The Part-Time CEO

“Believe in yourself. Believe that you deserve to chase your dreams and that you deserve to give yourself the time to live without regret.”

Cherissa Kell (1:00:13 - 1:00:24)

The recipe for your success. 

Most people wouldn’t even dream of going to the Olympics with no collegiate or professional background in athletics. But Cherissa Kell isn’t like most people. After hearing that females physically peak in their 30’s, Cherissa decided at the age of 24 that she would train hard to prove that theory true. She hopped on the marathon bandwagon, started surfing, and eventually fell in love with triathlons. Now at the age of 34 and living in Japan, she is well on her way to competing as a female triathlete for USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics. But the journey has proved far from easy or kind.

Two emergency C-sections just 12 months apart completely ripped apart Cherissa’s midline. Everything felt hopeless. The family had recently moved to the middle of nowhere in Wisconsin with the nearest gym 45 minutes away. It wasn’t possible for Cherissa to repair her body and fulfill her Olympic dream with two boys and no support system. Or was it? You may feel it is impossible to reach your full potential as Cherissa did. But the truth is, it isn’t. There is a recipe for your success.

“It’s not a matter of whether or not you will have to sacrifice. The question is what are you willing to sacrifice?”

 - Janelle Lara (53:55 - 54:07)

With the encouragement and support of her husband, Cherissa began researching her options. A life of regret was not what she wanted. Through her research of the professional triathlete and US Olympian, Gwen Jorgensen, Cherissa discovered a reputable coach. An email and phone conversation later, Cherissa was put in touch with her now coach who oversees all elite US female triathletes. 

I’m sure you can imagine the investment of time, energy, and money for an Olympic dream. But just to put things into perspective, Cherissa’s bike alone was $7,000. That’s a tremendous sacrifice for a family of four to make! But it’s not a matter of whether you will have to sacrifice for your dream. It’s a question of what are you willing to sacrifice? 

There are actually many similarities between training for the Olympics and building your own startup. Both require four essential ingredients for success.

1. Raw Talent. Everyone is created with a specific purpose in mind. Cherissa is 130lbs at 5’9 with long legs, a great wingspan, “paddle” hands, and no major health issues or irregular menstrual cycles in the past. Her body is structurally sound to handle the rigor and trauma of training for, and competing in the Olympics. While this might not be the case for you, you are gifted in your own way for something truly amazing! Perhaps you have an inclination? Identify your raw talent to head in the right direction!
2. A Plan. You know you have what it takes. Now you need a plan. Cherissa knew she needed a lot of training to get her body up to peak performance after two emergency C-sections. So she invested in a top coach and got to work! What is holding you back from achieving your dream? What do you need to move forward? Be honest with yourself! Create a plan of personal growth to develop positive habits and master the skills necessary to reach success.
3. A Team. The journey to success is not meant to be lonely. In fact, it’s near impossible to build a business on your own. You need a team! There were some days, Cherissa admitted, where she just didn’t want to get out of bed, train, or leave her sons. But her husband reminded her of her Olympic dream and cheered her on! A parent, spouse, coach or close loved one will always see the best in you even on your most challenging day. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for their help. Surround yourself with the right teammates that will provide good sound counsel and encouragement on the journey ahead.
4. Self-Confidence. Unfortunately, you can’t purchase or receive this last ingredient from anyone or anywhere. It’s something that you will have to dig deep to unearth. Whenever Cherissa found herself on the verge of self-doubt, she would immediately think, “Why not me?” So, why not YOU? If you don’t know already, then let me be the first to tell you. You are one strong woman capable and deserving of something truly amazing! You just got to have a little faith in yourself.

“Seeking out council is essential... Surround yourself with good council. Take their advice. Ask questions. Don’t try to build your business alone.”

 - Cherissa Kell (33:09 - 33:43)

After mixing these four essential ingredients, it may very well be that you don’t succeed. You will probably fail many many times in the process. But guess what? That’s okay. Behind most success stories are many stories of failure. If you continue to utilize a plan to develop your raw talent with the support of a team and up your self-confidence, then one of your batches is bound to turn out exactly the way you want. What’s important is to not give up and stay positive. 

I know it’s scary to take the initial step. What if it doesn’t work? 

But what if it does? 

You’ll never know until you try! Allow yourself the chance to chase your dreams and reach your full potential! You deserve it.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• Follow Cherissa Kell and her 2024 Paris Olympic journey @swimbikerun_live!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected]. 

