If you’re reading this at 8:42 p.m. after your third round of reheated coffee, the Wi-Fi’s glitching, your boss just asked for a “quick deck” by morning, and your inbox is on fire—congrats, you are the marketing department.

When they say, “Can your team handle this?” you smile, nod, and think: “Me, myself, and I will get right on that.”

You weren’t hired to do all of it, but here you are: strategist, content creator, CRM tech, brand cop, social media manager, data analyst, and sometimes event planner. They don’t budget for support, but they expect launch-level results. You’re expected to deliver brilliance with duct tape.

These 7 no-BS marketing manager hacks will make you look like a team of 10—even if it’s just you, your 8-year-old MacBook, and a gallon of cold brew.

1. Automate Like You’re Planning a Getaway

Automation isn’t about productivity. It’s about preservation. If it can be scheduled, templatized, or triggered, it should be. 

You’ve got two choices here – you can use a tool like Zapier to splice and connect your favorite apps, and tools like Publer or Buffer and spend about $500 (often more).  OR (and this is what I do), use a single business operating system, like Zoho One – MUCH cheaper, like $47 per month where the tools are already connected and work together.  So yeah, that’s what  do.

OK, so now the next phase of automation – what to automate.  There’s one rule:   If it repeats, it gets automated. That’s law.

Now comes the challenging part, what repeats and how do I create the most personalized experience without doing things by hand. 

For that, you’re going to need to know your daily workflows and processes.  Then you’ll want to batch them in whatever way makes sense to you. Finally you can automate them or at the very least. 

Here’s an example.  

I run a referral system with a few of my partners and friends.  Part of the system requires that we connect about once a quarter.  So I created an email sequence that will deliver a little message in their inbox every quarter.

Sometime it’s not about automation, it’s about systemization.  I batch my work by process.  So, for example, if I’m researching topics, I do that on a single day.  I will research dozens of topics and topic categories.  Then I will write them out, then I will do the social, and then I will do other promotions.  This kind of batching works for me because I’m repeating a process.  So I can get very fast and very thorough since I’m repeating a process. 

2. Apply the “What’s In It For Me Filter” to Everything

OH – this is kind of a “bad” story, but it really proves my point. 

Back in college—way before smartphones or the internet—if you wanted student tickets to a Big Ten football game, you had to do it the old-school way: find a student, make a deal, meet in person.

My husband and his friend had scored tickets for a couple girls. They met up, handed over the tickets, got the cash. Job done.

Then the girls said, “So… what do you guys want to do now?”

But the guys already had plans—an invite-only, high-end tailgate with top-shelf everything. The girls weren’t invited. My husband’s friend started wavering.

That’s when my husband pulled him aside and asked three quick questions that cut straight through the noise:

1. Are they gonna feed us
2. Are they gonna date us
3. Are they gonna buy us beer

No. No. No. We’re going to the tailgate. 

Brutal? Maybe. But honest. Strategic. And it’s the same filter I use in business.

Are they gonna hire me?

Are they gonna refer me?

Are they gonna promote me?

If a project, a partnership, or a pitch doesn’t give you traction, access, or upside… why are you saying yes?

3. Reuse Like You Mean It

Repetition doesn’t make you boring. It makes you unforgettable.

You don’t need a new idea every day. You need one powerful idea that gets under people’s skin and stays there. That’s how brand-building works now. Not taglines, not slogans—narratives.

The smartest marketers are master storytellers. And they tell the same story with different flavors. Over and over again. Because familiarity breeds trust—and trust buys.

marketing manager hacks from my own marketing:

I had a client who ran a bookkeeping business for solopreneurs. For years she thought she had to play the role of “professional, buttoned-up financial pro.” But it just didn’t land.

Turns out, she secretly loved cleaning up QuickBooks disasters. She got an almost weird sense of satisfaction from making order out of chaos. She wasn’t trying to serve organized Type A CEOs—she loved working with people who hated numbers, avoided spreadsheets, and dreaded tax time. That was her sweet spot.

So we stopped selling bookkeeping. We started telling stories.

“My favorite clients are the ones who haven’t opened QuickBooks in 8 months and are secretly terrified of tax season. Cleaning up messes? That’s my love language.”

Same emotion. Same outcome. Same offer. We ran that story like a campaign across every platform:

• LinkedIn Post: “I don’t do bookkeeping for the spreadsheets. I do it because I genuinely love untangling QuickBooks chaos. If you’re scared to open your books, I’m your girl.”
• Facebook Page: “If your books are a mess and you feel a little embarrassed—don’t. I’ve seen worse. Cleaning it up is the best part of my job. Let’s make your books something you’re proud of.”
• Instagram Carousel: Slide 1: “Avoided QuickBooks since July?”
  Slide 2: “Still using a shoebox for receipts?”
  Slide 3: “That’s my kind of client.”
  Slide 4: “Bookkeeping without the shame. I clean up messes so you can get back to business.”
• Instagram Reel / TikTok: 15-second clip: Me, opening QuickBooks and fake-screaming:
  “POV: You just opened your books for the first time in 6 months. Don’t panic—I actually like this part.”

Pick one audience. Nail one emotion. Tie it to one offer. Then tell that story a hundred different ways.

Smart marketing isn’t about being everywhere. It’s about saying the same thing in every place.

Branding isn’t about a line. It’s about a feeling. Create the feeling—then beat the drum.

4. Get a Fixer. Yesterday.

When you’re drowning in decks, copy, strategy, and approvals, you don’t need a bigger team—you need a marketing fixer.

A fixer is the quiet powerhouse behind the scenes. Not your agency. Not an intern. Not someone who needs a 12-slide brief to get going. A fixer is that person who:

• Turns your 3 a.m. voice note into a campaign plan.
• Polishes your scrambled Slack thread into a C-suite-ready slide deck.
• Writes your launch email while you’re still figuring out the CTA.

They don’t just do the work—they make you look like you’ve got it all under control. And they do it fast, with no drama, no meetings, and no babysitting.

In the fixer world, there are no long onboarding sessions or proposal decks. There’s context, trust, and execution. They take your overwhelm and give you outcomes.

Think of it this way: when your head is spinning and you’ve got 37 tabs open, a fixer is the person who sees your chaos and delivers clarity.

Need a few examples?

• That webinar you were “gonna get to” becomes a finished landing page by morning.
• Your strategy notes from the Monday meeting? Turned into a one-sheet your VP actually wants to read.
• Your copy draft that “needs work”? Fixed. You barely recognize it—because now it works.

Here’s the deal: the best marketers I know have a fixer. They just don’t talk about it.

If you don’t have one, find one. If you are one? Charge more.

5. Templates Are the Ultimate Power Move

Templates aren’t shortcuts. They’re strategy. They help you execute faster, stay on message, and stop wasting energy reinventing the wheel every single time.

You should have a template for everything you do more than twice:

• Landing pages
• Social media posts
• Email sequences
• Blog articles
• Webinar decks
• Reporting slides
• Video scripts

Templates keep you consistent and focused. They make delegation easier. And they reduce the mental friction of staring at a blank page.

Let’s break this down like a creative brief. And before you build any template, ask yourself: What is the positioning message?

That means defining:

• Who is this for? (Audience)
• What pain are they in? (State of mind)
• What are they afraid of? What do they want?
• What’s the tone and style that builds trust with them?
• What’s the core story or outcome we want to reinforce?

When you know that, every piece of content fits together—and your brand gets stickier.

Landing Page Template

• Headline: 3–5 words max. Clear, emotional, outcome-driven.
• Subhead: 1–2 lines that support the headline with specifics.
• Who Needs This: Short callout (pain point + identity)
• Key Benefits: 3–5 bullets that lead with outcomes
• How It Works: 3 steps max
• Social Proof: One strong testimonial or logo bar
• CTA: A button that finishes the sentence: “I want to ______.”

Email Template (Promo or Announcement)

• Subject Line: 40–60 characters
• First Line: This is your hook. Make them feel something.
• Body Copy: 2–3 short paragraphs (pain → shift → offer)
• CTA: One clear link or button
• P.S.: Optional personal-style close

Blog Article Template

• Headline: Outcome + keyword
• Intro: Describe the pain. Set the tone.
• Sections: 3–7 headers solving key pieces of the problem
• Story or Example: One in every post
• CTA: Tell them what to do next
• Internal Links: At least 2

Social Media Template (LinkedIn or Carousel)

• Hook: First line must stop the scroll
• Problem: What your audience struggles with
• Shift: Your insight or belief
• Solution: A reframe, tip, or method
• Call to Engage: Invite their thoughts

Create a “Template Folder.” Include:

• Winning subject lines
• Best-performing posts
• CTA copy
• Slide decks
• Messaging swipe files

Templates don’t kill creativity—they unlock it. They let you show up every day without burning out, while keeping your story sharp and your brand consistent.

If you’re exhausted, let past-you carry some of the weight. That’s what smart marketers do.

6. Use AI. But Know Where It Sucks

AI is a gift for overwhelmed marketers—if you know how to use it. It’s fast, scalable, and can clear mental clutter when your brain feels like static. But it’s also tone-deaf, politically blind, and emotionally clueless.

I use AI every day. It outlines articles, brainstorms subject lines, and gives me structure when I can’t think straight. But I’ve also watched AI crank out 700 words of SEO junk that sounded nothing like me or my brand.

Here’s what AI can’t do: it can’t feel tension in a marketing message. It doesn’t know that your CFO hates the word “innovative” or that Legal will kill anything with the word “guarantee.” It can’t sniff out an off-brand phrase or understand that your team has already tried that idea (and bombed).

That’s where you come in. You’re not just a content machine—you’re the context engine.

Use AI as a starter, not a finisher. Here’s how:

• Brainstorming: Feed it prompts with real context. Don’t just say, “Write me a blog post.” Say, “Write a 5-point post for burned-out marketers who hate budgeting and feel like imposters.”
• Outlining: Get structure fast. Ask it for a headline, subheads, and an angle—but edit the voice.
• Editing: Use AI as your second set of eyes. Ask it to rewrite a section for clarity or punch—but don’t let it wash out your voice.
• Speed Drafts: Have AI write the first ugly draft. Then you shape it. It’s easier to edit a mess than to start from scratch.

And here’s the hard truth from the fixer world: AI can write copy. But it can’t think like a strategist. It won’t call out a weak offer or push for clarity when your CTA is fuzzy. It won’t tell you your audience doesn’t care about your “unique differentiator.”

That’s what a fixer does. That’s what you do.

Use AI. But don’t worship it. It’s a tool. Not a teammate.

And if you’re using it without inserting your insight, your gut, your judgment—you’re not creating. You’re copy-pasting your brand into oblivion.

7. Stop Waiting for Permission to Lead

Most marketers wait for a green light that never comes. Permission. Approval. Budget. A brief with actual clarity.

But the real edge comes when you stop waiting and start owning the room.

You don’t need someone to say yes—you need to prove what works.

If you’re overwhelmed, buried in tasks, and unsure what’s working, the move isn’t to ask what’s allowed. It’s to test, improve, and report. That’s how you build trust. That’s how you become essential.

Run the experiment. Ship the draft. Launch the pilot. Track the result. Turn it into a win. Then share it loud enough that people start asking you what they should do next.

Act like you’re already the strategist. Because you are.

Leadership doesn’t come with a title. It comes with clarity, initiative, and proof.

So make a move. Implement the idea. Write the copy. Own the data. Present the insight.

That’s how you stop being the order taker. And start becoming the one they depend on.

Even if it’s just you, me, myself, and I.: You’re Not Failing. The Expectations Are Delusional.

One person doing the job of ten was never a fair ask. But here we are.

The Job Isn’t Doing It All

The real marketing job your CEO or your team is yearning for is to do what matters and make it look like you did it all.

Smart systems. Sharpened boundaries. The right fixer on speed dial.

That’s how you play the game. And win.

FAQs

What if I don’t have time to do everything you just suggested?

Then you’re doing it right. You’re not supposed to do it all at once. Pick one strategy that feels easiest or most urgent, implement it, track the results, and build from there. Focus beats overwhelm every time.

How do I convince my boss to let me test something new?

Don’t ask. Just do a micro-test. Run a short version of the idea under the radar. Track the outcome. Then bring the result to your boss with a plan to expand. Leaders listen when you show proof, not just pitch ideas.

What if I don’t know what’s working?

Then start tracking something. Pick one metric tied to your goal—clicks, replies, conversions—and monitor that every week. You’ll quickly see patterns. And from there, you’ll start making smarter moves without guessing.

I love the idea of a fixer. How do I find one?

Start with your network. Ask people who their behind-the-scenes help is. Check freelance platforms, but vet for strategic brains, not just hands. And don’t be afraid to try a small task first to test the fit.

I feel like I’m invisible in my company. How do I start showing up like a leader?

Start owning outcomes. Don’t wait for permission. When something works, share it. When something doesn’t, propose a fix. Act like your ideas matter—because they do.

Marketing feels like that a lot of the time. To me, it feels like a slot machine. You pour in time, money, and whatever creativity you’ve got left after a long day—and out comes… nothing. Someone’s winning. It’s just not you.

