The Jim Galiano Show: Online Business Success Minus the Stress

Welcome to this special end-of-the-year episode of my podcast, where I want to have a heart-to-heart discussion about building a better online business in today's complex world. In this episode, I'll be sharing my personal experiences, strategies, and perspectives on simplifying entrepreneurship, adapting to economic changes, harnessing the power of technology, and ultimately achieving personal freedom through online business. Join me as talk about navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape of entrepreneurship. *On a side note, I apologize for some issues I had while recording this episode. There were issues with the microphone which were difficult to correct. My voice sounds tinny and uneven at times. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Some big changes are here. In today's episode, I'll be talking about what's coming next over the next year. As the old English Proverb says – “Make hay while the sun is shining,” I'll be in full “haymaking mode” from now through the whole of 2024. Big opportunities don't come every day, but when the do, it's up to you to take action. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's podcast episode, I'd like to share with you how AI has changed my business over the past 10 months. We may be living in a time where the economy is, at best, uncertain. But windows of opportunity remain open, nonetheless. In my experience, the B2B world has been hotter than it has in many years in 2023. Couple that with the fact that AI has enabled solopreneurs and freelancers to produce the kind of results only possible for teams of people and what do you have? You have opportunities. Do the math. When a four-person project becomes a one-person project who can do the job at a better price – what do you have? You have opportunities. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Imagine a world where your name is more recognizable than the company you work for, where your personal brand has the power to create connections and opportunities that can change your life. This is what personal branding is all about. My personal journey into podcasting really cemented this in my mind as an evergreen business strategy - no matter what you're selling. Personal branding, in essence, is the art of becoming the face of your business or expertise. It's the process of shaping how people perceive you, your values, and your unique qualities. In some cases, you can even go on to become the face of multiple products, brands, or companies. In today's episode, I'd like to encourage you to get started on your own journey. There will never be a better time than now to get started! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Being motivated enough to take action may be more than half the battle in 2023. I say this because so many people in the online business space are in need of a change. In today's episode, we'll talk about making changes, prioritizing income-producing activities, and more. Much of the time, we know what to do – but we lack the belief and the motivation it takes to get started. If that's you, you won't want to miss today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Over the past several months, we've identified quite a few of the challenges business owners (as well as people in general) face today. Many of the challenges in today's world are outside of our direct power to change. In today's episode, I'd like to focus on some of the things that are within our power to change. These changes can have a significant impact on our lives in the months ahead. If you're struggling to move forward and get out of a rut, you won't want to miss today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we'll take a look at the wider, economic picture and how that may impact business in the not-too-distant future. On the downside, auto payment delinquencies are now at a decade-high here in the USA. Credit card delinquencies are currently at 38.2%. No, that's not a misprint. Is it all doom and gloom? Of course not. That said, there's no time like now to start exercising the “creative muscle” and be willing to experiment outside the box. I'm talking about, seeing if you can identify some underserved niches or groups of people to connect with in early 2024. The truth is, you don't need the experts to tell you we're in a recession. You don't need an expert to tell you things are good or bad. You're already face-to-face with reality in your everyday experience, so don't ignore it. More on all the above in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we'll take a look at the way consumer behavior has been changing in recent years. Consumers are no longer navigating the digital realm in the same way. In the contemporary consumer landscape, search engines have taken a back seat for certain service-related inquiries. Instead, people are increasingly seeking recommendations from friends, family, and acquaintances. Word-of-mouth referrals have regained their prominence as consumers look for personalized insights and firsthand experiences. Will these emerging trends have an impact on your business? Don't assume they won't! That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

