We touch on burnout a lot here, so can I offer another idea or a piece of advice? Outsource!

If you are asking “WHY?” think of it this way, we all have our own talents and gifts, so why not bring in an expert for those problem spots you are the most trouble with. Bring in someone that this is their zone of genius. Also, your time is limited and valuable. Time is a commodity, so why not use outsourcing in the spots you hate the most or just can’t do? I know I use it for a lot of things, even down to housework.

Think about it, what can you accomplish with a few extra hours? If you were free to focus on the parts of your business you know most?

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Outsourcing

Types of things to outsource:

• Email - Blasts/Responses

• Managing or Admining for your Groups and Social Media Accounts (including scheduling posts/comments)

• Copywrite

• Blog Posts

How to Find Somebody:

• Sites like Fiverr

• Breathing Room Virtual Assistants

• Linkedin

• Ask your Community for Referrals.

  • This could be other people you know in a similar field or those in your Facebook Groups, ask around.

As for Rates, Google similar categories to that you are looking to outsource. Is it a graphic designer? Copy-write? Personal assistant? Know each lane has its own pay scale. Compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges. You can also get a good idea of rates and level of expertise from Fiverr as well.

5 Tips to knock it out of the park!:

1. Know Your Goals

   Virtual Assistants have a lot to offer but you can’t build a house without a strong foundation. VAs can help you figure out some goals, but you do need a starting point.

2. Your Vision

   Beyond goals, what do you envision for the future?

3. Mood Board/Vision Board

   Do you have one? Time to make one. Great for business or specific projects and helps brings a visual to the table to help communicate.

4. Write it Down

   Don’t keep it all in your head. VAs are amazing, but they can’t read minds.

5. Be Open to Feedback

   Both giving and receiving. The best type of partnerships have an open dialogue to build upon ideas or to tweak things to get that vision just right.

Outsourcing can definitely help you. Just use this as a guide and know your strengths. Work in your superpower and get an expert in those less satisfying/desirable fields for you. Remember, money is infinite, your time is not.

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links.

Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you, I just may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

Have you made money off your Instagram account yet? From today’s Live in my Facebook group 80% answered “No.” I would like to say I’m surprised, but I don’t think everyone knows there are so many options out there to monetize even if you are considered a “micro-influencer.”

1. Partner With Brands

   This one can be because of emails, dm’s (be on the lookout for red flags though), or from sites that I’ll mention in the “affiliate” bit.

   There are two ways of doing this or a combination of-

   1. Paid, posts in exchange for posts. Here’s a good post by Hootsuite for a general pricing guide. You can also charge without posting, just for creating content for the business.

   2. Product, posting in exchange for product. I don’t do this one as often as time is money, but if it is a product you would buy or standby, why not?

2. Affiliate Links

   This is when you make sales with your custom links/promo codes. IG also rolled out a tag a product way of doing affiliate sales through your post sales.

   You can find some affiliates that complement your niche through sites like ShareASale and Influence.co. I have an affiliate to things like Amazon, Canva, and Flodesk. Why not get paid for things you use, love, and would recommend anyhow?

   *These Last 3 are all strictly from Instagram*

3. Instagram Badges

   Make sure to check your settings and “enable badges” and then make sure your audience knows they can tip you! Works exactly the same as on Tiktok with “gifts.” Your audience pays IG your “tip” and IG pays you. In the past they used to take a small fee, but I had read that IG won’t be taking fees until 2023.

4. Reels Monetization

   Once again, check your IG settings. It will tell you there if you are eligible for monetization. IG will pay you for your reels views. I know it’s true because I get it. Not a lot, but it’s something.

5. Setup IG Shopping

   Once upon a time you had to be selling just physical products, which is great for small businesses and makers, but I believe IG will also be rolling out a way to sell services as well soon, if not already. From what I heard, it is really easy to set up your product sales if you are already using Shopify.

6. Instagram Subscriptions

   Ok, this one I’m still not a fan of, here’s my small rant, but it still just feels like a cash grab. Like IG got jealous and is copying formats of Only Fans and subscription sites, to just sell the exclusivity of your IG close friends circle. But hey, only time will tell.

What do you think? What avenue is speaking to you? And are you ready to take that dive and make some money? If not reach out to me! I’m ready to cheer you on or give you that little last push…let’s make you some money!

Creator? Personal? Business??? Which type of Instagram account is right for you? Maybe a little of this had changed for you as your brand has changed, or maybe since META has changed? Once upon a time Personal being Super Basic, Creator, Basic, and Business, Having it All. Spoiler alert, not so much the case anymore and lots in common with Creator and Business. so let me break them down for you.

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Personal-

Can go private. So this is your stress-free, post what you want, watch what you want, like good ‘ole days of IG. But the cons are you can’t monetize and you don’t have all the contact information spots, so just dm’s.

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Creator-

“A Creator Account is best for public figures, content producers, artists, and influencers.” - META

Cannot use API Codes, so no outside plug-ins. No outside analytics, schedulers, like Later and Planoly. They might be starting to roll out the option of schedulers, but I haven’t seen it yet.