This is a control issue.  And when I bump up against something I can’t control – like customers choosing me and purchasing my offer, I shift my attention to anything that I CAN control like my behaviors and my actions.  

Success Behaviors: The Backbone of Your Daily Marketing Routine

I call these success behaviors.  These are simple actions I can take that will ultimately lead to success.  

It’s behavior. You either sent the email or didn’t. Followed up or didn’t. Created something valuable—or let the day get away from you.

And it’s this focus on success behaviors that will make all the difference for you.  What are simple things you can do that are controllable, that don’t take a long time, and that don’t cost you any money.  

This is where things click.

The 17-Minute Daily Marketing Routine

This isn’t a template. It’s a rhythm. A repeatable process that you can personalize—but not skip.

Here’s your daily breakdown:

Minute 1–5: Connect

I love starting the day by building relationships.  I mean you can’t go wrong with that.  This is something you can do over coffee.  When it comes to reaching out and scheduling phone conversations or meetings, have a calendar link at the ready and use this time to share that link and schedule a conversation. 

• Reach out to one person you want to build a relationship with.
• Comment on a LinkedIn post, send a quick DM, follow up on an email.
• Don’t pitch. Just engage. Keep it real.
  

Why it works: Relationships create revenue. Conversations lead to connections, referrals, collaborations, and sales. No tool can replace showing up like a human.

Minute 6–10: Share

Remember the quote “Be the change you want to see in the world”? If you want engagement, you have to engage first.  So, take the next step in your relationship building process and engage with the people you want to engage with YOU.  

• Post something that shows your thinking. It can be as simple as a 2-sentence insight. It just needs to be you. 
• Visit the profiles of customers or prospects with whom you want to build relationships and engage with their content.  Ask a question, make a comment, share a tip.  
• Don’t invest in any tools just yet.  Build the habit manually first so that you know exactly how you want it to go.
  

AI tip: Ask ChatGPT to summarize a recent conversation into a post idea. Use it to brainstorm or repurpose old emails.

Why it works: People don’t remember what you offer. They remember how you make them feel. Sharing builds familiarity. And familiarity builds trust.

Minute 11–15: Invite

Now that you’ve done some relationship building and engaging, you can focus on sharing your offer.  This is where your CRM or sales pipeline will come in really handy.  Head over to the segment of people with whom you’ve already built relationships and with whom you’be been engaging with for a little while.  If you’ve had at least three “gives” with this person, you are now free to finally ask for something. 

• Find folks who you think will be good referrers for you.  Did they become friends or are they partners, or influencers.  See if you have an opportunity to refer to them or for them to refer you. 
• Link to a free resource. Mention a product. Include a PS in an email.
  

Why it works: If you don’t remind people how you help, they forget. Selling isn’t shouting—it’s serving. Every day is a chance to invite someone in.

Minute 16–17: Capture

Take the time to work on a tactic to build your lead gen pipeline. 

• Add new contacts to your CRM. Tag by interest or outcome.
• Note what they asked about. What they want. What might help them next.
  

Tool tip: Use Nimble as your simple CRM. It’s clean, affordable, and lets you track conversations without drowning in data.

Why it works: This is your net. People slip through the cracks when you rely on memory. A basic system keeps relationships alive.

Marketing Tools That Keep You Sane (And Visible)

Forget the fancy funnel. You need a way to follow up. To do all this, I use Zoho One, the lowest-cost, highest-value business operating system.

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here’s a no-frills stack for solo business owners:

• Zoho Bigin: Light CRM to track convos, leads, and touchpoints.
• Zoho Campaigns: Email workflows (set up a Welcome → Segment → Newsletter system).
• AI (ChatGPT or Gemini): Brainstorm, rephrase, or generate quick content ideas when you’re stuck.
  

Set up 3 core email workflows:

1. Welcome sequence: 3–4 emails to warm up a new subscriber
2. Segment by interest: Tag people based on what they clicked or downloaded
3. Ongoing newsletter or updates: Keep it light, useful, and regular

Simple setup = serious staying power.

The Payoff: You Stop Starting Over

This habit doesn’t go viral. It goes deep.

You stop overthinking. You stop ghosting your audience. You stop feeling like you’re constantly behind. Instead, you show up every day—for 17 focused minutes. You make space for visibility, for connection, for opportunity.

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters—on repeat.

Ready to Try It?

Here’s your challenge:
Try the 17-minute habit for the next 5 weekdays.

Each day:

• Make one connection
• Share one insight
• Mention one offer
• Capture one new lead or relationship

No more slot machine marketing. This is how real brands are built.

FAQ: The 17-Minute Marketing Routine

1. Can 17 minutes really make a difference?

Absolutely—if you’re doing the right things. This routine focuses on behaviors that build momentum: making a connection, sharing value, inviting engagement, and tracking relationships. Small actions, done consistently, stack up fast.

2. What if I miss a day?

Then you start again tomorrow. This isn’t about perfection—it’s about rhythm. Life will get messy. The win is in coming back to the routine. No guilt. Just reset and keep going.

3. Do I have to use all the tools you mentioned?

Nope. Use what you have. A spreadsheet and your inbox are great places to start. The tools are there to make your life easier—not to overwhelm you. When you’re ready, consider tools like Zoho Bigin or Nimble to streamline things.

4. What should I post if I don’t know what to say?

Start with real conversations. Use client questions, insights from a recent meeting, or something you learned the hard way. Keep it human and helpful. Tools like ChatGPT or Gemini can help you shape and simplify your message.

5. How do I know if this is actually working?

Don’t look for viral moments—look for real engagement. Are people replying to your emails? Are you having more conversations? Are your offers getting clicks or interest? That’s what progress looks like.

You don’t need a team. You need a secret weapon.

The Breaking Point Is Not Dramatic. It’s Boring.

Burnout doesn’t arrive like a fire alarm. It sneaks in quietly through 8:00 a.m. meetings that should’ve been emails, slowly stacks itself through decks you had to “tweak” for the third time this week, and settles in around the moment your Slack pings at 7:43 p.m. with “Just one quick thing before EOD.”

I remember the exact day I cracked. Not a nervous breakdown kind of crack, just the quiet, painful resignation of knowing there was absolutely no way I could deliver everything that was expected of me.

The request? “Can you just write up a campaign plan for this product launch by tomorrow? Just something quick and creative.”

You know that moment, right? When your brain does a quick scan of your workload and there’s simply… no space. Not even mental space. Your to-do list isn’t a list—it’s a landfill.

• A board meeting was coming up and all the global business units had still not sent me their data which would have to be cleaned, organized and turned into a sales slide deck. 
• There were the meetings before meetings to figure out what was going to be discussed in the meetings. 
• Oh, and then there was the global team call I had to run with folks on the other side of the world, so yeah, we’re going to do that meeting at midnight. 

I didn’t rage quit. I didn’t cry. I opened a Google Doc, stared at it for 15 minutes, and then Googled “freelance marketing help under $500.”

Because yes, I was seriously thinking about paying for help myself. It was at that moment I realized that I was a mini marketing agency with a slew of both internal and external customers and that my generous 6-figure salary was my retainer (and cash flow) and who said that I couldn’t spend my own money on my own projects?  Some people have hobbies, I needed to save my mental health.

That’s when everything changed.  That simple reframe of my job and responsibilities changed everything. 

The Stats Don’t Lie—And They’re Ugly

We’re not making this up. According to a recent Mixology Digital study, 83% of marketers say they’ve felt burnout. And a Chartered Institute of Marketing survey found that 51% fear they’ll burn out in their current role.

This isn’t just happening to junior staffers. This is you. The one holding all the marketing together with strategy decks and duct tape.

There are one-person marketing departments. That’s not a metaphor. That’s the setup at 32% of companies, according to HubSpot. And if you’re one of them, I don’t need to explain what that feels like.

Why No One Tells You They’ve Done This

Let me be clear about something. I have NO idea whether or not other people did this at the time. I kind of look at this as being on the down low so that I don’t crawl under a rock and go on anti-depressants. 

But I find it hard to believe that I was the only one.  I’ve had some creative ideas, but this one was just too obvious for me to think that other marketers weren’t doing the same thing. 

I mean, no one wants to admit they’ve gone rogue and hired a copywriter off Fiverr to polish their CEO’s LinkedIn article. Or paid a strategist $250 to ghostwrite an internal report that magically “got approved in one go.” Or brought in an outside marketing consultant just to stop spinning in strategy circles for weeks.

But I’m sure they do it.

Because they know the reality: You’re responsible for results. Not excuses.

That’s where the Marketing Fixer comes in.

Who Is Your Marketing Fixer?

She’s not a full-time hire.
She’s not your agency account rep.
She’s not your intern.

She’s the one who turns your gut feeling into a two-page strategy deck.
She’s the one who gets it—and gets it done—without a single meeting.

Think of her as your marketing co-conspirator. The one you don’t have to explain everything to. The one who knows what a “QBR deck with executive polish” means without needing a brief. The one who can crank out a last-minute nurture sequence or fix your messaging hierarchy before lunch.

If this sounds mythical, it’s not. It’s me. It’s the work I’ve done quietly behind the scenes for years. And there are more of us out there—freelancers, consultants, strategists—who’ve built our businesses around being exactly what you need when you need it, without drama or red tape.

OH, and if you’re thinking I’m going to share and spill who these people have been – ummm NO!

Why Marketing Managers Keep This Help on the Down Low

Let’s be honest. There are three reasons you won’t put this on your quarterly update:

1. Perception – No one really cares. You’re supposed to “have it handled.” Hiring outside help might feel like failure. It’s not. It’s resourcefulness.
   
2. Approval loops – You don’t have time to explain why you need help. You just need the work done.
   
3. Budget gymnastics – Sometimes it’s easier to expense software than a human. And sometimes, yes, you do pay out of pocket because your sanity is worth $300.
   

You’re not buying copy. You’re buying capacity. You’re buying peace of mind.

I’ve spent decades being the only trained marketing person on a management team and it’s exhausting. There’s no one to talk to, bounce ideas off of, work back and forth with. It’s a lonely existence.

And, when I finally got smart and invested in getting MY OWN marketing help with my own money, my life and results were transformed.

What It Feels Like to Have Help (for Real)

Here’s what happens the first time you let someone like me in:

• That “launch sequence” you were dreading? It’s done in a day.
• Your content calendar doesn’t feel like a trap—it feels like a plan.
• You stop feeling like you’re always three tasks behind.
• You feel sharp again.
  

Your boss notices that projects are moving faster. You’re hitting deadlines. Your work sounds tighter, your slides are cleaner, and the results are rolling in. Nobody knows you had help. They just think you’re leveling up.

And the best part? You sleep. You rest. You stop whispering, “I can’t keep doing this,” under your breath on Friday nights.

Why AI Isn’t Enough (And Might Be Making It Worse)

But wiat. Let’s address the shimmering robot in the room.

Yes, AI can help you write emails, generate headlines, even outline campaigns. I use it. You probably use it. But let’s not pretend that dropping a prompt into ChatGPT is the same as having a marketing mind on your side.

AI isn’t the problem. It’s the illusion of speed. It gives you “something” quickly—but not the right thing. Not the on-brand, audience-aware, conversion-tuned thing. It doesn’t know that your VP hates the word “solution,” or that your Q2 campaign tanked last year because the webinar title sounded like a TED Talk for accountants. It can’t feel that a tagline sounds flat or that your nurture sequence is all head and no heart.

AI is a tool. Your Marketing Godmother is a strategist, copywriter, fixer, and filter rolled into one. She doesn’t just generate ideas—she curates the best ones for your goals, your team, your politics, your bandwidth, and your customer.

You can use AI to write a blog post. But it won’t notice that your audience stopped reading after the second paragraph. I will.

AI won’t fight for your message in a sea of sameness. I will.

AI won’t call out BS data, pitch you a better CTA, or gently tell you your offer is confusing. I will.

That’s the difference between content and conversion. Between fluff and firepower.

How to Know It’s Time to Call in Your Marketing Fixer

If you’ve read this far, it’s time. But in case you need a checklist, here you go:

• Your “quick wins” list has been untouched for three weeks.
• You spend more time reacting than creating.
• You’ve reused the same email copy six times and no one noticed (because you don’t have the time to write new ones).
• Your content sounds like everyone else’s—and it bugs you.
• You’re dreaming about an extra set of hands that just… gets it.
  

Here’s What to Do

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now

If you’re lucky enough to have budget, use it. If not, be scrappy—consultants like me offer quick-hit services, day rates, project bundles, and yes, sometimes, late-night ghostwriting sprints. You don’t have to commit to a retainer. You just have to start.

Because once you’ve had secret help, you’ll never go back.

But let’s be honest—not all coffee and tea are created equal. If you’ve ever suffered through a bitter, watered-down cup at a conference or sipped on a sad, flavorless tea bag while pulling a late-night work session, you know the disappointment. You deserve better. Your business deserves better.

