Consulting Matters

Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to influence executives to engage in transformational change…especially in today’s complex, volatile, ambiguous marketplace?

Maybe you tried to convince the senior team to trust your expertise and buy-in your proposed change ideas…only to have those ideas land on deaf ears. Or perhaps you have gotten some momentum with a significant change initiative, only to have it stalled out because of the missing people element.

If that sounds like you, you’re in luck - because in this episode I have transformational change expert Dali Hammouch to share with you his proven secrets and best practices that lead to the creation of resilient, thriving, and human-centric organizations.

Here’s what you’ll discover in today’s episode:

[0:02:47] - How to tell the difference between Transformational Change and the traditional toolbox of Change Management

[0:16:53] - The psychology of change - what you need to know BEFORE pitching a transformational change vision to anyone

[0:25:16] - 7 built-in blocks that every transformational change leader needs to know

[0:30:01] - Secrets to building credibility as a transformational change leader even when you don’t have positional authority

[0:39:46] - Why you’ll see better change results if you highlight the importance of safe, diverse, inclusive, and healthy work environments

Tune in for a complete guide to igniting organizational transformation and…

…validation that your idealist, optimistic nature with a vision for people-centered organizational cultures is exactly what qualifies you to be an exceptional transformational change catalyst.

About Me:

I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand messaging and positioning, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. Go to www.betsyjordyn.com to learn more about how I empower consultants and coaches to monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world.

About My Guest: Dali Hammouch is a Transformational Leadership Coach and Change Management Guide. He empowers individuals to create a meaningful and lasting change in their organization and guides them to break free from being overwhelmed and hone their ability to lead change effectively. You can learn more about Dali at https://www.dalihammouch.com/

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Top Power Skills Every Organizational Consultant Needs (Ep55)

The Disney Approach to Organizational Consulting with Harold Hill and Luis Marrero (Ep56)

Why CEO’s Hire Consultants and Coaches: The REAL Value They Bring with Brad Rex (Ep64)

Got big visions for turning your experience as a corporate leader into your own consulting or coaching business?

Chances are, you also have big fears!

In this must-listen episode, Dali Hammouch, a former Chief Learning Officer turned Transformational Change Mentor and Coach, unpacks the emotional journey of leaving the familiar behind and stepping boldly into the entrepreneurial world.

Dali doesn’t just share his story; he breaks down exactly how to handle the emotional issues that come up in the face of transformational change…

….and offers a roadmap for facing and overcoming the fears, doubts, and imposter syndrome that can hold you back from your consulting or coaching business potential.

Tune in and discover: 

[0:02:17] -  How to make use of your time in the corporate world to prepare for your transition to entrepreneurship

[0:09:20] -  Why does your professional identity's perspective limit how you view the world (and what you can do to alter it)

[0:14:15] -  When to decide/What acted as a catalyst that you need a radical change in your career path

[0:18:59] -  How to take failure as an opportunity to learn

[0:27:46] -  What are the signs and symptoms that you are dealing with Imposter Syndrome

[0:42:33] -  What are the obstacles you might encounter during your career transition

[0:50:32] -  What you must do to embrace transformational change

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners turn their consulting and coaching purpose into profitable reality. I accelerate the success of clients like Dali by helping them clear about their business strategy and authentic brand, create messages and visual brand identity and online platform that expresses the unique value of what they do and gets clients excited to work with them. Click here to learn more about my services: www.betsyjordyn.com/services or dive into more of the backstory of how Dali and I worked together to accelerate his business launch. 

About my guest: Dali Hammouch is a Transformational Leadership Coach and Change Management Guide. He empowers individuals to create a meaningful and lasting change in their organization and guides them to break free from being overwhelmed and hone their ability to lead change effectively. You can learn more about Dali at https://www.dalihammouch.com/

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

How to turn your Career into Your Own Consulting or Coaching Business (Ep1)

Disney Executive to Consulting Entrepreneur: Keith Smith’s Journey Beyond the 9-5 (Ep87)

Employee to Entrepreneur: Embrace a New Mindset with Denise Musselwhite (Ep62)

From C-Suite Executive to C-Suite Coach with Adam Schwartz (Ep13)

How to turn the BEST of your Career into Your Own Business with Lori Smith (Ep10)

Way too many consultants and coaches mistakenly believe that their website is nothing more than an online brochure or resume.