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Business-

Like a “Digital Storefront” for your business. META recommends this account for Retailers, Local Businesses, Brands, Organizations, and Service Providers.

Things to note, not as big of a music selection, only royalty-free music. But, can use outside analytics and post schedulers.

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Basically, if you want to do your thing and not worry about money, personal is fine, but I’m guessing that since you are here, money is a goal, so you probably want either Creator or Business.

These next two are extremely similar, analytics, contact options, and monetizing availabilities.

When you go to switch accounts from “Settings” it tells you what they expect out of each account, like what types of people and the best way to use, according to them. Feel free to switch and see the best fit if you are on the fence, but don’t do it too much and too often to get flagged as spam. Really, I recommend either Creator or Business. Personal is just strictly for fun, nothing wrong with that, but it won’t be to go to grow your brand or business.

I know we’re all guilty of just posting for the sake of posting, even myself, but let’s do more than just appeasing the algorithm. Time to have a chat about how to create captivating content.

1. Know What Your ICA is Thinking?

   Think about what they are thinking, asking, objections? Why haven’t they bought yet (if they haven’t)? Why did they? You can turn both of those into a post. If it was a money thing, even a post of why you charge what you charge, value. Think about what your ICA has dm’ed you.

2. Do Your Research

   Ask! Use Instagram Stories for Polls and Questions. Or a great resource, pick one word a week (I believe a week) for “Answer the Public.” Find what questions people are asking in your niche and answer them.

3. Repurpose Content You Already Have

   Repurpose one topic to fit each format of media. Example: Blog Post to Facebook Post/Live to Reel to Tiktok to Email Blast…. honestly, repurposing is endless. This blog in fact started as a FB Live in my group and is now this post, and next included in my email blast.

   Also, recycle that content! People have short attention spans, memory, and the way social media works they might not have caught the first, second, millionth time you’ve discussed something, so revisit, repurpose it!

   *I just don’t suggest recycling your photos, using the same images over and over. Not meaning using the same pictures on your different platforms, I mean recycling over and over the same images on same platform, like IG feed. Don’t do it.

4. Keep Your Content Close

   Don’t put all your eggs in one basket! Cough. Cough, Social Media. You never know what will happen to these apps, you also sign so many rights away, your content isn’t “your content” when posting, so keep it on a channel you own. Think about your blog or your email list.

5. Goal Outcome

   Have a goal in mind. What’s your purpose of every post? Is it to answer a question? Is it to direct them to signing up for your email list? What are you trying to achieve with every post? Not just posting for filler.

You got this! Now, go create some content! Excited to see what you create, might need to tag me, especially if you use “Answer the Public” love the questions people ask. Also, feel free to reach out to me if you need more advice and support, I’m here for you.

We all have heard some conflicting things about hashtags in Instagram these days, so here is what I found and what I recommend to get the most out of your hashtags for 2022.

Straight from the horse’s mouth, Instagram recommends:

• Feed Post - 3-5 hashtags in caption or comment

• Reels - 5-7 in caption

• Stories - ZERO (hashtags are unsearchable in stories, so not worth the effort)

*So I will be focusing my tips on Feed Posts and Reels.

Hashtag Tips:

1. Use up to 30 hashtags for feed posts BUT must be relevant to the post and you must change up the amount and word use up.

2. Variety - Location, Industry, Branded (your branding-based hashtags), Descriptive, and Community Based (like “#SDMom”).

3. Use hashtags between 10k-200k to maximize your reach.

4. Double-check that your hashtags aren’t on the banned list.

5. Check what hashtags your ICA is using.

6. Make better content. Hashtags can’t save mediocre content. Think of a hashtag more like salt on a dish. Salt just enhances, but it can’t fix a garbage dish.

7. Don’t rely on or stress about hashtags! Honestly, I forget to put them half of the time, hashtags aren’t the make or break that they used to be. Think of tip #6 and focus your effort on making good content.

You may have caught that I said to use up to “30 hashtags” in tip #1 but IG recommended 3-5, well I have a theory. Hashtags just make it easier for the spambots to find and it does come across as spammy, so maybe they are hoping lower numbers bring more focus and authentic engagement.

Hashtags on Instagram’s platform work more like SEO keywords and are more searchable, not something to just use because of trending (like on TikTok). So treat them more like a search optimization.

With all that said, here’s what I think and recommend. The sweet spot hashtag-wise for me seems to be 7 to 20 hashtags of varying amounts and words. I never stick to the same. So don’t post the same number of hashtags and the same hashtags everytime, try to experiment with a varying amount or even just using IG’s suggested amount and see.

Let me know what seems to be working for you. I’m interested to hear everyone’s experiences.

Such an important topic, finding your niche audience on social media. Let’s help you find them and keep them.

So here are my Top 8 Tips!

#1 - Know your Ideal Client (ICA) and Know Your Content Pillars.

Go deeper than just the basic gender age, niche it down when finding your “Ideal Client” (aka ICA). Knowing your content pillars helps because you know what you talk about you can find what kind of listeners. Also, if you are lost on Content, put out market research, ask your followers in Instagram Stories. (If you need more help reach out to me.)