If you feel like you're burning out with the topic of online business, and you're exhausted trying to build your income, I don't think you're alone by a long shot. If you're in a place where nothing seems to work, sometimes it's good to step back from what you're doing so you can disconnect from the things that are draining you long enough to think clearly. It's easy to say, “I've done everything I know how to do, but nothing seems to work.” I'm sure you believed what you were saying when you were saying it, but it's worth asking yourself, “Is that really true?” Look, I realize that times change, buyer habits change, marketing places become unprofitable, and so on. On the other hand, maybe there are a few more things worth trying before giving up and moving on to something else. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Most of the books on sales strategies I've read fall into the category of overpromising and underdelivering. On the other hand, some books focus more on manipulative tactics. These tactics are more commonplace with high-pressure sales. People eventually see through the smoke and mirrors, though. Even if it's several months down the line. High pressure rarely leads to repeat sales or happy customers. In the real world, most people succeed in sales by understanding their clients and customers. They succeed by selling them legitimate products or services they need or want. As a result, they can secure customers for life. In today's episode, we'll talk about mastering the sale process as it relates to your particular business. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, I'll will be sharing some new thoughts on the changing online business landscape. There have been subtle, behind the scenes shifts occurring within certain industries that are unknown to most. Am I talking about AI? AI is just part of the equation. It's the obvious part that we see. As it turns out, there's even more going on behind the scenes that most are unaware of. Spending habits have changed, and once profitable niches may be changing for the foreseeable future. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, I would like to discuss the exciting future of business in the online world. The rapid advancements in AI and other technologies have sparked concerns about the sustainability of our jobs and careers. Undoubtedly, AI is revolutionizing the game at a staggering pace. While we may not know exactly what the future holds or even what specific business ventures will arise, I firmly believe that our business careers have the potential to thrive for a long time. The great news is that the online skills you possess will always be valuable, regardless of how circumstances unfold in the coming years. At the end of the day, you can continue to utilize your existing online skills to adapt and excel in the ever-evolving business landscape. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In the dynamic world of digital marketing, the role of a consultant has become increasingly prominent. Especially that of a digital marketing consultant. Some people perceive consulting as a passive endeavor, where experts merely offer standard advice to clients. But let me tell you, that's far from the truth! Digital marketing consulting is an engaging and dynamic profession that requires focus, dedication, and the ability to create customized strategies to meet the needs of their clients. Sure, a good consultant should be able to command more money as compared to the average service provider. But, make no mistake about it, you will earn that money. There is certainly a whole lot more to it than giving good advice. That are more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

If you've invested time in building things like email lists, Facebook followers, Instagram followers, Twitter followers, YouTube subscribers and more… you're familiar with of adding “numbers” to your column. Over time, though, we recognize the “buyers” within the numbers who are responsible for the health and success of our business. It's great having interested people following us online, but don't mistake the two for being the same. I may be oversimplifying it when I say, “Success comes down to finding enough people to buy whatever it is we're offering.” But sometimes – oversimplifying it is exactly what we need to do to avoid getting overwhelmed and make better plans for the future. If you feel like you're approaching a crossroads in your business, I think you'll get a lot from today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Building a successful online business as a bootstrapping entrepreneur can be both exhilarating and challenging. In our digital age, establishing a strong personal brand and cultivating an engaged email list are essential for your long-term success. These two pillars will not only help you overcome a variety of common hurdles, but also provide you with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in a competitive marketplace. Personal branding goes beyond merely promoting your products or services. It is about showcasing who you are, what you stand for, and how you can add value to your audience's lives. By crafting a compelling personal brand, you can differentiate yourself from the competition and build a loyal following that resonates with your unique story and expertise. That and more in today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, I'd like to share a few thoughts about success. If there's a topic that transcends national boundaries, age, and time, this is it. Everyone wants to succeed in some way, shape or form. The question is, does success mean the same thing to you today that it did a decade ago? Or even five years ago. Do you want to be doing the same thing you're doing today five years from now? It's a fair question, and there really aren't any right or wrong answers. There's just your answer. And that's what matters. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