I’m here to tell you – that’s far from the truth.

You can turn your website into a client conversion machine, hard at work 24/7 attracting clients who are excited and ready to work with you. 

My guest today is Marty Grief, president of SiteTuners, a website conversion company and author of the book “'True Connections: Relationship Marketing in the Digital World.”

He’s going to show how you can use the very same skills that make you an exceptional consultant and coach to make your website a key tool you use to get clients.

Grab your notebook and get ready for some powerful strategies and quick wins that will transform your website into your 24/7 marketing and sales team.

Here’s a glance at this episode…

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand messaging and positioning, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. My mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world. Click here to learn more about my services: www.betsyjordyn.com/services.

About my guest: Marty Greif is a conversion rate optimization expert and President of  SiteTuners, a company dedicated to driving revenue growth for their broad customer base. You can learn more about Marty and his company at: https://sitetuners.com/ and his book “True Connections: Relationship Marketing in the Digital World” on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/True-Connections-Relationship-Marketing-Digital/dp/1716943361

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

Get my Free CREDIBLE Consulting/Coaching Website Template 

How to Build a Consulting and Coaching Website that Converts [Behind-the-Scenes Tutorial]

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How To Turn Your Strengths Into A Sought-After Brand | Behind The Scenes Tutorial (Ep32) 

Have you ever thought to yourself, “I’d love to have my own thriving consulting or coaching business?”

Maybe you’re still in your 9 to 5 leadership career, dreaming of becoming your own boss but the overwhelm of all that you need to do to get started stops you in your tracks.  

Or maybe you have started a decent side hustle and have some consulting or coaching clients, and want to turn these one-off gigs into your full-time business, but you question how you can make it happen. 

But here’s the thing. With a smart strategy, you can make this transition A LOT easier than you think was possible. And to show you how to do that, I’m excited to have my Brand Messaging & Positioning mentee, Keith Smith to be on the show.

Keith is going to take you behind the scenes of his brand-new business launch, which started for him almost 3 years ago when he first got the idea to retire from his corporate leadership career at Disney. In 2020, we worked on all the foundational aspects of his business – his value proposition, visual branding, and the eventual launch plan that he just executed on.

And guess what? His transition has been seamless. He is proof that when you go slow to go fast, you can achieve your business goals faster in a way that feels like flow…with FAR less stress, imposter syndrome, and money fears. 

Tune in to hear more about Keith’s story and how you too can take a strategic and intentional approach to starting your own consulting or coaching business. 

Here’s a glance at this episode…

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners turn their consulting and coaching purpose into profitable reality. I accelerate the success of clients like Keith by helping them clear about their business strategy and authentic brand, create messages and visual brand identity and online platform that expresses the unique value of what they do and gets clients excited to work with them. Click here to learn more about my services: www.betsyjordyn.com/services.

About my guest: Keith Smith is the president and founder of Keith Smith Consulting. His business is all about helping visionary executive leaders turn their ideas into implemented reality, using his BA in Theatre, Masters in Human Resources, my 20+ years certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and three decades of progressive HR experience in incredibly diverse businesses and industries at The Walt Disney Company. Click here to learn more about Keith’s business: https://keithsmithconsulting.com/

Related Podcast Episodes:

How to turn your Career into Your Own Consulting or Coaching Business (Ep1)

Employee to Entrepreneur: Embrace a New Mindset with Denise Musselwhite (Ep62)

From C-Suite Executive to C-Suite Coach with Adam Schwartz (Ep13)

How to turn the BEST of your Career into Your Own Business with Lori Smith (Ep10) 

What’s also confusing is how to PRESENT those fees in a way that is attractive to a client…without the “ick” of coming across as too salesy.

Can you relate?

