Accelerate Your Business Growth

Welcome back to another episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth." I'm your host, Diane Helbig, and today we have a deeply insightful conversation lined up for you. Joining us is Finka Jerkovic, an accomplished author, international speaker, workshop leader, and coach with over two decades of experience in the financial services industry. In this episode, Finka delves into her innovative framework, "Sell from Love," which is designed to help individuals and businesses achieve remarkable outcomes by shifting from fear-based to love-based selling. Finka explains the significance of authentic leadership and empathetic communication in sales, and how loving yourself, your client, and your offer can lead to transformational success. We also discuss the challenges salespeople face when pressured to meet quotas and how detaching from outcomes can transform your sales strategy. Finka shares her personal stories, including a pivotal experience that reaffirmed her commitment to selling from a place of integrity and

Welcome to another episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," where we dive deep into essential business topics with experts from around the world. I'm your host, Diane Helbig, and today we have an insightful conversation with Eric Seropyan, an SEO and SEM expert and founder of thisismysouthbay.com. Eric has a rich background in promoting small businesses online, both internationally and hyperlocally. In this episode, Eric demystifies the complex world of search engine optimization (SEO) and search engine marketing (SEM), explaining their differences, the importance of keywords, and how to effectively use SEO strategies to improve your business's online visibility. He also shares valuable advice on tracking keyword performance and understanding the impact of Google's ever-changing algorithms. Whether you're a small business owner looking to enhance your online presence or someone interested in learning more about SEO, this episode is packed with actionable insights. So, let’s get started! If you are a sma

Welcome to this episode of Accelerate Your Business Growth! In today's insightful conversation, host Diane Helbig is joined by personal branding expert Claire Bahn. Claire shares her extensive knowledge on the significance of personal branding and how it impacts business growth. From understanding what a personal brand truly entails to recognizing its crucial role in your professional success, Claire offers practical advice on how to start building and leveraging your own brand. Discover why having an online presence is essential, even if you're hesitant about putting yourself out there, and learn effective strategies for creating and sharing valuable content consistently across multiple platforms. Claire also delves into common obstacles like imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs that entrepreneurs and leaders face when establishing their brands. She emphasizes the long-term benefits and revenue potential that come from maintaining a robust personal brand, making this episode a treasure trove of insights

Welcome back to another episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," the podcast where we delve into various business topics with experts from around the globe. I'm Diane Helbig, your host, and today's episode is one you won't want to miss. Joining us today is Reuben Swartz, the founder of Mimiran, the innovative CRM designed specifically for solo consultants who despise traditional selling. Reuben is also the host and chief nerd of the "Sales for Nerds" podcast. In this episode, Reuben shares invaluable insights into the importance of genuine human conversations in business. He emphasizes how, despite the convenience of email, social media, and texting, nothing can replace the richness and trust-building capacity of one-on-one interactions. From discussing techniques for introverts to engage in meaningful conversations to exploring strategies for maintaining relationships with past clients, Reuben provides a masterclass in making connections that matter. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the pressures of

Welcome back to "Accelerate Your Business Growth." I'm your host, Diane Helbig, and today we have a phenomenal guest joining us—Ari Galper, a renowned authority on trust-based selling. If you're tired of traditional sales tactics that feel forced and counterproductive, you're in the right place. In this episode, Ari compares the sales process to a therapist-patient relationship, emphasizing the importance of prospects "owning" their problems for effective solutions. We dive into his innovative "trust-based languaging" approach, designed to foster integrity and understanding rather than just securing a yes. Ari introduces us to terms like "hopium," describing unrealistic optimism in sales, and explains why we need to eliminate phrases like "follow-up," shifting instead to requests for feedback to foster genuine dialogue. We also explore his transformative model called "Unlock The Game,"j which minimizes the pain of rejection by focusing on trust and integrity instead of high-pressure tactics. We touch on comm

Welcome back to another episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth" with your host, Diane Helbig. Today, we’re delving into the art of selling more effectively to large organizations with our esteemed guest, John Smibert. John brings over 38 years of experience from US and Japanese IT corporations and has spent nearly two decades helping startups and small businesses transform their sales approaches. In this episode, John shares invaluable insights on building customer relationships through domain knowledge, understanding and conveying your unique promise of value, and the critical role of a sales consultant. We’ll discuss why successful sales hinge on guiding customers to new ways of thinking and aligning their visions with unique solutions, rather than just pushing products. John also introduces his engaging sales novel, "The Wentworth Prospect," which teaches vital sales lessons through the story of a young saleswoman navigating the challenges of the cybersecurity field. Join us as we explore strategic s

Welcome to another episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," the podcast where we dive deep into the nuances of growing your business with insights from top industry experts. I'm your host, Diane Helbig, and today we're thrilled to have Curtis Bateman, a seasoned business advisor from Startup Distillery, join us. In this episode, we'll explore three compelling alternatives to the high-pressure strategy of scaling your business. Curtis will break down the differences between growth and scaling, shedding light on why scaling isn't always the ideal path. We'll discuss the potential downsides, from lifestyle changes to financial implications, and dive into viable alternatives such as untapped revenue streams, strategic partnerships, and exploring new markets. Through real-life examples, Curtis shares stories of businesses that creatively adapted during the pandemic, turning challenges into opportunities. We'll also cover crucial considerations for businesses contemplating scaling, including financial plannin