#2 - Look at Your Stats.

Kind of related to step 1, but not completely. We tend to forget about our current followers and keep searching for more. We forget how many people, a hundred people, etc. really are! Just imagine being in a room with those numbers. Even if you have a smaller following I guarantee your ICA is in those numbers. Don’t neglect your following! But, look at your statistics, IG is pretty good at breaking those down for you.

#3 - Audit Your Profile.

This is a huge part. Once you get in front of that ICA you need to speak to them. Keep them, get them to want to smash the follow button. Speak their language. Does your bio speak to your ICA? Show your personality. What problem of theirs do you solve? Have a targeted profile. Keywords. Try to step back with virgin eyes or ask friends their opinions…or even ask your ICA.

#4 - Find Your Competiton.

Look at your competition. Don’t steal from them or poach their people! Do not copy. But, look at their followers, see what the trends are. This is strictly research. You’re allowed to follow if public. But use it to gather information.

#5 - Hashtags

Find what hashtags your ICA use and hang out under. The rules of this are always changing, but it’s best to think of hashtags as the seasoning on that dish you already created.

#6 - Collaborations!

Super fun way to gain followers. Share your audience. Not always best to collab with someone that is your competition, but if similar and slightly different go for it! Great for going live, podcasts, guest blogging, story takeovers, so many ways! Get creative! Even if it’s just basic shoutouts, give it a shot, get in front of other people’s audiences.

#7 - Interact!

Just getting the “follow” isn’t enough. You have to create a relationship! Interact! Stories are a great way to get or give interaction, as well as dm’s and posts.

#8 - Get them Off the Platform!

I say this a lot! Get them off the apps and in your email list, because what do you do if they delete that app? You don’t own your followers, but you own your email lists. Remember to use it. Not super easy but use those ICA’s needs to create offers, get them on that list. (I also offer a email training if you need it.)

I know I said it in a few of the points, but seriously, if you have any questions or need more deep details please don’t hesitate to reach out to me! This is my jam, my area of expertise and I love helping. Now go find your people! :)

Before I dive into some easy points to get that engagement to convert into sales, let’s address the elephant in the room. The whole IG world is just in a slump. It isn’t just you. It’s just a matter of fact engagement is just down in general. More people are on the app and that also means more creators. But don’t let it get you down, this is where knowing your audience will be key, which I’ll address, ICA’s (Ideal Client Avatars) are just an important topic. You may be also questioning if it’s possible to make sales when your follower numbers are such and such… And, the answer is Absolutely! Yes! The 10K Follower Swipe-up Feature isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Trust me I’ve seen the numbers, and this isn’t just based on one account, we all see it. That swipe isn’t all it’s cracked up to be and neither are numbers so don’t worry about getting your followers to a certain number, focus on taking care of the people right in front of you! Your current audience, your people, now that’s what matters. Let’s focus on those people and how to sell to them.

Now for the fun! 5 Points of Turning Engagement into Sales:

1. Get into those DMs - Post in stories to encourage people to dm you or use their stories to start a non-sales conversation. Build up a connection, don’t be spammy, and start off with sales pitches. No one likes that.

2. Return the Love - As we like to say in my FB group, “Don’t Post & Ghost!” Reciprocate the post interaction. I want you to especially pay attention to the top 20 people interacting with you. If they are supporting you, support them back. Trust me it pays off, ties in with the “Like-Know-Trust” Factor.

3. Bring Value - Being the expert on a topic. Don’t over or under-sale your level of expertise. Play around with your amount of sales vs non-sales posts.

4. Consistency - I will preach this over and over again, but be consistent! Show up, stories/lives, like #3 build-up that connect for the “Like-Know-Trust.”

5. Understanding Your ICA’s Needs - Speak directly to your ICA. They will know you have the solution for their problem and there’s the sale.

Try it, try it all, and get back to me! If you need help and an extra little push just reach out to me. That’s what I’m here for. Also, if you want to stay in the loop, make sure to sign up for my weekly emails, especially after the recent social media outages. ;)

Instagram recently announced “Instagram Subscriptions,” it’ll be another way for creators to monetize on IG. In idea, it will work very similar to Patreon and Only Fans formats. Rates will be anywhere between 99 cents and $99.99 per month. It gives people/followers/”subscribers” access to separate story posts or lives.

A few little fun aesthetic changes will be coming with it. IG will be making the stories ring for these to purple, instead of the close friends green or the standard orange/reddish ring. Subscribers will also get a purple badge on their profile, though I haven’t seen what that will look like or how that works yet.

But, basically, this new feature is for creators that want to make special content for their followers. So great idea, but not sure how this will convert on IG’s platform. Will it mean creators will start holding back their current free content or what? So far they have only released it to 10 creators, all US based, and most rates are about 2.99-4.99/month. I haven’t seen any $99.99, yet.

But, let’s discuss some of the pros vs cons…

Pros-

• This year Instagram isn’t charging, to get people signing up they are waving the fees.

• Export followers’ information to be able to move to another platform. So far they are the only one offering that.