When experienced social media marketers are saying they're growing frustrated with social media marketing – you know something is up. We've been talking about this topic on and off for the last several years. Now, we seemed to have reached the tipping point. Everyone and their mothers are creating content today. The supply has way exceeded the demand and continues to do so. If you're struggling to get likes, views, shares, or followers, you're not alone. In today's episode, we'll be talking about some of the surprise developments in the world of influence marketing and sponsorships. Despite the challenges, there's a silver lining for smaller creators. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In the world of digital marketing, sales funnels play a crucial role in guiding potential customers through a journey from awareness to conversion. In today's podcast, we'll talk about the different types of sales funnels and their pros and cons. We'll explore eight key types of sales funnels including: lead generation funnel, tripwire funnel, webinar funnel, product launch funnel, membership funnel, sales letter funnel, high-ticket funnel, and e-commerce funnels. Lastly, for each funnel type, we'll conclude this episode by looking at real-life examples of websites that successfully implement these strategies. By the end of this episode, you should have plenty of information to help you start improving your own digital marketing efforts. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we'll take a look at how AI has already led to significant disruptions across various industies over the past six months. As AI tools such as Chat GPT and other advanced AI systems gain momentum, companies across the world are already streamlinging their operations. That's the nice way of saying - they're reducing their overhead costs by replacing human workers with AI-powered solutions. The rapidness of this shift has even taken many of the experts by surprise. Thousands of jobs have already been lost since January of this year. The was a process that many people thought would play out over the course of a 12-18 month period. Instead, it happened inside of six months. And, as the saying goes, “They're just getting started.” In this episode, we will talk about the implications of AI on the overall business landscape and how each of us may have to adapt to the upcoming changes. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we'll be talking about the top struggles faced by solo entrepreneurs along with some of the solutions to overcome them. As a solo entrepreneur, building a successful online business comes with its fair share of challenges. Limited resources, time management, establishing an online presence, finding a profitable niche, and staying motivated are just a few hurdles you may encounter on your journey. Thankfully, there are practical solutions to help you navigate and conquer these obstacles. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Would publishing a monthly newsletter help you grow your business in 2023? Absolutely! Especially if you're a “solo brand.” There are more reasons, at least in my own mind, to publish a newsletter than not. Entrepreneurs and marketers have been using newsletters since the days of Benjamin Franklin to establish themselves as a trusted authority. Consider the big picture - publishing a monthly newsletter creates direct communication with your audience. Whether it's monthly, biweekly, or weekly, it's a great way to share insight, ideas, and expertise around a topic. If you're just getting started MailPoet and WordPress stand out as a winning combination for creating and managing that kind of newsletter – with zero hassles. In today's episode, I'd like to talk about the seamless integration of MailPoet with WordPress. With these two well-established, well-supported tools – you can launch and maintain a newsletter quickly and easily. That and more in today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In this episode, I'd like to share some thoughts about the autonomy and creative control you gain as a solo entrepreneur. I'd also be talking about the personal and professional growth that comes with wearing multiple hats and the strong connections you can build with your customers as a solo entrepreneur. With time, incredible opportunities can arise as your brand and influence grow. As a result, you'll be able to create a hybrid business model to maximize your revenue streams. So, whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking for a change, this episode is for you. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we'll explore combining long form text content with video content to create above average results in generating growing steams of free traffic to your products or services. We'll explore the myriad benefits of combining text and video content. Learn how this dynamic duo transcends language barriers, making your message accessible to a global audience. We will also talk about the impact of this hybrid approach on enhancing search engine optimization (SEO) and driving organic traffic to your platforms. Uncover proven strategies to optimize the textual and visual components of your content, leveraging the power of both mediums for increased visibility, reach, and conversions. There's a lot packed into today's episode. You won't want to miss it! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Becoming a marketing strategist will be crucial for solo entrepreneurs in the years to come for several reasons. First, as competition in the digital space continues to grow, it will become increasingly challenging for businesses to stand out and attract customers. By developing a strong marketing strategy, solo entrepreneurs can differentiate themselves from their competitors and increase their visibility. Second, as technology and consumer behavior continue to change, solo entrepreneurs will need to adapt their marketing approaches to stay relevant and effective. A marketing strategist can help identify emerging trends and technologies and develop strategies to take advantage of them. Learning to become a strategist yourself will potentially solve a lot of problems. Overall, investing time and effort in creating and implementing a strong business strategy is well worth it. More about this topic in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Can an elevator pitch help your business? Can it help you sell more products and services? Let me take it a step further by asking, “Can an Elevator Pitch Transform Your Business?” After 25 years in business, my conclusion is – an Elevator Pitch can change you, and YOU can change your business. If you're ready to up your digital marketing game, you won't want to miss today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Whether you sell products or services online, Facebook provides a platform for you to showcase your expertise and engage with potential customers. The best part is that you don't need a big budget to get started. Today, we will discuss a step-by-step strategy for creating and optimizing a Facebook page to promote your products and services. If you're looking to grow your personal brand or business on Facebook without spending a dime on ads, you can do that, too. In today's episode, I'll walk you through a step-by-step strategy for improving your Facebook presence and reaching your target audience. That and more in today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

