Sales For The Nigerian Wedding Industry

Closing the Right Deals: Why Everyone Isn't Your Customer

Scaling with Heart: The Customer-Centric Growth Playbook

Stolen Ideas & Scaling Dreams: Your Business Questions Answered

Have you ever wondered if writing a book could actually boost your business?Many entrepreneurs focus solely on traditional marketing, but publishing a book can be a game-changer, offering benefits far beyond just sales: * Build Authority, Credibility & Trust: A book instantly positions you as an expert, making potential clients and audiences more likely to trust your insights. * Boost Brand Visibility & Recognition: Your book becomes a powerful marketing tool, extending your reach and putting your brand in front of new eyes. * Generate Leads & New Business Opportunities: It's a fantastic lead magnet, attracting interested prospects who value your expertise. * Create Diversified Revenue Streams: Beyond book sales, think speaking engagements, consulting, and courses spurred by your published work. * Clarify Your Thinking & Unique Value Proposition (UVP): The rigorous process of writing forces you to distill your knowledge, refine your message, and articulate what truly makes you stand out. * Leave a Lasting Legacy: Your insights and wisdom are preserved, impacting future generations.But what if you're not ready to commit to writing a whole book? You can still achieve some of these goals through: * Public Speaking: Share your expertise live. * Long-Form Digital Content: Blogs, in-depth articles, and podcasts establish your voice and knowledge. * Strategic Public Relations (PR): Get your story and insights featured in relevant media.So, you've written your book! Now what? Promotion is key! Selling books is a marathon, not a sprint!It involves continuous, coordinated campaigns – building anticipation, creating buzz, and sustaining interest long after publication day.Leverage your author platform effectively: * Social Media: Engage your audience, share snippets, and build excitement. * Author Website/Blog: Your central hub for all things related to your book and expertise. * Email List: Your most powerful tool for direct communication, pre-orders, and ongoing sales.Don't forget to engage with literary communities: * Physical & Online Book Clubs: Discuss your work directly with readers. * Media Houses: Seek interviews and features. * Literary Blogs: Get reviews and mentions in relevant online spaces.And for getting your book into readers' hands, consider: * Self-Printing & Print-on-Demand: Platforms like Nigeria's own OkadaBooks make publishing accessible. * Physical Distribution: Partner with local and regional stores across Nigeria (Lagos, Abuja, Eastern states). * Direct Sales: Sell copies directly at events, workshops, or from your website. * Partnerships & Collaborations: Team up with complementary businesses or influencers.Ready to turn your knowledge into impact and income? Share your thoughts below!If you'd love to listen to the episode and especially hear the debate about WHEN in your business career you should be publishing your book, use the link in my bio!#BusinessStrategy #BookPublishing #Entrepreneurship #AuthorLife #BrandBuilding #LeadGeneration #NigeriaBusiness

Are you using social media DMs to connect with potential clients, but not seeing the results you hoped for? You might be making some common mistakes that are actually pushing people away.In my latest podcast episode, I dive into how NOT to sell your services or products using social media direct messages. Here are a few critical pitfalls to avoid: * Don't send novels: Most people read DMs on mobile devices and just skim. Keep your messages concise and to the point. * Ditch the assumptions: Avoid making broad guesses about who you're reaching out to. A personalized approach is always more effective. * Stop "talking at" people: The goal isn't to deliver a monologue. Instead, focus on lulling them into a conversation. Ask questions, listen to their responses, and genuinely try to understand their needs before you even think about pitching.Effective social selling through DMs isn't about pushing your agenda; it's about building relationships. Learn how to turn your DMs into valuable dialogues that lead to genuine connections and, ultimately, sales.#SocialSelling #DMTips #SalesStrategy #BusinessTips #DigitalMarketing

Have you ever looked at your business heroes and wondered, "How can I be like them?" That's a question I tackled in my latest podcast episode, and my answer might surprise you with its simplicity:Figure out the ingredients they applied in building their success, and then go about implementing them yourself.It sounds straightforward, but it requires a deep dive into their journey. Beyond just admiring their achievements, we need to analyze the strategies, the mindset, and the actions that got them to where they are.A crucial point I emphasize is setting realistic timeframes. We can't expect to build an empire overnight, especially if our heroes took years, or even decades, to achieve their success. Patience and persistence are key.Do you want to get even closer to their blueprint? Consider internships or mentorships. Imagine the invaluable insights you could gain by working directly with them or within their organizations! I share practical ideas on how to secure these opportunities by focusing on how you can bring tangible value to their businesses.If you're ready to move from simply admiring your business idols to actively building your own success story, this episode is for you.If you would like to listen to the episode, check out the link in my bio!#BusinessHeroes #Entrepreneurship #SuccessMindset #Mentorship #CareerGrowth #Podcast

