode:
Importance of supporting managers and helping them grow their leadership skillsChallenges of delegation and setting boundaries in leadership rolesEmphasis on teamwork and collaboration within a businessCreating a culture of trust and open communication within the organizationUnderstanding implications of being a multi-state employerEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcwww.idomeneoinc.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/vicky-brown-4160061Morehumanmoreresources.info/podcastgiftTime stamps:
HR conversation (00:00:14)
The conversation covers the broad scope of HR, including coaching, delegation, and more.
Introduction of Vicky Brown (00:01:42)
Vicky Brown introduces herself as an HR professional and shares her background in opera singing.
Vicky's company and clients (00:02:24)
Vicky talks about her HR consulting company, Dominion Enterprises, and her range of clients.
Transition from opera singing to HR (00:04:24)
Vicky shares her transition from an opera singer to an HR professional and the challenges she faced.
Services provided by Vicky's company (00:07:32)
Vicky explains the comprehensive services her company offers, including regulatory compliance, benefits, and payroll administration.
Employee relations and manager coaching (00:08:27)
Vicky emphasizes the importance of employee relations and coaching managers to enhance leadership skills.
Delegation challenges (00:10:30)
Vicky discusses the challenges of delegation and the need for proper training and trust in the delegation process.
Setting boundaries for delegation (00:14:08)
The discussion addresses the need for clear boundaries and healthy communication in delegation, especially between leaders and team members.
Preparation for effective delegation (00:18:15)
Vicky emphasizes the importance of preparation and effective communication in the delegation process.
The importance of team collaboration (00:20:28)
Discussing the value of incorporating the team's input and perspective into decision-making processes.
Delegating responsibilities in a leadership team (00:21:22)
Exploring the role of a leader in delegating tasks and allowing team members to contribute their expertise.
Creating a culture of trust and collaboration (00:22:43)
Emphasizing the significance of fostering an environment of trust and open communication within the team to create a positive work culture.
Strategies for effective collaboration (00:23:21)
Discussing the approach of setting goals and strategies, and the importance of open communication and feedback in the collaboration process.
The role of leadership in shaping organizational culture (00:25:34)
Exploring how leadership influences and shapes the organizational culture through their actions and interactions with the team.
Building a positive work culture through effective delegation (00:26:47)
Discussing the impact of effective delegation on creating a work culture that encourages creativity and critical thinking.
Favorite HBO shows and final thoughts (00:27:46 - 00:34:10)
Sharing favorite HBO shows and concluding the episode with final thoughts on delegation, trust, and collaboration.
-
Sales is the engine of any agency, but oftentimes it's the hardest part to grow and scale when you move from a founder-centric shop to a full marketing organization. The clips in this episode offer some of the best pieces of advice our hosts of the Creative Agency Success Show have gathered, provided to you in bite-sized form, so that you can digest and try your favorites.
The finer details of this episode:
Who makes a good salesperson? -- with Diane HelbigHow to warm up your cold calls -- with Nikki RauschWhat to do when owners hate sales? -- with Karl Sakas9 steps to speedier sales -- with Simon SeverinoHow a product catalogue helps the sales process -- with Joe ArdeeserEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcFull episodes included in the podcast:RETHINK YOUR SALES APPROACH with Diane HelbigSELLING FOR ACCOUNTANTS with Nikki RauschHOW AGENCY OWNERS CAN WORK LESS AND EARN MORE with Karl SakasSTRATEGIES FOR MANAGING LONGER SALES PIPELINES with Simon SeverinoSTREAMLINING THE AGENCY PROPOSAL PROCESS AND MANAGING SCOPE with Joe Ardeeser -
“As a little bit of contextual background for our listeners, if you don't already know, as a part of the suite of meetings and services that we offer our clients, we are in what we call our pipeline meeting. During these meetings and throughout our client relationship, we stress the importance of knowing your data. At the end of the day, you absolutely need to be looking at your data and understanding the story that it tells you about where your agency currently is. Having conversations with my clients so that I can really dive into what the data is telling me is crucial.” –Hannah Hood
The finer details of this episode:
Challenges and trends in the agency industryExtended sales cycles and delays in closing dealsSlower lead generation and new client acquisitionStrategies for managing low utilizationWhitespace analysis for evaluating services provided to clientsImpact of the current economic state on client decisionsEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddchttps://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahchood/Love hearing insight from Hannah? Check her out on the Young CPA Success Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHIPahPXE1HhfZO1Ig5pGiB-eHA4hrFzQTimestamps:
The state of the industry (00:00:00)
Introduction to the episode and discussion about the agency industry's challenges and trends.