That’s why we’re going beyond the basics. Whether you’re brewing at home, in the office, or on the go, the right coffee and tea essentials can transform your daily ritual into a productivity-boosting experience. From high-powered espresso machines to sleek tea infusers, these are the must-haves that will keep you energized and ready to take on anything.

Start With Quality Beans and Leaves—Your Brain Will Thank You

Listen, you wouldn’t build a business with shaky foundations, so why start your day with subpar coffee or tea?

For Coffee Lovers: Freshly Roasted Beans Make All the Difference

If your coffee comes pre-ground from a grocery store shelf, you’re missing out. Whole beans hold onto flavor better, and once you grind them fresh, you unlock a depth of taste that pre-ground coffee just can’t deliver.

What to look for:

• Single-origin beans for a unique, rich flavor profile
• Medium to dark roasts if you love a bold, full-bodied taste
• Light roasts for a smoother, slightly more caffeinated cup
• Freshness matters—buy from local roasters or online shops that roast to order

Pro tip: Look for beans with a “roasted on” date rather than an expiration date. The fresher, the better!

For Tea Lovers: Loose-Leaf Beats Tea Bags Every Time

Think of loose-leaf tea as the handmade artisanal product and tea bags as the mass-produced fast food. The flavor, aroma, and benefits are just better.

Best options for focus and energy:

• Green tea (high in L-theanine for calm alertness)
• Black tea (rich in caffeine and antioxidants)
• Yerba mate (the “tea of the gods” in South America)
• Oolong tea (balances caffeine with relaxation)

Pro tip: If you must use tea bags, go for pyramid-shaped ones—they allow for better water circulation, which means a more flavorful cup.

Brew Like a Boss—The Right Equipment Changes Everything

If your coffee comes from a sad-looking office drip machine, we need to talk. And if your tea is a microwaved mug of lukewarm disappointment? We really need to talk.

For Coffee: Upgrade Your Brewing Game

• French press: Great for a full-bodied, rich coffee
• Pour-over: A bit more effort but delivers top-tier flavor
• AeroPress: Quick, easy, and makes smooth coffee (ideal for small spaces)
• Espresso machine: For those who take their caffeine very seriously

Pro tip: Skip the fancy syrups and creamers. Instead, try cinnamon, cacao powder, or a splash of oat milk for natural sweetness.

For Tea: A Simple Setup Can Make a Huge Difference

• Electric kettle with temperature control (green tea needs lower temps than black tea!)
• A proper tea infuser—no more struggling with paper tea bags
• Cast-iron or ceramic teapot to retain heat longer

Pro tip: Want a stronger tea? Steep it longer instead of using more tea leaves—it keeps the flavor balanced without getting too bitter.

The Power of Ritual—Make Your Brew a Productivity Habit

Your morning coffee or tea isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual. A moment of clarity before the chaos of emails, meetings, and never-ending tasks.

The Entrepreneur’s Coffee/Tea Ritual

1. Make it intentional. Take five minutes to enjoy the process rather than rushing through it.
2. Pair it with planning. Use this time to review your goals, set priorities, or journal.
3. Use it as a reset. When that mid-afternoon slump hits, take a break, make another cup, and refocus.

 Pro tip: Try “coffee naps.” Drink a cup, then take a 20-minute nap. The caffeine kicks in just as you wake up, leaving you refreshed and ready to conquer the rest of your day.

Top Picks

• Best Overall: Gevi Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Auto Milk Frother – $128.21 
• Best Value: Mueller Cold Brew Coffee Maker – $14.95 
• Best Tea Infuser: Teabloom Universal Loose Tea Infuser – $9.95 
• Best Portable Kettle: Portable Electric Car Kettle – $36.99 
• Best Herbal Tea: Doctor Morse’s Heal All Tea – $23.99 

Here’s what I was looking for:

When it comes to coffee and tea, we entrepreneurs don’t mess around. We want a brew (either coffee or tea) that keeps up with our grind—strong, smooth, and hassle-free. 

So, when I was screen shopping these coffee and team essentials, I was looking for products that were functional, easy to use, and could keep up with your life — on a budget, of course.  Whether you’re fueling up for a big pitch, tackling your inbox, or brewing on the go, every product on this list is designed to make sure your coffee or tea is just as serious as you are.

Portable Electric Car Kettle

One thing all entrepreneurs do is practically live in our car — so I couldn’t resist this one, because nothing sucks quite as much as forgetting your hot beverage in the car when you run into a meeting and come out to an unintentionally cold one. 

The BLONGKY Portable Electric Car Kettle is your new best friend for those long drives or unexpected moments when you crave a warm drink. This handy kettle is designed to fit snugly in your car, allowing you to boil water or keep your coffee warm while on the go. With a smart temperature adjustment feature, you can easily set the perfect heat for your tea or coffee, making it a practical choice for daily commutes or road trips. Plus, it comes with a convenient carry bag, so you can take it anywhere. If you’re an entrepreneur always on the move, this kettle is a must-have for your travel essentials.

What People Say

Users rave about its efficiency and practicality, especially during travel. Many appreciate how it keeps drinks warm without burning their hands, thanks to its cool-touch exterior.

Recently had a power outage – was out 80+ hours. The first day hearing might be out for days, I did a search for how to heat hot water in the car. This popped up – $32 – worth every last dime! To be able to go to the car and heat up and then make hot tea/coffee was beyond wonderful, for body and mind. Heat up time – pretty much as described – 20 minutes. Used it between 15-20 times. For those purchasing for actual travel purposes – can’t imagine you would be disappointed. – samwhidbey

It takes about 20 minutes to boil a full bottle of water, starting at 115°. After it started boiling, the exterior bottle was still cool and easy to handle. I’m honestly surprised it works so well and I don’t understand why these aren’t more popular! Anyone who makes their own hot drinks for the day should get one, the price is very reasonable for the value you get and it includes a lifetime warranty. – Cole Zollinger

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Efficient heating for quick drinks
• Compact and portable design
• User-friendly temperature settings

Cons:

• Takes about 20 minutes to boil water
• May lose heat quickly once unplugged

Why You’ll Love It

• Smart temperature control for perfect brewing
• Compact design fits in car cup holders
• Quick heating time for on-the-go convenience

Ideal for Every Journey

Perfect for road trips, camping, or even just keeping in your car for emergencies. It’s a great companion for those who love hot beverages on the go.

Current Price: $36.99

Rating: 4.3 (Total: 259+)

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Dandelion Wolfberry Tea

I’m a coffee-lover myself, but I know you tea-loving folks do NOT mess around.  Now, I like to have tea throughout the day and one of the great things about tea – is that it can be really good for you. So I got you this one. 

The Dandelion Wolfberry Tea by SIRDIKA is a delightful blend crafted to support your kidneys and liver health. With seven herbal ingredients, this organic tea offers a rich and sweet flavor that makes it perfect for both your daily routine and special moments of relaxation. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or need a refreshing boost during your work hours, this tea fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. Plus, it’s super easy to brew—just steep a bag in hot water for a few minutes and enjoy the comforting aroma and taste. If you’re looking for a natural way to enhance your wellness, this tea is definitely worth a try.

What People Say

Users appreciate the mild yet flavorful taste and the comforting experience it provides. Many have noted how enjoyable it is to sip on this tea, especially in the evenings.

Great tasting tea… I will be ordering more. It has a mild taste, nothing too pungent, and I sip on it at night. It’s too early to tell if it has a positive effect on my kidneys, but I would purchase again.- DG

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Natural ingredients with health benefits
• Pleasant flavor that’s easy to drink
• Can be brewed multiple times

Cons:

• Some may find it a bit pricey
• Effects on health may take time to notice

Why You’ll Enjoy It

• Supports kidney and liver health
• Rich and sweet flavor profile
• Easy to brew with multiple infusions

Perfect for Relaxation

This tea is perfect for those quiet evenings at home or as a soothing companion during your work breaks. It’s a great way to take a moment for yourself amidst a busy schedule.

Current Price: $19.88

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 118+)

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2 Pack Tea Infusers

Who doesn’t love a cool gadget.  Now, I have one of those metal tea leaf balls – but this is SO COOL.

The YZRIZX 2 Pack Tea Infusers are your new best friends for brewing loose leaf tea, spices, and even coffee. Made from high-quality stainless steel, these infusers feature an extra fine mesh that ensures maximum flavor extraction while keeping even the tiniest tea leaves contained. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning at home or need a quick caffeine fix during a busy workday, these infusers make the process effortless. Plus, their ergonomic long handle allows you to hang them on the edge of your cup, preventing any mess. If you’re looking for a reliable and stylish way to enjoy your favorite brews, these infusers are definitely worth considering.

What People Say

Users rave about the ease of use and the quality of the tea brewed with these infusers. Many appreciate how they stay securely in place while brewing, making them a favorite for both daily use and entertaining guests.

Perfect size for a tea cup. The handle wraps around the lip of the cup making it stay upright and easy to grab. The hook makes it compatible with multiple sizes of cups or carafes. The mesh slides up to insert tea but stays attached so you won’t lose any parts. I’m ordering another set for guests.- seth

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Durable and easy to clean
• Versatile for various beverages
• Great for both personal and guest use

Cons:

• Some users found the size a bit small for larger cups
• A few reported sharp edges that require caution

Why You’ll Love Them

• High-quality stainless steel construction
• Ergonomic design for easy handling
• Extra fine mesh for optimal infusion

Ideal for Any Occasion

These tea infusers are perfect for your morning routine or as a thoughtful addition to your next gathering. They make brewing loose leaf tea a breeze, allowing you to focus on enjoying your drink rather than the hassle of preparation.

Current Price: $6.99

Rating: 3.8 (Total: 48+)

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Gevi Espresso Machine 20 Bar with Auto Milk Frother

Looking for a double-tap — this is what I’m talking about.

The Gevi Espresso Machine is your go-to companion for crafting café-quality beverages right in your kitchen. With its sleek brushed stainless steel design, this machine not only looks great but also packs a punch with its 20-bar pressure system. Whether you’re whipping up a quick espresso to kickstart your day or indulging in a creamy cappuccino for a cozy evening, this machine makes it easy. The automatic milk frother takes the guesswork out of frothing, allowing you to create rich, velvety foam for your drinks without needing any barista skills. It’s perfect for both daily use and special occasions, making it a thoughtful gift for coffee lovers in your life.

What People Say

Users appreciate how easy it is to make delicious espresso and the quality of the froth produced. Many have noted that the machine’s compact size makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens without sacrificing performance.

This is a great machine, especially at this price point. The manufacturer wants you to make great coffee and has taken the trouble to provide extensive directions, so take the time to read them. The machine makes terrific espresso, nice crema.- CA Central Coaster

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Sleek and modern design
• User-friendly with clear instructions
• Makes excellent espresso and frothy milk

Cons:

• Requires a bit of a learning curve for optimal use
• Some users noted a wait time between frothing and brewing

Why You’ll Love It

• Automatic milk frother for effortless frothing
• 20-bar pump for optimal flavor extraction
• Compact design fits perfectly on any countertop

Perfect for Any Coffee Lover

This espresso machine is ideal for your morning routine or for impressing guests at your next gathering. With its ability to create café-style drinks, you can elevate your coffee experience without leaving home.

Current Price: $128.21

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 1994+)

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GROSCHE Aberdeen Tea Infuser Teapot & Smart Tea Maker

The GROSCHE Aberdeen Tea Infuser is your perfect partner for brewing a delightful cup of tea, whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the evening. With its innovative bottom-dispensing design, this teapot makes steeping loose leaf tea a breeze, allowing you to enjoy rich flavors without the hassle. Made from durable, BPA-free Tritan, it’s not only stylish but also shatterproof, making it a safe choice for any kitchen. Plus, the easy-to-clean features mean you can spend more time sipping and less time scrubbing. It’s a great addition to your daily routine or a thoughtful gift for any tea lover in your life.

What People Say

Folks rave about the ease of use and the quality of the tea produced. Many appreciate how the bottom-dispensing feature allows for a mess-free experience, making it a favorite for both casual tea drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

I love the innovative design of the teapot, especially its effortless bottom-dispensing feature that simplifies tea preparation. The spill-free pouring and easy cleaning enhance the overall convenience. This teapot is a thoughtful gift for tea enthusiasts, elevating their tea experience with unmatched quality.- Cassidy Wilson

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stylish and modern design
• User-friendly with clear instructions
• Makes excellent tea with rich flavors

Cons:

• Some users found the lid a bit tricky to handle
• May not fit all cup sizes perfectly

Why You’ll Love It

• Effortless brewing with bottom-dispensing design
• Durable, shatterproof construction
• Easy to clean and maintain

Ideal for Any Tea Occasion

This teapot is perfect for your morning tea ritual or for impressing guests during afternoon tea. Its elegant design and functionality make it a standout piece for any gathering.

Current Price: $24.99

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 9343+)

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Mueller Cold Brew Coffee Maker

I’m not a cold brew person, but my son is — so I got him this one. 

