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Looking Forward Our WayAuthor: Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
The Looking Forward Our Way podcast addresses todays critical issues that impact the lives, and livelihood, of those traveling their own way. Looking Forward Our Way is co-hosted by veteran and award-winning podcasters, Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson. Each episode provides information, resources and ideas to our listeners, all available at the click of a link! Heres what you can expect to hear us talk about Employment Financial and legal issues Technology Healthy living Housing Discover New episodes every first and third Mondays of the month. Find out more on our website at www.lookingforwardourway.com Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com Language: en Genres: Education, Self-Improvement, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Strategies for Entrepreneurial Success: Tips from Ohio's Business Experts
Episode 125
Monday, 6 January, 2025
We are thrilled to present an episode rich with insights for aspiring and current entrepreneurs, with tips from several local experts. Each guest brings a wealth of experience and valuable advice for those looking to start or grow their businesses in Ohio.We begin by discussing the significance of self-confidence and the myriad of questions that come with starting a business. Our first guest, Katie Ellis, the president and CEO of the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership, highlights the benefits of joining a Chamber of Commerce. Katie explains that chambers offer numerous opportunities for brand awareness, networking, and access to critical resources. They also provide member-exclusive benefits like health insurance and professional development programs. She encourages new entrepreneurs to explore different chambers and find the best fit, even suggesting attending events without committing to a membership initially.Katie also mentions SCORE, a nonprofit supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration that pairs entrepreneurs with mentors who offer personalized guidance. Additionally, she recommends ECDI, which offers business incubation programs and small business loans, and organizations like NAWBO and the Women's Small Business Accelerator for female entrepreneurs.Next, Carol introduces Frank Agin, president of AmSpirit Business Connections. Frank emphasizes the importance of networking in entrepreneurial success. He asserts that businesses thrive through relationships and provides three key networking tips. First, find a mentor who is well-connected and can offer guidance without necessarily charging for their services. Second, focus on building relationships with strategic partners who operate in the same circles but offer different products or services. For example, Frank, a former attorney, built relationships with bankers, accountants, and payroll professionals to generate referrals. Lastly, Frank advises getting involved in the community, as this increases exposure and positions one as a committed and valuable community member.Brett introduces Darlene Ziebell, a seasoned business adviser with over three decades of experience. Darlene provides crucial tips on developing a brand, particularly focusing on social media and marketing. She starts by stressing the importance of creating a compelling elevator message that conveys the unique value of a business. The final part of this message should emphasize the benefit customers receive by choosing your product or service over others.Darlene's second tip is to establish a differentiating message that sets your business apart from the competition. This message is vital before spending any money on marketing or branding, as it ensures that the investment will not be wasted. Watching television commercials and social media ads can provide insight into effective differentiating messages.Lastly, Carol introduces Ken Lazar, the chief career officer for the Ability Professional Network. Ken underscores the importance of identifying a niche for your business. When he and his son started their executive search agency, they focused on recruiting sales professionals. This focus helped them build a strong, recognizable brand and become a go-to agency for companies looking to build their sales teams. Ken advises against chasing "shiny objects" or ventures outside your niche, as this can waste time and resources and confuse your customer base.Ken also shares his experience with social media marketing. For his business, LinkedIn proved to be the most effective platform for reaching...