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“Believe in yourself. Believe that you deserve to chase your dreams and that you deserve to give yourself the time to live without regret.”

Cherissa Kell (1:00:13 - 1:00:24)

The recipe for your success. 

Most people wouldn’t even dream of going to the Olympics with no collegiate or professional background in athletics. But Cherissa Kell isn’t like most people. After hearing that females physically peak in their 30’s, Cherissa decided at the age of 24 that she would train hard to prove that theory true. She hopped on the marathon bandwagon, started surfing, and eventually fell in love with triathlons. Now at the age of 34 and living in Japan, she is well on her way to competing as a female triathlete for USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics. But the journey has proved far from easy or kind.

Two emergency C-sections just 12 months apart completely ripped apart Cherissa’s midline. Everything felt hopeless. The family had recently moved to the middle of nowhere in Wisconsin with the nearest gym 45 minutes away. It wasn’t possible for Cherissa to repair her body and fulfill her Olympic dream with two boys and no support system. Or was it? You may feel it is impossible to reach your full potential as Cherissa did. But the truth is, it isn’t. There is a recipe for your success.

“It’s not a matter of whether or not you will have to sacrifice. The question is what are you willing to sacrifice?”

 - Janelle Lara (53:55 - 54:07)

With the encouragement and support of her husband, Cherissa began researching her options. A life of regret was not what she wanted. Through her research of the professional triathlete and US Olympian, Gwen Jorgensen, Cherissa discovered a reputable coach. An email and phone conversation later, Cherissa was put in touch with her now coach who oversees all elite US female triathletes. 

I’m sure you can imagine the investment of time, energy, and money for an Olympic dream. But just to put things into perspective, Cherissa’s bike alone was $7,000. That’s a tremendous sacrifice for a family of four to make! But it’s not a matter of whether you will have to sacrifice for your dream. It’s a question of what are you willing to sacrifice? 

There are actually many similarities between training for the Olympics and building your own startup. Both require four essential ingredients for success.

1. Raw Talent. Everyone is created with a specific purpose in mind. Cherissa is 130lbs at 5’9 with long legs, a great wingspan, “paddle” hands, and no major health issues or irregular menstrual cycles in the past. Her body is structurally sound to handle the rigor and trauma of training for, and competing in the Olympics. While this might not be the case for you, you are gifted in your own way for something truly amazing! Perhaps you have an inclination? Identify your raw talent to head in the right direction!
2. A Plan. You know you have what it takes. Now you need a plan. Cherissa knew she needed a lot of training to get her body up to peak performance after two emergency C-sections. So she invested in a top coach and got to work! What is holding you back from achieving your dream? What do you need to move forward? Be honest with yourself! Create a plan of personal growth to develop positive habits and master the skills necessary to reach success.
3. A Team. The journey to success is not meant to be lonely. In fact, it’s near impossible to build a business on your own. You need a team! There were some days, Cherissa admitted, where she just didn’t want to get out of bed, train, or leave her sons. But her husband reminded her of her Olympic dream and cheered her on! A parent, spouse, coach or close loved one will always see the best in you even on your most challenging day. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for their help. Surround yourself with the right teammates that will provide good sound counsel and encouragement on the journey ahead.
4. Self-Confidence. Unfortunately, you can’t purchase or receive this last ingredient from anyone or anywhere. It’s something that you will have to dig deep to unearth. Whenever Cherissa found herself on the verge of self-doubt, she would immediately think, “Why not me?” So, why not YOU? If you don’t know already, then let me be the first to tell you. You are one strong woman capable and deserving of something truly amazing! You just got to have a little faith in yourself.

“Seeking out council is essential... Surround yourself with good council. Take their advice. Ask questions. Don’t try to build your business alone.”

 - Cherissa Kell (33:09 - 33:43)

After mixing these four essential ingredients, it may very well be that you don’t succeed. You will probably fail many many times in the process. But guess what? That’s okay. Behind most success stories are many stories of failure. If you continue to utilize a plan to develop your raw talent with the support of a team and up your self-confidence, then one of your batches is bound to turn out exactly the way you want. What’s important is to not give up and stay positive. 

I know it’s scary to take the initial step. What if it doesn’t work? 

But what if it does? 

You’ll never know until you try! Allow yourself the chance to chase your dreams and reach your full potential! You deserve it.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• Follow Cherissa Kell and her 2024 Paris Olympic journey @swimbikerun_live!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected]. 