Today, I'd like to talk about different personal brand styles that match different types of personalities. By finding the personal brand style that aligns with your personality and values, you can create a brand that is uniquely yours and resonates with your target audience. Remember, building a personal brand is a journey. It takes time, effort, and commitment. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can build a personal brand that helps you achieve your business goals and stand out in your industry. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's podcast episode, I'd like to do a quick review of where we are so far in 2023. The first quarter of the New Year didn't bring with it the kind of growth many had been hoping for. Income and profits seemed to have plateaued for many, as the concerns of a recession continue to increase. Today, I'd like to share with you an SEO-focused marketing strategy that can revitalize your marketing message and content. If you're looking to regain an upward trajectory of business growth and income, you don't want to miss today's episode!ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/Code:I want you to act as a market research expert that speaks and writes fluent English.Pretend that you have the most accurate and detailed information about silo structures possible.Pretend that you are able to develop a full silo structure in fluent English for my authority website. The authority of my website is .Develop 4 parent categories for this authority.Within these categories, develop 4 child categories for each parent category.Within these categories, develop 5 parent sub-categories under the child categories.Within these categories, develop 2 child sub-categories under the child categories.Here is the authority to start again: Note: Sometimes the AI gets confused by all of the sub-categories within an authority website. So if you need more sub-categories on a category, enter this prompt: Code:Please provide more sub-categories for . Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, we are going to talk about the importance of building a personal brand as a solo entrepreneur. We'll also discuss the various ways in which creating a personal brand can help you generate additional revenue streams, including ad revenue. Personal branding is a powerful tool that can help entrepreneurs stand out in their niche and establish themselves as experts in their field. By sharing their unique journey and experiences, entrepreneurs can attract a loyal following of like-minded individuals who are interested in their products or services. During this episode, we will delve into how you can use your personal brand to create ongoing income by endorsing products and services related to your niche, as well as exploring new niches. Additionally, we will look at how you can generate ad revenue through your content, such as video channels, blogs, podcasts, and other forms of media. So, whether you're just starting out or looking to take your personal brand to the next level, this episode is for you. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

In today's podcast episode, we'll be discussing marketing advice for solo entrepreneurs. Every business model has its own set of challenges, and being a solo entrepreneur is no exception. As someone who has experienced the ups and downs of running a business alone, I understand the difficulties that come with it. In this episode, I'll be sharing my personal journey and some valuable insights on how to navigate these challenges successfully. We'll also be discussing the importance of personal development in achieving success as a solo entrepreneur. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solo Entrepreneurs on Soundwise