The Mueller Cold Brew Coffee Maker is your go-to solution for crafting smooth, rich cold brew coffee right at home. With a generous 64 oz capacity, this Tritan pitcher is designed for durability and ease of use, making it perfect for both daily enjoyment and special gatherings. Whether you’re prepping for a busy workday or hosting friends for brunch, this cold brew maker simplifies the process, allowing you to savor your favorite coffee or tea without the hassle. Plus, its sleek design means it fits nicely in your fridge, so you can always have a refreshing drink on hand.

What People Say

Users appreciate the smooth taste of the cold brew and the convenience of the easy-to-clean design. Many have shared how it has transformed their coffee experience, making it a favorite among both casual drinkers and dedicated coffee enthusiasts.

The Mueller Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a well-designed, easy-to-use option for making cold brew at home. Its 2-quart heavy-duty Tritan pitcher is durable and offers a large capacity, perfect for brewing multiple servings. While the brewing process can take time, the resulting coffee is smooth and flavorful, making it a great choice for iced coffee lovers. – Grandpa Obi

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Makes excellent cold brew with rich flavors
• User-friendly design with easy assembly
• Durable and shatter-resistant materials

Cons:

• Some users find it a bit bulky for smaller fridges
• Requires a longer brewing time compared to traditional methods

Why You’ll Love It

• Large capacity for multiple servings
• Durable Tritan construction
• Easy to clean and maintain

Perfect for Any Occasion

This cold brew maker is ideal for your morning routine or for entertaining guests during summer gatherings. Its ability to brew large batches means you can keep everyone refreshed without constant refills.

Current Price: $14.95

Rating: 4.3 (Total: 309+)

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Doctor Morse’s Heal All Tea

I know, I’ve been on this healthy tea-kick in this post.  But I just can’t help it.  I’m going to have to look up some healthy coffee.  But in the meantime, check this one out. 

Doctor Morse’s Heal All Tea is a thoughtfully crafted herbal blend designed to support your body’s natural detoxification process. With a unique combination of burdock root, dandelion leaf, and black walnut hull, this tea not only offers a soothing experience but also promotes overall wellness. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your day with a refreshing cup or wind down after a busy workweek, this caffeine-free tea fits seamlessly into your routine. Plus, it’s vegan and made from wildcrafted ingredients, making it a great choice for health-conscious individuals.

What People Say

Users rave about the soothing qualities of this tea, especially its earthy flavor profile. Many have found it to be a comforting addition to their daily routine, helping them feel revitalized and balanced.

This Heal All loose tea is one of my favorites! What sets it apart for me is the Black Walnut Hull ingredient and because it’s completely caffeine-free. The flavor is pretty earthy and grassy, so if that’s not your thing, a squeeze of lemon juice and a teaspoon of raw honey will do the trick. Personally, I enjoy mine warm and plain—so soothing! – Magnolia

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Effective detox support with natural ingredients
• Pleasant earthy flavor that can be customized
• Great for daily use without caffeine jitters

Cons:

• Flavor may not appeal to everyone
• Some users noted it takes time to brew properly

Why You’ll Appreciate It

• Supports natural detoxification
• Caffeine-free and vegan
• Made from wildcrafted ingredients

Ideal for Your Wellness Journey

This tea is perfect for those moments when you need a little extra support—be it during a busy workday or as part of your evening wind-down ritual. Its detox properties make it a thoughtful choice after indulgent meals or stressful weeks.

Current Price: $23.99

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 213+)

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YETI Rambler 10 oz Stackable Lowball 2.0

Umm, you’re gonna need a place to put all this deliciousness and Yeti is the best. 

The YETI Rambler 10 oz Stackable Lowball 2.0 is your go-to companion for both coffee and cocktails. With its double-wall vacuum insulation, this little powerhouse keeps your drinks hot or cold longer than your average cup. Whether you’re at your desk powering through a workday or enjoying a cozy evening on the patio, this lowball is designed to fit seamlessly into your routine. Plus, its stackable design makes storage a breeze, so you can keep your kitchen organized without sacrificing style.

What People Say

Users appreciate the YETI Rambler for its durability and performance. Many highlight how it keeps their drinks at the ideal temperature for hours, making it a favorite for both hot coffee in the morning and chilled cocktails in the evening.

I have loved my Yeti in this style for many years and people often admire it on my desk. It’s compact/comfortable, easy to transport (especially in the car), and dishwasher safe. It keeps your drink piping hot for hours. The magnetic design of the newer lids has made the cup much more leak proof.- Candi

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent insulation for hot and cold beverages
• Compact and easy to carry
• Stylish and available in various colors

Cons:

• Some users find it a bit heavy
• Not completely leakproof despite the magnetic lid

Why You’ll Love It

• Double-wall vacuum insulation keeps drinks at the perfect temperature
• Stackable design for easy storage
• Dishwasher safe for hassle-free cleaning

Perfect for Every Occasion

This lowball is perfect for those busy mornings when you need your coffee to stay hot while you tackle your to-do list. It’s also great for casual gatherings, ensuring your drinks remain cold while you enjoy time with friends.

Current Price: $20.00

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 3908+)

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Teabloom Universal Loose Tea Infuser

I like to buy tea from our local coffee and tea shop (we call them the coffee ladies) and I prefer to buy it in the small sample size.  For that, I’d love to use this wonderful infuser because it’s easy to load and use. 

The Teabloom Universal Loose Tea Infuser is your ultimate brewing buddy, whether you’re steeping a calming chamomile or a robust black tea. Made from premium stainless steel, this infuser is designed to fit a variety of cups, mugs, and teapots, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. The dual-function lid not only keeps your tea hot while it brews but also serves as a handy coaster for when you’re done. It’s perfect for your daily tea ritual or for impressing guests during a cozy tea party. If you love loose-leaf tea, this infuser is a must-have for enhancing your brewing experience.

What People Say

Users rave about the Teabloom infuser for its ease of use and effective design. Many appreciate how it allows the tea leaves to expand fully, resulting in a richer flavor. The lid’s dual purpose as a coaster is also a hit, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

I love this little tea infuser! Loose-leaf tea is so much more flavorful than tea bags, and this infuser steeps the tea perfectly! There are lots of tiny holes in it that prevent most tea leaf sediment from leaching out, and the holes are small enough that tea leaves don’t get stuck in them, making it very easy to clean.- ss

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• High-quality stainless steel construction
• Easy to clean and dishwasher safe
• Great for both tea and coffee brewing

Cons:

• May not fit all teapots perfectly
• Handles can get hot when removing from hot liquids

Why You’ll Love It

• Fits most cups, mugs, and teapots for versatile brewing
• Dual-function lid keeps tea hot and serves as a coaster
• Extra-fine mesh for brewing even the smallest tea leaves

Perfect for Every Occasion

This infuser is ideal for those busy mornings when you need a quick cup of tea to kickstart your day. It’s also perfect for relaxing afternoons when you want to savor a flavorful brew while catching up on work or enjoying a good book.

Current Price: $9.95

Rating: 4.7 (Total: 1558+)

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Gevi Espresso Machine 20 Bar

I can’t get enough of the double shot espresso maker because having coffee alone is no fun.  Here’s another one I really like. 

The Gevi Espresso Machine is your go-to gadget for crafting café-quality espresso right at home. With its sleek sterling silver design and powerful 20-bar pump, this machine makes it easy to whip up everything from a classic espresso to a frothy cappuccino. It features a built-in milk frother, allowing you to create creamy lattes and deliciously foamed milk for your drinks. Whether you’re starting your day with a quick espresso shot or hosting friends for a coffee tasting, this machine fits seamlessly into your routine. It’s compact enough to save counter space but powerful enough to impress any coffee lover. If you’re looking for a reliable espresso maker that delivers great taste without the café price tag, this one is worth considering.

What People Say

Users appreciate the Gevi Espresso Machine for its ability to produce high-quality espresso with a nice crema. Many have noted how easy it is to use, especially with the detailed instructions provided. The compact design is also a favorite, making it a great fit for smaller kitchens.

This is a great machine, especially at this price point. The manufacturer wants you to make great coffee and has taken the trouble to provide extensive directions, so take the time to read them. The machine makes terrific espresso, nice crema. We don’t use the frother so can’t speak to that.- CA Central Coaster

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Easy to use and clean
• Produces excellent espresso and frothy milk
• Compact and stylish design

Cons:

• Requires some patience to master the frothing technique
• May need to wait between brewing and frothing

Why You’ll Love It

• 20-bar pressure for rich, flavorful espresso
• Built-in steam wand for frothing milk
• Compact design fits easily on any countertop

Perfect for Every Occasion

This espresso machine is perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick caffeine fix or for leisurely weekend brunches with friends. It’s also a great addition to your home office setup, giving you the chance to enjoy a barista-style coffee without leaving your workspace.

Current Price: $123.48

Rating: 4.4 (Total: 1994+)

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FAQ

What should I consider when choosing a coffee or tea maker for my entrepreneurial lifestyle?

When selecting a coffee or tea maker, think about your daily routine and how much time you can dedicate to brewing. If you’re often on the go, a portable option like the BLONGKY Portable Electric Car Kettle might be ideal, as it allows you to brew while traveling. Consider the capacity, ease of cleaning, and whether you prefer manual or automatic features. If you enjoy espresso, a compact machine like the Gevi Espresso Machine could be a great addition to your workspace, providing you with quality coffee without taking up too much counter space.

How can I ensure the best flavor from my loose-leaf tea or coffee?

To get the most flavor from your loose-leaf tea or coffee, pay attention to water temperature and steeping time. For tea, different types require different temperatures; for example, green tea is best brewed at around 175°F, while black tea can handle boiling water. Use a quality infuser, like the Teabloom Universal Loose Tea Infuser, to allow the leaves to expand fully. For coffee, ensure your grind size matches your brewing method, and experiment with steeping times to find your perfect brew. Don’t forget to clean your equipment regularly to avoid any residual flavors affecting your drinks.

What are some practical tips for using a portable kettle or espresso machine effectively?

When using a portable kettle like the BLONGKY model, make sure to fill it with the appropriate amount of water and allow it to heat thoroughly before brewing. Keep in mind that it may take around 20 minutes to boil water, so plan accordingly. For espresso machines, always read the manual carefully to understand the setup and operation. Preheat your cups with hot water to maintain the temperature of your espresso. If you’re using the frother, be patient and allow the machine to cool down between uses to prevent overheating. Regular maintenance, such as descaling and cleaning, will also ensure your machines perform optimally.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, having the right coffee and tea essentials can significantly impact your productivity and overall well-being as an entrepreneur. Whether you prefer a rich espresso, a refreshing cold brew, or a soothing herbal tea, the products highlighted in this article are designed to meet your needs. Investing in quality brewing tools not only enhances your beverage experience but also supports your journey toward success.

But guess what? You don’t need to spend hours pouring over complex marketing strategies to get results. If your attention span feels like it’s on par with a goldfish (a solid 9 seconds!), I’ve got some bite-sized marketing hacks that will help with your ADHD and help you grow your business without feeling overwhelmed.

Understanding ADHD and Entrepreneurship

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is more than just a medical diagnosis; it’s a unique way of thinking that can be a game-changer in the entrepreneurial world. A lot of people see it as a disability, but many successful entrepreneurs see their ADHD as their secret weapon.

Did you know that 29% of entrepreneurs have ADHD, compared to just 4-5% of the general population? That’s a significant difference, and it speaks volumes about the entrepreneurial spirit.

ADHD symptoms can be both a blessing and a curse. On the plus side, ADHD traits like hyperfocus, creativity, self-motivation, risk-taking, and adaptability are goldmines for any business owner. Think of famous entrepreneurs like Richard Branson and Bill Gates, who have leveraged their ADHD traits to build empires. Their ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions is a direct result of their ADHD brains making connections between seemingly unrelated ideas.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. ADHD symptoms such as disorganization, forgetfulness, and procrastination can throw a wrench in the works. High energy levels and impulsivity might lead to reckless decisions and a lack of attention to detail. But here’s the silver lining: many ADHD entrepreneurs find ways to turn these challenges into strengths. Research shows that entrepreneurs with ADHD are more likely to be self-employed and have higher entrepreneurial intentions than their more risk-averse peers.

What sets entrepreneurs with ADHD apart? Their high energy levels and ability to work long hours without burning out are major advantages in the fast-paced world of business. They thrive on the excitement and challenges that come with running their own business. But to truly harness their potential, they need effective support systems. Coaching and mentoring can be game-changers, helping ADHD entrepreneurs develop strategies to manage their symptoms and achieve their business goals.

ADHD and entrepreneurship are a powerful combination. While ADHD symptoms can seem like challenges that get in your way, they also offer unique advantages that can lead to incredible success. By understanding ADHD and its impact on entrepreneurship, we can better support ADHD entrepreneurs and help them unlock their full potential. So, embrace your ADHD traits, find the right support systems, and watch your business soar!

1. Micro-Marketing Moments: Make Every Minute Count

Here’s the truth: You don’t need an hour of uninterrupted focus to market your business effectively. The key is leveraging micro-moments—those small pockets of time when you can whip up a post, reply to a comment, or share a quick story. I’ve found that even a 5-minute scroll through LinkedIn can turn into a meaningful connection when done intentionally.