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“It’s not only your customer service. It’s the story that you tell that people resonate with. It’s the all-around feeling you get when you’re associated with that brand.”

Sam Greenwaldt (8:57 - 9:12)

The importance of clearly and consistently sharing your message.

Logos. Color schemes. Graphics. Those are the typical elements business owners, myself included, associate with the word branding. We spend so much time, energy, and money on the overall “look” of a business that we forget about the “feel.” Luckily, Brand Strategist and mother of two, Sam Greendwaldt, is here to steer us in the right direction. The CEO of Greendwaldt Design lays out four steps that will help you develop a cohesive brand that both speaks and resonates on a soulmate level.

“It needs to be one of those je ne sais quoi, match made in heaven type relationships where they say, “I just like her.”

- Janelle Lara (12:59 - 13:09)

If branding isn’t solely rooted in visual style, then what is it?

Branding is a tool that influences perception. Seth Godin put it this way, “A brand is a person’s gut feeling about you.”

Everything you produce, from content to marketing materials, is being perceived in a very specific way. Therefore, it is critical for you to be conscious of what you’re putting out and whether it is clear and consistent across the board.

While you can’t force anyone to fall in love with your business, you can be irresistibly attractive through these four steps.

1. Share who you are and who you can help. What are your values? What is your lifestyle? Who do you serve? Keep these questions in mind as you allow your energy and personality to shine. Your goal is to share to connect.
2. Wink at your ideal clients. Do you know who you would love to work with? Here’s a hint: take a look at any past successful clients that stand out! Focus your attention on finding like-minded individuals and wooing them your way.
3. Communicate in the right language. Your targeted audience most likely uses jargon. Study their lingo by joining a Facebook group they are involved in. Take the time to fully learn who they are, their pain points, and the type of communication that will draw them in.
4. Tie in your visuals. After all the strategic work is done, then you can move on to creating an empathy chart. An empathy chart lays out your type of client visually, down to their preferred drink. Watch as a color scheme and logo fall into place as you realize what best resonates with your type of client.

“Strategy is the most important piece in branding. It’s not something that you throw together. It’s something that you do intentionally.”

- Janelle Lara (26:11 - 26:20)

Branding will make or break your business. It is the key to your success in the pushing away or pulling in of a prospect. This week reflect on whether your branding is effectively communicating the right message for your business. What story are you telling? Is it clear and consistent? Is it even the one that you want? If not, then work through the steps above to develop a cohesive brand that aligns with everything you stand for.

Strategize. Fine-tune. Then share your message!

One by one your ideal clients will connect on a soulmate level and fall deeply in love. It’ll be an ever-lasting relationship for the success of your business!

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“It’s not only your customer service. It’s the story that you tell that people resonate with. It’s the all-around feeling you get when you’re associated with that brand.”

Sam Greenwaldt (8:57 - 9:12)

The importance of clearly and consistently sharing your message.

Logos. Color schemes. Graphics. Those are the typical elements business owners, myself included, associate with the word branding. We spend so much time, energy, and money on the overall “look” of a business that we forget about the “feel.” Luckily, Brand Strategist and mother of two, Sam Greendwaldt, is here to steer us in the right direction. The CEO of Greendwaldt Design lays out four steps that will help you develop a cohesive brand that both speaks and resonates on a soulmate level.

“It needs to be one of those je ne sais quoi, match made in heaven type relationships where they say, “I just like her.”

- Janelle Lara (12:59 - 13:09)

If branding isn’t solely rooted in visual style, then what is it?

Branding is a tool that influences perception. Seth Godin put it this way, “A brand is a person’s gut feeling about you.”

Everything you produce, from content to marketing materials, is being perceived in a very specific way. Therefore, it is critical for you to be conscious of what you’re putting out and whether it is clear and consistent across the board.

While you can’t force anyone to fall in love with your business, you can be irresistibly attractive through these four steps.

1. Share who you are and who you can help. What are your values? What is your lifestyle? Who do you serve? Keep these questions in mind as you allow your energy and personality to shine. Your goal is to share to connect.
2. Wink at your ideal clients. Do you know who you would love to work with? Here’s a hint: take a look at any past successful clients that stand out! Focus your attention on finding like-minded individuals and wooing them your way.
3. Communicate in the right language. Your targeted audience most likely uses jargon. Study their lingo by joining a Facebook group they are involved in. Take the time to fully learn who they are, their pain points, and the type of communication that will draw them in.
4. Tie in your visuals. After all the strategic work is done, then you can move on to creating an empathy chart. An empathy chart lays out your type of client visually, down to their preferred drink. Watch as a color scheme and logo fall into place as you realize what best resonates with your type of client.