What are some benefits of long-form content for solo entrepreneurs and how can they be implemented effectively? Long-form content is an effective marketing strategy that can help improve your SEO, generate more organic traffic to your website, and increase audience engagement. By creating different styles of articles such as listicles, how-to articles, personal stories, trend analysis, news articles, and more, you can tailor your content to suit your specific audience. Repurposing your content into videos and audio can also help extend its reach and create a multi-format experience to reach a wider audience. Various software options such as video editing tools, voice recorders, and AI-based tools can help make the content creation process more efficient and effective than ever before. In today's podcast episode, we will discuss in detail how solo entrepreneurs can benefit from long-form content creation without bogging down in the creation process. If the above sounds good to you, I think you'll really enjoy today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Today, we're going to talk about the topic of fast money with minimal effort. With a few tools, it seems like anyone can start a business or side hustle from the comfort of their own home and make a fortune. And there are certainly plenty of success stories out there, from influencers who make a living from sponsored posts to dropshippers who sell products without ever touching them. But as with any trend, there are also plenty of scams, pitfalls, and unrealistic expectations. You've probably seen ads or testimonials from people who claim to be making thousands of dollars a month with little to no effort. They promise easy, passive income in one breath while adding a quick, “This isn't get rich quick,” disclaimer in the next. Who wouldn't want to live their dream lifestyle and enjoy financial freedom? The reality, however, is often very different. Many of these schemes are either outright scams or rely on unsustainable tactics that can't be replicated by the average person. In this episode, we'll talk about psychological hooks, scams, and unethical practices that promise much – but deliver little. We'll also talk about the importance of realistic expectations, hard work, and long-term planning when it comes to building your business online. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

As a sole proprietor, managing all the tasks of your business alone can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you can alleviate a significant portion of your challenges by automating and productizing your services. But what about the rest of your workload? Can ChatGPT be the solution you're looking for? After using ChatGPT daily for four months, I can confidently say that it's a gamechanger. By utilizing ChatGPT, you can significantly increase your efficiency and accomplish more in less time. It can serve as your ultimate assistant, allowing you to focus on the crucial aspects of your work. In today's podcast episode, we'll delve into how ChatGPT can immediately benefit your business and why you should start learning to use it sooner rather than later. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Are you a solopreneur struggling to keep up with the ever-changing digital landscape? Do you find it challenging to create an effective digital marketing plan while also managing other aspects of your business? If so, you're not alone. Many solopreneurs struggle to find the time and resources to execute a successful digital marketing strategy. In today's episode, we'll be talking about creating an easy-to-execute digital marketing plan that will help you grow your business without burning out. I'll share a very simple strategy that you can implement right away to attract more customers, increase your online visibility, and ultimately, achieve your business goals. It's not magic – it's even better. It's doable and repeatable! So, whether you're a seasoned solopreneur or just starting out, there's something for everyone in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

In this episode, we'll be talking about the exciting and often misunderstood world of solopreneurship. Being a solopreneur can provide you with the freedom of running a business by yourself, without needed a full-time team or employees. While it may sound overwhelming to some, more people than ever are now choosing this path for the freedom, flexibility, and creative control it offers. In today's episode, we'll explore the benefits of living a solopreneur lifestyle, share tips on how to be successful, and discuss some common challenges you might face along the way. Whether you're already a solopreneur or considering becoming one, this episode will give you valuable insights into succeeding as a one-person business owner. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Running a business as a solo entrepreneur can be a lonely and challenging journey. It's easy to feel burnt out and demotivated at times. In this episode, we talk about things that can help solo entrepreneurs avoid burnout and stay motivated. Whether you're just starting out or have been running your business for a while, this episode offers practical advice and inspiration to help you sustain your passion and productivity as a solo entrepreneur. You can prioritize your well-being and still thrive in your business. It's not an either-or type of situation. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

* This episode was originally uploaded on Valentine's Day - February 14th. Due to technical errors, it did not publish into the RSS feed successfully. In today's podcast, we'll be discussing how to build a business around creating and selling online courses. We'll also explore the advantages of selling your courses on popular platforms like Udemy and Skillshare, compared to hosting and selling them directly on your WordPress website. In the past, I would have recommended only the latter method, but the marketplace has evolved, and today, I suggest doing both. Some people may prefer the convenience and affordability of Udemy and Skillshare, as they offer a broad range of courses at a relatively low price. These platforms are also well-known for high-quality courses, and students can access reviews and ratings from previous students to assess the course's value. In addition, selling your courses on Udemy and Skillshare can help you grow your personal brand more quickly by increasing your visibility on these platforms. You can still sell your premium content and information directly from your own website. If course creation is part of your future plans, I believe you will find today's episode particularly valuable! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