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth" with your host, Diane Helbig. Today, we delve into the crucial topic of data literacy and how mastering it can future-proof your workforce. Joining Diane is Matt Cowell, CEO of QuantHub, who brings a wealth of experience in leading product and technology teams. In this conversation, Matt unpacks the limitations of traditional learning models and champions the effectiveness of micro learning, where information is revisited in small, regular intervals. This approach mirrors modern practices in language learning and machine learning, significantly enhancing information retention and long-term learning. Together, Diane and Matt explore how small business owners can implement these insights to foster a data-driven culture. They discuss the importance of continuous learning, the pivotal role of curiosity in acquiring data skills, and practical strategies to make data less intimidating for teams. Matt shares how understanding and leveraging

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth" with your host, Diane Helbig. Today’s episode is all about scalable strategies to win customers, featuring the acclaimed MarTech expert and CEO of McGaw.io and UTM.io, Dan McGaw. Dan shares invaluable advice for small business owners on carving out a niche in content marketing, navigating the competitive landscape with innovative approaches like direct mail, and the art of monetizing product features. We delve into effective marketing strategies for different product types, from door-to-door sales for local businesses to leveraging platforms like Product Hunt and AppSumo for SaaS products. Dan emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs, consistent content creation, and the critical role of tailored marketing strategies based on unique business strengths. Get ready to uncover practical tips on choosing the right tools, developing successful referral programs, and the power of customer feedback in driving product develop

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," where your host Diane Helbig dives deep into innovative strategies for small business success. Today, we're joined by Michelle Cooper, the CEO of Alchemy Accounting and Bookkeeping, a Profit First Professional, and acclaimed author. Michelle has transformed her once small accounting office into a thriving online business, incorporating coaching, consulting, and speaking. In this episode, Michelle emphasizes the critical shift from focusing solely on revenue to prioritizing profitability. She breaks down essential financial concepts, such as gross revenue and profit margins, and explains how understanding these can ensure a more sustainable business model. Michelle also addresses the importance of transparency in pricing, the societal norms around money, and how gratitude can transform your financial outlook. We'll explore practical steps for evaluating expenses, maintaining profitability, and communicating value to clients. Plus, don'

Welcome to another insightful episode of Accelerate Your Business Growth, hosted by the ever-inspiring Diane Helbig. In today's episode, we have the privilege of diving deep into the world of sales and customer service with our distinguished guest, Lee Salz. As a globally renowned sales management strategist and the CEO of Sales Architects, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge and transformative strategies to help businesses differentiate their sales tactics. We explore concepts like personalized customer service, effective relationship management, and the art of prospecting with a focus on authenticity. Lee also introduces innovative sales theories, such as the 'Sales Crime Theory' and a strategic approach to voicemails that spark interest rather than expecting callbacks. Throughout our conversation, Lee emphasizes the significance of post-sale experiences, highlighting the necessity of making clients feel special, drawing from both professional insights and personal anecdotes. From crafting compelling outboun

Welcome to "Accelerate Your Business Growth," an insightful podcast series by Evergreen Podcast that dives deep into the strategies and philosophies driving today's successful businesses. In this episode, our esteemed host Diane Helbig chats with Jeff Morrill, co-founder of the highly successful Planet Subaru and author of a transformative business book. Tune in as Diane and Jeff explore practical, low-cost business philosophies aimed at helping you carve out your niche and foster positive contributions to the world. Jeff sheds light on essential topics such as time and cost efficiency, making data-driven decisions, and the importance of differentiation in business. You'll discover why focusing on unique selling points and values can set your company apart in competitive markets and how embracing a values-driven marketing approach can build lasting customer loyalty. Throughout their engaging conversation, Diane and Jeff emphasize the critical role of effective communication, inclusive hiring practices, and

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth" with your host, Diane Helbig. Today, we have an exceptional guest joining us, Barb Davids, the founder of Compass Digital Strategies and a seasoned digital marketer with over 25 years of experience. Barb is known for her no-nonsense approach, delivering direct and results-oriented digital marketing solutions for ambitious business owners. In this episode, Barb shares her expertise on a variety of topics, including the evolving nature of blogging, optimizing your Google Business Profile, and effective strategies for increasing website traffic. She also dives into the impact of AI on digital marketing strategies and the importance of quality backlinks. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, this episode is packed with valuable nuggets that can help elevate your marketing game. So, tune in and learn from one of the best in the industry. If you are a small business owner or salesperson who struggles with getting th

