Life After Corporate Deb Boulanger

Think selling isn't your cup of tea? Think again! In this episode of Life After Corporate, host Deb Boulanger tackles the challenge of how to win over new clients without the sleaze factor. If the very thought of 'selling' gives you chills, you're in for a treat. Deb shares her techniques so you can sell your services as naturally as chatting with a friend, ensuring your entrepreneurial journey is both authentic and successful. Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey requires a robust network and an effective ecosystem of opportunity. Deb says, crafting a network full of contacts who share your vision and enthusiasm will not only ease the transition but vastly increase your chances of success. So, are you ready to leverage your connections and thrive in your new venture? Then dive into the power of networks and discover how your warm contacts can significantly boost your entrepreneurial career. Get ready to redefine selling and approach it with a whole new perspective!
 
 [00:01 07:29]  Selling Without the ‘Sales Pitch’
Use a consultative method, focus on the potential clients’ needs and how you can solve their problems, rather than aggressively selling.
Encourage satisfied clients to refer others with discounts or other incentives, turning your clients into advocates.
Offer workshops or free training sessions that provide value while showing your expertise—sell through education.
Have your conversations/proposals to the individual needs of each potential client, make them feel understood and valued.
   
[07:30 -13:12]  Leverage Warm Connections and Referral Networks  
Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues to inform them about your services.
Implement a referral program that rewards individuals for introducing new clients to your business.
Take advantage of networking opportunities at
Regularly update your network on your offerings, achievements, and new services to stay top of mind. 
   
[13:13 - 20:12]  Fostering Audience Engagement and Conversion    
Encourage live questions during the webinar to foster real-time engagement.
Give special deals or bonuses to webinar attendees to increase conversion rates.
Implement post-webinar communication plans to keep the dialogue going with participants.
Use webinar analytics to understand attendee behavior and refine your strategy for future talks.
 
Connect with Deb Boulanger
Website:  thegreatdoover.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/debboulanger-thegreatdo-over
Instagram: @deb_boulanger
 
7 Steps to Convert More Clients Today
https://debraboulanger.lpages.co/client-conversion-guide/
 
Stand Out Webinars
Stand Out Webinars (debraboulanger.lpages.co)
 
Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
168.  The Chris Voss Method for Closing the Deal
  40.   Are You Surrounded By the Right People?, with Kristy Wallace, CEO of Ellevate Network
  35.   How I Made the Leap and Found My Purpose: with Cate Luzio on the Goaldigger Show
 
Tweetable Quotes:
"This journey is not the easiest path and something must have happened that caused you to notice how dissatisfied you were in your job and that it was time to do something about it."... Deb Boulanger on your entrepreneur journey
"You are developing your ecosystem of opportunity so that you have a source for connection. You have a source for referral. You have a source for content and contribution to communities that really eat up everything that you have to offer."...Deb Boulanger on developing your network
 
SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs! 
Get weekly tips on how to create more money and meaning doing work you love and be one of the many growing entrepreneurs in our community. Connect with me on LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/  or on Instagram or our website at www.lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com. 

Are you ready to ditch the conventional 9-to-5 and dive into the world of entrepreneurship? In this episode of “Life After Corporate”, Host Deb Boulanger and her guest, Po-Hong Yu talk about how transforming your career path can ignite a deep journey into self-discovery and authenticity. Po-Hong, a former banker turned spiritual entrepreneur and somatic healer, recounts her liberating shift from the corporate grind to a life of genuine self-expression and healing. Learn how embracing your authentic self can transform not only your personal life but also how you conduct business, inviting unimaginable opportunities for growth and connection. Po-Hong's insightful narratives and practical advice offer listeners a blueprint for not only surviving but thriving by leveraging their unique truths. Consider this an invitation to step into your power and start your journey towards true authenticity — So, how will your story inspire the world? Get ready to uncover your authentic self and let Po-Hong guide you through the unchartered territories of your own potential.
 