Extended sales cycle (00:01:25)
Analysis of the extended sales cycle, identifying the pain points and strategies for improving the sales process.
Slower lead generation and new client acquisition (00:05:56)
Discussion on tracking lead sources and making informed decisions based on lead metrics to improve client acquisition.
Whitespace analysis (00:06:34)
Explanation of the whitespace analysis tool to identify opportunities for service expansion and niche specialization.
Companies wanting more for less (00:10:23)
Exploration of the challenge of clients seeking more services for reduced costs and strategies for communicating and evaluating the value of services.
Evaluation of team utilization and business size (00:13:53)
Strategies for evaluating team size, performance, and business goals during slow times, including considerations for right-sizing the team and utilizing contractors.
Planning for the future (00:17:28)
Discussion on reevaluating business goals and creating a plan for the future based on current challenges and opportunities.
Evaluating Weaknesses and Planning for Change (00:18:49)
Discussion on evaluating weaknesses, improving processes, and investing in marketing strategies during a lull in business.
Tapping into Hidden Potential within the Team (00:20:40)
Exploring the importance of evaluating team members' hidden potential and tapping into their skills and ideas.
Bringing Operations and Sales Teams Together (00:22:59)
Emphasizing the significance of communication between operations and sales teams for better client outcomes and sales strategies.
Favorite Reality Television Shows (00:25:09)
Casual conversation about favorite reality TV shows, including game show types, and personal viewing preferences.
-
“I'm the CEO. I'm not a CFO, but I was acting as one. It was not my favorite part of running a company because math doesn't excite me like it does some of you. I can do it, and I think I did it pretty well. But it was invaluable to be able to have your firm come in and take a look at how we've been running the company and just to get the reassurance of, 'You guys are good, you're not doing things wrong.' You've been able to come in and tweak things and make it even better. It's been quite the journey from first meeting you, in 2015.” -Karla Santi
The finer details of this episode:
● Importance of mentoring in personal and professional growth
● Value of finding a mentor or coach in the professional world
● Significance of advisory boards and diverse perspectives in decision-making
Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
● https://www.blendinteractive.com/
Timestamps:
Karla's Background and Agency (00:00:15)
Discussion about Karla's impressive background and her agency, Blend Interactive.
Karla's Journey and Agency Evolution (00:01:51)
Karla shares her personal journey and how her agency has evolved since its founding in 2005.
Long-time Friendship and Events (00:03:25)
Discussion about the long-time friendship between Karla and the hosts, as well as their shared experiences at various events.
Karla's Decision to Seek Financial Help (00:07:03)
Karla discusses the triggering event that led her to seek financial help and the decision to commit to working with a financial team.
Adoption of AI and Employee Development (00:10:45)
Karla talks about the adoption of AI in web development and the focus on employee development within her agency.
Empowering Leadership Team and Future Plans (00:12:24)
Discussion about empowering the leadership team to make decisions and future plans for the agency.
Karla's Role as a Mentor (00:15:26)
Karla's role as a mentor and the importance of personal connections in mentoring relationships.
Influence of Sports on Mentoring (00:20:01)
Karla reflects on the influence of ballet and tennis on her leadership style and team collaboration.
Finding the Right Mentor (00:21:53)
Discussion on the importance of finding a mentor who connects with you and fosters a meaningful relationship.
Transparency and Trust in Relationships (00:23:02)
Importance of transparency and trust in professional relationships, including the mentor-mentee dynamic.
Takeaways from Conferences (00:24:11)
The value of attending conferences and the key insights gained from them.
Learning from Others (00:33:19)
The significance of learning from others and seeking guidance to improve professional development and business success.
