6 Resources That Can Help You Analyze the Past Year

How well did your business do this year?

Answering this question can bring up a lot of emotions, especially if things did not go as expected. You might feel the pressure of setting end-of-year deadlines. Looking back can result in guilt if we didn’t reach our goals, or anxiety about setting new ones.

Many business owners feel a tug-of-war between accomplishing daily duties AND stepping back to see the “30,000-foot view” of their company. But even though it can be really scary, doing a Year In Review is very helpful.  That’s why I recommend taking time to look back at what happened using data that is quantitative (numbers) and qualitative (experiences). Once you review the results (good and bad), you reduce the risk of failure by making adjustments to your plans for the next year.

Here are six helpful resources to guide you through the process.

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How MLMs Use the Psychology of Influence

Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) is a very popular business method. It relies on “distributors” who use the power of influence to purchase the products—and ultimately, to sign up as a distributor in their downline.

MLM companies continue to grow in popularity. The products and services they provide are endless: cosmetics, essential oils, weight loss shakes, health foods, kitchen gadgets, jewelry, wine, and more Most MLMs are in the Health & Wellness Industry; you can find a comprehensive list of all health-related MLM companies here.

Unfortunately, the Direct Sales and MLM business model is very troubling, because it causes tremendous financial, mental, emotional, and social damage (see my previous posts).

Today, I’m going to give examples of how Direct Sales and Multi-Level Marketing companies use the 6 Principles of Persuasionand a Devil’s Advocate perspective to make sure you recognize and avoid predatory tactics.

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7 Things HBO’s Chernobyl Taught Me About Devil’s Advocates

What can we do to avoid a catastrophe like Chernobyl?

Although your business may not be facing problems to the magnitude of a nuclear plant meltdown, it’s still possible to completely miss the warning signs that the ‘wheels are coming off the wagon.”

I have found that the best way to develop a resilient response to disasters is by relying on the feedback of Devil’s Advocates.

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The 5 Elements of a Niche

A niche is a distinct business focus that allows you to achieve your goals by narrowing your area of specialization.

To create a well-balanced niche, you can consider 5 aspects of a good marketing strategy. Keep reading to find out what they are.

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Niche Markets FAQs Part 2 of 2: The Questions

In this post, I share my answers to Frequently Asked Questions about establishing a niche market for your business, including:

  • Why is niching important?
  • Can niching go too far?
  • How do I decide on the right niche?
  • Why is it hard to limit your business?

Plus other topics related to picking a niche.

Watch part 2 of the Facebook Live video, or read the transcript below!

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Niche Markets FAQs Part 1 of 2: Basics

This is the 4th of a five-part Facebook Live series on topics related to business development and strategic planning.

Many of my clients are independent healthcare practice owners who have trouble growing their business in a healthy way. I find that practitioners often struggle to attract patients who fit their philosophy and goals. Not every customer is Ideal; some potential customers can actually take value away from your business.

The best way to attract the right customers—those who are interested in your services and eager to pay for the value you provide—is to focus on a Niche area. This is a specific set of services or products that meets the needs of your Ideal Customers and solves their unique problems.

Watch my Facebook Live video, where I discuss ways to increase the effectiveness of your business, and how to stand out in the marketplace. Or read a transcript (including bonus content!) below.

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My 2018 Business Year In Review

Another year has come to a close.

It’s time to reflect on how 2018 went.

And that can feel… like getting your teeth drilled at the dentist’s office.

I’ll admit, as much as I believe in how great the Year In Review process is, that doesn’t make it entirely pleasant to actually experience. But the benefits make this sometimes painful process worthwhile.

You’re invited to read my analysis of what happened—good and bad—for my business in 2018.

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The 4 Responses to Fear as a Leader

What are you scared of?

As humans, we are biologically hard-wired to treat every perceived threat in an extreme way, with one of four reactions:

  1. Fight: go on the offensive, reacting aggressively to eliminate the problem
  2. Flight: avoid the problem by retreating to a safer position
  3. Freeze: shut out the problem by pretending like it’s not happening, or
  4. Face: confront the problem directly.

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11 Ways Multi-Level Marketing is Like a Cult

We have the power to exert tremendous influence on others.

Sometimes, people use this power to take advantage of those who are vulnerable by exerting tremendous control on their choices and behavior.

Today I want to share some insights about why Multi-Level Marketing companies operate exactly like a cult and how to build risk intelligence to keep yourself safe.

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