Do you ever feel like you're spinning your wheels with prospects who just don't convert and end up being paying customers? That's exactly the challenge Arinze, a listener from Lagos, Nigeria, faces in the heavy machinery sales game (excavators, forklifts, wheel loaders, etc.).He's running sponsored ads and seeing a frustrating pattern: * 95% of leads ask for photos and tons of questions, then vanish. * 3% physically inspect the equipment but never decide. * A mere 2% actually close a deal.Does this sound familiar? We dove deep into Arinze's dilemma, exploring how to find better clients and avoid time-wasters.The "Tech Bro" PerspectiveForget just leads; focus on your Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) and Return on Ad Spend (ROAS). If every N1M spent brings in N6M, then spending N2M to get N12M is a no-brainer.It's all about understanding what you spent to acquire customers versus what they brought in.The Sales PerspectiveOur core goal is to improve conversions at every stage. If Arinze can get 10% of people to show up for inspection instead of 3%, imagine the impact on his bottom line! It's about optimizing what's already working and consistently moving prospects to the next relevant step.Direct Answers to Arinze's QuestionsAre there other ways to find clients? Absolutely!   * Targeted Outreach/Account-Based Marketing (ABM): Identify high-value construction and mining companies and go after them directly, perhaps with cold calls or LinkedIn Sales Navigator.   * Partnerships: Team up with civil engineering or equipment leasing/repair companies for mutual referrals.   * Inbound Marketing: This is a long-term play, content like blogs or YouTube can build authority over time.How do you avoid time-wasters? Through strong qualification!   * Discovery Questions: Ask about current operations, projects, frustrations, timelines, and even who authorizes purchases.   * Budget Questions: Straightforwardly ask about their willingness to invest in a specific price range.   * Authority Questions: Find out who the real decision-makers are early on.   * Trial Closes: Test their commitment with questions like, "Where are we delivering to?" or "When are you looking to issue the purchase order?"These questions help you gauge serious interest. If a prospect avoids them, they're likely not a serious buyer – or you haven't built enough trust yet.What are your go-to strategies for qualifying leads and boosting conversions in high-value sales? Share your insights below!And if you'd love to listen to the podcast, use the link in my bio!#SalesStrategy #B2BSales #HeavyEquipment #LeadConversion #BusinessDevelopment #LinkedInTips

Are you a restaurant owner in Abuja, or anywhere really, looking to boost your sales and orders on Glovo or similar on-demand delivery platforms?I recently answered a listener question on my podcast from Miracle, a restaurateur here in Abuja, who wanted to know how to get more out of his Glovo storefront.The truth is, maximizing sales on any two-sided marketplace like Glovo, Jumia, Konga, or Amazon comes down to two critical areas: optimization and operational excellence.First, let's talk optimization. If your sales are lagging, the first place to look is your storefront. Is it easy for customers to find you and get excited about what you offer? Here are the key elements to review: * Business Name: Is it clear and memorable? * Logo: Does it stand out and represent your brand well? * Images: Are your product photos high-quality, appealing, and mouth-watering? * Menu/Catalogue & Descriptions: Is your menu easy to navigate, and are your product descriptions enticing and accurate? * Ratings & Reviews: Are you actively managing and encouraging positive feedback?While paid promotions and advertising features on these platforms can be an option if you have the budget to test their effectiveness, I always emphasize that they're secondary to a well-optimized profile.This brings me to the most crucial point: operational excellence. You can have the most perfectly optimized profile in the world, but if you falter on product fulfillment, delivery, or overall customer experience, negative ratings and reviews will quickly tank your success.Ultimately, a strong, appealing online presence combined with seamless operations leads to happy customers, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth. This is the true recipe for sustained growth on platforms like Glovo.If you'd love to hear more from the podcast episode, you can do so using the link in my profile.#Glovo #RestaurantMarketing #OnlineSales #BusinessGrowth #AbujaRestaurants #Optimization #CustomerExperience

Today, I'm diving into a crucial question that came from a listener, Wisdom, in Dawaki, Abuja: Is it possible for a small business owner to secure bank finance to purchase land for their business operations?The straightforward answer is yes, it is possible! However, it's subject to meeting a number of specific, formalized requirements.Banks operate with a clear set of criteria to manage risk and ensure the viability of such investments.Here's what a small business would typically need to provide: * Personal & Financial Information: Detailed personal and financial history. * Income & Employment Details: For those with regular careers, proof of consistent income. * Business Financials: For business owners, comprehensive income and business details, including audited accounts. * Equity Contribution: Be prepared to make a significant down payment, typically between 20% to 50% of the land's total value. * Land Specifics: Information proving clear ownership and title to the land, along with confirmation of the ability to legally transfer ownership. * Valuation & Due Diligence: This includes valuation reports on the land, legal searches, and mandatory site inspections.The core point I emphasized in my latest podcast episode is this:Unless you're a sophisticated business person with meticulously prepared audited accounts, robust business plans, detailed financial projections, tax clearances, and other corporate governance essentials already in place, attempting to raise finance through formal routes like bank loans for land can come with quite onerous obligations.For many others, especially micro-businesses operating in a different context, it might be more realistic and perhaps easier to explore bootstrapping as a primary source of raising business finance.By paying close attention to unit economics and ensuring consistent positive cash flows, you can organically fund your enterprise's growth, including land acquisition, without the immediate pressures of formal bank requirements.What are your thoughts on this? Have you navigated bank finance for business land in Nigeria? Share your experiences below!And if you'd love to listen to the episode, please use the link in my bio!#SmallBusinessNigeria #BankFinance #LandAcquisition #NigerianEntrepreneurs #Procreate #Bootstrapping #BusinessGrowth #AbujaBusiness