Quick Win: Set a timer for 10 minutes each morning to engage with your audience on social media. Like a post, leave a comment, or answer a question in a relevant group. These micro-interactions build visibility over time.

2. Sticky Headlines and Simple Content: Don’t Overthink It

We’ve all spent way too much time agonizing over blog post titles or that perfect Instagram caption. But with today’s short attention spans, your content doesn’t need to be complicated—it just needs to be sticky. Think: short, catchy, and clear.

Try starting with a bold, problem-solving statement or question. For example, “Struggling to grow your email list? Try this 5-minute hack.” It’s straightforward, and it speaks to a specific pain point.

Quick Win: Use a headline generator tool (like CoSchedule or HubSpot’s Headline Generator) to craft snappy, attention-grabbing titles. You’ll be surprised how quickly you can churn out great ideas!

3. Batching for the Easily Distracted: The 20-Minute Rule

Let’s face it, multitasking is not the superpower we think it is. Trying to switch between tasks leaves me feeling like I’m spinning my wheels. That’s where batching comes in. It’s simple: you do one thing for a set amount of time, and then you move on.

Quick Win: Dedicate 20 minutes a week to batch your social media posts. Use tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to schedule a week’s worth of content in one sitting. With the posts queued up, you’re free to focus on more pressing tasks without feeling guilty about “forgetting” to post.

4. The One-Touch Rule: Don’t Save It for Later

I’m guilty of this. I open an email or see a post I need to respond to, and instead of handling it right then, I think, “I’ll get back to this later.” But let’s be honest, “later” never comes. The one-touch rule is all about doing small tasks right away. When something hits your inbox, if it takes less than 5 minutes, handle it on the spot.

Quick Win: Apply this rule to client follow-ups or social media engagement. If you’re tagged in a post, or someone sends you a DM, respond as soon as you see it. This keeps your momentum going and prevents tasks from piling up.

5. Repurpose Like a Pro: Work Smarter, Not Harder

If you’re struggling to create fresh content every week, don’t! You likely already have a treasure trove of content sitting around that you can recycle. A blog post can become a series of social media posts, a podcast episode can turn into a blog, and an email can become a LinkedIn article. The possibilities are endless.

Quick Win: Look at your most popular piece of content and find three ways to repackage it for different platforms. For instance, turn a blog post into a quick video, share a snippet on Instagram, and create a poll on LinkedIn. Boom—three pieces of content from one idea!

6. The “One-and-Done” Lead Magnet: Create Once, Use Forever

Let’s talk lead magnets. They’re essential for building an email list, but creating a new one from scratch feels like a lot of work, right? That’s why I swear by the “one-and-done” lead magnet. Create a timeless, evergreen resource that answers a burning question your target audience has, and use it over and over.

Quick Win: A simple checklist, cheat sheet, or short guide can work wonders. Keep it short and sweet. Use tools like Canva to make it look professional, and you’ve got a valuable asset that you can promote for months (or years!) to come.

7. Tiny Tech Tools: Automate, Delegate, and Elevate

I don’t know about you, but I love anything that makes my life easier—especially when it comes to marketing. Fortunately, there are tons of tools out there designed to do just that. The key is finding ones that fit seamlessly into your workflow and help you automate repetitive tasks.

Quick Win: Tools like Mailchimp for email marketing, Canva for design, and Zapier for automating workflows can save you hours. Spend a little time upfront setting them up, and watch them do the heavy lifting while you focus on growing your business.

Harness Your ADHD Superpower and Watch Your Business Soar

At the end of the day, ADHD isn’t a limitation—it’s a superpower, especially when you’re running a business. By embracing your unique way of thinking and using systems that play to your strengths, you can stay focused, creative, and energized. Marketing doesn’t have to be an overwhelming, all-consuming task. With a few simple hacks and strategies tailored to your needs, you can keep things manageable, productive, and—dare I say—fun!

An ADHD diagnosis is often seen negatively in society, yet many successful business leaders attribute their achievements to the characteristics associated with their ADHD.

Remember, it’s about consistency, not perfection. So, give these tips a try, keep moving forward, and watch your business grow with the full force of your entrepreneurial spirit (and a little ADHD magic). You’ve got this!

Hiring a graphic designer isn’t just for the big guys. Whether you’re a solopreneur or a small business owner, bringing in a graphic designer can elevate your brand and set you apart from the competition. Let me break down the top reasons why you should hire a graphic designer and how to go about it the right way. Plus, I’ll throw in some low-cost hacks to keep your budget in check.

Hiring a Graphic Designer: The Why and How

Professional Designs Get Better Results

You’ve probably played around with design tools, picked a template, and customized it only to feel… underwhelmed by the result. Why? Because design is a skill. Graphic designers are trained professionals who know how to combine elements like color, typography, and spacing to create visuals that connect with your audience.

Think of a graphic designer as your creative partner. They’ll understand how to tell your brand’s story through visuals—whether it’s in a logo, brochure, or Instagram post. Great design isn’t just about making something look pretty; it’s about creating something that grabs attention, communicates your message, and sticks with your audience.

When you’re hiring a graphic designer, you’re hiring for skills you didn’t know you needed. There are subtle and invisible skills such as choosing images with the right color palette, or laying out text around images that makes it look 1000 times better than you ever thought it could.

Pocket-Friendly Power Move:

If you’re really strapped for cash, you can still get some solid results by hiring a junior designer or design student. They’re often willing to work at a lower rate to build their portfolio. Check out local colleges or online platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to connect with up-and-coming designers.

1. Hire a Designer as Soon as Possible

The best time to hire a graphic designer is right away—even if you’re just starting. A professional designer can help lay the foundation of your brand by developing a cohesive visual identity. This includes creating your logo, defining your brand colors, and setting up design guidelines that will keep your brand consistent across all channels.

Without a clear visual identity, your brand risks looking disjointed. A polished, professional look builds trust, making your small business appear bigger and more established than it may actually be.

Budget-Friendly Branding Boost:

If hiring a graphic designer right out of the gate seems too expensive, consider splitting the project into phases. Start with a logo and color scheme, and build from there. This allows you to spread out the cost while still establishing the foundations of your brand. You can also use platforms like 99designs to run a design contest and get multiple ideas for a flat fee.

2. Write a Detailed Design Brief to Get What You Want

A well-defined design brief is the key to getting great results without blowing your budget. The clearer you are upfront, the fewer revisions you’ll need, and that saves time and money. A design brief should outline your brand’s vision and provide the designer with the information they need to create visuals that match your brand’s personality.

Here’s what to include in your brief:

• A clear description of your target audience
• Your core marketing message
• The types of products/services you offer
• The personality and tone of your brand
• Examples of designs or websites you like (and don’t like)
• Your preferred color scheme
• Whether you prefer illustrations or photos
• Examples of designs you like and why you like them

By giving a designer a clear direction, you not only save time but also ensure that the end product aligns with your brand vision.

Pro Tip Without the Pricetag:

Use a free design brief template you can find online to help guide your thoughts and make sure you cover everything. It’s free and it ensures that you communicate your needs clearly from the start.

3. Match the Designer to Your Needs

Not all graphic designers are created equal. Some are better at taking a vague concept and turning it into something beautiful, while others excel at executing specific directions. Some specialize in print media, digital graphics, illustrations, or even web design.

Before hiring, consider the skills you need for your project and find a designer who specializes in that area. Do you need someone for a one-time logo project, or are you looking to build a long-term relationship for ongoing marketing materials?

Sneaky Savings Tip:

Instead of committing to an expensive long-term contract, start small. Many designers offer one-off services like a logo design or a simple brand refresh. You can gauge whether their style fits your vision before committing to larger projects.

4. Budget for Success

You get what you pay for, and hiring a graphic design is no different. Before starting the hiring process, set a clear budget. Basic design work, like a single piece of artwork, can range from $40 to $150 depending on complexity. But if you’re looking for a full rebranding package—including logo, website design, and business cards—expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.

Don’t let that scare you off! You can start small and gradually build up as your budget grows. Plus, remember that design is an investment. The payoff in terms of professionalism, brand recognition, and customer trust is well worth the price.

Wallet-Smart Win:

If you’re in the early stages of your business and don’t need a complete branding overhaul, use free tools like Canva to get started. When you’re ready, you can hire a designer to refine what you’ve already built. This hybrid approach helps stretch your dollars.

5. Explore Your Options on Marketplaces

If you’re ready to hire, there are several great platforms to explore:

• 99designs: A project-based, crowdsourced platform that walks you through a detailed brief to get high-quality designs for everything from logos to entire brand packages. Prices start around $350.
• Upwork: A freelancer platform where you can hire designers for specific tasks or ongoing work. It’s great if you already have a clear idea of what you want.
• Fiverr: If you’re looking for something small and specific, like a social media post or a book cover, Fiverr can be a budget-friendly option. But keep in mind that you often get what you pay for.

Designer Discount Tip:

When using Fiverr or Upwork, filter by designers who are newer but have strong portfolios. They often offer lower rates to build up reviews. You can also negotiate a package deal if you need multiple pieces.

6. Review Portfolios and Work History

Once you’ve found a few candidates, it’s time to review their portfolios. Here’s what to look for:

• Do their designs vary based on the brand, or do they all look the same?
• Do their visuals look current and aligned with what you’re looking for?
• Are they experienced with the type of project you’re hiring for (logos, social media, print, etc.)?

Mini Portfolio Savings Tip:

Some designers are willing to do a small test project for a reduced fee or even free in exchange for feedback and a potential long-term relationship. It’s worth asking if they’re open to this arrangement.

7. Shortlist and Interview Candidates

After reviewing portfolios, narrow down your list to a few designers. Whether it’s through text, email, or a quick phone call, ask them about their design process, communication preferences, and availability. Chemistry matters—you want a designer who “gets” you and your brand.

Interview Insights:

My favorite interview question is to ask them what they LOVE to do, that if they could do just that, all day, every day, and can’t believe they’re getting paid for it, what would it be? 

8. Communicate Clearly and Set Expectations

Once you’ve chosen your designer, have a conversation about deadlines, communication preferences, and deliverables. The clearer you are about your expectations, the smoother the project will go. Establishing a timeline and setting check-ins along the way ensures you’re both on the same page.

Freebie for the Organized Entrepreneur:

Use project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep everything organized. These are free or have low-cost plans that help streamline communication and task assignments.

9. Build a Relationship for Long-Term Success

Great graphic design isn’t a one-and-done deal. The best value comes from building an ongoing relationship with your designer. They’ll understand your brand better over time, which means they can deliver even better results as you continue to collaborate.

Creative Collaboration Without Breaking the Bank:

If you’re happy with the work your designer is doing, consider negotiating a retainer. Designers often offer discounted rates for ongoing projects, which can save you money in the long run.

Conclusion: Why Hiring a Graphic Designer is Essential for Your Brand

Good design isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. From your logo to your marketing materials, great visuals create a lasting impression and build trust with your audience. So, should you hire a graphic designer? Absolutely. And now, you know how to do it right, while keeping your costs under control.

Start with what you need most and scale up as your budget allows. And remember, investing in great design is investing in the future of your brand.

That’s because AI tools have come into the world and changed everything. The playing field is completely different, and you need a different set of skills just to survive – not to mention, get ahead of everyone else in your industry. Although AI can be useful, the results it spits out lack any spark. What’s more, the way people consume information has also changed drastically over the last 20 years.

The Content Marketing Institute is a valuable resource for insights and statistics on content marketing strategies.

So, in order to cut through all the noise, it’s more important than ever to create engaging and interesting content that stands out from the crowd. That’s exactly what I’m going to help you do today: choose the right kind of content marketing consultant.

How to Choose the Right Content Marketing Consultant

With over 1.9 million other websites online, your website has a lot of competition when people use search engines to look for a product or service. While content marketers may have very different approaches and specialties, here are a few of the most important skills every marketer needs:

Strategy

Content marketing isn’t just about writing articles and hoping they’ll magically rise to the top of the search rankings. It requires a sound plan and strategy based on an intimate understanding of your market niche. A sound content marketing strategy should include lead generation tactics to guide consumers down the sales funnel and boost conversions.

Here are a few qualities to look for in a content marketing strategy consultant who can craft an overall content marketing strategy:

Analytical Thinking Skills

Just because a content marketing consultant can rattle off the current trends, that doesn’t mean they know how to think strategically for your specific business. You want someone with strong analytical thinking skills to pinpoint weaknesses and opportunities for creating successful content strategies. Strategic thinkers know how to analyze data from sources such as:

• Website analytics
• Market research reports
• Social media trends

They should be able to use this data to determine the effectiveness of any existing strategies. They should also use it to come up with better solutions for attracting your ideal customers and achieving your business goals.

Knowledge of Search Engine Marketing Principles

As many as 75% of people only ever look at the first page of search engine results. Your strategist must understand and use basic Search Engine Optimization or SEO principles to give you the best possible results from all of your content marketing efforts.

While a strategist won’t handle all the tiny details that make up successful SEO, they will understand how to research relevant keywords. Plus, they’ll be able to identify content opportunities, track website traffic, and measure your marketing ROI.