• Possibility of getting closer to some of your favorite creators?

Cons-

• Stuck on Instagram - Limited in what you can offer because it has to stay on the app.

• Limited to lives & stories (I can already create a list on my own with close friends option)

• Instagram controls the money (Fees in 2023)- credit card fees, IG’s cut…so you end up with what, only 60%? You can do this elsewhere for free.

I want to be clear, this doesn’t mean you will be paying to use Instagram App, just paying to get extra from some of your favorite content creators.

So, as you guessed, I don’t see myself being able to use this feature. I won’t be changing the free knowledge I’m sharing there, here, or in my EFF group on Facebook, but maybe it’s a fit for you? Maybe, just while they aren’t charging during 2022? Just for that export follower feature so you could possibly move those followers to the current platform you are already using? Maybe???

Honestly, I don’t see this as something helpful or that I, myself could use. But, what do you think?

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links. Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you. Though, I may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

6 social media marketing strategies to watch in 2022, some you may know and others might surprise you. Let’s dive right in!

1) Video - You’ve heard me preach about this time and time again, but video is huge and will just continue to just grow. Instagram is still pushing reels like crazy! Though, maybe you noticed Instagram got rid of the “IGTV” and the spot it was in your profile/wall. Well, now that spot is just simply video. Take a look, you maybe notice all your old videos and boomerangs from your feed now lumped together there, (it’s next to your reels section before tagged posts). But, really! Video, Video, Video! 90% reels in my feed, it’s almost weird to see still image in the feed these days.

2) DMs - Create connections in those DMs, get to know your followers. Show up, so they know you’re a real person, not another spambot just trying to get their money.

3) Perfectionism is Out! Be authentic!!! No perfect feed! No perfect makeup and hair! Days of color-coded aesthetics are out. IG wants people to show up and be real. *Photographers, still stay true to your eye and aesthetics, clearly you are not the same, but still show up in video as the real you. Show that behind the scenes.

4) AR/VR - So IG/FB aka “Meta” owns Oculus (VR Headset) this is a shift to tie that in. I’m also not an expert in this space yet, but Ive heard they are hoping to be a space for virtual meetings, like one step closer to in-person than zoom chats could be. This maybe is your chance to launch an app? Or maybe like the artists selling those skins? Or NFTs? Bitcoin? Like I said, not my specialty, but it’s coming. In fact, when I recently purchased my new glasses through Zenni Optical, they have a feature that uploading a selfie along with some measurements gives you a pretty clear idea of what your glasses purchases will look like before they arrive.

5) User-Generated Content (UGC) - Get your users and followers to generate content for you. As a business using client/influencer/user-based content is the way of reaching your sales audience in another authentic way, sharing other people’s voices and opinions, examples of your products out in the world. Just a great way to meet new target audiences as well.

6) Memes/Gifs - Yes, I just said “memes,” lol, but video or static, these are the way! They have been the way for a long time and that won’t be going away anytime soon. Memes and gifs are great conversation starters, great for creating feedback, interaction, and shares. So how can you meme? (Don’t worry I plan to bring in a specialist in this area for a talk soon.)

In short, at this point, it’s highly unlikely it’s just you in your line of business, even if you are in a niche market, so you gotta step up and lean into what your superpower is in 2022. Are you wondering what your “superpower” is? Easy, it’s being you! No one else like you and you want to create that connection that begs for sales. Show up, show your face, be in those videos/reels/stories! And, make sure to keep an eye out in the EFF Facebook group for more live trainings for all 6 of these growing media options.

Just a quick little help for us all balancing work and life stress. Sometimes we just need some little reminders and simple ways to give our mental health its best shot. Somethings even I try just as the days get busier or I feel stress coming in. Three little simple things that can keep you on the up and up.

#1, PLAY!

Connect with your inner child. Get back to that inner child. Listen to your inner child. Bring back what made you happy as a child, Find what you used to like. Play soccer, do art … go out and do something fun! Be free! (Let me know if you want to get connected to someone that specializes in inner child work. I’ve been doing it myself. Super helpful.)

#2, Seek Support

Vent. Get it off your chest and shoulders! Borrow a friend’s ear. If your close friends are like mine, “Fixers” that’s fine but let them know you are just seeking support, no need for solutions.

#3, Practice Mindfulness

Take the moments to be present. Thinking of what you are thankful for. Be mindful of what you have on a daily basis vs always looking forward to running to the next big event. Make something out of every day. Practice, practice, practice being thankful for the moment. Stop and smell the roses. My personal goal is just to start journaling to help me be more mindful, it may also work for you too.

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Hope these help you as much as they are helping me. I know this is just the tip of the iceberg, but we all have to start somewhere. Remember to treat yourself well, your mind will thank you.

In the past I’ve talked about how to get followers, convert new followers, find clients, but today I am just talking about wooing the ones you have.

First, if you feel like you suck a Instagram sales, don’t feel alone! It’s hard to get sales on there. Instagram really doesn’t want anyone leaving the app, they hope people stick around and are being entertained. They now are introducing “Instagram Store” which will hopefully help, but in the meantime here are 10 ways to combat that.