Have you ever wondered how to find your next big client in the industrial cleaning space? It all comes down to effective prospecting – finding out who needs your services, where they are, and how to start a conversation.Today, I'm sharing some key strategies we discussed on the podcast, inspired by a listener's question on cracking the industrial cleaning market in places like Abuja:1. Strategic Networking & Professional AssociationsDon't underestimate the power of showing up in the right rooms. For industrial cleaning, this means places where large businesses and property owners gather. * Chambers of Commerce: For example, the Abuja Chamber of Commerce. From my own experience with the Lagos Chamber, you'll find factory owners, warehouse operators, and specialized businesses—exactly the kind of clients who need industrial cleaning. It's not just about direct sales; it's about meeting decision-makers and stakeholders who can provide crucial introductions and referrals. * Professional Associations: Joining groups like the Cleaning Practitioners Association of Nigeria (CPAN) offers invaluable benefits. Beyond nurturing and support for new members, these associations are fertile ground for commissioned referrals. Members often pass on excess business, creating opportunities for trusted partners.2. Targeted Direct OutreachOnce you know who you're looking for, go directly to them. * Research & List Building: Identify target companies that fit the industrial cleaning profile (factories, large offices, warehouses, power plants, etc.). * Identify Key Decision-Makers: Don't just call the general line. Pinpoint roles like the Operations Manager, Facility Manager, Procurement Officer, or even Branch Managers. These are the people who make or influence cleaning service decisions. * Craft Your Approach: Plan how you'll initiate contact. What value proposition will you lead with?3. Leverage Existing ReferralsYour current satisfied customers are your best advocates. * Ask for Referrals: If you've been in business for a while, reach out to your existing clients and politely ask for introductions to other businesses they know who might need your services. A warm introduction is often more effective than a cold call.Building a strong prospecting strategy isn't just about making calls; it's about being strategic, connecting in the right places, and building relationships. What are your go-to prospecting tactics for business growth?And if you'd love to hear more in details discussed in the podcast, check out the link in my bio!#IndustrialCleaning #BusinessDevelopment #Prospecting #SalesStrategy #Networking #AbujaBusiness

Entrepreneurship is a thrilling journey, but let's be real – it comes with its fair share of stress and overwhelm. How do you build a business without breaking down? It's all about a three-pronged approach: solid business frameworks, dedicated physical health, and robust mental well-being.First up, business frameworks. Without clear principles for areas like sales, people management, and inventory, you're essentially freestyling every day. This lack of clarity leads to mental overload and missed opportunities. Imagine the stress of constantly guessing what sales tasks drive revenue, or dealing with team dynamics on a case-by-case basis. Having frameworks in place alleviates financial pressure and brings proactive stability to your operations.For product-based businesses, a clear inventory management framework prevents constant emergencies and ensures you're ready to meet demand.Next, let's talk physical health. Our occupations often dictate our physical needs. If you're a coder, designer, or photographer, those prolonged sedentary postures can wreak havoc on your back and shoulders. Incorporating remedial workouts to strengthen these areas isn't a luxury; it's an occupational necessity. Beyond that, general physical health recommendations, like 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise five times a week, are crucial for everyone. Your body is your primary vehicle for success – take care of it!Finally, mental health is the cornerstone. Surrounding yourself with supportive relationships – spouses, family, friends – provides a vital sounding board and emotional support. For those who find strength in faith, like Christians, leveraging prayer and spiritual practices can offer immense comfort and resilience. And perhaps most importantly, don't hesitate to seek professional help.Mental health doctors are trained experts who can guide you through challenging times and help you stay at your best.Building an "entrepreneur's shield" isn't about avoiding stress entirely, but about equipping yourself with the tools to navigate it effectively.What strategies do you use to manage stress in your entrepreneurial journey? Share your insights below!Or if you're curious to hear about more of the details discussed in the podcast, you can do so by using the link in my bio!#Entrepreneurship #StressManagement #BusinessTips #MentalHealth #PhysicalHealth #WorkLifeBalance