In today’s episode, I go into the psychology of 7 proven pricing strategies and why they work. I’m talking about the minor tweaks to how to showcase your fees on your sales pages and proposals that can will help you land more clients…

…while honoring your values around integrity and service.

If you’re ready for some pricing quick wins – grab your notepad, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive right in  

Here’s a glance at this episode…

After you’re done listening and you decide you need more help with packaging, positioning, pitching, and pricing what you do as a consultant or coach, Book a FREE Strategic Clarity Coaching Session with me, and let’s create a custom plan to help you land more clients who will pay you what you’re worth, with ease, confidence, and integrity.

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand messaging and positioning, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. My mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world. Learn more about what I do at www.betsyjordyn.com. 

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

The Anatomy of High-IMPACT Sales Pages & Proposals (Ep85)

7 Offer Mistakes Consultants and Coaches Make (Ep84)

Why People Don’t Get It When You Talk & Write about What you Do (Ep37)

There’s a six-letter word that reflects one of the biggest reasons why accomplished, mid-career professionals would give up their secure, lucrative career to start their own consulting or coaching business.

I’m referring to the word I-M-P-A-C-T because what drives us as consultants and coaches isn’t just money anymore. It’s the difference we want to make for the people we feel drawn to serve.

We know in our hearts the value that our offers can create for our clients. But when it comes to putting that value in words for our website pages and proposals, we get stuck.

And that is what we’re doing to turn around in today’s episode. I’m going to walk you through my IMPACT framework to help you structure your pitches that gets potential clients to say, “Where have you been? I need you!”

You’ll hear: 

I promise, this episode will give you the guidance you need to start writing high-converting sales pages and proposals…even if you don’t love copywriting or don’t think you’re good at it.

Here’s a glance at this episode…

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand messaging and positioning, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. My mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world.

Check out my brand-new “Irresistible Offer Clarity" VIP Experience to help you package, price, promote and pitch high-converting consulting and coaching offers.

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

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Picture this: A situation where after a consultant or coach pours their hearts into writing copy for their services page on their website or in a proposal and it’s met with deafening silence.

I know I have been there and so have so many of my clients. It’s frustrating and disheartening…and is solvable!

In this episode, you’ll hear about the 7 very common mistakes that consultants make when creating and pitching their offers and more importantly how to turn them around.

So if you’re ready to start creating offers that are irresistible to future clients, pop in your ear buds and let’s listen in now.

 Here’s a glance at this episode:

About me: I’m a Business Mentor and Brand Messaging Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand messaging and positioning, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. My mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world.

Check out my brand-new VIP Experience to help you create “Can’t Resist Offers: that Attract & Convert Your Ideal Clients

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

Why People Don’t Get It When You Talk & Write about What you Do (Ep37)

Why Do You Need an Ideal Client Archetype (Ep38)

Five Things You Need to Know About Your Ideal Client (Ep39)

Navigating the murky waters of transition can be an arduous voyage. The fear of the unknown often paralyzes us, causing us to retreat into familiar territories. As your host, I bring you a conversation with Dr. Chris Hoff, a man who boldly ventured into the unknown and emerged with a unique blend of business acumen and psychological insight. Chris, a former technology entrepreneur, shares his enlightening journey of metamorphosis - from a midlife crisis that led him to therapy, to eventually harnessing his experiences into a unique consulting practice.

In our engaging conversation, Chris and I delve deep into the concept of 'liminal space.' First coined by Arnold Van Gennep, it is a fascinating term that captures the transitional phase between what was and what is yet to be. Chris sheds light on our collective discomfort with uncertainty and how coaching and consulting can train us to build resilience during such tricky times. His stories are a testament to the power of embracing change and taking risks, even when the outcomes are not guaranteed.

As the conversation unfolds, we discuss practical strategies for navigating these liminal spaces during significant life changes. We touch upon the importance of conflict resolution within organizations, the role of building relationships in initiating genuine transformations, and how Chris uses his mentoring skills to promote successful change efforts. Whether you are in the thick of a career transition or simply contemplating one, our chat with Dr. Chris Hoff is filled with invaluable insights and actionable advice you don't want to miss!