 [00:01 11:22] Transition from Banking to Spiritual Entrepreneurship  
Addressing cultural identity issues from a young age
Importance of embracing true identity for personal growth
Impact of career transition on self-discovery journey
Challenges faced when moving from traditional to spiritual path
   
[11:23 -19:59]  Entrepreneurship and Authenticity Journey  
Guiding women entrepreneurs to embrace their true identity and authentic self.
Exploring the entrepreneurial journey as a spiritual path for personal transformation.
Overcoming societal and self-imposed barriers to living authentically and embracing cultural identity.
Highlighting the transformative power of embracing one's true essence and personal authenticity in entrepreneurship.
   
[22:00 - 29:56]  Cultivating Mental Fierceness and Body Awareness    
Utilizing awareness to ground oneself in the body and connect with inner sensations
Embracing the practice of releasing people-pleasing behaviors to establish strong boundaries
Engaging in boundary research to understand personal limits and needs
Connecting with the mind to cultivate heightened awareness and presence in the body
 
[29:57 - 38:32]  Entrepreneurial Journey as a Spiritual Path   
Transitioning from traditional careers to becoming spiritual entrepreneurs.
Focusing on helping midlife visionary women leaders live authentically.
Emphasizing listening to intuition and following one's spiritual path.
Transformative power of embracing cultural and personal identity in entrepreneurship
 
Connect with Po-Hong Yu
Website: https://www.taoofpo.com 
Tao of Po Podcast: https://www.taoofpo.com/podcast 
IG: https://www.instagram.com/pohong.yu/ 
FB: https://www.facebook.com/pohong.yu 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pohongyu/ 
Get on the Wait List for the Mastermind Contact Po-Hong Yu — Po-Hong Yu (taoofpo.com)
 
5-Day Workshop (from 05/27/24 - 05/31/24)                "Activate Your Authenticity" Workshop
https://pohongyu.ac-page.com/activate-your-authenticity
 
Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
168.  The Chris Voss Method for Closing the Deal
145.  The Formula for Maximizing Impact and Income
143.  Beyond Positive Thinking: Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind



Tweetable Quotes:
"And so I was ahead of the curve and my business just boomed. So this was my first step into entrepreneurship, and I was like, this is exactly what I needed."... Po-Hong Yu on turning passion into profit
 "And it wasn't until I went to China for the first time as an adult at 25 when I had this huge enlightening awakening moment of being around people that just looked like me."... Po-Hong Yu on identity and acceptance 
 
SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs! 
Ge

In a world saturated with quick-fix solutions and success overnight promises, Deb’s guest today, Carissa Reininger, brings a refreshing dose of reality to the conversation about growing your small business. With her entrepreneurial career spanning almost two decades, Carissa debunks the myth of the 'silver bullet' and champions the slow and steady approach to sustainable business growth. Carissa and Deb deep dive into the intricate landscape of entrepreneurship, highlighting significant insights into how small businesses can flourish with the right support and mindset. Her advocacy for a deeper purpose resonates with many, reminding us that the entrepreneurial journey is far from solitary. Don’t miss the game-changing advice Carissa shares on overcoming the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, especially when it comes to pricing and self-worth. And why starting a business isn't just about the bottom line—it's about finding your true path. Find out what a 25% pay raise you give yourself, could mean for your venture, and make sure to listen to the very end – it could be the most profitable click you'll make today!
 
 [00:01 -11:40] Strategies for Small Business Sustainability  
Stressing the need for commitment to outcomes and achievable goals
Advocating behavior-driven goals over expectations of quick results
Identifying misconceptions about business growth and sustainable practices
Addressing errors resulting from a disproportionate emphasis on marketing efforts
   
[11:41 -20:58]  Realities of Small Business Growth  
Overnight success in business is a misconception that needs dispelling.
Neglecting direct sales efforts can hinder small business growth.
Strategic thinking, not just marketing activities, drives sustainable business growth.
Setting achievable, behavior-driven goals is essential for small business sustainability.
   