I just dropped a new podcast episode that busts a common myth and opens up a powerful avenue for business growth in Nigeria: Islamic Banking, or Non-Interest Finance!Many people assume you need to be Muslim to benefit from this financial model. Not true! We dive into why you don't have to be of a particular faith to leverage this kind of finance for your business.On the show, we explore: * What Islamic Banking is and how its principles can be a significant advantage for Nigerian businesses seeking ethical and sustainable funding. * How to use Google and AI tools to find the right non-interest or low-interest financing options for your specific business needs. * The types of businesses that are not eligible for non-interest financing (e.g., alcohol, gambling, speculative ventures). * The vast array of businesses that can thrive with Islamic/ non-interest banking, including trade, manufacturing, agriculture, real estate, textiles, education, and healthcare.If you're looking for alternative funding models that prioritize partnership and ethical practices over interest, this episode is a must-listen. It could be the key to unlocking your next phase of business growth!Tune in to learn more and see how non-interest finance can benefit your enterprise.Interested? Find the link in my bio! #IslamicBanking #NonInterestFinance #BusinessGrowth #Nigeria #Entrepreneurship #SMEFinance #AlternativeFinance #BusinessTips #Innovation #FundingOpportunities

I just recorded a new podcast episode diving deep into a crucial topic for aspiring and current pharmacy and chemist business owners in Nigeria: funding!We answered a fantastic listener question from Frances in Abuja, exploring the various grants and soft loan options available. The first critical step? Ensuring full legal compliance and NAFDAC registration – a non-negotiable foundation for any legitimate pharmacy business.We then explored a range of financing avenues, moving beyond the often-intimidating large-scale options: * Health Finance Products from Nigerian Banks: We looked at solutions offering working capital and asset finance specifically tailored for the healthcare sector. * CBN Healthcare Sector Intervention Facility (HSIF): Discover credit facilities with attractive terms (up to 10 years at around 9% interest) for manufacturers and suppliers in healthcare. * Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN): Exploring facilities designed to support business growth and expansion. * Microfinance Banks: A viable source for smaller-scale business growth and expansion. * Cooperatives & Mutual Savings Groups: Tapping into community-driven financial support. * Non-Interest (Islamic) Financing: We discussed innovative profit-sharing models that provide capital without traditional interest.A key takeaway for anyone seeking institutional finance? Come prepared! Have a solid business plan and robust financial projections ready to make a compelling case for your funding needs.Listen in to the full episode to get all the details and empower your pharmacy business journey!Details in my bio!#PharmacyBusiness #HealthcareFinance #Nigeria #SmallBusinessFunding #Grants #SoftLoans #CBN #DevelopmentBankOfNigeria #Microfinance #Cooperatives #NonInterestFinance #Entrepreneurship #Abuja

I just wrapped up an insightful session on the podcast, diving deep into listener questions that touch on crucial aspects of growing a business.Wendy from Galadimawa brought up a common challenge: managing multiple businesses without sounding unfocused. My take? When you're face-to-face with potential clients, the focus shouldn't be on listing all your ventures. Instead, make it about them.Ask open-ended questions to understand their needs first. Their answers will naturally guide you to which of your businesses is most relevant. For social media, however, a deliberate, focused strategy for each platform is key.Patrick Sylvester from Lugbe called in with excellent follow-up advice for Anita, who's looking to break into industrial cleaning. Patrick rightly stressed the importance of learning the fundamentals and equipment – a principle I've always advocated for highly technical fields. He also shed light on the realities of professional networking groups like Chambers of Commerce, reminding us that dues are often part of the deal. Great points, Patrick!Finally, Kingsley from Lugbe asked about business finance availability in Nigeria. This is a big one, and the answer depends heavily on your company's size and nature. We touched on how mortgage banks can be leveraged for business finance, particularly for commercial property acquisition, equity loans against existing business real estate, or construction loans.We'll be dedicating a full segment next week to exploring various finance options.Huge thanks to Wendy, Patrick, and Kingsley for their valuable contributions! It's conversations like these that truly help build a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem.What business questions are on your mind? Share them below!#BusinessAdvice #Entrepreneurship #Networking #BusinessFinance #SmallBusiness #Nigeria #Podcast