Organizational Skills

Believe it or not, this is probably the most overlooked, under-rated skill a content marketing consultant needs. This is because organizing a content strategy is a complex, ongoing, and ever-changing task.

If your content strategist isn’t an organized person with the ability to not only focus on your needs, but delegate to a team of writers and marketing experts, then you might find yourself scrambling to make up for their lack of organization and attention to detail.

Creating a Winning Content Marketing Strategy

A winning content marketing strategy starts with understanding a brand’s audience, defining key messaging, and creating a content strategy that aligns with the business’s goals. A meaningful strategy includes creating a cohesive and brand-aligned message that engages the target audience at various touchpoints. Content marketing consultants often cross multiple platforms and formats to create a comprehensive content plan, including a mix of content types, such as blog posts, social media, email newsletters, and more. They can help businesses develop a content strategy that incorporates search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing, driving profitable actions and increasing customer loyalty.

Content

Now it’s time to create content, but should you hire one person to create digital marketing content? I don’t think so because every content creation expert has their strengths and weaknesses. For example, some excel at creating and optimizing inbound marketing materials. Others are best for working with your internal marketing team to design infographics that quickly capture your prospects’ interest.

A good content marketing consultant must be able to:

Research

Whether you want to rank higher in search engines or simply offer engaging material to answer a common question, a good content expert must know how to conduct detailed research. There’s a lot that goes into this beyond just asking a bunch of questions into Google.

You want someone with the skillset for researching reliable sources and extracting the most valuable and relevant information for the task at hand. Research skills can be a combination of several tasks. These can include: using effective search strategies, leveraging advanced techniques, and showing a commitment to going above and beyond to validate resources and data points.

Writing and Editing

Depending on what type of content marketing you’re focusing on, you’re going to need a wordsmith with writing talent to attract visitors and guide prospects to their buying decision. Here, it’s not just about producing high-quality written work, but crafting and developing words and paragraphs that deliver meaning, context, and insights into specific content objectives.

You should expect a content creator with writing expertise to be familiar with search engine principles. They should also understand the value proposition you’re making with your offer, and what your ideal customer needs. Finally, while all writing needs editing and proofreading for clarity and to correct grammatical errors, a great content writer is their own first editor. You want someone who brings a certain level of skill and standards to all of their work, and it starts with their first draft.

This can only happen when you have solid communication. This is backed up by a study where they found that 86% of employees attributed workplace failures to either a lack of collaboration or ineffective communication.

AI Usage

You should expect your content writer to use various forms of AI technology – this includes chatbots as well as research tools for gathering data and doing initial drafts of content for articles and social media. Look for a writer who has knowledge of and experience with:

• AI SEO blog writing tools
• Content generation platforms
• Grammar and writing style assistants

With content marketing statistics from HubSpot showing us that a high percentage of businesses that consistently release new content on their blog can bring in twice as many new leads, an expert using AI wisely will leverage these advantages to their client’s benefit.

Types of Content and Channels

Content marketing consultants can help businesses create a variety of content types, including blog posts, social media posts, email newsletters, and more. They can also help businesses determine the best channels to use to reach their target audience, including social media platforms, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO). By creating a comprehensive content plan that incorporates multiple content types and channels, businesses can increase engagement, establish brand authority, and drive profitable actions.

Promotion

Finally, you’ve created a strong content marketing plan, hired talented writers, and built your reputation with helpful, timely blog posts, podcasts, infographics, and webinars. But what if your content gets lost in a sea of competing sites with the exact same plan?

Content marketers also need to understand how to effectively get this great content seen. You want to focus on promoting content in strategic channels at specific times to achieve the results you’ve outlined as part of your goals. There are several ways you can achieve content promotion, including:

• Creating a system and schedule
• Understanding basic digital marketing agency techniques
• Making connections with influencers and content aggregators in your niche market

Here are just a few marketing consultant tasks that help support your content efforts:

Social Media Marketing

Content promotion is much more sophisticated now than it used to be. You can’t just slap an ad on social media and expect results. To stand out, it’s crucial to create unique visual and written content for promoting on social media platforms.

A recent study reported by Venngage (2020), found that nearly 70% of businesses are predicted to make heavy use of visual content in their marketing strategy efforts in 2024. The same research also revealed that infographics are the most favored tool when marketers design media campaigns, with 41.5% selecting it as the most important channel. Additionally, only 44% of those questioned felt that the Covid 19 Pandemic had much of an effect on their marketing plan for B2B.

Finally, research done by Webfx reveals that over 60% of companies utilize video content in their marketing efforts. Social media marketing, or SMM, as well as digital marketing in general, have come into the limelight after a pandemic-fueled transition. Your consultant needs to not only know how to repurpose articles and written content into visual pieces for different social media channels. They also must have a keen understanding of each of the specific networks.

Public Relations

Getting other brands, bloggers, news outlets, podcasters, and websites to talk about and link back to your site builds authority. And while your content expert must be able to write compelling copy, building links requires yet another specific set of skills.

Look for a content promoter who understands and embraces relationship building through social media and networking channels. Someone who enjoys going to trade shows, events, and workshops with the primary focus of introducing themselves to influencers as a marketing consultant is a big advantage for you. This is because the number of real-life opportunities they’ll uncover and discover is much greater than just interacting online.

In fact, you might even want to ask if they are familiar with effective trade show follow up templates. They should enjoy the challenge of connecting with the “big dogs” in your industry, with a goal of working with their team to create cross-promotional strategies to promote your brand, products, and content marketing plan. And make sure they’re in tune with the principles of link juice in SEO, as well.

Paid Marketing Campaigns

Although “organic content marketing” relies on naturally driving organic traffic from searches, you will probably be supplementing with various content marketing strategies such as Facebook, Instagram, and Google Ads as part of your content marketing efforts. However, each ad channel requires its own set of highly specific skills.

What you’re looking for is a promotion expert who understands the differences between social media and organic search, as well as how to use targeting principles. This way, your marketing campaigns only show up to your ideal customer at the optimal times of day. That kind of sophisticated data mining and analysis requires ongoing research to find where the right prospect “hangs out” online, and that information is always evolving.

What I’ve always done when hiring any kind of content marketing specialist is to choose them based on how much experience they have working specifically in that promotion channel. And before I ever pay them anything, I start small to see how well their work actually converts.

So, Should You Hire ONE Person For Everything?

SEMrush found that while as many as 77% of businesses and organizations have an online content strategy, very few rate their program as anything more than satisfactory. If that’s you, then look closely at whether you should work with a freelancer who specializes in one of the three core content marketing skill sets – strategy, content, or promotion. Or look at a content marketing agency that has experts in-house to take care of your every need. The added bonus is that when you find someone you like – you keep them.

My best advice is to make a list of the top three priorities and go one at a time. Then look closely at their personality and how compatible it is with yours, because once you hire these folks – they’re on your team.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Content Marketing Consultant?

This question has a wide range of answers and depends a lot on the specialist you’re looking to hire, the region they work in, and how much experience they have. Content marketing salaries can vary significantly based on location and specialization, with data often available from talent recruitment sites. Let’s look at national rates from three different areas, The United States, Canada, and The United Kingdom:

Annual Salaries of Content Marketing ConsultantsRegionData PointsSalaryUS333 (Glassdoor)$83,000 USDCanada29 (Glassdoor)$64,240 CDNUnited Kingdom194 (Glassdoor)£41,142

So, the cost of working with a consultant could range anywhere from about $3,000 per month for a new freelancer to over $25,000 per month for a marketing consultant with decades of hands-on experience. Keep in mind, what really matters is what level of results they achieve. Often those with “fancy names” are good at selling themselves, but not good at generating leads.

Another piece of advice is to find out if the consultant has the bandwidth for taking care of things. Do they handle it all themselves? This could lead to issues if you are depending on them to complete tasks promptly and they fall behind in other areas of their business. Also, do they use project management systems and marketing tools for making your life easier? This includes sending timely status updates on how everything is progressing.

If they are going to handle strategy, content, and promotion themselves, get clear about expectations upfront. Otherwise, look for specialized individuals or consider working with a content marketing agency. The latter typically have pre-built systems and structures that are much easier than cobbling together different specialists. Also, it might be interesting to see if the company’s philosophy of content is more user-based and focused on delivering relevant search engine optimized content.

What really matters is finding the approach that fits best for what you’re looking for. And never underestimate the role a good consultant plays in getting the word out about your business – because sometimes that is the difference between success or failure. You also want to consider things that a lot of content creators avoid – one of the things you have to keep an eye on is keyword cannibalization.

FAQs about content marketing consultant

What is a content marketing consultant?

Content marketing consultants can provide businesses and individuals with help in planning and executing marketing strategies. This is done using online platforms and content such as blog posts, white papers, infographics, videos, and more. Their experience will cover three core skills: Strategy, Content Creation, and Content Promotion.

Definition and Role

A content marketing consultant is a professional who specializes in developing and implementing a content marketing strategy to engage and elicit responses from a targeted demographic. They shape how businesses communicate, persuade, and educate their audience through content, adding value to a business by providing expert guidance on content creation and strategy. A content marketing consultant is a strategist and creator who understands the mechanics of the internet and creates content that resonates with an audience, blending strategic insight with creative flair to shape content that connects with the target audience.

Benefits of Hiring a Content Marketing Consultant

Hiring a content marketing consultant can bring numerous benefits to a business. They can help increase engagement, establish brand authority, and drive profitable actions. Their work can lead to increased website traffic, social media following, and customer loyalty. Content marketing consultants can help businesses tell their stories, showcase their value, and connect with customers on a deeper level. By employing a content marketing consultant, businesses can create a community around their brand, building trust and loyalty with their target audience.

Why Turn to Content Marketing Consulting for Help?

Many businesses lack the time or marketing tools needed to execute and manage their content marketing plan. A content marketing consultant can help businesses develop a content marketing strategy that drives growth and leads. They can assess a business’s online content marketing presence and identify areas for improvement, analyzing current marketing materials, including buyer personas and project management tools. They can use Google Analytics to test a business’s website and content performance, determining goals and expectations from their content marketing efforts.

How much do content marketing consultants charge per hour?

Rates vary considerably based on geography, the consultant’s experience, and their area of specialization. Expect to pay from $30/hr for beginners up to $300/hr or more.

What does a Marketing Consultant do?

This is a very broad job title and most marketing consultants specialize in specific tasks or projects related to content marketing. They may also work with overall marketing plans for different channels, online or offline. To get the best idea of their specialties, it’s a good idea to ask about projects they’ve handled that are similar to yours.

You also want to find out if they’re going to provide written or video content to give you a sense of their skills. Ask for their website and see if they actually use what they teach in their business.

What does a content marketing specialist do?

Again, the services a content marketing specialist offers may vary based on their background. This role should cover areas including, content planning and strategy development, SEO optimization, content writing, visual content creation, and promotion.

Conclusion

Content has changed a lot. Now it’s critical for your consultant to think in terms of overall Strategy, Content, and Promotion. While a content marketing consultant can save you time and hassle – what really matters is how skilled they are at creating content that actually converts to leads and new customers.

Also, take the time to consider if you want to use AI in your media strategy. As more people rely on this technology, the noise of similar content becomes ever greater. Your consultant needs to be aware of how to help you break through that. Don’t forget that it’s important to check references. Talk to other businesses similar to yours to see if working with a content marketing consultant is really going to make a difference.

I get it – you started your small business to be your own boss and call the shots, not to become a marketing guru. But the truth is, to truly succeed in today’s marketing environment, you need a solid marketing strategy and marketing process to get your name and product out there.

And based on my conversations with small businesses like yours — marketing functions are one of the first things you are ready to hand off.

So, marketing isn’t your best skill, you’re overwhelmed with all kinds of tasks (like selling) and you desperately need to build a marketing team, but how? Don’t worry, I’m here to give you the inside scoop.

Hiring a Marketing Team: Should You Do It?

Although 70% of small business owners and entrepreneurs work more than 40 hours a week, there’s just not enough time in the day to handle marketing effectively. And if you want to really connect with your target audience and grow your customer base, you need someone on your side who lives and breathes this stuff.

Think about it – hiring an external marketing team can get your brand in front of more eyes. They track data, measure results, and refine your marketing strategy over time using marketing automation.

Compared to managing an in-house marketing team, an external team offers a hands-off approach and seamless collaboration with experts who know what works (and what doesn’t). Digital marketing experts can help refine your strategy over time.

Things to Consider Before You Hire a Marketing Team

I know, you want to be “in action” and it’s tempting to jump in head first and hire a marketing person as soon as possible. Take your time to analyze your business needs, conduct market research, and determine what types of marketing professionals you should start with.

Take some time to write down where you want your business to go. What marketing channels will benefit your goals the most? Do you need someone to create digital content? What is your content strategy?

• Do you need help with social media marketing?
• Do you want to generate leads through paid advertising?
• How important is your content marketing strategy?