[20:59 - 28:47]  The Formula for Small Business Success    
Embracing the humanness of business, both our own and the reality of who we need to be around to succeed..
Importance of embracing values and orientations as the foundation for growing businesses.
The journey of growth brings more challenges that need to be faced and overcome.
Focusing on the reality of business growth rather than just the corporate paycheck.
 
[28:48 - 36:45] Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship   
Discussing the significance of setting achievable, outcome-based goals
Analyzing the shift towards entrepreneurship as a new feminist movement
Recognizing each success as an act of justice within broader systems change
Encouraging women entrepreneurs to persist in figuring challenges out together
 
Connect with Clarissa Reininger
Website: https://smallbizsilverlining.com/
LInkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/silver-lining-ltd
 
Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
168.  The Chris Voss Method for Closing the Deal
154    Want Reliable Revenue? Here's the Roadmap You Need for Success!
143   Reprogramming Your Subconscious Mind with Rebekah Hogan



Tweetable Quotes:
"The intersection of our wellness (mental and physical) , our profit as business leaders and justice in the world...are actually not opposing forces like we've been taught, but actually they're deeply aligned."... Clarissa Reininger on Business, wellness, and justice alignment
“I'm so lucky. I genuinely get a huge, huge amount of inspiration from the small businesses that we get to work with”. …… Clarissa Reininger on her inspiring clients
 
 
SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs! 
Get weekly tips on how to create more money and meaning doing work you love and be one of the many growing entrepreneurs in our community. Connect with me on LinkedIn; https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/  or on Instagram or our website at www.lifeaftercorpo

Think LinkedIn is just a dull job-hunting site? Think again. This is the wake-up call every aspiring entrepreneur needs to hear because with over a billion members, LinkedIn is the untapped reservoir of business opportunities that you simply can't afford to ignore any longer.  In this episode of Life After Corporate, Host Deb Boulanger brings in Joe Apfelbaum, the CEO who’s coached over 1,000 companies on mastering LinkedIn for unprecedented business growth. Joe's insights today serve as a blueprint for turning digital handshakes into lasting partnerships. Polish your profile, define your strategy, give generously, and step confidently into a community eager to engage with authentic thought leaders like you. Now, if you're itching to transform your LinkedIn presence and uncap that fountain of untapped potential, you absolutely can't miss this episode.  Tap on ‘Play” to unveil the insider secret to making your LinkedIn profile do the work for you.
 
 [00:01 10:01]  Unlocking the Power of Professional Networking on LinkedIn  
Explore beyond the common misconception of LinkedIn as merely a job-seeking platform.
Learn about the underestimated potential of professional networking through a social lens.
Utilize LinkedIn to cultivate relationships that can propel entrepreneurial ventures forward.
Embrace the essential strategies for optimizing your LinkedIn profile to attract more clients.
   
[10:02 -14:38]  Crafting Your LinkedIn Strategy for Business Growth 
Develop a comprehensive plan that includes a business plan, a marketing plan, and a LinkedIn plan.
Leverage a LinkedIn course to learn effective networking hacks.
Understand the steps to creating a LinkedIn strategy, which helps you build your professional assets.
Draft a clear promise or value proposition to present on your LinkedIn profile to attract the right connections.
   
[14:39 - 20:09]  Optimizing Your LinkedIn Presence    
You can save profiles and add them to specific lists within Evvy AI for organized networking.
Evvy AI will summarize Key profile details to help users understand how they could potentially help connections.
Connecting with members from various professional communities is recommended for expanding your network.
LinkedIn is not just for connecting, but also for opening deeper conversations in an authentic manner.
 
[20:10 - 27:55] Your LinkedIn Game Plan for Entrepreneurs   
Develop thought leadership by sharing valuable content and resources in your field.
Use Sales Navigator for precise prospecting and tailor your approach according to your entrepreneurial objectives.
Optimize your LinkedIn profile to establish authority and attract the right audience.
Engage actively with connections to build a professional network conducive to business opportunities.
 