1) You have to understand your Ideal Client (your ICA). I know I say this over and over, but really this is step number one, if you haven’t done it yet, make sure to read “DEFINING YOUR ICA (IDEAL CLIENT AVATAR)” this will be the key for all your other steps. Even if you read before, check back in, your client will always be evolving as will you.

2) Have a Game Plan. Are you on Instagram just to be entertained, that’s fine, but if you want to make a sale, make a goal and game plan to get that goal! Make a calendar. Plan out content and interaction time, avoiding the doomsday scroll when you are on goal time. I’m not saying it’s easy, but having a game plan makes it easier and will get easier over time.

3) Share Your Story! Your “Hero’s Journey” Create a connection. Why someone would know you, believe you, trust you? What about your history got you to know the product or information you are selling? Think “Like, Know, Trust.”

4) Show Your Face in Stories may be the easiest. Show up in video, show your face! Talk about your day, behind the scenes, your story, your product…the list goes on. It gets easier the more you do it and it breeds trust.

5) Solving your ICA’s Problems. You need to know your ICA (step one). Selling and romanticizing what your product will offer them as a result of doing or buying this. In marketing terms, in your marketing message. in your bio is a great place to start. Keep repeating the message, most of the time your audience your client won’t even know they have this problem that needs to be solved until they get your message.

6) Create a Juicy Reason for them to leave Instagram. Like I was saying in the intro it’s hard to get people to leave IG. And in your bio IG only gives you one link spot so you really need to create a reason that it’s worth clicking and leaving that entertaining scrolling. “Come to my website and buy my product” is a lot to ask, give them a juicy freebie or a discount, a reason to leave.

7) Slide into their DM’s. That’s what direct messages are for. If you feel someone is engaging with you a lot and you feel like they are your ICA start a normal nice conversation, before starting the sale. If they don’t want the dm they won’t read or respond, that easy. You’re just connecting and opening a conversation first. Also, can use stories to create an opportunity to dm for a direct sale! (Lesson on DM selling to come.)

8) Share Testimonials! One of the easiest ways to create sales is by sharing testimonials. This is not just you talk about yourself, social proof is a great way to help sell. People will see someone like them and say, “Oh, it worked for so and so…so this should work for me to.”

9) Utilize Instagram Shopping. They are putting billions, I mean BILLIONS into this, utilize it. They take a portion, but when they raise their portion, I think 30% raise your prices, people will understand. They are even opening this option for people selling things that aren’t just product-based.

10) ASK FOR THE SALE! Call to Action. The basic sales 101. Reels, stories, feed posts, make sure to have that call to action.

If you noticed I didn’t mention the IG 10k swipe-up. That’s because I’ve seen on multiple profiles the stats for it and honestly it isn’t there. The other steps mean more, take the pressure off getting to that 10k. Plus, I’ve heard they are working on a link sticker for stories so who knows, you might not even need that 10k swipe up at some point.

As always if you have questions, feel free to ask! I’m here to help!

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links. Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you. Though, I may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

What is Imposter Syndrome and how do we beat it?

Well, imposter syndrome can look like: Feeling like a fraud. Look like or feel like the need for false modesty. Labeling your hard work as just being “Lucky.”

Imposter Syndrome is a common plague upon entrepreneurs and social media types. But have no fear, that’s why I am here. Let’s get you some tips to combat it.

1. Know You Are Not Alone! This really happens to the best of us.

2. Acknowledge the Feeling and know you know what you are talking about. Use your accomplishments as reassurance.

3. Positive Affirmations - Find one that works for you and keep it in work mode eyesight. (Pinterest may be a great resource for finding the right one that speaks to you.)

   • Some of my Favorites-

     1. “WTWTCH” What’s the Worst that Could Happen?

     2. Done is Better Than Perfect

     3. Failure is a Teacher to Learn From

4. Don’t Go Into Information Overload Mode. Too much noise will only make it worse and make you start to doubt what you already know. Don’t try to learn it all at once.

5. Take Simple Messy Action - Something is better than nothing, push thru and just start. Tiny bits at a time. One foot in front of the other.

6. There is NO Such thing as “Perfect” - Have you been called a “Micro-Manager”? Or to Delegate, anything has been a hard NO? Get mad when a group project didn’t come out a certain way??? Try to Fail on Purpose! Hear me out, send out an email without the proofread, see the world won’t crumble apart! It’s ok to have errors, it’s called “being human.”

   1. The key is to remember, Perfectionism is rooted in fear, anxiety, and insecurity.

      This one is hard and will take time. You will probably have to address what’s the core issue of your worries. But once you do or practice “failing” you will see, what people connect best to is a real, authentic person. Embrace your messes.

7. Money Blocks - Are you afraid of money? Okay, that may sound funny, but seriously, read up on “Money Blocks.” It’s like a subconscious issue getting in the way of your success. Very interesting and worth looking into. I actually learned about this from one of my mentors. It’s been a life-changer.

Don’t let Imposter Syndrome get the best of you. Work on combating that self-doubt. And, remember you aren’t alone! Please feel free to reach out if you get stuck, I am happy to help.