-
“You want to be around people who are better than you – more talented, more experienced; go and soak it in. The places where I find the most growth for myself and my agency is where I’m around other people, and we’re just sharing ideas.” – Jay Owen
The finer details of this episode:
● Jay’s journey of agency ownership and hosting events
● Why attending events is good for networking, business growth, and personal growth
● Building a successful agency without sacrificing self and family
Episode resources:
● Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/
● Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletter
● Digital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc
● https://businessbldrs.com/
● https://www.agencybuildersretreat.com/
● https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayowen/
● https://GetJaysBook.com/
-
“When you start the agency, everyone expects you to be the contact. But you probably don't want to do that forever. Maybe initially you delegate implementation work, the subject matter expert stuff, or project management. Then you probably want to delegate account management stuff. Usually you're still doing client strategy, at least in the early to mid-days.
The idea here is you're like, ‘Hey, so-and-so is great. They are your account manager. They're your day-to-day contact.’ They're running the, say, the monthly call or every other call. But you're still the client strategist. You're involved at the beginning of the engagement, and then things pass over to the account manger. Maybe you're making a quarterly or a semi-annual or annual appearance with those higher-level insights that only you could provide. But importantly, you are not the client’s day-to-day contact. You're not the one getting every single email or call. You just show up and share the magic. Your team is taking it from there.” – Karl Sakas
The finer details of this episode:
Delegation and streamlining processes Understanding time management within an agencyMarketing agency operationsPreparing for an agency owner exit strategyEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddchttps://sakasandcompany.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlsakas/Timestamps:
The Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)
Introduction to the podcast and its purpose.
The title of the book (00:00:14)
Discussion about the book "Work Less, Earn More" by Karl Sakas and its relevance to agency owners.
Workshop during team retreat (00:00:36)
Praise for the workshop conducted by Karl Sakas during a team retreat and its impact on the team's perspective on creative agencies.
Introduction of Karl Sakas (00:01:30)
Introduction of Karl Sakas as a guest on the show and a brief overview of his background and expertise.
Starting point of reading the book (00:04:03)
Discussion on the reasons why people tend to read the book "Work Less, Earn More" and the relevance of the concepts in the book to agency owners.
Equity vs. Lifestyle continuum (00:05:45)
Exploration of the continuum between running a lifestyle agency and an equity agency, and the importance of knowing where one wants to go in their business.
Financial considerations for business owners (00:10:31)
Discussion on the financial aspects of running an agency, including the importance of earning a certain amount as a business owner and the considerations for selling the business.
Dealing with day-to-day tasks and responsibilities (00:13:53)
Exploration of how agency owners spend their time, their preferences, and strategies for delegating tasks to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
Impact of team members on the selling process (00:15:54)
Discussion on the role of team members in the selling process and their influence on potential buyers.
The buyer's perspective (00:16:26)
Discussion about the role of an owner in the sales process and the impact on the buyer's perception.
Acquirer's goals (00:17:12)
Insights into the goals and motivations of acquirers when purchasing agencies and the impact on the owner's involvement.
Top-down approach to planning (00:19:16)
The benefits of starting with an ideal future vision and working backward to involve the team in achieving goals.
Involvement in client calls (00:22:37)
Strategies for owners to participate in client calls without overshadowing the team or affecting the credibility of other team members.
Delegating account management (00:27:06)
The process of transitioning account management responsibilities from the owner to the team and maintaining client relationships.
Reality TV show preferences (00:29:29)
Discussion on favorite reality TV shows and the appeal of reality television.
Personal experiences with reality TV (00:32:10)
Sharing personal experiences related to reality TV, including auditioning for shows and participating in game show tests.
The book and its formats (00:33:42)
Karl discusses the availability of his book, "Work Less Earn More," in various formats and the recent release of the audible version.
Planning for the unexpected (00:33:48)
Karl emphasizes the importance of planning for the expected to have time to improvise the unexpected, tying it to operations and enlisting the broader team.
Feedback on the book (00:34:50)
An unnamed individual shares positive feedback on the book, emphasizing its easy readability and practicality.
Contacting Karl Sakas (00:35:37)
Information on how to access the book and get in touch with Karl Sakas for further assistance.
Recommendation to start with the book (00:36:31)
The co-host recommends starting with the book for practical applications and suggests that it serves as a good starting point for many.
