Networking, connections, and relationships—these are the lifeblood of professional success. Yet, in a world dominated by numbers and KPIs, it’s easy to lose sight of the people behind the metrics.

Today’s episode of the Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast dives deep into how meaningful relationships—not just surface-level networking—can transform your career, your business, and your life. Joined by Jeff Lerner, fractional CMO and author of The Power of Relationships in Professional Growth, we’ll explore the art of turning contacts into champions, nurturing mentorships, and building a legacy of trust and collaboration.

GUEST LINKS

• Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn
• Check out Jeff's company Misnomer Marketing
• The Power of Relationships in Professional Growth on Amazon

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

I recently attended Author Nation, the premier conference for self-published authors in Las Vegas. While it might seem like fiction authors and digital marketers are worlds apart, the lessons I learned prove otherwise. From innovative uses of AI to the art of leveraging "borrowed audiences" and creating content that captivates through curiosity, authors are blazing trails that marketers can follow. Join me as I share 10 game-changing insights from Author Nation that will inspire your digital marketing strategy in 2025 and beyond!

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Unlock the secrets to mastering clear communication in digital marketing with insights from my guest, Ben Gutmann, a former marketing agency owner and professor. Ben shares his journey from leading a successful agency to penning his book "Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win and How to Design Them," emphasizing the profound impact of simplicity in messaging. Discover how clear and fluent messages not only resonate with audiences but also drive successful marketing campaigns.

Explore the art of crafting simple yet powerful messages, as we dissect the common traps of overcomplicating communication and the science behind why simplicity prevails. Ben and I discuss the pivotal role of focusing on benefits over features, using relatable examples like mint toothpaste to illustrate how emotional benefits can transform your marketing approach. Learn practical strategies to connect with your audience on a personal level, whether through creating customer avatars or tailoring messages across platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. We’ll also touch on the impact of AI on messaging and the delicate balance between information and persuasion.

Whether you're crafting an advertisement, an email, or a proposal, this episode is packed with wisdom to help you communicate more effectively. So, tune in as we unravel the secrets behind clear and compelling communication with Ben Guttmann.

Guest Links

• Buy Simply Put on Amazon
• Connect with Ben on LinkedIn
• Ben's Website

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Think LinkedIn is just a network of stiff profiles? Think again!

Treat it like a professional Instagram to boost your visibility.

Visual content is king on LinkedIn, and I'm here to guide you on harnessing its power for maximum engagement and visibility. Learn how images can outperform other post types and discover effective content patterns by analyzing your LinkedIn newsfeed. I challenge you to embrace more genuine, human-centric imagery in your LinkedIn strategy.

Tune in to learn the data-driven secrets you need to stand out!

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Unlock the potential of your business as we unveil the secrets to customer experience marketing with insights from expert Dan Gingiss. Imagine transforming dissatisfied customers into loyal advocates through memorable experiences that naturally generate positive buzz. Gain exclusive access to strategies that identify at-risk customers early, incorporating their feedback to enhance their journey and differentiate your brand through exceptional service. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned marketing professional, discover how impactful small gestures can rival large-scale projects when it comes to winning over your audience.

Join us as we explore the intersection of marketing and customer experience, and learn how personalized interactions at your favorite coffee shop can translate into powerful word-of-mouth marketing. With over two decades in the marketing industry, we delve into how small businesses can implement cost-effective customer experience tactics while leveraging user-generated content and brand ambassadors. Imagine your employees becoming your most passionate promoters, enriching the customer experience and amplifying brand loyalty without breaking the bank.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of customer experience marketing, we delve into data-driven strategies to maximize customer retention. Discover how forward-thinking companies are using artificial intelligence to analyze customer behavior and prevent attrition, alleviating pressure on sales teams. From revolutionary sampling experiences pioneered by brands like Sipsmith Gin to the latest developments in AI, stay informed and inspired to innovate. Our personal reflections on social media trends round out this episode, offering fresh perspectives on creating authentic, shareable customer experiences that lead to organic promotion and sustainable growth.