Connect with Joe Apfelbaum
Website: Home | Joe Apfelbaum
Facebook:  Facebook
Instagram: @joeapfelbaum
LInkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/joeapfelbaum
Get EvyAI for LinkedIn Here



Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
169.  Lisa Durante's Strategy for Mastering Your Content Marketing Plan!
168.  The Chris Voss Method for Closing the Deal
148   Using AI in Business Strategies with Lauren Capwell and Lauren Shaw



Tweetable Quotes:
 "And if you're really looking to do more prospecting than networking, I would tell you use Sales Navigator because with Sales Navigator, we have an entire boot camp called the Sales Nav Bootcamp, where we do 6 hours of training on how to use Sales Navigator." … Joe Apfelbaum on maximizing LinkedIn for prospecting
 "If you're not using technology to help you be able to follow-up and stay top of mind with people, then you're missing out on the ability to stay top of mind."...Joe Apfelbaum on modern networking efficiency
 
SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE A FIVE-STAR REVIEW and share this podcast to other growing entrepreneurs! 
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Think you know the secrets to risk-taking in business? You might want to bet again! Unleashing the power of strategic risk-taking can transform your entrepreneurial journey from a cautious trot to a confident gallop. In this episode of Life After Corporate, we’re dealt a hand with Ellen Leikind, an entrepreneur who's turned her poker table into a teaching platform. From poker diva to business maven, Ellen illuminates how the nuanced approaches to risk we see in poker are eerily similar to navigating the entrepreneurial landscape.
You’ll hear Ellen's insights on the BOLT system: on how negotiation is both an art and a science. Ellen's expertise shines through on the topic of handling situations where clients are talking to other people as well. Whether at the poker table or sealing a deal, it's essential to build rapport, lay out a solid strategy, and know exactly when to make that pivotal move. Let this episode be your ace in the hole, equipping you with the savvy needed to turn the tables in your favor. So why leave your success to chance?  Make the smartest bet of your career – hit play, soak in the wisdom, and watch your influence skyrocket. After all, your biggest jackpot may be just one episode away.
So, are you the all-in entrepreneur, or do you clutch your last fake chip with patience? Tune in as we explore the gender dynamics and calculated bravado that could redefine your approach to risk in business. 
Be sure to pull up episode #168  “The Chris Voss Method for Closing the Deal”, which compliments today’s episode.  You’ll find the link below.
 
[00:04:12-12:34] Gender Dynamics in Decision-Making and Business  
Men are prone to take more significant risks, whereas women tend to exhibit caution and patience.
Women's risk aversion can affect their approach to business, investing, and handling uncertainty.
The relevance of one's mindset and self-awareness in negotiating effectively and confidently.
Acknowledging gender disparity and its influence on behavior at the poker table and in business environments.
   
[12:35-21:07] Mastering the BOLT System for Effective Negotiation   
The BOLT system: Building relationships, Organizing a strategy, Leveraging strengths, and knowing when to fold.
Handling distractions like 'trash talk' in poker or silence in business negotiations.
The parallels between maintaining a poker face and exuding confidence in business dealings.
Advice on observing betting patterns and nonverbal cues to understand counterparts. 
   
[21:08-33:16] From Poker Divas to Inclusive Negotiation Training    
Evolution of the Poker Divas from a women-only network to an inclusive negotiation-centric program.
The importance of staying focused and adapting to different negotiation styles and environments.
Launch and application of the BOLT System, promoting better negotiation practices for professionals.
The alignment with personal goals, values, and enjoyment as pivotal to success.
 
[33:17-38:13] The Parallels of Poker and Entrepreneurship   
How choosing the right 'table' or business environment can impact your results and growth.
The significance of reading people, taking calculated risks, stepping into discomfort, and exemplifying patience.
The psychological aspects, like self-esteem and self-worth, impacting women in leadership and negotiation contexts.
Insights into mindset hacks for negotiation, particularly catering to differences between men and women.
 