Where to dive in:

(0:00:00) - Fear of the Unknown in Business (11 Minutes)

Chris shares his journey of going from an entrepreneur running a technology staffing company to a therapist, and then combining his business experience with his psychology background to create a consulting business. We discuss what drew him to the therapy field during his midlife crisis and how he was able to use his business and psychology background to create a unique consulting business. We chat about why fear of the unknown is such a big deal and how to handle it.

(0:10:58) - Liminal Spaces and Transformation (15 Minutes)

Arnold Van Gennep coined the term liminal space, described as a territory between where we were and where we're not quite yet. Humans are not socialized to tolerate uncertainty and it is necessary to build the skills required for transversing liminal space. People often turn back to what is known and familiar when in liminal space and this is often mistaken for self-sabotage. Coaching and consulting can be helpful in making the leap to the possible to know.

(0:25:59) - Embracing Change and Uncertainty (10 Minutes)

Chris shares his journey of taking a leap of faith and how it has worked for him. We examine the idea of being in a known and familiar space, and how it resonates with our internal world. We also explore how fear can be a factor in taking a risky move, and how to scaffold yourself to what might be possible. Finally, we discuss how to pay attention to the milestones of what it might be when transitioning from one career to another.

(0:35:50) - Navigating Liminal Spaces in Change (7 Minutes)

We talk about the importance of recognizing the reasons behind discontent and the need to give family members and others grace in order to catch up. We explore the concept of going slow to go fast when it comes to making big changes, especially when they involve a liminal space. We discuss why evolutionary change principles don't always work when it comes to transformational changes. We also discuss why consultants and coaches are so important in liminal spaces, and why not having a formal place on the org chart can actually be more powerful.

(0:42:32) - Conflict Resolution in Organizations (14 Minutes)

Chris shares his thoughts on how he approaches his mentoring practice and how it can contribute to successful change efforts. The power of relationship in creating real change and how it can help with liminal space is discussed. Finally, how Chris focuses on helping small teams and individuals resolve conflict in order to have wider ripples of change in the world is looked at.

(0:56:48) - Promoting Subscribing to a Podcast (0 Minutes)

We explore how taking a leap of faith can be beneficial for personal growth and how mentoring can help support successful change efforts. We need to recognize the reasons behind discontent and give grace to family members and others in order to catch up. Chris shares his journey of going from an entrepreneur running a technology staffing company to a therapist, and then combining his business experience with his therapeutic practice.

About the guest: Dr. Christ Hoff came to this work because he is passionate about helping individuals become more fulfilled in their personal and professional lives, assisting organizations to meet and surpass their goals, and dissolving conflict between individuals, teams and in organizations in more creative ways. He began his career in sales and sales management with a division of a Fortune 500 company in the aerospace and defense industry. After winning individual and sales management awards (highest performance in sales, branch of the year), he went on to co-found Two Roads Professional Resources Inc., a full-service engineering and information technology staffing company, helping to grow the business to eight figures in sales and over 200 employees, he successfully exited the business in January 2010. During this successful run, he was an Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year award finalist and was twice recognized for excellence in entrepreneurship by the Orange County Business Journal. After his corporate and entrepreneurial success, he decided to follow his dream of becoming a therapist. His formal education includes a Ph.D.. From Loma Linda University in marriage & family therapy, where his concentration was in organizational development and systems consulting. He also received my master’s degree in clinical psychology from Pepperdine University.

About me: Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand positioning and messaging, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. Her mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world. Check out her brand strategy, messaging, and design services at https://www.betsyjordyn.com

Links:

Download my one of my free resources to help you accelerate your success: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/downloads 

Learn more about my brand messaging and positioning services: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/services 

Schedule a consult call to talk about what you need to do to nail your messaging and rock your copy so you can stand out in the market and attract clients: https://betsyjordyn.com/schedule 

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

Navigate the Challenges of Parenting and Entrepreneurship with Sari Goodman (Ep80)

The Power of Personal Style in Branding with Mellicia Marx (Ep79)

Turn Pain Into Purpose: Sarah Gleason's Inspiring Entrepreneurial Story (Ep78)

Transform Midlife Transitions: Embracing Personal Growth and Self-Discovery with Rajinder Rai (Ep77)

From Employee to Healthpreneur: Adrienne Barela's Inspiring Story (Ep76)

Hold onto your headphones as we embark on a captivating journey with Adrian Salisbury, a seasoned professional in video creation and YouTube mastery. Adrian opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, transitioning from a 15-year photography career to harness the power of video, and the inception of his Pro Video Academy, now known as Impact. He paints a vivid picture of his early course development, which focused on long tail keywords, and the art of crafting a concise yet impactful three-page website.