Do you ever wonder why some business introductions fall flat, while others spark immediate interest? It often comes down to clarity and connection, not just fancy titles.I recently received a WhatsApp message from a podcast listener, an "emotional response copywriter." While highly complimentary, their initial self-description left me wondering: "What exactly is that?" It took a follow-up conversation to understand their unique value.This got me thinking about how we all introduce ourselves, especially in a business context, and how crucial it is to reduce the mental work for your audience.Here are my key takeaways for crafting introductions that truly resonate: * Compliments? Yes, but make them sincere. A thoughtful, specific compliment shows you've done your homework and immediately differentiates you from the "copy and paste" crowd. Just ensure it's genuine, not flattery! * Ditch the jargon. "Emotional response copywriter" sounds impressive, but for someone outside the marketing bubble, it's a puzzle. Unless you're speaking to industry insiders, explain your unique value proposition (UVP) in terms anyone could understand. * Focus on the benefit, not just the label. Instead of just stating what you are, explain what you do for others. For example, "I write words that quickly get people interested and make them want to take action right away" is much clearer than a niche title. Your goal is to make them see how they benefit from working with you. * Influence, don't manipulate. In sales, truly understanding a client's needs and showing them how your solution helps them achieve their goals is exercising positive influence. Manipulation is coercing for your benefit. There's a big difference!Ultimately, every business conversation, especially initial outreach, should be viewed through the lens of "What's in it for them?" When you communicate your value by highlighting the benefits for your potential client, you don't just get attention; you get interest, trust, and a desire to learn more.What's one way you've refined your self-introduction to make it more impactful? Share your thoughts below!#SalesTips #BusinessCommunication #PersonalBranding #Networking #PodcastInsights

Today on the podcast, we're tackling a question straight from our WhatsApp podcasting community that I know many of you can relate to. Someone's struggling with an all-too-common Instagram dilemma: which account to focus on when building their professional brand as an actor, writer, host, and podcaster.Here's the gist of their situation:They have two Instagram accounts. One has 301 followers, more engagement, and all their major milestones like podcast launches, awards, and film academy graduation. The catch? It's a bit of a hot mess, unorganized, and growing slowly.The other account has 384 followers, is super clean and structured, but lacks past content and currently has low engagement, even though it's growing rapidly.They're torn: Do they try to fix the messy, engaged account? Or start fresh with the clean, but less engaging one? And can they even migrate posts between them? They want to know what decision will best support their long-term growth.My Take: It's All About the Right AudienceFrom a sales and business development perspective, here's my honest advice:First things first, what decision will best support long-term growth?Whatever you do, you must be focused on the relevant audience. If the point of your Instagram handles is to monetize engagement, then you have to nurture the account with the relevant audience. You can't sell something to an irrelevant audience, no matter how large it is.Think of it this way: If I have a 5-million-strong community of people who love French cuisine, I can't suddenly start selling them Efik dishes. They'd likely be put off! The relevance of the audience, not just their size, is the main thing.Is there a match between what you're selling and what your audience is interested in?Why the "Clean" Account Might Be a TrapNow, let's look at the idea of building up the 384-follower account. If it has a higher follower count and seems to be growing rapidly but lacks engagement, it means people are piling on, but they're not really interested in your content. This will seriously affect the algorithm and deliverability in the future. That large audience won't even see your content because they're not engaging, and Instagram will show it less and less. Switching to this account might actually be a bad idea in the long run.Why Your "Messy" Account Is Your Best BetAnd finally, should you restructure the existing 301-follower account (the one with more engagement and past milestones)?YES! The engagement is the main thing to pay attention to. It might be growing slowly, but it has high engagement – that means you're on the right track! Plus, it already has the content related to the services you're selling, like voice acting and podcasting.Having a well-engaged and nurtured audience will make it much easier to monetize in the future.Key Takeaways for Creatives (and Everyone Else)Here are some interesting things to consider that apply to all creatives and businesses: * You're in business. We should not be focused on building a huge fanbase, but rather a huge bank account. * To get to a huge bank account, we need a highly engaged and nurtured audience. Those are the metrics to truly track on Instagram. * Remember, this is a business, not a popularity contest. * Always remember we're making BUSINESS decisions here, not just aesthetic ones, when it comes to our social media.