“Strategy is the most important piece in branding. It’s not something that you throw together. It’s something that you do intentionally.”

- Janelle Lara (26:11 - 26:20)

Branding will make or break your business. It is the key to your success in the pushing away or pulling in of a prospect. This week reflect on whether your branding is effectively communicating the right message for your business. What story are you telling? Is it clear and consistent? Is it even the one that you want? If not, then work through the steps above to develop a cohesive brand that aligns with everything you stand for.

Strategize. Fine-tune. Then share your message!

One by one your ideal clients will connect on a soulmate level and fall deeply in love. It’ll be an ever-lasting relationship for the success of your business!

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“Here is the answer to all of the noise and static online: Be the lion! Don’t be a zebra.”

Janelle Lara (9:05 - 9:19)

Become a lion to stand out from the herd of zebras online.

It’s an exciting time to be alive! With the ability to easily access the online marketplace, the barrier of entry for entrepreneurs has never been so low in the United States. The history teacher in me glows at the thought of how proud our forefathers would be. After all, they fought their way through the American Revolution to gain freedom in trade and commerce from the British. It’s a win that has carried through to the 21st century where anyone is able to do work from the comfort of their home with just a laptop. The accessibility and opportunity online have widened the competitive market. So how is that some entrepreneurs are able to stand out and gain radical success while others fade into the cracks? The answer lies in the grassy plains of the savanna.

In your mind’s eye, I want you to imagine a safari scene. There are acacia trees dotting the horizon and lemon grass blowing in the wind. As the sun rises, a herd of zebras grazes unaware of a lion in the corner. Now choose one focal point.

Where did you fixate your gaze?

Was it the lion?

I’ll bet it was! Lions are majestic mammals that demand respect and attention. It’s only natural that their uniqueness would stand out against the sea of black and white stripes. Which mammal can you relate to in the savanna of the online marketplace? Do you feel like the zebra or the lion? Are you blending in with the competition and struggling to monetize even though you already have over 50 people actively engaging in your content? Then you need the Lion Formula to build a stand out trustworthy brand.

“The only place that camo belongs is in the army. If you’re doing what everyone else is doing, then you’re not standing out you’re just blending in.” - Janelle Lara (17:00 - 17:08)

Aside from the physically attractive qualities of a lion, there is also a difference in mentality distinguishing it from the herd of zebras. A zebra looks around at the current online marketplace and complains about all the static and online noise. But a lion sees the abundance in opportunity for growth.

Here are some lessons I’ve learned in the safari to help you successfully shift into a lion mentality, take up your power, and stand out online.

1. Don’t invent a personality. Has anyone else noticed the recent trends in hair coloring, combative comments, and similar verbiage used from one entrepreneur to the next online? It makes me wonder whether that individual is authentically being themselves or trying really hard to be different. I’m not saying if you like coloring your hair to stop! All I’m saying is to keep in mind - the more you see something the less unique it becomes.
2. Don’t copy another stand out brand. It’ll be really obvious if you use any other messaging beside your own. So just don’t do it. It never works anyways!
3. Do give yourself the time and space for creativity and exploration. You can’t afford to skip over this step! Think about your values and messaging as you do market research. What feels right? Who do you want to help? The answers to such vital questions will lay the groundwork for a stand out brand.
4. Do surround yourself with people who are worthy of speaking to your brand. In other words, please don’t bounce your business ideas off of people who have no experience in business! Only consult with people capable of providing constructive feedback on the intimate matters regarding your business.
5. Do understand that done is better than perfect. Allow your brand to find you. A lot of times, business owners who are just starting out are really focused on figuring out their brand before they actually begin. But often times, your brand will find you! To gain some momentum use your name as your business title. Be yourself and allow your brand to organically evolve into something truly powerful.

“Be the person that people look to. Be the person that people regard as an expert.” - Janelle Lara (26:48 - 26:55)  

Every business journey will differ. But somewhere in your roaming of the savanna in the online marketplace, there is one vital decision every entrepreneur will have to make. Either you choose to whine about the hopelessness in regards to your competition, or you choose to recognize the abundance of opportunity around you!

