4 Tips To Create A Successful 2024

In January, Kirby was asked to speak at PPAI Live about 4 Tips To Creating a Successful 2024.  In this DMJ 1 on 1, we go LIVE to the PPAI Expo from the show floor.  Watch now!

As we approach the new year, it’s time to start thinking about how we can make 2024 the most successful year yet. In this blog, we’ll be discussing four key tips that can help you achieve just that. These tips are not just about setting goals, but also about maintaining a positive mindset, continuously learning and growing, and prioritizing deep work. So, let’s dive right in and start planning for a successful 2024.

Be Intentional and Set Goals

The first tip for creating a successful 2024 is to be intentional and set goals. Setting goals is a crucial step toward success. It gives you a clear direction and helps you stay focused on your path. But remember, these goals should be deeply personal. They should resonate with your values and aspirations.

Consider setting goals in five key areas of your life: Finance, Fitness, Family, Faith, and Fun. By setting goals in these areas, you ensure a balanced approach to your life. You might also want to consider setting shorter time frame goals, such as 12-week year goals. This can help you stay motivated and see progress more quickly.

Be Positive and Practice Gratitude

The second tip for a successful 2024 is to maintain a positive attitude and practice gratitude. Positivity can significantly improve your performance, especially in stressful situations. It helps you stay calm, focused, and resilient. But how can you boost your positivity? One effective way is through gratitude exercises.

Gratitude exercises can help shift your mindset to a more positive state. They can help you focus on the good in your life, leading to more things to be grateful for. So, start your day by listing three things you’re grateful for, and see the difference it makes in your life.

Continuously Learn, Grow, and Change

The third tip for a successful 2024 is to continuously learn, grow, and change. Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and investing in your personal development can lead to significant improvements in your life. One way to do this is by reading books and investing in education.

Look for opportunities to learn and grow, such as online courses and certifications. Avoid living the same experiences over and over again. Instead, seek new experiences, learn new skills, and embrace change. This will not only make your life more interesting but also help you grow as a person.

Prioritize Deep Work and Avoid Multitasking

The fourth and final tip for a successful 2024 is to prioritize deep work and avoid multitasking. Despite popular belief, multitasking is a myth. It can hinder deep work and lead to decreased productivity and focus. Instead, focus on one task at a time for better results.

Batching activities can also improve your productivity and effectiveness. This involves grouping similar tasks together and doing them in one go. This can help you stay focused and reduce the time wasted on switching between tasks.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a successful 2024 involves being intentional and setting goals, maintaining a positive mindset and practicing gratitude, continuously learning and growing, and prioritizing deep work. By following these four tips, you can make 2024 your most successful year yet. So, start planning now and make the most of the coming year.

We hope you are getting lots of value out of these DMJ 1 on 1’s!  You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

Lessons from DMJ: Peter Guirguis On Why You Have 5 Seconds Before Your Customer Leaves

Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up.  Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up.  This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Peter Guirguis about why we only have 5 seconds before our customer leaves our website.  Watch now!

In episode 484 of Delivering Marketing Joy, seasoned digital expert Peter Guirguis takes us through his journey of building exceptional websites and launching Swift press support. His story is one of perseverance, innovation, and adaptability, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital world. From initial struggles to the thrill of success, Peter’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Peter also shares his insights on the influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on web and landing page design, the key elements for high-conversion landing pages, and his predictions on the future of the digital landscape. He emphasizes the need for flexibility, a growth mindset, and seizing new opportunities in the face of emerging technologies. So, let’s dive into the world of digital marketing with Peter Guirguis.

Struggling to Make Money Online

Like many entrepreneurs, Peter’s journey wasn’t always smooth sailing. He initially struggled to make money online, trying various ideas but failing to generate significant income. His motivation was to provide enough income for his wife to stay at home, a noble cause that fueled his determination.

He experimented with creating mini-courses on time management and productivity, among other things. However, after making only one sale, he realized the need to change his approach. This period of struggle was a turning point for Peter, pushing him to rethink his strategies and explore new avenues.