We exchange insights with Adrian on the persuasive power of video as a tool for establishing trust and fostering deeper connections with viewers. He emphasizes the need to uphold a consistent, premium brand image, and how stepping into the world of pre-recorded videos can be a fruitful starting point. Adrian is firm on the necessity of investing in top-notch equipment and creating a video studio that reflects the quality and essence of your brand.

Lastly, we navigate various types of videos that can play a pivotal role at different stages of the client journey. We explore the charm of thank you videos in adding a personal touch, and the significance of how-to videos on YouTube for attracting potential clients. Adrian and I passionately advocates for video content that answers pain point questions, subtly dismissing the need for a typical ‘About Me’ video. As we draw the curtain on this enlightening conversation, we underscore the need to embrace video for professional triumph, and the magic of video in clinching business through compelling content.

(0:00:05) - Using Videos to Attract Clients (10 Minutes)

Adrian Salisbury, an expert in videos, YouTube and creating an environment that makes a difference in the client journey, joins Enough Already podcast. We explore Adrian's entrepreneurial journey and why he decided to focus on videos. he started as a professional photographis for 15 years and after listening to Pat Flynn and looking into passive income, he started creating a photography course. After being encouraged by his peers to focus on videos, he created Pro Video Academy, now known as Impact. We also learn about Adrian's first course which was a departure from photography, and was focused on long tail keywords, creating a three page website and advertising.

(0:09:59) - The Power and Importance of Video (13 Minutes)

Adrian Salisbury and I discuss the power of video to create an intimate connection with viewers and the trust factor that comes with it. We explore how video can be a powerful medium for consultants and coaches to build relationships and trust with their clients, and why many people are reluctant to get on camera. We also discuss the importance of a consistent, high quality brand and how pre-recorded videos can be a great way to get started.

(0:23:02) - Importance of Video Quality in Branding (5 Minutes)

The importance of investing in good equipment and setting up a studio for video is discussed. Adrian explains how the quality of the video matters for the price point and the messaging of your brand. he also talks about how having consistency in your videos can create a surprise for the customer, and how they can feel like they are part of your videos. Lastly, Adrian shares the different types of videos and whise they fit into the customer journey.

(0:27:43) - Using Videos to Serve Clients (11 Minutes)

We explore different types of videos that can be used to serve different parts of the client pipeline. Creating thank you videos for customers can create a personal and reassuring connection. Adrian shares his passion for creating how-to videos on YouTube and explains why these are important for the top of the funnel. Videos should focus on answering pain point questions and how an about me video isn’t necessary. Telling your story in video form can be a great way to connect with customers. Finally, we discuss the importance of investing in good equipment and setting up a studio to ensure the quality of the video.

(0:38:23) - Home Video Studio Benefits (5 Minutes)

We discuss the frustration of relying on someone else when you want to make changes to your sales page, the importance of having control over the style of the video, and the pressure of time when working with someone else. Additionally, we explore the idea of making video creation a way of life and how setting up the studio properly at the beginning can help with content creation and provide more search engine exposure.

(0:43:33) - Mastering Video Presentation Techniques (8 Minutes)

We discuss the need to embrace video and how to ensure the best quality in our recordings. Adrian shares strategies for creating an environment that helps us make the most out of our videos. We also talk about the value of creating thank you videos for customers and the importance of having control over the style and content of our sales page.