You could continue to hold a zebra mentality and stay lost in a sea of black and white stripes. Or you could adopt a lion mentality and stand out from the herd as you portray your authentic self and develop your brand!

The choice is yours.

Do you want to be a zebra or a lion?

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“Here is the answer to all of the noise and static online: Be the lion! Don’t be a zebra.”

Janelle Lara (9:05 - 9:19)

Become a lion to stand out from the herd of zebras online.

It’s an exciting time to be alive! With the ability to easily access the online marketplace, the barrier of entry for entrepreneurs has never been so low in the United States. The history teacher in me glows at the thought of how proud our forefathers would be. After all, they fought their way through the American Revolution to gain freedom in trade and commerce from the British. It’s a win that has carried through to the 21st century where anyone is able to do work from the comfort of their home with just a laptop. The accessibility and opportunity online have widened the competitive market. So how is that some entrepreneurs are able to stand out and gain radical success while others fade into the cracks? The answer lies in the grassy plains of the savanna.

In your mind’s eye, I want you to imagine a safari scene. There are acacia trees dotting the horizon and lemon grass blowing in the wind. As the sun rises, a herd of zebras grazes unaware of a lion in the corner. Now choose one focal point.

Where did you fixate your gaze?

Was it the lion?

I’ll bet it was! Lions are majestic mammals that demand respect and attention. It’s only natural that their uniqueness would stand out against the sea of black and white stripes. Which mammal can you relate to in the savanna of the online marketplace? Do you feel like the zebra or the lion? Are you blending in with the competition and struggling to monetize even though you already have over 50 people actively engaging in your content? Then you need the Lion Formula to build a stand out trustworthy brand.

“The only place that camo belongs is in the army. If you’re doing what everyone else is doing, then you’re not standing out you’re just blending in.” - Janelle Lara (17:00 - 17:08)

Aside from the physically attractive qualities of a lion, there is also a difference in mentality distinguishing it from the herd of zebras. A zebra looks around at the current online marketplace and complains about all the static and online noise. But a lion sees the abundance in opportunity for growth.

Here are some lessons I’ve learned in the safari to help you successfully shift into a lion mentality, take up your power, and stand out online.

1. Don’t invent a personality. Has anyone else noticed the recent trends in hair coloring, combative comments, and similar verbiage used from one entrepreneur to the next online? It makes me wonder whether that individual is authentically being themselves or trying really hard to be different. I’m not saying if you like coloring your hair to stop! All I’m saying is to keep in mind - the more you see something the less unique it becomes.
2. Don’t copy another stand out brand. It’ll be really obvious if you use any other messaging beside your own. So just don’t do it. It never works anyways!
3. Do give yourself the time and space for creativity and exploration. You can’t afford to skip over this step! Think about your values and messaging as you do market research. What feels right? Who do you want to help? The answers to such vital questions will lay the groundwork for a stand out brand.
4. Do surround yourself with people who are worthy of speaking to your brand. In other words, please don’t bounce your business ideas off of people who have no experience in business! Only consult with people capable of providing constructive feedback on the intimate matters regarding your business.
5. Do understand that done is better than perfect. Allow your brand to find you. A lot of times, business owners who are just starting out are really focused on figuring out their brand before they actually begin. But often times, your brand will find you! To gain some momentum use your name as your business title. Be yourself and allow your brand to organically evolve into something truly powerful.

“Be the person that people look to. Be the person that people regard as an expert.” - Janelle Lara (26:48 - 26:55)  

Every business journey will differ. But somewhere in your roaming of the savanna in the online marketplace, there is one vital decision every entrepreneur will have to make. Either you choose to whine about the hopelessness in regards to your competition, or you choose to recognize the abundance of opportunity around you!

You could continue to hold a zebra mentality and stay lost in a sea of black and white stripes. Or you could adopt a lion mentality and stand out from the herd as you portray your authentic self and develop your brand!

The choice is yours.

Do you want to be a zebra or a lion?

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“You need to connect with people, bring them into your world, then figure out how to convert them into a client assuming they’re a good fit.”

Michelle Vroom (6:55 - 7:04)

Three steps every small business owner should take to get clients consistently.

Would you ever say yes to a marriage proposal on a first date? Unless you experience a serious case of Serendipity, not usually. Then, why would you ever expect someone you haven’t appropriately prospected as a potential client to say yes to your offer?

