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Imagine Color 2023 Color 2023 The Head of the Table

Nov 19, 2023

"Think" In Color 2023 has been officially concluded! We're thrilled and thankful for the opportunity to participate into our lineup of fantastic women and BIPOC innovators and leaders within the industry. We hope that at the end of the evening you were inspired by our speakers' stories and gained insights into how you can create a prosperous online community, expand your service offerings and grow your business, in along with other aspects.

Many topics were debated throughout the event, we've done to bring the best moments with the full attention of. Learn more about what we took away from each presenter.

Skip ahead:

     Creating Cozy & Collaborative Virtual Communities    

Cicely Blain, Anti-racism expert and Founder of Bakau Consulting

Description of the event Remote work was a reality before COVID-19, the pandemic intensified the necessity for companies changing to a more digital world. In turn, companies that would like to have an intimate relationship to their customers set up communities of like-minded clients can benefit from and help to assist one another. But it could be difficult to create an online community as intimate as one that is physically.

In this video, Cicely Blain shares their journey to build their virtual community called Living Room. They discussed their strategy for making a welcoming and warm environment in the digital world, making sure that their communities are safe and inclusive by using the internet to respond to the needs of people.

The main Takeaways

 Know who your audience is and what they're searching to find.

Prior to launching Living Room, Cicely had identify the audience they wanted to create an online community for. Since their mission is founded in anti-racism and anti-oppression Cicely knew that their community was focused on people who were DEI specialists, consultants and HR professionals that do similar jobs.

Then, Cicely had to figure out what these people really desired.

"I was contemplating about"What are these people looking for, especially in this pivotal day when many of the things shift and getting a different direction?

     Folks are definitely yearning for the feeling of belonging, a sense of solidarity and connections in times of the feeling of. People are also seeking sources and want to increase their understanding."

Make your content an engaging website.

One of the best methods to get people to join your virtual community is by providing them with something that they can relate to. For Cicely the thing that was a good fit was their living area. They tried to recreate the same cozy and relaxing environment that their living space provided.

     "I was thinking "What is it that I would like people to feel upon entering the space? I thought to myself, I want them to feel the same how they would feel if they were in an actual space. It must be warm and warm and welcoming. I was hoping that they would feel relaxed at ease, at peace by a sense of connection, understood, and loved."

Cicely brings this positive energy into all people by:

  • The virtual meetings begin by reminiscing for 10 minutes. Facilitators will ask a single inquiry on screen in order to assist attendees in doing their own internal analysis.
  • A soft playlist based on R&B to allow listeners to relax and feel comfortable during the call.
  • Engaging in each conversation as if you're having a conversation with their closest friends. If they're not filming for an online class Cicely might be doing their makeup or making a cup of coffee at home in their kitchen.

 Provide a variety of ways for members of the community to obtain the information they need

Although the members of a social network tend to have a lot in common with the other members, they'll have their own needs strength in weaknesses, strengths, and demands. For your business it is essential to find different ways in that you are capable of meeting the needs of your members despite their differences.

Together with Living Room, Cicely met the needs of their members through:

  • Offering various forms of engagement (e.g. live chat, discussion forums complete online courses, and much more. );
  • Establishing guidelines and common values for the community;
  • You can allow people to be seen as authentic;
  • Remove unnecessary stresses including time restrictions as well as agendas for meetings
  • Considering accessibility needs (e.g. disabilities and neurodivergence) such as disability, neurodivergence, etc.

Funds in the Funnel Strategies to Increase Sales a Customer-Focused Funnel

Ellie Diop, Content & Finance Coach at Ellievated Academy

Description of the session: In order to develop a profitable business you must have customers who purchase your items or use your services. A lot of companies commit the mistake of creating content that they wish their ideal customers to buy and not what their clients actually need. In this presentation, Ellie explains how you can boost revenue and increase your sales by building a funnel to attract your most desired customers and that is tailored to their requirements and needs.

The main lessons

Every single piece of content plays a part to perform.