GUEST LINKS

• Dan Gingiss Website
• Connect with Dan on LinkedIn
• Buy The Experience Maker on Amazon

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

SEO. You might think you know everything about search engine optimization, but AI is changing the game more rapidly than ever. The new search landscape isn't just about Google anymore—AI-driven tools like Chat GPT are redefining visibility and relevance. How can your business adapt and even thrive in this evolving scenario? I'm diving into the latest trends and offering practical steps to future-proof your SEO strategy. So stay tuned to this next episode of the Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast.

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Unlock the secrets to boosting your online visibility and making your brand irresistible with Google Knowledge Panels. I sat down with digital marketing expert Dennis Yu to uncover the transformative power of social media signals in search results. Learn how genuine customer engagement and user-generated content can elevate your Google-ability and cement your credibility in the digital landscape. With a focus on authentic content across platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram, Dennis provides valuable insights that will propel your brand to new heights.

Our conversation unpacks the essence of digital marketing, emphasizing the pivotal role that data and social media play in achieving marketing success. Drawing from decades of experience, Dennis highlights the nuances of algorithms used by giants like Google and TikTok, revealing how these systems interpret signals beyond mere website data. Explore strategic tactics for outpacing competition on platforms like Amazon and Netflix, and discover how embedding recognizable elements in your content can become a game-changer in the ranking race.

Dennis also sheds light on mastering Google relevance, urging businesses to focus on location-specific content to bolster their digital presence. With a thoughtful discussion on AI's role in marketing and updates from Facebook and Pinterest, Dennis provide a comprehensive look at the current trends and strategies shaping the industry. From tackling common mistakes to enhancing signal strength with authentic connections, this episode is packed with actionable advice to strengthen your online footprint without the constant pressure of being an influencer.

GUEST LINKS

• Connect with Dennis on LinkedIn
• Check out his company BlitzMetrics
• Buy Dennis' book The Definitive Guide to TikTok Advertising

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

A lot is being said about how to best use AI in your marketing, but there is one thing that needs to be said:

ChatGPT is all about democratizing the use of AI. While understanding how to "prompt" an AI chatbot is important, what is more important is imagining the many different ways in which you can use this technology to help you work faster and/or smarter. And then implementing those ideas into reality.

That is what this episode is all about: It's all about innovating your approach to AI.

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Today we dive deep into the world of personality-led growth and brand building with our special guest, Andy Lambert, co-founder of ContentCal and Senior Product Manager at Adobe Express. In this episode, we explore the crucial role of understanding customer pain points, especially in the realms of remote work and inside sales.

Throughout the episode, Andy highlights the evolution of social media from a sales channel to a platform for building genuine relationships, the importance of influencer and creator collaborations, and the power of employee branding in strengthening company reputations. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or simply interested in the future of digital marketing, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

So, get ready to learn how to build powerful brands through personality-led growth, understand your customers on a deeper level, and engage with influential communities for sustainable business success. Tune in now!

GUEST LINKS

• Connect with Andy on LinkedIn
• Buy Social 3.0 on Amazon
• Check Out Adobe Express

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com

Can rethinking your approach to social media scheduling drastically improve your engagement? 

Find out as I challenge the conventional reliance on scheduling tools and advocate for a more hands-on, direct engagement strategy.

Today's episode is all about rethinking a common tool in our digital marketing toolbox: the social media scheduler. Inspired by my work on revising "Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth" and my analysis of various content types, I've come to realize that the traditional approach of scheduling link-based content just isn't cutting it anymore. Platforms continue to deprioritize this type of content, and staying ahead means diving deeper into the feed and engaging in real-time. 

We'll explore why relying too heavily on scheduling tools can actually hinder your visibility and engagement, and discuss practical steps to become more nimble and present in your social media strategy. Plus, I'll share insights on which platforms and content types can still benefit from scheduling, and a method to balance scheduled posts with spontaneous engagement. 

Whether you're a digital marketing pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you make a bigger impact on social media. Let's dive in!

Learn More:

• Buy Digital Threads: https://nealschaffer.com/digitalthreads
• Buy Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth: https://nealschaffer.com/maximizinglinkedinforgrowth
• Join My Digital First Mastermind: https://nealschaffer.com/membership/
• Learn about My Fractional CMO Consulting Services: https://nealschaffer.com/cmo
• Download My Free Ebooks Here: https://nealschaffer.com/freebies/
• Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/nealschaffer
• All My Podcast Show Notes: https://podcast.nealschaffer.com