In a world of instant gratification, many small business owners are failing to invest the proper amount of time and energy in finding the right client and building a relationship before popping the big question. Instead, they approach anyone and everyone, fumble on one knee and not surprisingly walk away disappointed every time. Michelle Vroom, Founder, and CEO of Vroom Communications, is ready to end this disastrous pattern with three simple steps. Michelle believes the trick to hear that three letter word is by first connecting with your audience on an emotional level to uncover and gain any potential clients.

“If there was ever an absolute for marketing, it would be this - connect with your audience on an emotional level.” - Michelle Vroom (17:17 - 17:24)

The number one mistake in marketing is to treat people like numbers and not human beings. Let’s start on a good foot by treating every person you come in contact with as you would a new friend.

Aim to connect and invite these new friends into your world as you properly identify the right clients that will grow your business consistently.

1. Connect with your audience. You can’t sit by and wait for the right client to come to you. It’s your responsibility to go find them! First, identify where your audience is spending their time. Then, show up on one or two of those platforms. Create an online presence as you engage in conversation and connect with actual human beings. You want your audience to get to know you, what you’re all about, and that you care!
2. Invite them into your world. As you continue to nurture your newfound friendship, be attentive to any signs of interest. Someone may reveal in conversation that they need or are struggling with. If you can help, then just ask if they would be interested in receiving more details surrounding your offer! Just like that, you’ve got a potential client. Provide any resources like access to your open group, a lead magnet, or even a free challenge if you have one. It’s a lot easier to talk to someone who is actually interested in you and your business versus pushing for someone who isn’t.
3. Identify your VIPs. At last, you will have nurtured a community and fan base. Pay close attention to those who consistently watch your Facebook Live Feed, post comments, and respond to your emails. While some of them will continue to appreciate from afar, others will desire a backstage pass. Familiarize yourself with those VIPs by asking detailed questions to confirm whether they are the right fit for your business. It’s most likely they are ready but need your support to become clients!

“I invested 100% of profits back into my business, specifically 50% of revenue in continuing education and coaching. I knew I wanted a six-figure company within the first twelve months. Investing is what it takes!” - Janelle Lara (42:06 - 42:26)

Relationships lead to sales. Focus your time and energy on building a relationship with the right client to successfully and consistently grow your business. Why waste your offer on people who don’t care or can’t benefit? Use Michelle’s three steps as a guide to find your audience and convert them from prospects into clients. Remember, people will invest in your offer if they believe in you.

If you’re really stuck on who your audience is, then consider hiring a marketing coach for guidance. Most small business owners cradle their business like babies, too emotionally invested to see all the facts and make objective decisions. A marketing coach will provide perspective and accountability. Yes, I’m encouraging you to go all in and actually take money out of your revenue to invest! I promise it will be worth it. Your business will thank you as you invest in help to get the clients you need and reach your dreams. Never doubt that you have something amazing to offer. The world needs to hear about it. What are you waiting for?

Get on out there! You’ve got some hearts to win.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“You need to connect with people, bring them into your world, then figure out how to convert them into a client assuming they’re a good fit.”

Michelle Vroom (6:55 - 7:04)

Three steps every small business owner should take to get clients consistently.

Would you ever say yes to a marriage proposal on a first date? Unless you experience a serious case of Serendipity, not usually. Then, why would you ever expect someone you haven’t appropriately prospected as a potential client to say yes to your offer?

In a world of instant gratification, many small business owners are failing to invest the proper amount of time and energy in finding the right client and building a relationship before popping the big question. Instead, they approach anyone and everyone, fumble on one knee and not surprisingly walk away disappointed every time. Michelle Vroom, Founder, and CEO of Vroom Communications, is ready to end this disastrous pattern with three simple steps. Michelle believes the trick to hear that three letter word is by first connecting with your audience on an emotional level to uncover and gain any potential clients.

“If there was ever an absolute for marketing, it would be this - connect with your audience on an emotional level.” - Michelle Vroom (17:17 - 17:24)

The number one mistake in marketing is to treat people like numbers and not human beings. Let’s start on a good foot by treating every person you come in contact with as you would a new friend.

Aim to connect and invite these new friends into your world as you properly identify the right clients that will grow your business consistently.