-
“Managers are far more costly than we realize. The more managing you have going on, the lower the overall productivity of the organization. Leadership matters, don't get me wrong, but agencies are managed to success.” – Jake Skeels
The finer details of this episode:
Challenges of managing a growing agency or service-based businessImpact of management structures on productivityConcept of matrix managing and its effects on innovation and productivityImportance of financial management and productivity in achieving higher profit margins for agenciesEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddc https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO’s Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddchttps://agencyagile.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackaskeels/ -
“When you are doing business development, you need to build your own identity. You need to have something that somebody will remember you for.” - Goran Kovacevic
The finer details of this episode:
Transition of individuals from production roles to business development in creative agenciesImportance of building a strong brand identity in sales and business developmentChanging dynamics of business development as companies growSignificance of processes in supporting growth and measuring key metricsEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/This Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://infinum.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/goran-kovacevic-621b351a/ -
"Certainly, from an accountability perspective, that's the biggest benefit in coaching. The coach is going to help you follow through on the plan, and if you deviate, they'll ask why and what's the next mission as a result." – Russ Sorrells
The finer details of this episode:
Importance of strategy, communication, financial oversight, and sales focus in businessesThe role of a coach in holding business leaders accountableThe impact of not having a forecast or plan in place for small businessesValue of understanding financial statements and having a clear financial strategyEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected] Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
https://www.ownyourcategory.com/
-
"Two or three days of delay, because it takes you so long to create a scope of work or proposal, could be the difference between a potential client engaging with one of your competitors and building a lot of rapport." – Joe Ardeeser
The finer details of this episode:
Importance of proposal and pricing process in agency-client interactionsCreating a product catalog for streamlining the proposal processStrategies to avoid scope creep and maintain clear pricing conversations with clientsImportance of a well-structured pricing toolEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected] Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
smartpricingtable.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joeardeeser/ -
"For companies that have been around for a long time, often they get very disconnected from their actual client, and then they wonder why their growth just sort of flatlines." – Michael Johnson
The finer details of this episode:
Distinguishing between coaching, consulting, and agency rolesMaintaining control and alignment as a CEO or ownerUnderstanding and improving customer experienceEpisode resources:
Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected] Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs:https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
http://BizChoreo.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-johnson-3149151ab/Business Choreography: Changing the Way People Look at Accounting with Jody Grunden: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/changing-the-way-people-look-at-accounting-with/id1543832214?i=1000636780953 -
Important Financial Metrics for Creative Agencies with David C. Baker https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/important-financial-metrics-for-creative-agencies-with/id1481877575?i=1000621344461Business Coaching, Staying Relevant, Achieving Success: Insight from Pinnacle Business Guides Founder Greg Cleary https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-coaching-staying-relevant-achieving-success/id1481877575?i=1000618300601The Future of AI: Balancing Innovation and Ethical Considerations with Shanif Dhanani https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-future-of-ai-balancing-innovation/id1481877575?i=1000627415283"What if There's More?" with Traci Barrett https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/what-if-theres-more-with-traci-barrett/id1481877575?i=1000603865819Rebranding Your Agency for Success with Todd Nienkerk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rebranding-your-agency-for-success-with-todd-nienkerk/id1481877575?i=1000623632381Building an Enduring Business: The Three Pillars of Success with Natalie Eckdahl https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/building-an-enduring-business-the-three-pillars/id1481877575?i=1000615656509Forecasting as a Team Sport with Tom O’Neil https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/forecasting-as-a-team-sport-with-tom-oneil/id1481877575?i=1000620425413Adapting to a Hybrid Work Environment with Tammy Bjelland https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adapting-to-a-hybrid-work-environment-with-tammy-bjelland/id1481877575?i=1000619084869Finding Balance in Life as an Entrepreneur with Coach Bob Shenefelt https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-balance-in-life-as-an-entrepreneur-with-coach/id1481877575?i=1000638924357Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Email us with questions or if you’d like to be a guest on the show: [email protected] Quiz Will Tell You What Financial Help Your Business Needs: https://rxkebp5191f.typeform.com/summitquiz?typeform-source=statics.teams.cdn.office.net
- Mostrar mais