(0:51:44) - Embracing Video for Professional Success (6 Minutes)

Adrian Salisbury and I discuss the importance of investing in good quality equipment and setting up a studio for video. We explore different types of videos that can be used to serve different parts of the client pipeline, and the need to have control over the style and design of our videos. Finally, Adrian shares strategies for creating an environment that will help you feel more confident on camera and how to get the best quality in your recordings.

(0:58:01) - Winning Business Through Video and Content (0 Minutes)

We explore how to set up a studio for video, different types of videos, and the importance of taking control of the style and design of your sales page. Adrian shares strategies for creating a great environment for recording video and encourages everyone to take advantage of the power of video.

About my guest: Adrian Salisbury created the Pro Video Academy in 2017 to help online entrepreneurs and business owners get their message out to the world through the powerful medium of video. No more saving up for expensive videographers and no more amateur looking webcam videos! His clients can now create their own professional quality videos or live-stream with affordable equipment from the comfort of their own home/office. 

About me: Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand positioning and messaging, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. Her mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world. Check out her brand strategy, messaging, and design services at https://www.betsyjordyn.com

Links:

Download my one of my free resources to help you accelerate your success: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/downloads 

Learn more about my brand messaging and positioning services: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/services 

Schedule a consult call to talk about what you need to do to nail your messaging and rock your copy so you can stand out in the market and attract clients: https://betsyjordyn.com/schedule 

Related Blog, Video or Podcast Episode:

Navigate the Challenges of Parenting and Entrepreneurship with Sari Goodman (Ep80)

The Power of Personal Style in Branding with Mellicia Marx (Ep79)

Turn Pain Into Purpose: Sarah Gleason's Inspiring Entrepreneurial Story (Ep78)

Transform Midlife Transitions: Embracing Personal Growth and Self-Discovery with Rajinder Rai (Ep77)

From Employee to Healthpreneur: Adrienne Barela's Inspiring Story (Ep76)

Join me for a powerful conversation with Meg Crofton, the former president of Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts. Meg imparts her wisdom on how she used her power skill of "shaping thinking" to lead change and ultimately become the first woman President of one of the world's most beloved organizations.

This episode is a treasure trove of insights. We explore the value of moving leaders across different departments to garner a holistic view of the organization. Meg shares her thoughts on shaping thinking, a concept borne of her career journey, and its importance in translating a company's vision into meaningful activity. Gather around as we discuss the intricacies of building credibility, gaining a deep understanding of an organization's language, and the power of storytelling in captivating your audience.

Our conversation also takes a deep look into the shift from non-profit to for-profit boards, tackling imposter syndrome, and the power of an outside perspective. Meg beautifully encapsulates the continuous learning journey, even in leadership roles, and how she has balanced board service, pro bono work, and personal development. Ready to absorb leadership wisdom from the top? Meg Crofton awaits. Tune in and let's start the conversation.

(0:00:05) - Leadership Journey (14 Minutes)

Today on the show, I'm so excited to have Meg Crofton with me. Meg was the president of Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts and I was fortunate enough to have worked with her as an OD consultant. We talk about leadership and how honing influence skills can truly benefit consultants and coaches in their effectiveness within an organization. Meg shares her journey to the top spot, what it means to be a woman in a leadership role, and how marketing shaped her perspective on leadership. We also discuss the concept of shaping thinking and how it is essential in the workplace. Meg's story is full of inspiration and I'm so grateful to have her here today.

(0:14:11) - Developing Executives Through Diverse Experiences (5 Minutes)

Meg Crofton, the former president of Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts, and I chat about her experience and expertise in developing executives. We discuss the importance of moving leaders around and how it gives them a holistic picture of the company. We also explore the idea that having a diverse portfolio of different functional experiences may help to develop influential skills and shaping thinking. Finally, we talk about the need to understand how people think in different departments in order to drive work through the organization.

(0:19:11) - Shaping Thinking (15 Minutes)

Meg Crofton and I explore her experience in developing executives. She explains how her time working with her father in the space program and her education in marketing had a major impact on her approach to shaping thinking. We look at how Meg's early work experience at Disney and her Leaders as Teachers program at the Disney University helped her create her own definition of shaping thinking. Meg shares how her definition of shaping thinking is all about translating a company's vision and mission into meaningful activity that helps people develop conviction for their work.