1. Connect with your audience. You can’t sit by and wait for the right client to come to you. It’s your responsibility to go find them! First, identify where your audience is spending their time. Then, show up on one or two of those platforms. Create an online presence as you engage in conversation and connect with actual human beings. You want your audience to get to know you, what you’re all about, and that you care!
2. Invite them into your world. As you continue to nurture your newfound friendship, be attentive to any signs of interest. Someone may reveal in conversation that they need or are struggling with. If you can help, then just ask if they would be interested in receiving more details surrounding your offer! Just like that, you’ve got a potential client. Provide any resources like access to your open group, a lead magnet, or even a free challenge if you have one. It’s a lot easier to talk to someone who is actually interested in you and your business versus pushing for someone who isn’t.
3. Identify your VIPs. At last, you will have nurtured a community and fan base. Pay close attention to those who consistently watch your Facebook Live Feed, post comments, and respond to your emails. While some of them will continue to appreciate from afar, others will desire a backstage pass. Familiarize yourself with those VIPs by asking detailed questions to confirm whether they are the right fit for your business. It’s most likely they are ready but need your support to become clients!

“I invested 100% of profits back into my business, specifically 50% of revenue in continuing education and coaching. I knew I wanted a six-figure company within the first twelve months. Investing is what it takes!” - Janelle Lara (42:06 - 42:26)

Relationships lead to sales. Focus your time and energy on building a relationship with the right client to successfully and consistently grow your business. Why waste your offer on people who don’t care or can’t benefit? Use Michelle’s three steps as a guide to find your audience and convert them from prospects into clients. Remember, people will invest in your offer if they believe in you.

If you’re really stuck on who your audience is, then consider hiring a marketing coach for guidance. Most small business owners cradle their business like babies, too emotionally invested to see all the facts and make objective decisions. A marketing coach will provide perspective and accountability. Yes, I’m encouraging you to go all in and actually take money out of your revenue to invest! I promise it will be worth it. Your business will thank you as you invest in help to get the clients you need and reach your dreams. Never doubt that you have something amazing to offer. The world needs to hear about it. What are you waiting for?

Get on out there! You’ve got some hearts to win.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“A lot of things that are considered industry standards, like having a large email list, a big audience, and a broad reach - none of that is really necessary in order to be successful in business.”

Janelle Lara (1:52-2:07)

I am going to share with you the secrets I’ve used to build a six-figure company within the first twelve months of my business with a super small audience.

I currently have only 250 on my email list and around 270 in my Facebook group. A small but mighty community!

A lot of advice floating around the internet says you have to have certain elements to run a successful business. The truth is, every business is different! I’m going to share what worked for me and my business! How these five secrets relate to you is completely custom to you, your personality, and your industry.

“What I am here to say, first and foremost, is that there is no one way to build a business. There is no one way that works for every single business every single time.”  -Janelle Lara (6:16-6:29)

The 5 Secrets I Used to Build a Six-Figure Biz with a Small Audience

#1 - I hired a good coach.

I realized that there are so many ways you can start a business. I needed someone to say, “Here’s the roadmap for you that will work best for you, your personality, and what you want to do.”

When I started, I had so many beliefs that I didn’t even know I had that were holding me back. Those mindset issues are like mud on our vehicle’s windshield. We need someone to come from the outside and clear our windshields so we can see what is possible. A good coach will do that for us.

Within three weeks of hiring a coach, I had made up the investment. Within twelve months, I am running a six-figure company working just twenty hours a week.

#2 - I committed to radical authenticity and integrity.

It is important to me that I show up as my true self in my business and that I have an authentic relationship with my audience. I have intentionally created a high touchpoint experience for them because I truly care about them and their businesses.

A lot of people say that you need a huge audience, a huge mailing list,  and a huge reach, which is breadth. I disagree. I think you need depth. It is more important to me that I have a deep and authentic relationship with my audience than a large reach that is only a surface level relationship. Going deep rather than broad is how I’ve been able to build a successful business with such a small audience.

#3 - I take radical responsibility for everything that happens in my business.

Every single thing that happens in my business is my responsibility. The buck stops here. I believe that taking responsibility for the results and not blaming things like algorithm or people’s small attention spans is what has enabled me to build a six-figure company.

When things don’t go the way I want them to, I explore what may have been wrong and test out different options that lead to being more successful in the future.  When we blame something or someone else for the lack of results in our businesses, we stop the potential for growth in its tracks.

#4 - I laid the foundation for a six-figure company from the beginning by acting like a CEO, specifically regarding my finances.

These are some of the things I invested in right from the beginning to lay the foundation for a six-figure company:

1. Continual coaching with several different coaches
2. A lawyer to write an evergreen contract so that me, my business, and my clients would be protected
3. An accountant to help me form an LLC
4. A virtual assistant to do the things I can’t or don’t want to do
5. Systems to make my business run smoothly

That’s what acting like a CEO means.