Outline Your Marketing Strategies and Tasks

Before you even think about a marketing hire, you have to be very clear about what this person is going to do:

• Email marketing
• Social media marketing
• Marketing projects
• Marketing automation
• Content creation
• Video marketing
• Brand strategy
• SEO and Google analytics
• Market analysis
• Lead generation

This is just a quick list of things off the top of my head, there are literally thousands of tasks that marketing pros do that will help you meet your business goals.

But first, you have to know exactly what you need and in what order.

Here’s how to do that:

1. Get a notebook and start a list of all the marketing related tasks and challenges that you have over the course of about a month – whether you’re the one doing them or not. Make the list fairly detailed about what you currently have and what you want. For example: “My website is really slow, I need help to speed that up.”
2. Go through that list and highlight the tasks that ONLY YOU can do. For example, if you have webinars on your list of marketing activities – and you’re the presenter. Only YOU can be on camera during the webinar.
3. Group your list of marketing tasks by skill set. This is where things can get tricky. No matter what marketing tactics or tasks you have, there are specialists for every one of them. For example, let’s look at all the things involved in running a webinar: Create a landing page, write the copy for the landing page, set up the email marketing system to collect registrations, write the emails, social media promotions – I can keep going. But you get the idea. So spend some time grouping these tasks so that you know exactly what skills and capabilites you’re looking for.
4. Prioritize your marketing projects. Look for the marketing strategies and tactics that are going to require the least amount of work and that will generate the most leads and customers. For example, say you want to do podcasting and webinars. It would be smart to put webinars ahead of podcasting because webinars require sign ups, generate leads, and allow you to reach out directly to attendees as prospects. Not only that, the skills involved in promoting webinars will come in handy when you’re ready to add podcasting.

Come Up With Your Marketing Budget

Yea, you’re gonna need a marketing budget in mind before you hire someone. This is where most business owners get stuck and spend entirely too much time

crucial to ensure you can allocate resources effectively and avoid financial strain.

These are all things you need to figure out BEFORE you start putting feelers out there to hire a marketing team or a freelance marketing manager. You also need to figure out if you need full-time employees, if you want to outsource your marketing, or if you are looking for something in between.

Searching for Marketing Superstars

Think outside the traditional job board box. Use the power of LinkedIn (where the professionals hang out.), online marketing communities, even industry events. Don’t discount word-of-mouth marketing when looking for your new team member. Understanding and identifying specific marketing needs is crucial in this process.

• Network: It’s not just what you know, it’s WHO you know (cliché, but true.).
• Get Social: Platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn aren’t just for ranting about traffic anymore. The marketing world thrives online, so get in on the action.
• Research and search online marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr.

Once you’ve started to make a shortlist, ask to see portfolios and client testimonials. A picture (or glowing review) says a thousand words, am I right? Take the time to really look at their experience in media marketing.

Clearly Define the Marketing Roles, Skills, and Capabilities

There are two kinds of marketing skill sets; building and optimizing. Hence, there are two kinds of marketing people; builders and optimizers.

Builders are people who can create and build marketing systems and processes, create and implement marketing plans, strategies, and tactics. These types of marketers tend to be researchers, trend-watchers, strategists, and planners. They are great at creating and building — not so great at optimizing.

Marketing managers often handle specific areas of responsibility such as communications, brand positioning, and public relations management.

This is also true for designers; some are great at taking limited amounts of input and coming up with full out designs that will blow your mind. And others are much better at taking your specific requirements and making them look professional.

Optimizers, on the other hand are exceptionally good at measuring existing processes, marketing funnels, and digital marketing strategies and tactics and optimizing and improving them so they are always generating better and more consistent results.

So, when you’re thinking about hiring marketing team members, think about whether you need or want someone to create or someone to run, optimize or improve.

Start with figuring out EXACTLY what you need help with. Your marketing plan should determine the marketing roles that need to be filled.

Do you want to dominate the world of social media? Find yourself a Social Media Manager.

Need help getting your website to the top of Google? You’re looking for a seasoned SEO Marketer.

Is email marketing more your style? Hunt down a talented Email Marketer who lives for open rates.

Crafting Killer Job Descriptions

Remember when I talked about dating? Well, imagine writing a dating profile but for your business, highlighting its awesomeness (think company culture) and what you’re looking for in a perfect match (those marketing skills we just talked about.).

Be clear about expectations, responsibilities, and sprinkle in some personality. You want them to SWIPE RIGHT. Seriously though – think of your ideal marketing manager. Attracting top marketing talent through well-crafted job descriptions is crucial to finding the right candidates.

In-house Team, Freelancers, or Marketing Agency – What’s Best For You?

Next, let’s tackle the million-dollar question: who are you going to hire? You can go with freelancers, marketing agencies, or if you’re ready – hire an entire marketing team in-house. Although, I wouldn’t recommend that as your first step.

Start with a freelancer: This is going to be your highest value choice because you can focus on adding specific skills and talents for specific projects. Freelancers typically get paid either by project or by the hour.

And, if you’ve done the detailed task analysis that I’ve recommended, you’ll know exactly what specific strengths and talents this person needs.

This saves you a ton of money because you can test out freelancers with small projects and if it’s a good fit for the both of you, you can get into a longer term relationship.

Another benefit to hiring and working with freelancers is that you can literally expand the services that your business offers by adding the best players to your team.

Consider a smaller agency: After working with and managing several freelancers, you’ll find that this, too will start chewing up a lot of time. And when that happens, you can consider a smaller agency. There are folks out there who actually run virtual agencies. The agency owner manages the freelancers. I really like this because freelancers (whether they are independent or with an agency) are often highly skilled professionals who simply don’t want to deal with scaling a business or trolling for customers. So they will team up in an agency.

You Can’t Offload Your Marketing Work to a Marketing Agency

I want to say a few words about marketing agencies. I’ve worked with dozens of marketing agencies over the last 35 years with mixed results. So I’m going to share a few tips that will help you grow your marketing team with a reputable agency:

1. Do your homework, know your industry, know your customer, and most importantly, know your primary strategy. Most marketing agencies specialize (even though they say they work on everything). You have to know what you’re looking for.
2. Train your marketing agency teams: Agencies will sell themselves as full service where they do the research and all this stuff. But let’s face it, they aren’t going to know your industry, business, or customers the way you do. Pull your research together; marketing plans, customer journey’s, sales processes, etc. Also include any data that you’ve collected. Explain what you do, why you do it, etc. This way, they can make recommendations based on a solid foundation that you’ve been working from.
3. Make sure that you have experienced managers on your project: Agencies are often filled with young marketing managers, account executives, and interns. Make no mistake, you will have a lot of young folks or new graduates working on your projects. There’s nothing wrong with that, just make sure that you have experienced marketers leading the project and approving all their work.

I know this can feel as overwhelming as a first date. What’s the best approach here?

Option Pros Cons Freelancers

• Often a budget-friendly option, great for short-term or specialized tasks.
• Access to niche skills and a variety of perspectives.
• You only pay for the work you need.

• May require more hands-on management.
• Less integrated into your company culture.
• May juggle multiple clients.

Agencies

• Provide a wide range of services, from strategy to execution.
• Often have established processes and a team of experts.
• Great for a comprehensive marketing overhaul.

• Higher cost compared to individual freelancers.
• Might not offer the same level of personalized attention.

In-House Team

• Deeply invested in your brand and goals.
• Seamless collaboration and communication.
• Full control over your marketing strategy.

• Most expensive option, with salaries, benefits, and overhead.
• Requires a significant time investment in recruitment and onboarding.

How to Find Your Perfect Marketing Hire

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s get you set up with the right people. If you’re worried about this step, I can understand. Building and managing a team of people is the third most common complaint I hear from small business owners.

I’m going to brag here and say I have NEVER had this problem. I have consistently found, hired and worked with the best, most generous, most engaged, and skilled people for more than 20 years. I just find them. So I’m going to share my tips with you.

Look for candidates with experience in the specific tasks that you’ve highlighted and prioritized. This is the reason I recommend starting your search in freelancer marketplaces like Upwork or Fivrr. Search on specific terms or projects or software experience that you’re looking for. You will learn a lot about the different skills and capabilities that folks offer.

Create a simple pared down project with a budget of say $50 or $100: Using the task list you created, come up with a simple project should only take a few hours to complete. If and when you get to your top 3 choices, give each of them this project, and pay attention to how the process goes. Yes, you’ll get 2-3 of the same project, but this will be the perfect way to actually experience working with these people, their timeliness and attention to deadlines and details. This is so much better than wasting a couple thousand dollars to have a bad experience.

Write out your project tasks, instructions, and requirements: This is a critical success factor. YOU are responsible for clearly communicating what the project is, any instructions you want them to follow, providing screencasts or videos. Be sure to mention: how you prefer to work (email, chat, phone, zoom, etc. and see if that works for them, talk about your time and deadlines. Are you stickler for time? When do you want to know if there’s a delay, etc.

1. Pay attention to rapport: Sometimes I like to have a phone call first. This is an opportunity for me to get to know the person, get an idea of who they are and how they like to work. One question I always ask is “What is one thing you love to do, you are really good at doing, you do quickly and easily, and want to do all day long if you can?” — you’ll be amazed at what you hear. I ask this question because every marketing person is good at something. And you want to hire them to do that one thing. They will get it done, you’ll get the project done on time and at the lowest total cost.
2. Schedule a meeting via CHAT: I recommend this because a LOT of your interaction with freelancers is going to be via chat and email. So I want you to practice preliminary conversations in text only, using screenshares and videos. This is good for YOU and for the freelancer. You can do this after the phone interview and just before you give them the project.
3. Have a debrief with the freelancer: Let the freelancer do the work per your instructions. Pay attention to whether or not they ask for clarification, is it too often, not enough. How are they on timely delivery? Do they communicate? How well do they communicate? Evaluate the deliverable with the freelancer. Talk about what is good, what didn’t come out as planned and what issues they had with the instructions.
4. Choose a freelancer: Based on your conversations you’re most likely going to have a clear preference for a freelancer based on your workflow experience and quality of the product delivered. Just remember, your instructions are the biggest predictor of the overall quality of deliverable. If you didn’t get what you want, it’s probably because your instructions weren’t clear enough.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

I know the thought of hiring a marketing team might seem daunting (especially with a million other tasks on your plate). Remember to focus on YOUR strengths (that’s why you started this business, right?) and delegate the rest to professionals you trust. Take the time to find people who are not only skilled but also passionate and excited about helping your vision come to life. Because that, my friend, is how you build a kick-ass team.

FAQs About Hiring Your Marketing Team

How much does it cost to hire a marketing team?

I know, the dreaded budget question – no one wants to talk about money, right? I’ll be honest – It’s going to depend on their experience, the marketing skills required, location and even your specific industry. The average marketing hire could set you back between $66,000 and $122,000/year. Of course, you always have the option of getting started with an amazing freelancer – just be sure their experience and skills are up to par.

Should I choose the cheapest option?

NO! Do NOT just choose the cheapest option. You really need to look at what task you’re asking someone to do. The cheapest freelancers are out of the US. So, if you need copy written, that requires mastery of English and writing marketing copy, you’re better off paying more. But if your project is basic data entry or even research, you can afford to skimp there.

When you’re hiring copywriters or email marketing experts, anything that requires mastery of copywriting, storytelling, writing marketing copy, etc. look for someone who is in the middle of the pricing pack.

How do you find good marketing people to hire?

Remember my dating advice? Finding the right marketing team means having those “good stuff” conversations with them.

Passion: Did they start a side hustle related to their skills, run a marketing blog or even manage their dog’s fanpage on Instagram (I’m kidding.. kind of.). Are their eyes lighting up when they’re talking about content marketing or SEO?

Drive: Are they eager to grow both professionally and personally?

Humility: This one’s big, my friends – owning up to their mistakes and being open to feedback is HUGE in the ever-evolving world of marketing.

Is it worth hiring a marketing company for my business?

If you’ve got the budget, it absolutely can be. Just make sure to do your research, ask tough questions (remember the dating analogy – good communication is EVERYTHING), and find a company that vibes well with your brand and understands your goals. Think of it like choosing a business partner, not just another vendor – because that’s what they should be. Marketing companies can help manage and measure the success of marketing campaigns, ensuring your investment yields the best possible results.

How can I hire someone to help manage my social media?

Social media is crucial these days – everyone’s on it – so yeah, if you want to stay top of mind you need a strategy. Figure out which platform (or platforms.) align best with your target audience – you’ll need someone to post, create graphics, respond to messages, maybe even set up ads – because posting the occasional motivational quote is not going to cut it, guys. Incorporating search engine optimization into your social media management can significantly drive organic traffic and improve online visibility. Don’t forget sites like Upwork – but again – look at reviews.

And, what if you’ve recorded a bunch of expert interviews on another video platform and you have to edit those videos, create a transcript, and while we’re at it, let’s repurpose that content and turn it into an audio podcast!

Too bad there isn’t some type of video search for YouTube videos and another video platform to help you quickly breeze through video content, edit, create transcripts, audio or social media posts — free or for just pennies a day.

Except there is! And I’m going to tell you all about it.