I've noticed lately that many of the people who've been teaching online marketing for many are opting to leave the industry to pursue more profitable opportunities. It's not a stretch to say that every popular market, topic, or industry has loads of competition today. That's most certainly a reality. On the other hand, it also means that people are buying or spending money in that market. Competition isn't a bad thing at all. Market saturation, however, is another story. Whenever we have a lot (or possibly too much) of anything, its value declines.  So, when do you stay, and when do you go? Do you decide? Or does the market decide for you? I would say – both. More, along with real-life examples in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Most business plans today contain what's known as a SWOT analysis of the marketplace. That's an acronym that stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. A SWOt analysis can be especially helpful when you want to see the full picture of the undertaking when you're in the planning stages. That said, I've learned to conduct my own SWOT analysis from time to time when I noticed significant changes unfolding right before my eyes. Doing so has helped me adjust to the ever-changing marketplaces of the time, and this is especially true now in 2023. The terrain has changed, but I still see plenty of opportunities for us on the horizon. We'll be talking about all the above it today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

I've always been a big fan of building your personal brand and building it on a platform that you own and control (like WordPress). That said, building your brand and an audience takes time. In the meantime, you still have bills that need to be paid. The solution? Consider borrowing another person's audience. No, I'm not talking about partnerships or affiliate deals. Those things are fine, but that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about the various eCommerce platforms where tens of thousands of buying transactions occur every day. Platforms like Esty, Udemy, Big Cartel, ArtFire, and many others. In today's episode, we'll talk about expanding your brand (along with your income) by creating products specifically for platforms where, unlike social platforms, the buying mindset is the norm. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Is there such a thing as a stress-free, pressure-free business model or career path in 2023? Probably not. For many people, stressful situations, clients, and business pursuits are commonplace. In some cases, the stress and pressure can become overwhelming. That said, if you're going to start, run, and build a business, it is inevitable that you will have to find a way to deal with certain levels of stress and pressure. Not all stress is bad. The pressure to perform can lead to some of your greater accomplishments. Working under pressure can bring out the best in you. It can allow you to grow and come to the place where (more often than not) you're managing stress instead of it managing you. In today's episode, I'd like to share some thoughts about stress and pressure in the digital world. Learning how to manage and overcome a stressful situation may be one of the most important skills you'll ever develop.  If you're stressed out and need a break, I think you'll get a from today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Last week I shared the principles I'm using this year to build out new online projects (or side hustles) quickly and efficiently. Can the same principles be applied to an existing business? Absolutely. Maybe you're thinking about adding a new product or service to an existing business. One of the easiest, most effective ways to get started is by creating a simple – single-page website along with a short video that can connect you to new clients or customers like few other things can. The entire project can be launched in a few weeks. If there's interest, you can add all the bells and whistles you'd like as you move forward.  In today's episode, we'll be talking about the steps and the tools you can use to make happen. Show Notes Tools from today's episode. Beaver BuilderPaul Lacey - http://paullacey.digital/ GeneratePress / GenerateBlocks ProMike Oliver – https://mikeoliver.me | https://wbcollective.dev/ Kadence Theme/BlocksJake Phoel - https://startbloggingblocks.com/ Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Hey Everyone, welcome to 2023! Whether you treat the month of January like you're on a mission and you hit the ground running, or you're still in vacation mode and you sort of glide into the New Year over the next few weeks – I guess it's up to you. This year, I'm changing some things up a little bit. I'll be taking on a few different projects. I guess you could call them, side hustles. At the same time, I continue to stay close to the simple, less-moving parts approach to online business. With this approach, I believe it's possible to take a new idea from concept to completion within 30 days. Sound interesting? If so, I think you'll enjoy today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Today is the last episode of 2022. It's the perfect time to talk about creating a simple plan and strategy for business growth and success in the upcoming year. The only strategies that work consistently for most people are the simple ones. I'm including myself in the “most people” group. Today, I would like to share with you a simple way to create your own strategy for the New Year. Instead of waking up on January 15th and wondering what you can do “today” to grow your business, you'll already have a plan in place. You'll know exactly what should and shouldn't be doing. You'll be doing the work that builds on the work you've done the first few weeks of the year. During February, you'll be adding to the work you completed during January (and so on and so on). If you're ready to turn the corner, I'm going to help get started in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