#5 - I upgraded my environment.

I intentionally placed myself amongst peers who are comfortable and familiar with the level of success I want to attain. I chose those who not only consider a $50k day to be normal but who are able to say, “Yes, I’ve been there and done that.”

“The overarching, most-important theme - I hired experts who have done it before, I showed up, and I trusted the process.”

  - Janelle Lara (43:57-44:10)

If you are in the process of building a business, my hope is that these five secrets will give you some good insight. But if you are tired of general advice and want a specific game plan, you need a coach. I would be glad to hop on a clarity call with you and help you figure out what your next best step will be.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!

“A lot of things that are considered industry standards, like having a large email list, a big audience, and a broad reach - none of that is really necessary in order to be successful in business.”

Janelle Lara (1:52-2:07)

I am going to share with you the secrets I’ve used to build a six-figure company within the first twelve months of my business with a super small audience.

I currently have only 250 on my email list and around 270 in my Facebook group. A small but mighty community!

A lot of advice floating around the internet says you have to have certain elements to run a successful business. The truth is, every business is different! I’m going to share what worked for me and my business! How these five secrets relate to you is completely custom to you, your personality, and your industry.

“What I am here to say, first and foremost, is that there is no one way to build a business. There is no one way that works for every single business every single time.”  -Janelle Lara (6:16-6:29)

The 5 Secrets I Used to Build a Six-Figure Biz with a Small Audience

#1 - I hired a good coach.

I realized that there are so many ways you can start a business. I needed someone to say, “Here’s the roadmap for you that will work best for you, your personality, and what you want to do.”

When I started, I had so many beliefs that I didn’t even know I had that were holding me back. Those mindset issues are like mud on our vehicle’s windshield. We need someone to come from the outside and clear our windshields so we can see what is possible. A good coach will do that for us.

Within three weeks of hiring a coach, I had made up the investment. Within twelve months, I am running a six-figure company working just twenty hours a week.

#2 - I committed to radical authenticity and integrity.

It is important to me that I show up as my true self in my business and that I have an authentic relationship with my audience. I have intentionally created a high touchpoint experience for them because I truly care about them and their businesses.

A lot of people say that you need a huge audience, a huge mailing list,  and a huge reach, which is breadth. I disagree. I think you need depth. It is more important to me that I have a deep and authentic relationship with my audience than a large reach that is only a surface level relationship. Going deep rather than broad is how I’ve been able to build a successful business with such a small audience.

#3 - I take radical responsibility for everything that happens in my business.

Every single thing that happens in my business is my responsibility. The buck stops here. I believe that taking responsibility for the results and not blaming things like algorithm or people’s small attention spans is what has enabled me to build a six-figure company.

When things don’t go the way I want them to, I explore what may have been wrong and test out different options that lead to being more successful in the future.  When we blame something or someone else for the lack of results in our businesses, we stop the potential for growth in its tracks.

#4 - I laid the foundation for a six-figure company from the beginning by acting like a CEO, specifically regarding my finances.

These are some of the things I invested in right from the beginning to lay the foundation for a six-figure company:

1. Continual coaching with several different coaches
2. A lawyer to write an evergreen contract so that me, my business, and my clients would be protected
3. An accountant to help me form an LLC
4. A virtual assistant to do the things I can’t or don’t want to do
5. Systems to make my business run smoothly

That’s what acting like a CEO means.

#5 - I upgraded my environment.

I intentionally placed myself amongst peers who are comfortable and familiar with the level of success I want to attain. I chose those who not only consider a $50k day to be normal but who are able to say, “Yes, I’ve been there and done that.”

“The overarching, most-important theme - I hired experts who have done it before, I showed up, and I trusted the process.”

  - Janelle Lara (43:57-44:10)

If you are in the process of building a business, my hope is that these five secrets will give you some good insight. But if you are tired of general advice and want a specific game plan, you need a coach. I would be glad to hop on a clarity call with you and help you figure out what your next best step will be.

How to get involved

• Follow @theparttimeceopodcast on Instagram for special, podcast related updates!
• For more resources, information on my coaching services, and a whole community of Part-Time CEOs, find me on Facebook at Janelle Lara, my website, or email me at [email protected].

If you liked this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a quick review on iTunes. It would mean the world to hear your feedback and we’d love for you to help us spread the word!