Starting a Business with White Labeling

It was during this time of self-reflection that Peter stumbled upon an opportunity to do a white-labeling website design for a marketing agency. This was a pivotal moment in his career, as it not only helped him discover his passion for website design but also laid the foundation for his business.

Building his business through referrals, Peter spent nine years in the industry, honing his skills and expanding his network. Looking back, he reflects on the journey of starting his business, the challenges he overcame, and the satisfaction of seeing his hard work pay off.

The Influence of AI on Web and Landing Page Design

As a digital expert, Peter recognizes the role of AI in web and landing page design. He discusses the significance of prompt engineering in utilizing AI effectively for content creation. According to him, prompt engineering is crucial in getting the best output from AI.

He also explores tools like chat GPT and framer that use AI to enhance user experience and create website designs. These tools, he believes, are revolutionizing the way we approach website design, making it more interactive and user-friendly.

Essential Elements for High-Conversion Landing Pages

Designing landing pages that drive high conversion rates is an art, and Peter shares his secrets to mastering this art. He emphasizes the importance of the hero element above the fold, particularly the headline. A clear and compelling headline that communicates the benefit of the product or service can make all the difference.

He also highlights the problem-solving aspect of a product or service, advising marketers to understand their ideal clients and create content that resonates with them. By focusing on the problem-solving aspect, you can create a connection with your audience and increase your chances of conversion.

The Future of the Digital Landscape

Looking ahead, Peter shares his insights on the evolving digital landscape. He predicts potential job losses due to AI advancements, a reality that many industries are already grappling with. However, he also sees this as an opportunity for individuals to adapt and evolve.

He emphasizes the importance of flexibility and a growth mindset in adapting to changing technologies. By seizing new opportunities and avoiding a fixed mindset, individuals can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in the digital landscape. As Peter puts it, “The future belongs to those who are willing to learn, adapt, and grow.”

Conclusion

From struggling to make money online to launching his own successful business, Peter’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. His insights on the influence of AI, the art of designing high-conversion landing pages, and the future of the digital landscape offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in the digital world.

Peter invites viewers to visit his website, SwiftPressSupport.com to learn more about his services and his journey. As he continues to innovate and adapt in the ever-evolving digital landscape, Peter’s story serves as an inspiration for all aspiring digital entrepreneurs.

You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

Lessons from DMJ: Liane Davey on Why Conflict At Work Is Healthy

Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up.  Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up.  This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Liane Davey about why conflict can be healthy at work.  Watch now!

In this insightful discussion, Liane Davey, renowned author of “The Good Fight,” sheds light on the often misunderstood concept of conflict in the workplace. She argues that not only is conflict inevitable in any organization, but it can also be a healthy and productive force if managed correctly. Davey’s perspective challenges the conventional wisdom that conflict is inherently destructive and should be avoided at all costs. Instead, she presents a compelling case for embracing conflict as a catalyst for innovation, risk mitigation, and robust discussions about trade-offs.

Throughout the video, Davey provides practical advice on how to navigate conflict effectively, emphasizing the importance of feedback, the use of different managerial tools, and the art of handling difficult conversations. She also underscores the importance of reflection and follow-up after these conversations. This article delves into these key points, providing a comprehensive summary of Davey’s enlightening discussion.

Defining Conflict

At the heart of Davey’s discussion is a nuanced definition of conflict. She describes conflict as the struggle between incompatible needs and wishes, a natural occurrence in any environment where diverse individuals work together. Importantly, she clarifies that conflict does not necessarily involve negative behavior or bullying. Instead, it can lead to productive discussions about trade-offs, fostering a culture of open communication and mutual respect.

Moreover, Davey posits that conflict can be a potent source of innovation and risk mitigation. When employees feel comfortable expressing differing opinions and challenging the status quo, it can spark creative solutions and preempt potential problems. This perspective reframes conflict as a valuable resource for organizations, rather than a problem to be eradicated.

Giving Feedback

Another key theme in Davey’s discussion is the role of feedback in managing conflict. She defines feedback as providing novel information about the impact of behavior on others. This is crucial because most people lack self-awareness and may not realize how their actions affect their colleagues. By focusing on the impact of behavior, rather than passing judgment, feedback can be a powerful tool for personal growth and improved interpersonal dynamics.

