Kathleen here wishing you a Happy New Year! I for one love a fresh start, and there is no better time than the new year to harness that kind of “DO OVER!” energy to build the business and brand you want. So today, I wanted to share a few ideas that will help you take your brand and business to the next level in the new year.
BE CONSISTENT
If there is one thing you can control in your business, it’s how you consistently show up. Here are a few ways you can be more consistent in the new year:
- Update your profile picture / avatar across all social media platforms to something more current
- Make sure your visual identity (logo, colors, typography) is consistent across your website, social media, images, collaterals, content upgrades, signage, etc.
- Create content on your blog, social media, and / or podcast with consistent frequency (pssst… an editorial calendar will help!)
GET REJECTED
It sounds counter-intuitive to make accruing rejections a goal, I know. And to be completely honest, rejection is one of my personal fears, which keeps me from putting myself out there in a bigger way. So a personal goal of mine is to embrace rejection by aiming to be told “no” at least 100 times in the new year. But, I trust that if I’m rejected 100 times I’ll get a few “yeses” that will open my business and brand up to a few unexpected opportunities. Here are a few ways you can open yourself up to rejection:
- Pitch yourself to be a guest on a podcast or a guest writer for a publication you admire
- Reach out to a potential dream client and tell them why your work can help them
- Ask to speak at your favorite conferences
CONNECT AND COLLABORATE
I was the kind of student that always hated group work. I thrived on creative control and liked working at my own pace. Plus, I could get stuff done better and faster if I just did it myself. While I still like having control and standards over what I’m putting out into the world, I’ve learned that ideas, projects, and relationships go so much deeper when you collaborate with other creatives. Sure, it might take longer, and there’s a risk for hiccups along the way, but the rewards can take you—personally and professionally—further than you ever imagined.
Here are a few ways you can connect and collaborate:
- Set up regular Skype dates with your “business bestie”
- Host a webinar or start a podcast with a creative colleague
- Hire a creative professional to help you where you’re struggling
- Participate in Facebook forums or social media hashtag challenges
P.S. All of these goals are great things to track with The Chalkboard Method.