Everyone tells you that the best and fastest way to create new content is to repurpose video content, transcribe it, turn it into articles, podcasts, and social media posts.

That all sounds great, but have you ever tried to edit video? OMG – the process is insanely tedious! You have to watch the whole video to find the clips inside videos that you want to use. So, if you’re trying to search and find words inside of a long video – you are in for a long few hours.

Here’s a real example:

I had recorded a series of experts and asked them all the same question. I wanted to create a mashup of how all of these experts answered the same question.

This meant that I had to find this simple phrase inside all of these videos!

How was I going to search and find words across so many videos?

There are actually 4 ways to do this:

1. YouTube
2. Google’s Speech Recognition
3. Otter.io
4. Descript

How to Search and Find Words and Phrases in YouTube

YouTube is the easy FREE way to find these phrases I was looking for — Google Hangouts, YouTube and the trusty “Find” function on my computer. This is all you will need!

You see, when you record anything using Google Hangouts or when you upload any video to YouTube — you actually get a TRANSCRIPT with a TIME STAMP! I know — I’m a little too excited about this feature.

But if you’re editing video and looking for a quick and easy way to find a phrase in the video or search for a word in an audio file, this little piece of information is a huge time and money saver.

But there are a few disadvantages:

• There’s a 1 hour limit. YouTube will only transcribe videos that are shorter than 1 hour.
• Transcription quality is poor. While it’s improved over the years, it’s still not that great.
• You have to cut and paste the transcription to reuse it.
• There is no speaker recognition or organization. The transcript is nothing more than words spoken at a specific time. So if you want to use it as a transcript, you’ll have to do some editing.

The video will show you how to search inside YouTube videos, and I’m going to write out the list right here for you.

1. Make sure your audio or video is LESS THAN 60 minutes long. This is HUGE. If your audio or video is longer than 60 minutes, you will need to break it up into sections that are LESS than 60 minutes.
2. Make sure that you have GOOD quality audio. If there’s one lesson I’ve learned it’s that AUDIO IS EVERYTHING. If your audio is poor meaning it’s noisy, staticky, or the speakers do not annunciate clearly or if the speakers have an accent that Google can transcribe, you will be out of luck.
3. Convert audio files to MP4 files. YouTube is, after all a VIDEO channel. You need a video. But if you only have audio, don’t sweat it, just convert it to a video slide show.
4. Upload your video to YouTube. YouTube is where all of the magic happens. If you have a video or screen share or interview that you’ve recorded, upload it to YouTube.
5. Wait about an hour or so. YouTube needs time to transcribe your video. So don’t freak out if you don’t see it right away. It can take an hour — sometimes longer. Be patient.
6. Pull up the transcript. Under your video, click on the three dots that say “MORE” — then select “Transcript”
7. Search for the phrase you want. You can do this several ways. You can click on “Edit/Find” in your browser menu. You can also click on control or command “F” on your keyboard and then simply enter the word or phrase you are looking for. You will see it highlighted everywhere it appears on the site — even inside the transcription window.

How to Use the Speech Recognition Feature on Your Computer

But what if your video content isn’t on YouTube? How can you do a video search for words and phrases then? Not gonna lie, this is somewhat clunky, but you can search inside your videos by using the speech recognition function that’s already on your computer!

Google Docs

For either Windows or Mac computers, you can set up voice dictation on Docs with the same straightforward process. As Docs is a web-based app, you won’t need to install any extra software; just use whichever browser you like.

Log into Google Docs, select Tools, then Voice Typing. You may have to grant your browser permission to use the computer’s microphone. Then, click on the microphone icon. Now comes the “hack”.

Google docs expects you to speak your dictation, but you can simply let the video play aloud and let the Google speech recognition ASR do the work for you.

The disadvantage of this approach is that you won’t get a time stamp and you really can’t set it and forget it.

Honestly, I’d recommend that if the video you have isn’t on YouTube, that you upload it to YouTube and use the native transcription function.

How to Use Otter.io to Create a Transcript

A step above YouTube’s basic transcript and your computer’s speech to text is to use a transcription tool like Otter.ai.

A more accurate and easiest to implement way to search inside videos for words and phrases, I’ve been using artificial intelligence note taking and transcription tools like Otter.ai.

Here’s a screenshot from a webinar video I uploaded to Otter.ai.

Not only will you get a much higher quality transcription and time stamps, but you have the ability to search for specific phrases in the transcript and hear an audio replay.

Take smarter notes with Otter 1-month Pro Lite*

This is my go-to way to transcribe everything from meetings to videos. It’s the easiest way to search and find words and phrases in long videos.

Automate My Notes

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I’ve been a big fan of Otter.ai this year, but for finding specific words and phrases in videos, I still recommend YouTube’s native transcription.

Otter.ai offers a free option for a limited number of hours of content. For more content hours, you’ll have to upgrade.

Disadvantages of using Otter:

• Doesn’t edit the video: You’ve edited the transcript, but now you still have to edit the video. With an edited transcript, editing the video is no much more complex.
• Toggling between editing tools: You have to create the transcript – highlight the phrases you’re looking for, edit the video in another platform, upload THAT to Otter.ai to create a new transcript.

Use Descript to Create, Edit, Transcribe and Publish Videos and Podcasts from One Platform

Descript is an all-in-one audio and video editing tool that gives you the ability to create audio inside the platform. You can upload your videos and have a high-quality transcription within seconds.

But the BEST feature is that you can cut, paste, edit, rearrange your video content straight from the transcript.

This is terrific – but it even gets better.

With the clips in all the right places, I still wanted to include transitions an intro and an outro.

Normally, you’d have to go to iMovie or another complex video editor to do this.

No more

Descript does all of this in ONE place.

Here’s the finished video:

My Favorite Descript Features

This is a short list of my favorite and most used Descript features:

• Remove filler words like “um” with one click.
• Overdub your own voice to create automated text to voice videos
• Storyboard features allows you to create and edit videos just like you would a PowerPoint.

Take Your Videos to The Next Level

If you’re looking for an easy way to search and find words or phrases in long videos, you know how to use YouTube’s transcript feature. But if you want more, then you can try Otter.ai or Descript. I’ll end this by saying that Descript has literally cut my video creation and editing time from an average of 4 hours done to about 30 minutes depending on how sophisticated I want to be. A simple edit like I showed you here would normally take me about 2 hours and I was able to finish the video and transcript in about 15 minutes. You can take that to the bank.

Stop.  Just stop.  Before you pour another dollar into that new marketing idea, take a deep breath.  I know what you’re thinking—you’ve heard this one works.  You’ve been told it’s the “secret” to instant success.  But here’s the truth:  there are no shortcuts in marketing.  Every time you jump from one shiny tactic to the next, you’re playing a dangerous game I call “Slot Machine Marketing.” It’s the kind of game where you keep feeding in your time, money, and energy, hoping that the next spin will finally pay off.  But the house always wins. 

When you find yourself being pulled or persuaded to try that new thing? Slow down your marketing.

After speaking with hundreds of entrepreneurs, I’ve seen the same story play out over and over again. They didn’t know there was a process to marketing, so they did what everyone else seemed to be doing—throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. They followed the advice of experts who swore their method was foolproof, only to be left with empty pockets and a deep sense of frustration when the results didn’t match the promises.

But here’s what those experts didn’t tell you: marketing isn’t about chasing the latest trend or copying what worked for someone else. It’s about understanding the process—the slow, deliberate process that starts with research, moves through strategy, and only then, after all the groundwork has been laid, arrives at execution. The reason your business might be struggling isn’t because you lack capital. It’s because you’re skipping the most important steps in the process, rushing headlong into selling before you’ve truly understood your market, your customer, or the value of what you’re offering.

So, let me tell you why you should slow down your marketing right now.

The Marketing Process You Never Knew Existed

You see most entrepreneurs don’t know there’s a method to the madness of marketing. It’s not just about choosing the right social media platform, running a clever ad or sending out a nice email campaign. Those are just tactics – pieces of a much bigger picture. The real magic happens when you follow a process, a roadmap that guides every decision you make so every action is intentional and aligned with your business goals.

But here’s the thing: this process isn’t sexy. It’s not what the marketing gurus on social media are peddling. They’re selling quick fixes, telling you you’ll hit it big if you just use their formula. But what they don’t tell you is that without a solid foundation – without knowing your market, your customer and your unique value proposition – those formulas are useless. They’re built on sand and when the tide comes in your efforts get washed away and you’re left with nothing but time and money wasted.

The entrepreneurs I’ve spoken to often skip this first step: research. They dive in and launch products or services without fully understanding the landscape they’re entering. Who are your customers really? What do they need? What are their pain points? And most importantly how can you solve their problems better than anyone else? These are the questions that should guide every decision. But all too often they’re overlooked in the rush to get to market.

Here’s the irony: by trying to go faster – by skipping these foundational steps – you actually slow yourself down. You waste time chasing leads that go nowhere, tweaking offers that don’t resonate and constantly starting over when things don’t work out. It’s a vicious cycle that leaves you feeling stuck and frustrated.

But what if you did the opposite? What if you slowed down, dug deep into your market and created a strategy that’s just for your audience? Imagine the power of launching a marketing campaign you know for sure is built on a deep understanding of your customer’s needs and desires. That’s where the real speed is – when you can move forward knowing every step you take is leading you to success.

Why Your Lack of Capital Is Just an Excuse (And Why It’s Actually Your Marketing That’s Broke)

Let’s cut to the chase: everyone loves to blame business failure on a lack of capital. It’s the easiest excuse in the book. “If only I had more money, I’d be successful.” But let’s get real—what is capital, anyway? It’s just money. And if your business doesn’t have money, it’s because customers aren’t giving it to you.

Here’s the uncomfortable truth: customers aren’t handing over their hard-earned cash because they don’t see enough value in what you’re offering. They don’t see how your product or service is going to solve their problem, make their life easier, or deliver the outcome they’re looking for. And whose fault is that? Yep, you guessed it—your marketing. Or more accurately, your lack of a coherent marketing process.

You can point fingers at the economy, competition, or the universe conspiring against you, but at the end of the day, the failure to attract and retain customers is a marketing problem. It’s not that customers don’t have money—they just don’t see a reason to spend it on you. And why should they? If you haven’t taken the time to understand their needs, how can you expect them to understand the value of what you’re selling?

This is where the myth of “lack of capital” crumbles. It’s not that your business needs more money to succeed; it needs more customers who are willing to pay for what you’re offering. And to get those customers, you need a marketing strategy that’s based on solid research and a deep understanding of your target market. Otherwise, you’re just throwing money at a problem that can’t be fixed by cash alone.

So, let’s stop pretending that capital is the root of all business woes. The real issue is that you’re trying to skip the hard work of marketing—the research, the strategy, the testing—and jumping straight into selling. And when you do that, it’s no wonder the customers aren’t lining up to throw money at you. They don’t see the value because you haven’t shown it to them in a way that resonates. And until you fix that, no amount of capital is going to save your business.

Slow Down Speed Racer: Why Patience in Marketing Is Your Secret Weapon

Here’s the thing: you’re going too fast. I know—you’re impatient, driven and you want results yesterday. But let me tell you: this isn’t a sprint where the fastest wins. In fact the more you rush the more you’re setting yourself up to fail. It’s like building a house on quicksand—no matter how fast you build it, it’s all going to sink.

Most entrepreneurs are so eager to start selling they leapfrog over the most important parts of the marketing process. Who has time for research or crafting the perfect offer when you can be making sales right? Wrong. This “sell first, figure it out later” mentality is why you’re stuck in the hamster wheel of constant effort with little to show for it.

Imagine for a moment what it would be like if you slowed down. Not stopped—just slowed down enough to take stock of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it. Before you launch another ad campaign or push out another product, ask yourself: Do you really know your market? Have you identified exactly who your ideal customer is, what they need and how your offer can meet that need better than anyone else? Or are you just throwing darts in the dark and hoping something will hit?

When you slow down your marketing, you’ll get to focus on the foundations that really matter. It’s about doing the deep work of understanding your industry, pinpointing your target audience’s needs and developing an offer that’s so good they can’t say no. When you do this right everything else—sales, growth, success—comes faster and easier.

Think about it: would you rather spend months or even years spinning your wheels trying tactic after tactic with no real strategy? Or would you rather invest that time upfront building a solid foundation that will pay off in the long run? By slowing down and focusing on what really matters you’re actually setting yourself up to move faster in the future. Because when you know where you’re going and how to get there you can move with purpose and confidence rather than flailing around in every direction.

So, here’s my challenge to you: slow down your marketing. Yes, you heard me right. Take a step back, breathe, and re-evaluate your approach.

Instead of jumping on the latest trend or rushing to launch that next big thing, spend time refining your strategy. Do the research. Understand your customer inside and out. Craft an offer that they can’t resist because it speaks directly to their needs and desires.

By slowing down your marketing now, you’ll build a solid foundation that will allow you to accelerate later—with a clear direction, stronger customer connections, and a strategy that actually works. Slow down, and you’ll be surprised at just how quickly you start seeing the results you’ve been chasing.