According to Davey, feedback can be positive or negative, but it should always provide insight and value. It’s not about criticizing or praising for the sake of it, but about helping individuals understand the consequences of their actions and how they can improve. This approach to feedback fosters a culture of continuous learning and mutual respect, where employees feel valued and empowered to grow.

Different Managerial Tools

Davey also explores the use of different managerial tools in dealing with conflict and providing feedback. She emphasizes that feedback is subjective and suits situations with different choices. However, other tools like instruction, coaching, advice, and evaluation can also be effective, depending on the situation.

Instruction provides specific guidance on tasks or processes, while coaching helps individuals think differently and find new ways to achieve their goals. Advice draws from personal experiences to help others avoid mistakes, and evaluation assesses contributions relative to standards or objectives. By using these tools judiciously, managers can effectively navigate conflict and foster a positive work environment.

After Difficult Conversations

Finally, Davey discusses the importance of what happens after difficult conversations. She advises ending the conversation with a resolution or a thank you to tie a bow around it. This provides closure and reaffirms the value of the conversation, even if it was challenging.

She also emphasizes the importance of following up with any commitments made during the conversation. This demonstrates integrity and accountability, reinforcing trust within the team. Lastly, Davey encourages reflection on the conversation’s impact and expressing gratitude for the relationship. This helps to maintain a positive relationship, even in the face of conflict.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Liane Davey’s discussion provides a fresh perspective on conflict at work, arguing that it can be healthy and lead to productive outcomes. By giving effective feedback, using different managerial tools, and handling difficult conversations effectively, organizations can foster a positive work environment where conflict is seen not as a threat, but as an opportunity for growth and innovation.

You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

How To Create A Customer Appreciation Event

Customer appreciation events are more than just a nice gesture; they are a strategic tool for businesses to deepen relationships, foster loyalty, and create new opportunities. This article, based on a comprehensive video guide, provides you with a step-by-step process to create a memorable customer appreciation event. We’ll delve into the reasons why these events are crucial, and provide you with a practical roadmap to create your own.

With a staggering 69% of customers leaving businesses due to perceived indifference, it’s clear that showing appreciation is not just a nice-to-have, but a must-have strategy. So, let’s dive into how you can create an event that not only shows your gratitude but also contributes to your business growth.

Why Create a Customer Appreciation Event

Creating a customer appreciation event is not just about saying ‘thank you’. It’s a strategic move that can significantly impact your business. The video guide highlights three main reasons why these events are important.

Firstly, a large number of customers, around 69%, leave a business due to perceived indifference. This means that customers want to feel valued and appreciated. By hosting an event dedicated to them, you’re showing that you care about their business and their loyalty. Secondly, customer appreciation events are a great way to deepen relationships. They provide an opportunity for face-to-face interaction, which can lead to stronger connections and increased loyalty. Lastly, these events can create business opportunities. They can be a platform for introducing new products or services, or for networking and forming partnerships.

Steps to Creating a Customer Appreciation Event

Creating a successful customer appreciation event requires careful planning and execution. The video guide provides a process to help you create an event that your customers will remember.

The first step is to find a suitable venue. The venue should be easily accessible and comfortable for your guests. Next, create a theme for your event. A theme can make your event more engaging and memorable. Then, identify potential partners or vendors who can contribute to your event. This could be in the form of sponsorships, collaborations, or providing services. The fourth step is to address all the senses. This means considering the ambiance, music, food, and visual elements of your event.

Once you have these elements in place, start promoting your event and get an RSVP list. This will help you manage your event better and ensure that you have a good turnout. At the event, give out merchandise that ties to the theme. This not only enhances the theme but also serves as a reminder of the event. Most importantly, make the event fun. A fun event is a memorable event. After the event, follow up with attendees. This could be a thank you note or a survey to get feedback. Lastly, track the success of the event and gather feedback. This will help you improve future events.