This is huge! Huge for content makers on Instagram that have felt marginalized, hidden, or targeted on the social media platform. Instagram is finally speaking about their new “Equity team” and what it means.

First, no shame if you aren’t familiar with the concept of “Equity” instead of the use of “Equality.” Let me recommend this article on Mental Floss - “What’s the Difference Between Equity and Equality?” for you.

Many communities, Black, disabled, plus-sized, and LGBTQIA+ have been claiming issues with the platform for a while now. Problems with content hidden. Suddenly taken down. Or even accounts suddenly banned, and this is never an easy fix. It’s also never been a transparent conversation or process, but the release from Instagram just recently gives hope.

Or at least gives me hope in the fact that they are listening.

“The Instagram Stories” Podcast does a pretty good job summarizing it all up, in less than 4 minutes. I highly recommend giving it a quick listen.

But my biggest takeaway from the official article was this-

This foundational work helped us to narrow our focus, and finalize what our team will be concentrating on more specifically. Our team will now focus on three areas:

-Helping every Instagram employee prioritize building equitable products and tools

-Promoting fairness on the platform through our technology and automated systems

-Using Instagram to create more opportunities for empowerment.

Really, I am just happy to hear there is a team and some concerns I’ve heard time and time again are mentioned. So let’s hope, but I guess only time can tell.

I’m curious though, have you ever felt like your account or posts were targeted for being in a marginalized community? Are you relieved to hear that they are trying to address it? Do you think it will work? Comment below! I really would like to hear your thoughts.

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links. Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you. Though, I may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

Ok, maybe I'm being a bit dramatic (and morbid - poor Twitter bird) but I'm here to make a point. Facebook and Instagram went down recently again! This time for hours, making April’s over 20 minutes scare look like nothing, and it even took WhatsApp with them.

Let’s face it! Instagram glitches constantly (due to them updating - like all the time)

It's SOOO annoying.

But what if social media wasn't there tomorrow?

What if someone hacked your account and you lost everything you've done on Facebook?

All those dms on IG? Can't access them.

It's an actual legit thing that can and has happened. Here are a few tips on how to not make this your living nightmare!

First of all - 2 Factor Authentication is a must. You can turn this on for most sites that need logins and even though that extra step can be annoying - it could save your sanity in the future. Essentially, you get a text with a code any time someone (even you) tries to log in to your account. Put in the code and be on your merry way.

Need more help with this - I have a training in my FB group about this!

My 2nd tip?

Get yourself an email list. Stat.

Did you know that email lists convert to sales 73% more often than on social media?

Yep, I said it. The IG coach is telling you to not sell on IG. If you don't use an email list for your business - you are freaking missing out on money.

I personally use and love Flodesk.

It's so easy and dare I say…fun to use!

They are $19 a month with my referral code (click the button below) and you can try it free for 14 days. You won't be disappointed.

Got questions? Comment and I'll be happy to chat with you!

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links. Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you. Though, I may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

Video is so necessary for social media these days! Let me help you with a few dos and don’ts to get you in front of the camera and sharing in no time!

• Do make eye contact. Look into the camera, not at yourself.

• Don’t speak to everyone in your recorded videos. You want to speak directly to your ICA.

• Do DANCE it OUT! This will help you loosen up and get your energy up!

• Don’t forget about lighting! Face a window, get some natural light, and get a ring light.

• Do get straight to the point. Live it’s ok to wait for people to pop on, but when it comes to stories and recorded videos grab their attention immediately, especially with reels.

• Do keep your camera stabilized, seems like a no-brainer, but this helps you also come across as more professional.

• Don’t talk about your appearance! Really don’t bring negative attention to yourself. Don’t fidget with your hair. Be Confident!…even if you aren’t, just remember, practice makes perfect.

• Do watch for clutter in the background. You don’t want it so plain and boring, but clutter is just distracting and it’s easy to avoid.

• Don’t forget about Closed Captioning! *Especially in IG Stories. I believe TikTok is also releasing a captioning feature too. Though there doesn’t appear to be a way in lives yet on FB, IG, or TT.

• Do create an outline beforehand. Not a script that you have to follow, but a points outline that is easy to shim if you get stuck or nerves hit. Doing this will help with some of the pre-video anxiety.

• Do NOT make it all about YOU! Focus on your ICA. You want them to relate and feel like you get them.

• Do fill the frame. Get yourself nice and close to the camera, it reads as “more confident.”

• Don’t let the fear fuel you. As I said before the more you do it the easier it gets, so get past caring about what people think, jump in and do it!

• Don’t date yourself. AKA no “Happy Monday” kind of statements, you want your post to be evergreen and relatable no matter what day the viewer comes across it.

• Do pay attention to your sound. Use your outside voice. Use those mic earbuds or just upgrade your mic. Eliminate distracting noises, even if that means being in a closet or with something to absorb the echoes.

Do you have any tips I missed? Drop them in the comments below. I hope this helped you and I can’t wait to see you show up in video soon!