Welcome to another insightful episode of Accelerate Your Business Growth, hosted by Diane Helbig. Today, we're diving deep into the world of email marketing with the brilliant Kate Doster. In this episode, Kate shares her expertise on why focusing on quality over quantity in your email list can yield outstanding results. We'll explore effective strategies for engaging with your subscribers, the importance of aligning offers with audience needs, and how to cultivate genuine connections through authentic and value-driven emails. Kate breaks down essential email types that can significantly boost your marketing efforts, from sneak peeks to last chance emails, and discusses the mindset shifts necessary to overcome fear and self-doubt in your email campaigns. Plus, she offers practical tips on personalizing your message, infusing personality into your emails, and maintaining a mission-driven approach. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you

Welcome to another episode of Accelerate Your Business Growth with your host, Diane Helbig. In today's episode, we dive deep into maximizing productivity, revenue, and freedom with high-performance coach Joe Evangelisti. Joe shares invaluable insights on simplifying processes, effective resource utilization, and the powerful concept of "controlling the clock" for strategic time management. We'll explore the "rule of 168," perform time management audits, and discover the "5 Roads to Victory" and the elusive "5 Freedoms" that every entrepreneur strives for. Joe also sheds light on the importance of redefining one's identity, embracing mindset shifts, and the critical role of effective delegation. We discuss how to align your team with their unique strengths, foster a winning business culture, and much more. Join us as we unlock the keys to achieving financial freedom, purpose, and time management mastery. This episode is packed with actionable advice that promises to accelerate your business growth and persona

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth." Today, we have the privilege of hosting Martha Sullivan, a former systems consultant turned CPA, CFO, COO, and profit and value growth strategist. As the head of Providence Hill Consulting, Martha aids business owners in building, buying, and selling profitable enterprises. In this episode, Martha underscores the critical importance of business valuation, drawing parallels to maintaining a house to ensure readiness for sale at any time. We dive into the nuts and bolts of calculating business value, understanding industry multiples, and the pivotal role of EBITDA in determining worth. Martha emphasizes the control business owners have over their company's value through strategic financial decisions and effective risk management. We also address common concerns around employee reactions to potential sales and the crucial need for exit planning, particularly during health crises or unforeseen circumstances. With real-world examples and e

Welcome to "Accelerate Your Business Growth," the podcast dedicated to driving your company forward. In today's episode, titled "Your People Are Your Business's Greatest Asset," our host Diane Helbig sits down with Chuck Cooper, managing partner at Whitewater Consulting, to delve into the critical topic of effective leadership in a rapidly changing work environment. Join us as Diane and Chuck explore the transformative concept of one-to-one leadership, emphasizing the importance of personalized engagement strategies that take into account geographical and generational differences. They discuss the evolving nature of work environments, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rise of mental health issues among employees. Tune in to learn about innovative communication tools like WannaDo and discover best practices for fostering trust, flexibility, and a strong company culture in both remote and in-office settings. As they unpack the challenges and opportunities leaders face today, you'll hear invaluable in

Welcome to another enlightening episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," where we delve into the critical topic of overcoming self-doubt. Joining us today is Stephen Bates, a renowned British business coach and founder of Certain Change. With over 20 years of experience, Stephen has helped thousands of entrepreneurs and business leaders worldwide elevate their performance. In this episode, Stephen and our host, Diane Helbig, explore the close relationship between happiness and success. Stephen shares compelling insights on decision-making, the role of doubt, and the intrinsic nature of confidence. They discuss how deep-seated beliefs from childhood can shape adult behaviors, particularly regarding money and self-promotion. Stephen also dispels the myth that change is a slow process, providing powerful examples of how quick decision-making can lead to immediate transformations. He highlights the importance of addressing internal conflicts and setting meaningful goals to unlock your true potential. Listene

Welcome to another insightful episode of Accelerate Your Business Growth! Today, our host Diane Helbig sits down with Dr. Ian Brook, CEO and founder of Rhodes Smith Consulting, to delve into the essence of intentional transformation in the business world. In this episode, Ian highlights the critical importance of being a risk-taker, learning from mistakes, and the foundational principles that sustain long-term success. Together, they explore why entrepreneurs often rush for quick ROI, neglecting the necessary groundwork, and discuss the metaphorical challenges of building a modern business on outdated systems. Ian introduces us to his PACE framework—Patience, Accountability, Commitment, and Emotions—providing a roadmap for personal and professional growth. Whether you're a small business owner grappling with daily constraints or an entrepreneur striving for authentic success, this episode offers invaluable strategies and thought leadership to help you pause, reflect, and build a sustainable foundation for you

Welcome to another insightful episode of "Accelerate Your Business Growth," hosted by Diane Helbig. Today, we are thrilled to welcome Connie Kadansky, a distinguished sales expert renowned for her work in addressing sales call reluctance. Connie has collaborated with major organizations like Xerox, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, and has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and Forbes. In this episode, Connie delves into the intriguing concept of the "happy high achiever," sharing research that uncovers why some high achievers remain joyful while others struggle with self-criticism and frustration. She also provides invaluable insights on the common challenges salespeople face, particularly around prospecting and initiating contact. Connie reveals practical strategies rooted in positive psychology, performance psychology, and cognitive behavioral psychology to help salespeople overcome call reluctance and other barriers, enabling them to build harmonious rela