(0:34:34) - Leadership and Development for Consultants (9 Minutes)

Meg and I discuss essential skills for great leadership and how to foster successful relationships with clients. We explore the importance of balancing listening and learning with influencing to build credibility and trust. Meg shares her experience working with top executives at Disney and how understanding the language and body language of an organization is key to delivering successful results. Lastly, she stresses the importance of being able to read the room and getting out of the water when faced with difficult questions.

(0:43:47) - Building Credibility and Connection in Presentations (11 Minutes)

Meg Crofton and I discuss how to be successful in the role of a facilitator. We touch on imposter syndrome and how to shift your thinking. We emphasize knowing your audience and the impact of stories when presenting. Meg shares her experience in media coaching and how to build relationships with clients. Lastly, we talk about essential skills for great leadership and the importance of balancing confidence with receptivity.

(0:54:28) - Lessons From Non-Profit to for-Profit Boards (4 Minutes)

Meg Crofton and I discuss the importance of recognizing and shifting apology energy. We explore the need for reframing our insecurities in order to effectively present ourselves in interviews. Meg shares her experience with sponsors who helped her reframe her experiences, and we examine the power of an outside perspective in balancing positional authority. Finally, Meg shares her experience since leaving Disney and offers her advice for those who want to stay in a learning environment.

(0:58:36) - Leadership Lessons and Personal Development (7 Minutes)

Today Meg and I look into the importance of recognizing and shifting apology energy. We examine how to reframe our insecurities to effectively communicate, and how to take ownership of our skills and ability to foster successful relationships. We stress the need to be open to learning, even when we're in positions of leadership, and the impact our legacy has on others. Meg shares her journey of balancing board service, pro bono work, and self-development, as well as her plans for writing a book someday. She also speaks to the power of connecting with a diverse range of clients and how it can help organizations move faster. Finally, Meg invites listeners to reach out to her on LinkedIn and share their own experiences.

About the guest: As an accomplished senior leader, Meg Crofton was extremely fortunate to build a 35-year career with The Walt Disney Company, helping to shape this prestigious global brand. With direct accountability for multifaceted operations and 100,000+ “cast members”, together we delivered record levels of revenue and profits, developed world-class leadership talent, focused on continuous improvement of guest experiences, and drove strategic change to include the integration of physical and digital experiences. In 2015, she retired from Disney and is making the most of my leadership experience through contributions to corporate and philanthropic boards. In addition, Meg truly enjoys and welcomes speaking opportunities aimed at leaders who are focused on their own development, customer service, culture building, and change management. During my presentations, she use storytelling and Q&A dialogue to share my career journey and lessons learned. With a passion for developing leaders, Meg derives great satisfaction from empowering high-potential talent to become the best possible version of themselves. She is interested in mentoring roles for executives and consulting projects on change management initiatives. Meg is confident that the wisdom and experiences she shares can bring game-changing results. Meg is a lifelong learner and inspirational leader who is highly motivated to engage in meaningful work that will be of service to others. She believes it is both a responsibility and a privilege to share our experiences in life and leadership, and to pay it forward. As an avid collector of inspirational quotes, one of my favorites is “leaders don’t force others to follow, they invite them on a journey.” (Charles Lauer)

About me: Betsy Jordyn is a Brand Positioning Strategist that helps consulting and coaching business owners clarify their brand positioning and messaging, create a website presence that positions them as sought-after experts, land clients with ease and integrity, and take their place as thought leaders and influencers in their niche. Her mission is to help consultants and coaches monetize their best-at strengths and authentic passions to make a bigger difference in the world. Check out her brand strategy, messaging, and design services at https://www.betsyjordyn.com

Links:

Download my one of my free resources to help you accelerate your success: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/downloads 

Learn more about my brand messaging and positioning services: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/services 

Schedule a consult call to talk about what you need to do to nail your messaging and rock your copy so you can stand out in the market and attract clients: https://betsyjordyn.com/schedule 

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