Conclusion

Creating a customer appreciation event is a strategic move that can significantly impact your business. It’s a way to show your customers that you value them, deepen relationships, and create business opportunities. However, the success of the event depends on careful planning and execution.

Remember to track the success of the event and gather feedback. This will help you understand what worked and what didn’t, and how you can improve future events. With careful planning and execution, a customer appreciation event can be a powerful tool for your business.

You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

Lessons from DMJ: Frank Husmann on Becoming the Authority in your Niche

Delivering Marketing Joy is an award-winning interview show that helps marketers level up.  Each week, Kirby Hasseman interviews the best and brightest minds in marketing to help you level up.  This time on Lessons from DMJ, Kirby talks with Frank Husmann about becoming the authority in your niche.  Watch now!

In this insightful video interview, Kirby talks to Frank Husmann, the founder of Maxiality. Frank shared his expertise on authority marketing, particularly for B2B companies. The conversation was a deep dive into the intricacies of becoming an authority in your niche, a feat that is not easily achieved but can be incredibly rewarding. The discussion touched on various aspects of authority marketing, from understanding what it entails to starting a successful campaign and avoiding common pitfalls.

Frank also highlighted the importance of demand generation in B2B marketing, explaining how it differs from lead generation and why it’s more effective in the modern B2B landscape. He also shared some practical tips on creating a pleasant buying journey for potential customers. Finally, he offered some advice on authority marketing and shared where viewers can find more information about him and his work.

What is Authority Marketing?

Authority marketing is a strategic approach that involves showcasing your expertise in a particular niche to establish yourself as an authority. This process is not a one-time event but a continuous effort that requires consistency and dedication. By consistently demonstrating your knowledge and skills, you gradually build credibility and trust with your audience, positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your field.

Frank emphasized that the key to successful authority marketing lies in identifying the main topics you want to be known for and creating content around them. This content can take various forms, including podcasts, YouTube videos, blog articles, and email newsletters. The goal is to consistently show your expertise over time, which will help establish your authority in your niche.

Starting an Authority Marketing Campaign

Starting an authority marketing campaign requires a clear understanding of your niche and the main topics you want to be known for. Once you’ve identified these topics, the next step is to create content around them. This content should be informative, engaging, and valuable to your audience. It should demonstrate your expertise and provide solutions to the problems your audience is facing.

Frank suggested using various content formats to reach a wider audience. These can include podcasts, YouTube videos, blog articles, and email newsletters. Consistency is key in authority marketing. By regularly producing high-quality content, you can gradually establish your authority in your niche and become the go-to expert for your audience.

Common Pitfalls in Authority Marketing

While authority marketing can be highly effective, there are common pitfalls that marketers should avoid. One of these is being too salesy. While it’s important to promote your products or services, your primary focus should be on addressing the questions and problems of your prospects. By providing valuable solutions, you can build trust and credibility with your audience.

Another common pitfall is focusing too much on personal stories at the expense of showcasing your expertise. While personal stories can help humanize your brand and build a connection with your audience, they should not overshadow your expertise. Instead, they should be tied to your expertise and used to reinforce your authority in your niche.

Demand Generation in B2B Marketing

Demand generation is a crucial aspect of B2B marketing. Unlike lead generation, which focuses on generating leads, demand generation focuses on creating demand for your products or services. This involves targeting the 97% of people who are not yet in the market for your products or services.

Frank suggested using various channels to showcase your expertise and create demand. These can include YouTube, LinkedIn, and articles. He also recommended using tactics like LinkedIn ads and LinkedIn Live to reach a wider audience and generate demand. By focusing on demand generation, you can position yourself as a top choice when your prospects are ready to make a purchase.

Lead Generation vs. Demand Generation

While lead generation and demand generation are both important aspects of B2B marketing, Frank argued that demand generation is more effective in the modern B2B landscape. Lead generation focuses on generating leads, while demand generation focuses on creating demand for your products or services and being on the shortlist of potential customers.

By focusing on demand generation, you can target the 97% of people who are not yet in the market for your products or services. This allows you to build awareness and credibility with a wider audience, increasing the chances of being considered when they are ready to make a purchase.

