Tag Archive for: Virtual Admin Newmarket

Blogging, RosewoodVA, Deanna Simone, Aurora, Newmarket, York Region, Website Designer

As an entrepreneur it can feel like you are endlessly changing hats. You are simultaneously your CEO, IT team, marketing agency, financier and cheerleader. When every moment matters and time management is essential, adding one more task to the mix, blogging, might have you skeptical. But blogging, writing small topic-specific posts on your website, can have incredible benefits for your business.

The Benefits of Blogging

We live in a world where people want to feel connected to the companies and services they choose to spend their time or money on. It’s the reason you will see any large company like Coca-Cola, or Nike with a ‘news’ page on their website.

Blogging on your website is a quick way to create these connections with your clients, while controlling the topics you share. It gives you the opportunity to resonate with your readers, to give clients a taste of your personality and the things that matter to you as a business owner, and to boost your credibility by communicating your knowledge of your industry.

And the marketing machine that is Google loves new content! Google wants to show searches the most recent and most relevant content specific to their search terms. Every time you create a new post for your website you help your SEO (search engine optimization) by letting the cyber world know that you are still an active thriving business.

What to Blog About

For those just starting out, this is one of the biggest hurdles, what do I write about? I’m an aesthetician, an arborist, a lawyer, what do I have to say? The answer to that is, anything.

The problem with blogging falls under our perceptions of it. Sometimes we view it as mindless drivel, when really it’s an opportunity to share knowledge about our industries. Whatever you’re business, you’ve probably been asked a question about it.

Every time someone asks you a question, this is a potential blog topic.

Maybe they want to know what the benefits of using essential oils in pedicures are, or what type of trees grow best in full sun. In my case, people often ask me what the benefits of blogging are and is it really worth their time.

Regardless of the business you’re in, questions equal opportunities for blogs, and more importantly questions equal connections with those asking.

If you’re still struggling with where to start, think about the question you get asked the most. Right there you have at least ten potential blog topics. Challenge yourself to answer those questions in a minimum of three hundred words and show your clients what you know, who you are, and why you deserve their business.

Black Friday Deals for Entrepreneurs - Rosewood VA Web Design Newmarket

Black Friday is a great opportunity for small businesses to boast their best deal as a “foot-in-the-door” opportunity with new customers. Not only will the customer get a great deal, but they’ll see first hand your great customer service and potentially other products/services they’re interested in.

Part of being an entrepreneur is finding balance between your working life and personal life.  I value health and wellness and I believe this focus makes my business better too.

That’s why I’ve decided to put together a list of Black Friday Deals for Entrepreneurs. This includes items to make your work and home life more efficient! By the way, these are not affiliate links, just actual products that I find interesting, and may be purchasing for myself!

Black Friday Deals for Entrepreneurs

Instant Pot from Amazon.ca

While I don’t have one, I may purchase one on Black Friday.  The idea is very attractive and I’ve seen food bloggers prepare chicken breasts in under 10 minutes!  There are different sizes and options, and I’d suggest purchasing an Instant Pot Cookbook as well.

On sale for $67.99 (regularly $89.95)

Click here…


Huion LB4 Rechargeable Light Box from Amazon.ca

For entrepreneurs that deal with drawings, this is a great tool to not only streamline your business but also reduce paper waste.  It’s self-powered and chargers with a USB cable.

On sale for $62.99

Click here…


Kindle Paperwhite, 6″ from Amazon.ca

Great for reading on the go, this Kindle $40.00 off for Black Friday! Again with the concept of saving paper, and it’s also easier on your eyes compared to reading documents on an iPad.

On sale for $99.99 (regularly $139.99)

Click here…


Essential Oil Diffusers

Diffusers are one of those things that people are hesitant about. While people have been using essential oils for thousands of years, it’s a fairly newer health trend.  I started with a cheap diffuser from Amazon, which broke last week, so I replaced it with a better quality one.  What I found is not only did the essential oils have an impact on my mood, but because the diffuser acts as a humidifier, I actually had a better quality sleep.  I am an open-mouth breather and usually get a dry mouth and nose – but not with a diffuser beside my bed!  The one I purchased is from Amazon.ca  by Villain, but there are a ton of deals out there for Black Friday!

Try www.well.ca and see for yourself.

These are just some items I feel would be helpful for the busy entrepreneur.  After all, a healthier personal life makes us healthier in business!

What are some Black Friday deals you’ve had your eyes on?

Don’t forget to join the conversation online on FacebookTwitter, and LinkedIn. And sign up for our monthly news for even more tips.

Until next time,

Deanna

online booking tools for your website

Many of my clients operate businesses based on appointment booking.  From automotive garages, massage therapists, hair salons to bookkeepers and more, online booking can have a great impact on traffic to your business.

Make Online Booking Easy for Regular Customers

Online booking makes it easier for your customers to book appointments with you. Regular customers can book, change, cancel or reschedule their appointment, all without picking up the phone. Not only is this easier for them, but it saves you time avoiding those 3-5 phone calls.

Encourage New Clients to Book

Online booking can also be a great tool for new customers looking to try your services. Maybe you’re interested in applying an introductory booking offer? Again, they don’t have to pick up the phone to see your availability and make their own appointment.  Presently it seems most people prefer to not speak on the phone. However, you will find that if they have questions about your services, they may book an appointment online and follow up with a quick phone call.

Features to Consider When Choosing an Online Booking Platform

There are many features to consider when choosing an online booking platform. These features will be specific to your business, your needs and what you consider to be so important you can’t live without it. The goal of this plugin is to make booking as simple as possible for your customers and for your business. There is a solution out there for everyone.

Keep in Mind:

  • Number of services offered
  • Number of staff members
  • Availability: Consistent hours daily/weekly or always changing?

Questions to Ask Yourself:

  • Do you need clean-up/set-up time in between Appointments?
  • How far in advance can people book/cancel appointments?
  • Do you want text message & email reminders?
  • Do you want a customer portal where customers can view/edit their upcoming appointments?
  • Would you like this to also serve as a CRM tool?
  • Do you want to accept payments online at time of booking?
  • Would you like it to connect with your current invoicing system?
  • Do you need to be able to keep customer records and be able to share them with the customer?

If you’re thinking of implementing a new online booking system, it’s important to first sit down and find out your exact business needs.  Like buying a house, make your wish list and then start looking for solutions that fit. If this task seems daunting, give us a call and let’s figure it out together.

Don’t forget to join the conversation online on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. And sign up for our monthly news for even more tips.

Until next time,

Deanna