Have you ever run a LinkedIn ad campaign or sent a sponsored message and felt like you were just shouting into the void?You're not alone. I recently reviewed a case study on my podcast that perfectly illustrates why many businesses struggle with LinkedIn outreach, even with paid features.I got a sponsored message from an FX specialist – someone who helps businesses manage multiple currency accounts, avoid hefty bank fees, and streamline cross-border transactions. Sounds valuable, right?So what's the problem? My LinkedIn profile has absolutely nothing to suggest I'm interested in FX or run a business with international payment needs.This message was a perfect example of blanket messaging – and it's why so many people say prospecting is "hard" or "doesn't work."Here's the truth: The tactics work. Most people are just doing it wrong!The Core Problem: Irrelevant Targeting!You wouldn't try to sell baby diapers to someone without a baby, or adult diapers to a young, healthy couple. The same logic applies to your business. If you're sending generic messages to everyone, you're not just ineffective – you're wasting time and money on your sponsored messages.Prospecting only works when you're going after a relevant audience!Who Should Our FX Specialist Have Targeted?Instead of a consultant/ podcaster like me, the FX specialist should have focused on individuals and companies that inherently deal with international payments, receive foreign income, or conduct cross-border business.Think people like: * CFOs, Finance Directors, Treasury Managers, Financial Controllers * E-commerce businesses selling internationally * Import/Export companies * Tech startups & SaaS companies with global clients or remote teams * Manufacturing companies sourcing materials abroad * Logistics & Supply Chain companies * Businesses with remote international teams etc.Even with perfect targeting, don't make your first outreach a long, multi-idea message ending with "jump on a call now!" That assumes a stranger is ready to commit.Instead, think in terms of a sequence of shorter, focused messages designed to draw people into a conversation.Here are other tips to consider: * Segment your audience: Craft messages tailored to specific pain points. * Start with a single problem: "Are you tired of hidden bank fees eating into your international profits?" or "Does managing multiple foreign currency accounts feel like a constant headache?" * Confirm interest: The goal of the initial message is to get a "yes, that's me!" and engage them in the chat. * Then, and only then, propose a call: If they're interested and engaged in the conversation, then you can suggest a consultation call to explore savings.The main takeaway? Stop expecting one "magic message" to solve all your sales problems.Focus on precision targeting and a conversational approach. It's not about sending a million messages; it's about how many relevant people you can get to take meaningful action.What's your biggest challenge in making your LinkedIn outreach more effective?#LinkedInMarketing #SalesTips #BusinessStrategy #Prospecting #DigitalMarketing #SME #NigeriaBusiness

Have you ever had a brilliant business idea, perhaps in a niche like architectural models, and wondered why your proposal isn't attracting the funding you need?This just came up on my radio show, and it's a critical point for any aspiring entrepreneur or growing business.A listener, Godwin from Gwarimpa, an architect selling "architectural models," reached out looking to raise finance. My immediate thought? "Tell me more!" What are your unique business goals? What's your unique value proposition? Why should anyone do business with you?Unfortunately, Godwin didn't follow up with the details. This got me thinking: If I were reviewing his proposal, the core question it would need to answer is: "Can you profitably sell architectural models for real estate?"This isn't just about showing nice designs. It's about demonstrating: * Is there a real demand for this? * How profitable is this specific market? * What makes your models (whether physical or digital) unique, when many property developers already have in-house capabilities? * What's the value of going with you?Before you even think about raising finance, your proposal MUST answer these vital questions.Beyond that, here are other critical areas your proposal should cover: * Partnership vs. Solo: Will you build by partnering with existing developers, or go it alone? * Engagement Strategy: If partnering, how will you spark conversations and close deals? * Fund Utilization: If going solo, how exactly will you deploy the raised funds to build your company? * Long-term Vision: Are you eventually planning to enter property development yourself?A curious thought: If you're building a "specialty design house" in Nigeria's architecture and real estate space, a niche strategy could be your golden ticket. Think: * Luxury Villas * Eco-Friendly / Smart Housing * Affordable Housing Innovations * Truly Innovative DesignsImagine becoming the go-to architect or developer known for designing projects like those at the World Trade Centre Abuja – from the stunning 1-bedroom apartments (starting at $806k!) to the multi-million dollar penthouses. That kind of reputation and clear value proposition is what makes investors lean in.The takeaway? The more details you provide, the more specific and tailored advice you'll get. Don't leave your potential funders guessing. Make your proposal a no-brainer by clearly articulating the market, your unique value, and your path to profitability.If you'd love to listen to the episode, click on the link in my bio!#BusinessFinance #Entrepreneurship #RealEstateNigeria #Abuja #ArchitecturalDesign #StartupFunding #BusinessProposals #NigeriaBusiness

Have you ever received an outreach message that made you cringe? We all have! On today's podcast, we did a deep dive into why so many outreach attempts fall flat and how to turn them into genuine connections. Let's break down a typical bad example: a long, disingenuous WhatsApp message starting with "Great morning friend" and immediately launching into a lengthy sales pitch. Does all this sound familiar? Here's why it fails: * Too Long: People are on mobile. If it takes more than a flick or two, they're not reading it. * Fake Friendliness: Don't pretend to be someone's friend if you're a stranger. It's off-putting and disingenuous. A respectful greeting is always better. * Creepy "Checking In": If you're a total stranger, "checking in" is just creepy. Build a relationship before you start playing the friend card. * Instant Sales Pitch: Jumping straight to a sales pitch without warming someone up is a poor sales technique. You need to establish trust first. Instead, let's look at a better approach. Think of it as a conversation starter, not a broadcast. Tips for The Rewrite: It is more effective to be: * Concise: Short and to the point. * Transparent: Clearly state how you got their information. * Problem-Focused: Immediately ask questions that identifies a potential need or interest. This aims to start a conversation and identify interested individuals, not just broadcast a message. Once they respond, you can then introduce your call to action or the thing you want them to buy Key Takeaways: * Start conversations, don't just broadcast. It's about engagement, not just reach. * Stop looking for the "easy button." Effective outreach takes genuine effort. * Sometimes, you have to slow things down to speed up financial progress. Building relationships is key. What are your biggest pet peeves when it comes to outreach messages? Share in the comments! And if you'd love to listen to the podcast episode and follow with the actual case study used in the episode, you can do so by using the link in my bio. #OutreachTips #SalesStrategy #CommunicationSkills #LinkedInTips #PodcastLearn