Creating a Pleasant Buying Journey

Creating a pleasant buying journey is crucial for attracting and retaining customers. This involves providing clear and transparent pricing information on your website and making it easy for prospects to get in touch and qualify themselves. By making the buying process as smooth and straightforward as possible, you can improve customer satisfaction and increase the chances of repeat business.

Frank also suggested automating processes and using forms or API calls to gather information about prospects. This can help streamline the buying process and provide valuable insights into your customer’s needs and preferences, allowing you to tailor your offerings accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the video interview with Frank Husmann provided valuable insights into authority marketing for B2B companies. From understanding what authority marketing is and how to start a successful campaign, to avoiding common pitfalls and understanding the importance of demand generation, the discussion covered a wide range of topics. Frank also shared some practical tips on creating a pleasant buying journey and offered advice on authority marketing. For those interested in learning more, Frank can be found at maxiality.com, where he offers a free video training on authority marketing.

You can find all of the content we create on our blog page here.  And if you want to create a marketing campaign that truly Hits The TARGET, check our FREE TARGET Marketing Playbook here.

4 Things To STOP Doing on Social Media in 2024

As we approach 2024, it’s time to reevaluate our social media habits. The digital landscape is ever-evolving, and so too should our approach to it. This article discusses four key behaviors that need to be left behind as we move forward. These practices not only hinder personal growth but can also negatively impact businesses and their online presence. By understanding and addressing these habits, we can use social media more effectively and positively.

These four areas of focus include incessant selling without providing value, arguing with strangers on the internet, calling out other businesses for their practices, and comparing one’s life and success to others on social media. Each of these behaviors can lead to negative outcomes, from damaging a business’s reputation to causing personal dissatisfaction and unhappiness. It’s time to shift our focus and use social media as a tool for growth, both personally and professionally.

Stop Incessantly Selling Without Providing Value

The first point to address is the habit of incessantly selling on social media without providing any value. Businesses often fall into the trap of using social media solely as a platform for constant sales pitches. This approach, however, can be off-putting to audiences and may lead to a decrease in engagement and followers.

Instead, businesses should focus on providing value to their audience before asking for sales. This can be achieved by sharing useful content, engaging with followers, and building a community around your brand. By building trust and integrity through valuable content, businesses can foster a more loyal customer base and lead to more successful sales in the long run.

Stop Arguing with Strangers on the Internet

The second point is to stop arguing with strangers on the internet. As we head into an election cycle, the temptation to engage in online debates can be strong. However, these arguments are rarely productive and can be detrimental to mental health and business reputation.

Instead of wasting time arguing, focus on personal growth and filling your mind with positive content. Engage in discussions that are beneficial and constructive. As the election cycle approaches, it’s important to remember that getting caught up in online debates that serve no purpose will only lead to stress and negativity.

Stop Calling Out Other Businesses for Their Practices

The third point is to stop calling out other businesses for their practices. While it’s important to hold businesses accountable, constantly criticizing others takes attention away from personal growth and improvement. It also creates a negative online environment and can harm your own business’s reputation.

Instead, focus on providing value to customers and reaching more potential customers. Look for ways to improve your own business and practices. Shift the focus from what others are doing wrong to what can be done better in your own business. This positive approach can lead to better business outcomes and a more positive online presence.

Stop Comparing Your Life to Others on Social Media

The fourth and final point is to stop comparing one’s life and success to others on social media. This habit can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness, as it’s easy to feel inadequate when comparing oneself to the highlight reels often showcased on social media.

Remember that social media is not a full reflection of someone’s life. It’s important to avoid comparing behind-the-scenes struggles to others’ seemingly perfect lives online. Instead, use social media as a tool for inspiration and growth, not as a measure of personal success.

Conclusion

As we move into 2024, it’s important to use social media responsibly and positively. These platforms can be powerful tools for personal and business growth when used correctly. By avoiding these four common pitfalls, we can create a more positive online environment and use social media to its full potential.

As always, we want to provide you with value.  So if you want to create marketing campaigns (and appreciation gifts) that hit the TARGET, check out our TARGET marketing playbook here.