A funnel specifically designed for the user can be described as establishing a connection with your customers. The best way for achieving this is to develop information that is useful as well as relevant for your customers. A funnel that is designed to be customer-focused comprises five stages:

  • Awareness
  • Discovery
  • Then there is the consideration
  • Conversion
  • Retention and relationship, REPEAT

It is crucial to create relevant content Ellie states, "Every piece of content that you produce is part of the team that sells. So whatever you posted just three months ago, is moving people along this funnel... Be consistent in your presentation and in a similar manner creates a a predictable tone for your customers to understand and help them navigate across this path."

Your brand will be clear

If you're not certain who your goods or services will be marketed to, then there's no way anyone will purchase or employ them. Therefore, before you create an online funnel, you need to clarify your goals and purpose by beginning with the ideal customer. Consider:

  • Who do I serve?
  • How can I assist them in resolving their problems?
  • What can I do?

The answers to these questions form the foundation of any business choice. Ellie suggests a template that can be used to help your [YOUR TARGET Audience] in achieving their goals through the product or service you offer.

Through her own experiences in growing her business Ellie shares, "For myself, this could be "I assist women in creating lucrative businesses by providing them with strategy as well as financial knowledge '... for a long period of time. The information was recorded on a paperclip on a desk. When I made the decision to create a video I could remember who I was speaking to. "

Develop your social media followers

Social media is one of the most efficient online channels to help build the brand's reputation and driving prospects for your business. It's so effective that the vast majority of users visit your business's Instagram profile (or the other social media profiles) prior to visiting your website.

Therefore, you should put your time (and maybe even money) in the posts on social media in order to get it noticed. The most effective way to achieve this is to:

  • Producing engaging informational and shareable videos (especially video)
  • Advertisements that are paid for
  • Working with influencers that have the same target market as you

HTML0 Lead magnets may be used to expand your email database

As you're creating content, the goal is to reach the highest number of people who aren't on social media on your list of email subscribers. When you join people on your list of email subscribers, it provides you the opportunity to interact directly with them. This is more valuable than if they happen to stumble onto your videos and posts when they browse Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). That's where lead magnets can help.

By using lead magnets, you're handing worth to get contacts of individuals (usually their email and name address). You can also request other information as well. In the beginning of her business venture, Ellie offered free 1-on-1 sessions to customers who were willing to share their reviews. She used those testimonials to get her first set of paid clients.

     "You've to think about, 'What is an area where I could provide an incredible free service that will inspire people? Make it your primary incentive. [In my business], I recently introduced a brand new approach wherein instead of pushing customers directly to purchase a particular product, we make them join a free offer like the free masterclass. We then sell it on the back end. We have had great results."

Maintaining customers who are already in the system is less difficult than finding new ones

Each new lead you receive, you'll go through the process of taking them through the sales funnel. It is a lot harder than convincing an existing customer to purchase from you once more. Make sure you are focusing on retention to the same degree as, if not higher, like you would the acquisition of customers.

To keep your customers, there are steps to follow:

  • Support your customers with high-quality service
  • Utilize surveys of customers to gather feedback
  • Find testimonials from satisfied customers (offer rewards, should it be it is possible)
  • Make a secondary offer to fill market gaps

When she created the second offer, Ellie shares, "I have just created my very first credit card for business at 15 dollars. While I was creating it, I was getting feedback from my clients on what they're looking for following. The result was my Business Credit revamped. In the following I developed the complete Business Credit masterclass, and then the entire package. What happened is, a majority of those who bought the first version, then went on to purchase the next one to complete the gaps. Then they bought the second version because they grew in the knowledge they gained, and wanted to expand their skills."

Growing Both B2C as well as B2B Companies to create numerous revenue streams

Jessica Chen, Global Communication Expert & CEO at Soulcast Media

Session Description Business, in general, have three primary aspects of revenue and sales: their offerings and services and their content to explain their offerings and services, as well as the channels through which channels they share their information. In this presentation, Jessica discusses the power of LinkedIn to help businesses connect to both clients (B2C) and other companies (B2B), how to make your content appealing to both groups of customers and also how you can expand the range of services you provide to satisfy the requirements of both audiences.