In today's episode, I'd like to share some of my own experiences with choosing a niche or “niching down.” I have a bit of a different take on this topic from those you've probably heard in the past. In the early days of the online world (the late 1990s), I started a website development and hosting business. From there, I added online marketing with an emphasis on SEO and Email marketing. Business growth was gradual. I used what I now call “general messaging” at the time. In other words, I didn't place a strong emphasis on drilling down my marketing message to hook potential prospects. In hindsight, I can see that I had a natural advantage being among the first generation in the market. Eventually, my growth plateaued. From there, I carefully weighed my options. The solution I ultimately went with was to – niche down. What happened next? You'll get the full story and more in today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

We're at that time of year again when people begin to think about their “goals,” or the things they'd like to accomplish in the New Year. Of course, there's no shortage of pessimism when it comes to goal setting. Most of the time, change doesn't come easy, does it? Where creatures of habit, even when those habits are responsible for poor results. On the other hand, nothing beats the feeling of getting a “win” – even if it's just a small one. Small wins go a long way towards improving our attitudes, creating belief, and building the kind of momentum that finally starts to change things. By focusing on “micro-goals,” it may be possible for you to string together a series of wins and experience the kind of growth that continues to elude so many people in the entrepreneurial space. That and more in today's episode. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

It's difficult for smaller businesses to compete with their larger counterparts without having an intelligent, time-tested strategy in place. The “niching down” concept came about as a response to this dilemma. You specialize and serve a group within a group. In today's episode, I want to look at this through the lens of search engine marketing and SEO-based strategy. In plain English, I'm talking about putting yourself in a position where you're not competing for the same words and phrases most of the biggest companies in the world are competing for. In today's episode, I want to share with you a very “doable” alternative involving fewer competitors. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

First, let me apologize in advance for my voice quality today. I've had a bit of hoarseness or laryngitis over the past few days. I didn't want to delay recording today's episode, though! Today, I want to share with you – 3 things an online business needs to succeed (especially as we move into the New Year). In the past, it was much easier to get away with having one or two of these things in place. Today, without all three, you're looking at an inconsistent, uphill battle. If you're looking to put the big picture into an easier-to-navigate perspective, I think you'll really enjoy today's episode! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

Each plateau that you reach in business (as well as life) requires time, energy, and effort. With time, things like economic downturns become easier to withstand. At least, that's hopefully the case. As we prepare to leave 2022 in the past, I have some thoughts that I'd like to share with you about business strategy in 2023. There's a certain amount of fluidity that's required to adjust to an ever-changing business landscape. Individuals who thrive tend to think outside the box and adapt much faster than those who prolong the process. And let me add that this is usually much easier for the freelancer or solopreneur than it is for their larger, corporate-like counterparts. As with anything else in business, our products and services must be aligned with the needs and wants of this time. Things of the past (good, bad, or otherwise) must be left in the past. Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

During the early days of my business, I found it very challenging to build a company or business brand. Brand recognition was a struggle – even on a local level. With time, despite my efforts, my name seemed to generate more interest or recognition than my company. My personal reputation preceded my company's reputation. Eventually, I came to the realization that my personal brand was doing more to increase my income and visibility than my business brand was. If you can relate, I think today's episode may inspire you to adjust your marketing strategy as you plan for the upcoming new year! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on SoundwiseSubscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise

During the early days of my business, I found it very challenging to build a company or business brand. Brand recognition was a struggle – even on a local level. With time, despite my efforts, my name seemed to generate more interest or recognition than my company. My personal reputation preceded my company's reputation. Eventually, I came to the realization that my personal brand was doing more to increase my income and visibility than my business brand was. If you can relate, I think today's episode may inspire you to adjust your marketing strategy as you plan for the upcoming new year! Subscribe to The Jim Galiano Show: Help for Freelancers & Solopreneurs on Soundwise