Disclosure: This site may contain affiliate links. Your clicks or use come to no extra expense for you. Though, I may receive a commission if you purchase from them.

Feel like you are just sitting in front of your computer and not getting anywhere? Don’t worry, I got you! We all have blocks, but let’s chat about time management. Some top tips that will help you get around those obstacles and accomplish those goals.

1. 3 Things Per Day! - Literally, make a list of 3 MUST-DO tasks per day. Not only can you knock out those top priorities by focusing your attention, but also making a check-off list naturally brings about its own type of self-satisfaction and reward system when doing those simple crossing off or checkmarks.

2. “Eat That Frog” - Yes, that sounds gross, lol. But, do that HARDEST thing first! Eat that “frog,” suck it up, do that hard thing! You got this! Plus, it makes all other tasks easier and removes the anxiety of that looming task.

3. Time Blocking - Schedule your day, every hour of your day! Doing it hour by hour will help you add in those self-care/breaks, and help you get more efficient and aware of how much time tasks take you.

4. TAKE A BREAK! - “You can’t pour from an empty cup” as the saying goes. It’s easy to run out of steam if you aren’t taking care of yourself. Make sure to schedule that lunch break. Get your water in. Give your mind some reset time.

5. Pomodoro Technique - In short, Set a Timer, 4, 25-minute work chucks with 5-minute break intervals.

6. Focus on HIGH-VALUE Tasks - Knockout those ones that will bring you the most amount of value.

7. Don’t Do It! Delegate It! - We aren’t experts in every field, so why not instead of using up your time, outsource it! Ask for help from those that can knock that task out for you. I totally do this and cannot begin to tell you how much it helps. I need all the extra time I can get, and this has been a huge amount of relief. Delegate, delegate, outsource! ;)

8. Call Yourself Out - Journal these things and be mindful as working through tasks, “Why am I not doing this?” “What’s the worst that can happen?” Dig deep. This also helps with Imposter Syndrome battles.

9. Learn to Say “No” - Protect your energy. Is it bringing you joy or grief? This is seriously one important lesson, but it’s so necessary.

10. Prep & Plan - really, prep or plan for that blog post, that speech, that project! Get all your ducks in a row beforehand so you can knock it out. Seems simple, but I think a lot of us forget this ease concept that can really set us up for success.

Have you tried all of these? What works best for you? Have a tip I missed? Drop it in the comment below, would love to hear from you!

When you open your Instagram app, take a moment, are you in “Creation” mode…or are you just in “Consumption” mode? Let’s think before the Doomsday Scroll takes over.

Here are some tips on how to make your Instagram app time more effective for accomplishing your goals-

1) Open the app and commit to what mode you are in. If this is work mode and goal getting, let’s do this!

The first 5 images in your feed you will comment on. 4+ words (emojis don’t count) and be meaningful and real.

2) Post! Before and after posting you want to commit to 20 mins (40 mins total) engagement time.

During the first 20 minutes of your post being up make sure to return all comments on your post and return the favor on their profile.

3) Spy on the Competition-

Check on similar profiles for recent comments. Look for potential ICAs.

Check out recent posts under your ICA’s hashtag hangouts.

4) Respond to Stories! Super easy, send an emoji reaction to those stories, send a meaningful dm response.

5) Show Up! Always have face/voice in IG. Feed or Story. Do a rotation where your face can be found, you are your brand.

6) Call to Actions! In all your posts remember to add where to find stuff. Ask questions. Or add “DM for More.” Encourage interaction and engage!

7) Never Let Your Circle Die. Always have a Story up!

Great quick ideas for fillers, Shoutouts to other Accounts, Inspirational Quotes, or a Drop a Meme if you are out of ideas.

8) Remember effort and engagement time are rewarded! The more time doing these steps the better your profile will do.

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I know we can all be guilty of just opening the app and forgetting our goals, but hopefully, this helps cuts down that time and leads to more success.

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NEW(ish) APP ALERT, Clubhouse!

Have you heard of it yet? So far it’s only on IOS (Apple Products), but soon enough Android (fingers crossed). It’s an audio online app. Like a “conversational podcast.” Also, a good way to think of it is as a conference room format.

The great thing about the app is that because it’s voice-based, that “vanity matrix” is removed. Go on, makeup-free, and in PJs! You won’t be judged. And because you aren’t seen there’s not an issue of popping in and out of rooms.

Things to Know-

• Know where your “Mic” is.

  • Microphone icon bottom right, make sure to “mute it when called to the stage,” but when entering the room you are automatically muted and added to the “audience.”

• Brown Circle Around Bio Image = Speaking

• Green Dot = Speaker/Moderatior

• Party Hat = Newbie to the App

• Mic Flash = People Agreeing/Clapping for someone’s comment.

• Hand (Wave) = Submitting Request to “Be on Stage” to Speak.

• Green (+) = Ping People into your Room.

  • Nothing wrong with pinging friends that you know would like the subject. It’s easy to ignore.

For the Listener/Learner-

• As said above, it’s nice the app always automatically mutes you when entering the room. But, when entering the “stage” make sure you mute your mic.