I just watched the delightful Netflix movie "Nonnas," and while it's a heartwarming story about family and food, it also serves up some crucial (and sometimes cautionary) tales for anyone dreaming of opening a restaurant – or any business, for that matter! The movie follows Vince Vaughn's character as he aims to honor his mother and grandmother by opening an Italian restaurant staffed by real "nonnas." The concept? Authentic, regional cuisine cooked with love and tradition. The movie highlights that a brilliant idea, even one steeped in genuine heart and delicious potential, isn't enough. The restaurant faced serious financial struggles early on due to a lack of a clear sales and marketing plan. They opened their doors, relying solely on friends and family, and quickly learned that word-of-mouth needs a megaphone to reach the wider community. Their attempt at influencer marketing also underscores a vital lesson: networking isn't a last-minute resort. Waiting until you desperately need help to start building connections often leaves you shouting into the void. The turning point? A junior reviewer, arriving on what was supposed to be their last day, experienced the authentic, family-centric atmosphere and the diverse, home-cooked Italian dishes. That single review provided the lifeline they desperately needed. Key takeaways for entrepreneurs (beyond just the food industry): * A brilliant idea isn't enough – you need a sales and marketing plan from day one. People can't love what they don't know exists. * Differentiate or die. What makes you stand out from the crowd? Give people a compelling reason to choose you. * Luck plays a role, but you can't rely on it. Do the groundwork, and sometimes, providence might just smile upon you. On a personal note, the movie also beautifully touches on how our mothers and big aunties might feel as they get older. It prompted me to reflect on the importance of reaching out and showing appreciation for the nurturing figures in our lives. Let's not let them feel like they're in a vacuum. What resonated most with me? The reminder that some customers crave authentic connections and relationships, not just transactions. My biggest takeaways for today's hustlers: * Be a student of life (and even movies!) for business insights. * Prioritize creating a sales and marketing plan, no matter how early you are in your journey. It's a crucial process that forces you to think strategically. Have you seen "Nonnas"? What business lessons did you glean? Would you like to listen to my podcast review of the movie? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #entrepreneurship #business #startups #sales #marketing #restaurantbusiness #networking #leadership #community #authenticity #nonnas #netflix #nigeria

I just wrapped up a powerful podcast conversation with a sharp 25-year-old female founder navigating the complexities of building her AI-powered company in the government sector. Her recent experience highlighted some crucial realities for women in sales, and I wanted to share some of the key takeaways that emerged. We delved into a challenging initial meeting scenario involving a senior male figure, where the focus unfortunately shifted from potential partnership to inappropriate advances. This situation, while disheartening, underscores the importance of having strategies in place to navigate such encounters. In this episode, we discussed practical "guardrails" that can empower female founders and sales professionals: * Own Your Power: Recognizing and projecting your professional identity as a woman in business is key. * Open Communication & Mentorship: Talking openly with trusted mentors and peers is invaluable for guidance and support. * Personal Safety Measures: While unfortunate, tools like pepper spray can be a necessary precaution in certain situations. * Meeting Protocols: Prioritizing meetings in professional or public settings, especially for initial interactions. * Assertive Communication: Developing clear and direct language to address discomfort and unethical behavior. * The Power of Partnership: Bringing a "business associate" to initial meetings for added security and professional presence. * Strategic Pre-Meeting Engagement: Utilizing calls or video conferences with business partners to set a professional tone and gather crucial information upfront. This includes clarifying intentions, and proactively involving other stakeholders. Beyond navigating uncomfortable situations, we also touched on crucial sales strategies like multi-threading (Account-Based Marketing) to avoid reliance on a single point of contact – a lesson that unfortunately materialized in this scenario. We also touched on identifying and engaging with management, financial, and technical users (and even end-users) within an organization and how it is vital for sustainable growth. A key learning for all sales professionals? Never book a first meeting solely to showcase your solution. The initial interaction should focus on qualification and discovery – understanding their pain points and whether your offering aligns. This conversation was a powerful reminder of the unique challenges and triumphs of female entrepreneurship in sales. I hope these insights provide valuable guidance. Listen to the full episode by clicking on the link in bio for a deeper dive into this important discussion. #FemaleFounders #SalesLeadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessDevelopment #WomenInSales #EthicalSales #AccountBasedMarketing #AISolutions #GovernmentTech #Mentorship #BusinessStrategy #Podcast #GuardrailsForGrowth

Bribery, Boardrooms & Billionaires: The Nigerian Telecom Wars

The Science of the Sale: Building Trust, Getting Seen, and Sealing the Deal

Unlock the Sale: Simple Closing Secrets That Get Results

Start Strong, Check Well, Sell Better!