Connect with Ellen Liekind
Website: Team Building, Leadership and Diversity Programs - PokerDivas
Facebook: Facebook
Instagram: @pokerdivas
LInkedIn: Ellen Leikind | LinkedIn
YouTube: youtube.com
 
Ellen’s Book:
Poker Woman: How to Win in LOVE, LIFE, and BUSINESS Using the Principles of POKER: Leikind, Ellen: 9798218278854: Amazon.com: Books
 
Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
168.  The Chris Voss Method f

Are you tired of networking events with no real payoff? Discover the Game-Changing Strategy That Converts Idle Chats into Income!" Say goodbye to the days of fruitless schmoozing and hello to the art of making every conversation count. In this eye-opening episode of Life After Corporate, we reveal how introverted entrepreneurs can master the craft of turning quiet exchanges into committed clients. Deb provides a roadmap for adapting to market changes, embracing digital transformation, and shifting your message to meet dynamic work environments. Deb dives deep into the power of connective networking and the art of converting conversation. Remember, it’s not just who you know, it's how you engage with them that really counts. It’s about finding common ground, addressing the hurdles that keep potential clients from achieving their goals, and guiding them on a path towards the solutions you offer. So, as you reflect on your own strategies for growth, ask yourself: Are you truly connecting, or just making contact? The Reliable Referrals Playbook might be the key you've been searching for. Be intentional, plan your outreach, and watch as those efforts translate into real, measurable growth. And remember, a simple conversation could be the catalyst for your business’s success. Listen in as Deb gives you a surprisingly simple yet overlooked method to skyrocket your referral score. You won't believe how easy it is!
 
 [00:03:45] Accidentally Creating a Six-Figure Lead Source 
Her strategy for filling up her coaching service by delivering compelling content.
The pivotal role of professional networks in generating high-value leads.
Participation in multiple networks as a cornerstone for creating multiple revenue streams.
How active engagement in communities positions you as a go-to professional for referrals.
   
[03:46 -15:30]  Building a Reliable Referral Network 
The significance of intentional, targeted outreach for connecting with potential referral partners.
Differentiating between types of referral network members: colleagues, clients, and network organizations.
The value of hosting group sessions over one-on-one coffee chats for efficiency.
Utilizing Deb's session "Reliable Referrals Playbook" as a guide to enhancing visibility and client acquisition.
   
[15:31- 30:00] Mastering Sales and Marketing in Uncertain Times    
Deb's method of showcasing clear ROI to adapt offerings in a challenging market.
Importance of listening to clients’ challenges for high converting sales conversations.
Strategies for introverts to engage in conversations with potential buyers or partners on social media.
Utilizing Deb’s revenue calculator to set realistic revenue goals and track progress.
 
[30:01- 40:35] Strategies for Tailoring Referral Tactics 
Understanding the differentiation between one-on-one and group sales situations.
Avoiding free coaching calls, with emphasis on webinars and workshops as alternatives.
Deb’s advice on scaling your services by adjusting pricing and package offerings.
Leveraging gifts and incentives for active referral partners to strengthen the network.
 
Connect with Deb Boulanger
Website: thegreatdoover.com
Instagram: @deb_boulanger
LInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12656341/
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED ON THE SHOW
ScoreCard:  https://www.reliablerevenuescorecard.com/0
The WorkBook:  https://swiy.co/ReliableReferralsPlaybook
Pricing Calculator:  How To Price Your Products (thegreatdoover.com)
 
Go to https://lifeaftercorporatepodcast.com/ for all episodes
155  The Proven Profit Path Sessions: Day One - Prove Demand
156  The Proven Profit Path Sessions: Day Two: Proving Demand
157  The Proven Profit Path Sessions: Day Three: Packaging and Pricing
158  The Proven Profit Path Sessions: Day Four - Position Yourself for Profit
159  The Proven Profit Path Sessions: Day Five - The CEO Calendar



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