• When coming to stage make sure to bring value or be asking a question.

• Easy to leave the room. No one will be offended, just use the “Peace Hand” to exit room silently. You will still be in the room and chat still running if you just close the app.

• Find things you like by putting “interests” in or by joining clubs. Follow similar people.

Speaker-

• Pick someone to moderate a room with.

• Easy to do! Pick a topic, you can talk about anything or anyone at any time. There isn’t a topic or time restriction on the app.

• Create a Clear Title! Clear Over Clever!

• Joining Clubs. You can create a room within your group.

  • You can also speak in a “hallway” for friends.

• Good to Plan Ahead. It allows it to be in the Clubhouse Calendar and a chance for you to advertise ahead of time.

• Give Value! You are only speaking 5-10 minutes and then opening the room for the audience to discuss and ask questions. Doing this makes you the expert in that topic.

• “Reset the Room” - you will need to pull down the screen to reset the room for those entering the room. Repeat the topic and who is speaking when announcing “resetting the room.”

  • “PTR” - Pull to Refresh

• Remember to repeat “Call To Action” (Example - “DM me at Instagram”)

Bio Tips-

• First 3 Lines Most Important because when people see you in a room and do a quick tap those are seen. Those are the lines seen the easiest/first with quick glances.

• Call to Action Needed!

• Answer these - “Who You Are,” “What You Do,” “Why You Do It,” & “How to Work with You.”

• Make sure to Link your Social Media (Instagram/Twitter).

  • There are no clickable links, so this is why Social Media links are important. But, if you have a short link that easy to type out in the bio that is a plus. Use a site like bitly if you need your link shortened.

• Change your Bio Often! The great thing about Clubhouse is you can change your Bio and Image fast and super easy to fit the Clubhouse Room topic you are in. Don’t be afraid to change it fast and often.

*Another thing that is different with this app is that there are no dm’s on Clubhouse. This is why filling out your bio will be key, especially things like linking your Instagram.

What do you think? Ready to join? Ready to host a room? Let me know!

Here's a quick and dirty guide to GUIDES on Instagram!!

The first thing you should know is when you create a guide, you aren't making new content. You are taking others’ content or repurposing your own old content and putting it all in one place. It’s kind of like a fun way to link a bunch of thoughts in one theme post. My guess is that profiles that sell a product would really benefit from this.

So I just created my first guide (check it out on @melissamcclure.co) and it seems like it could be a cool feature.

You Gotta Give it a try!

Here are Some Basic Ideas -

• Places: Recommend places in your city and beyond

• Products: Recommend your favorite products

• Posts: Recommend posts you created or saved

Guides seem to be a great way to shoutout small businesses, do a travel theme with locations, outfit inspiration, really the ideas are pretty limitless and great for potential sponsorship. And as with everything new on IG, it's best to go try it asap! The algorithm LOVES when you use all their features especially the new ones.

Remember, just like I said with stories, IG rewards those that are using all of their features! They like also highlighting their NEW features, so this is definitely one to be using in the mix.

If you want to read more, this is a good article on it - Later.com

Any questions? I can do a video on how to create one if you'd like, feel free to let me know in my Facebook Group - Eff What They Think - Combining Instagram + Business + Radical Self Love. Some of my clients in the group are already reporting a huge jump in views when doing them. Give it a shot!

Do you struggle with thinking out your content? Have you had a hard time finding your right audience? Well, this could be your answer to those struggles!

But, first, WHAT do I mean by “Content Pillars”? Well, think of it like the “Pillars” of a building, but they are holding up your content. These will be your topics to cover on your blog or social media.

WHY? You want to make sure to be a niched down expert topic areas.

Niche down to 4-5 topics. It will make it easier to concentrate your energy. Focusing your attention will help you realize where you are the expert. It will also help your audience recognize you as the go-to/expert in these areas. Not only that, but it will help you plan out your content. Your 4-5 topics just set on rotation. Cuts down the “What do I write about today?” struggles.

If you are worried this will lead you to sound like you are repeating yourself, just remember it takes a person 20x before they get it. 7x before they even click or start trusting.

But HOW? Not sure what subjects your audience sticks around for? What are you known for? ASK THEM! Seriously, do your Market Research! Instagram Polls or reach out to your followers.

Think about what do you typically share about? Just review your media and jot down what topics seem to be repeated and narrow it down from there.

I also suggest a “Brain Drain.” (Brainstorm/Brain Dump….freewrite.) This will help you even after you know your pillars, it’s actually a good habit to get in. I personally do it monthly or sooner if needed. Some relaxing music, creative uninterrupted setting, for a 20-minute scratch writing session. Jot down all of your thoughts and ideas, related or not. When that 20 mins are up highlight or circle those winning ones. Pull the best ones that fit your content pillar topics.

Your goal with all your content is to always do at least one of these, Educate, Entertain, or Inspire. Don’t forget to end every post with a “call to action.” Create Engagement!

Remember all this can be repurposed over and over once you have your 4 Pillars you are ready for consistent shares and less overthinking.

Do you still need help? Reach out to me and let’s see where to go.