The Art of the Refocus: Guiding Sales Conversations Through Objections to Real Solutions

Integrity First: The Human Cost of Unethical Business.

Beyond Plan A: Finding Your Next Business or Career Path with Existing Assets.

Business Plan vs. Statement of Intent: Your Roadmap to Startup Success

Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential: The Essential Steps to Starting a POS Business

Escape the Grind: Launching a Weekend Business & Exploring Fish Farming

Level Up Your Sales Game: The Power of an Account Management Mindset

Boost Your Brand: The Professional Edge of Product Barcodes in Nigeria

Can You Really Close Every Deal? Facing Sales Disappointments & Knowing When to Walk Away

Boost Your Sales: Website Design & the Power of Human Connection

Unlocking True Sales Online: Need Analysis to Lasting Relationships

The Nigerian Service Edge: How Great Processes Can Set You Apart

Turning Your Expertise into Extra Income: The Plan B Blueprint

Mastering the Phone, Boosting Your Visibility, and Standing Out

Are Streaming Platforms Ripping Off Artists? The Realities of Music Income

Your Network is Your Net Worth: Mastering Social Capital for Business Growth

Stop Wasting Money: Finding What Actually Works in Sales & Marketing.

Grow Your Business by Adding Value: The Upsell & Cross-sell Advantage

Steer Your Success: Using Your Business Plan as a Sales & Marketing Compass

It's Not a Race: Dealing with the Success of Others in Business

Unlock Business Growth: Conquering Call Anxiety and Connecting with Confidence

Your First Investor: Why Unit Economics Beats External Funding (for Nigerian Businesses)

Solopreneur or Entrepreneur? What Really Matters (Plus: The Danger of Too Many Hats)

Thinking of Podcasting? What You MUST Consider First

Unlock Your Potential: Why Sales Training Matters & The Perils of Rushing Automation

We've all heard the dream: a product or service so revolutionary, so inherently brilliant, that it sells itself. But is this truly a reality in the complex world of business? In a recent podcast discussion, we delved deep into this very question and explored the fundamental roles of sales and marketing in driving not just revenue, but also innovation and lasting customer value. The conclusion, as you might suspect, is clear: the idea of a truly self-selling entity is largely a myth, and the synergy between sales and marketing is absolutely indispensable for any business aspiring to thrive. The Myth of the Self-Selling Product: While a truly exceptional offering might generate initial buzz and organic interest, relying solely on this is a risky proposition. Even the most groundbreaking innovations need to be discovered, understood, and ultimately, chosen by customers. This is where the foundational functions of sales and marketing step in. Why Everything in Business Involves Sales and Marketing: At its core, business is about creating and exchanging value. Whether you're a tech startup, a local bakery, or a global consultancy, you need to connect your offering with those who need or want it. This connection, this process of informing, persuading, and facilitating transactions, is the essence of sales and marketing. They are not just departments; they are fundamental business functions that permeate every aspect of your operation. The Vital Role for New and Revolutionary Products: You might think a truly revolutionary product wouldn't need much selling. "It's so good, people will just flock to it!" However, even game-changing innovations face the challenge of education and adoption. Customers need to understand how this new product solves their problems, why it's better than existing alternatives (or the status quo), and how to integrate it into their lives or businesses. Marketing and sales are crucial in bridging this gap, building trust, and driving initial adoption for even the most groundbreaking offerings. Maximizing Customer Lifetime Value Without Sales? Unlikely. Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV) is the total revenue a business can expect from a single customer over the entire duration of their relationship. While marketing can play a role in nurturing customer relationships through content and engagement, the sales function is often critical in fostering loyalty, upselling, and cross-selling. Building strong relationships, understanding evolving customer needs, and proactively offering solutions are key to maximizing CLTV, and these often require direct interaction and personalized attention that falls within the realm of sales. Product Innovation Without Sales Insights? A Blind Spot. Where do great product ideas come from? Often, they stem from a deep understanding of customer needs and pain points. The sales team, being on the front lines, constantly interacts with customers, gathering invaluable feedback, identifying unmet needs, and spotting emerging trends. To exclude this direct customer intelligence from the product innovation process is to operate with a significant blind spot, potentially leading to products that miss the mark. Standing Out Without the Power of Sales and Marketing: In today's crowded marketplace, differentiation is key to survival and success. How do you ensure your unique value proposition isn't lost in the noise? Marketing is essential for crafting a compelling brand narrative, highlighting your competitive advantages, and reaching your target audience. Sales then reinforces this message through direct interaction, building trust and closing deals based on that differentiated value. Without this combined effort, even the most distinct product or service risks being overlooked.