Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge: A Comprehensive Guide to Automation and Personal Branding

Welcome to Gaining the Technology Leadership Edge, a podcast exploring the latest strategies and insights in technology leadership. In this episode, we have Brian Kelly, an entrepreneur, trainer, author, speaker, certified NLP practitioner, and automation expert. Brian is known as the automation master and helps entrepreneurs and business owners automate their processes to achieve success. Today, we will delve into the world of automation, personal branding, and the power of appearing on podcasts.

The Power of Automation

Brian Kelly, an expert in automation, shares his journey from being a software developer to becoming an entrepreneur. He realized the importance of automation early on in his career and how it can save time, money, and improve the quality of work. Brian explains, "When you have repetitive tasks that don't really require a human being, if you're able to digitize it, program it into something, it saves you an inordinate amount of time and the quality of the result is always top-notch.

The Transition to Entrepreneurship

Brian's transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship was driven by a desire for freedom and the opportunity to be more creative. He found a sense of belonging in the entrepreneurial community, where he could explore his ideas and make a real impact. Brian shares, "I felt very comfortable being there. It was a lot of people who had a can-do attitude, versus where I was coming from, the corporate world, where it was, 'We've always done it this way, so we're not going to change.'"

The Benefits of Appearing on Podcasts

As a technology executive, appearing on podcasts can have numerous benefits. Brian highlights the importance of personal connections and relationships that can be established through podcast appearances. He explains, "The connections you make through personal relationships with the host of the show you're being interviewed on are worth more than any amount of money you could put on it." By appearing on podcasts, technology executives can expand their network, gain exposure, and potentially find solutions to challenges they face in their roles.

The Power of Video for Personal Branding

Brian emphasizes the significance of video in developing a personal brand. He believes that video allows people to connect with you on a deeper level, even if they haven't met you in person. Brian states, "If they get to see you on video, they see your facial expressions, they hear your voice, and it becomes like they know you." Video enables technology executives to showcase their expertise, build trust, and establish themselves as thought leaders in their field.

The Role of Automation in Producing Live Interview Shows

Brian shares his expertise in helping entrepreneurs produce high-quality live interview shows through automation. He explains how he developed an automated system to streamline the process and ensure professionalism. Brian says, "I realized I needed to do something different, and that's when I came up with a done-for-you service." By automating the production process, entrepreneurs can save time, maintain consistency, and focus on delivering valuable content to their audience.

The Referral System for Guest Acquisition

Brian reveals his effective referral system for acquiring guests for his live interview shows. By incentivizing guests to refer other potential guests, Brian has created a self-sustaining network of high-quality referrals. He explains, "I give them a really great valuable gift in return for three very valuable referrals." This referral system not only helps in guest acquisition but also strengthens relationships and expands the network of potential clients and collaborators.

The Power of Peak Connector CRM

Brian introduces Peak Connector, a CRM software that he uses and recommends to his clients. He highlights the importance of having a CRM that integrates with other tools and platforms, such as Zapier. Brian shares his positive experience with Peak Connector, stating, "It does everything. The key is they have the people behind it that can support it." Peak Connector offers a comprehensive suite of features and provides excellent support, making it a valuable tool for automation and customer relationship management.

The Rise of TikTok for Business

Brian briefly touches on the growing popularity of TikTok and its potential for business growth. While he personally does not use TikTok, he acknowledges its power in reaching a wide audience and creating viral content. Brian advises businesses to explore TikTok as a platform for brand exposure and engagement, stating, "It's kind of cringeworthy, but at the same time, it's low-hanging fruit. I should resell it."

Conclusion and Future Outlook

In conclusion, automation and personal branding are essential for technology executives looking to gain a competitive edge. By leveraging automation tools and strategies, executives can save time, improve efficiency, and deliver high-quality work. Appearing on podcasts and utilizing video platforms allows executives to establish personal connections, showcase their expertise, and expand their network. With the right CRM software, such as Peak Connector, executives can streamline their processes and effectively manage customer relationships. As technology continues to evolve, executives must stay curious, adapt to new trends, and embrace automation and personal branding to stay ahead in the industry.

The future outlook for technology executives is promising, with automation and personal branding becoming increasingly important. By embracing these strategies and leveraging the power of technology, executives can position themselves as industry leaders and drive success in their organizations. As the landscape continues to evolve, executives must stay informed, adapt to new technologies, and continue to build personal connections to maintain their leadership edge.