LinkedIn is an effective method to promote content via LinkedIn to increase exposure

Although many entrepreneurs and professionals already have accounts on LinkedIn However, they're not looking at it as a place where you are able to increase the reach of your profile and share articles. Instead, they think of it as an avenue for updating resumes, finding new jobs, and only making connections with those you already know.

In actual life, LinkedIn is a social media platform that is similar in its function to Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), and it should be treated like such. The only difference is in the type of content you publish.

With regard to the growing popularity of LinkedIn, Jessica says, "The benefits of LinkedIn is this: You're reaching a particular segment of the population that are engaged in the process of professional development and an eagerness to expand. "

Jessica will also share her story of how she went beginning with her story of working being a reporter in the year 2018 to becoming an accredited Top Voice and a LinkedIn instructor within five years. The reason she explains this is that she stays consistent on LinkedIn and connecting to many different audiences which can profit through her help to individuals improve their communication skills.

Change your messages to meet the needs of both B2C and B2B viewers.

Most business owners believe they'll only be noticed when their website is targeted to consumers who are merely people. This isn't true.

The strength of LinkedIn is the fact that it permits the user to alter their message to cater to both B2C and B2B customers. Content itself doesn't require any changes, but changing how you talk about your company can increase your exposure and help you attract individuals and businesses.

"I realized that when trying to convey my message to my viewers B2C, I employ words like "you," "your" Have ever considered this? ...?'""you"?" "What are you?" asks Jessica. "My words are direct, which means that those who read the text has the impression that it's a personal message.

     "[With the target audience of B2B], instead using 'you' or 'your or 'your' as my primary words, I'm now conveying my message using things like"the the team' and "the company'. It's more positive and more personal."

Create a reputation as a thought leader to entice B2B customers.

Contrary to the typical client who is just looking for the best product, B2B audiences need to be sure that they're getting the best. To attract the attention of B2B customers, you must present yourself as a professional or thought leader in your industry even though the product that you provide is targeted at B2C customers.

In the case of a photographer, then you may develop and market classes in photography to your B2C customers. To get B2B leads, it is possible to create thought-provoking content on work in the area of the arts, or about how you create a profitable business as an artist. Also, if you run 1-on-1 workshops that teach people how to improve their productivity, you can reach out to B2B customers by publishing information about increasing productivity in the workplace.

You'll then be able to go to businesses that sell B2C goods like online courses or one-on-one classes, as well as providing workshops and talks.

How to build your personal brand using Video

XayLi Barclay, Expert and Visual Content Coach Start Shoot Expand

Session Description: As the proprietor of your business isn't it likely to come across as not important, particularly when you're in a competitive market or sector. But you can overcome this problem by establishing a positive image for yourself through video content, be it short TikTok clips, Instagram Reels, or longer YouTube videos. In this talk, XayLi explains how you could make use of video content to help promote your online courses as in addition to generating sales. improve the reputation of your brand with your clients.

There isn't really much information available to get started.

If you're creating the first livestream or your first livestream, don't think that all of it has to be perfect. Start with the footage you've got. At first the viewers may not like the low quality footage and editing abilities as they realize that with time progress, you'll become better.

XayLi herself started using her laptop, a simple white backdrop and a run-off-the-mill lighting.

"This is the place where I got my start in the field, and I was even approached as an expert" she states. "I had a desire to sit until I was able to get my media room set up to begin instructing people. I utilized my equipment since I knew what I was trying to impart was not just the stunning setup can be.

Presently, I'm using the full studio built into my house. However, this is the place my first attempt at HTML0 a couple of years in the past. "

Then you will be able to access more information as you move up

When you begin to gain more attention through your video content and earn money It's possible building up your collection and upgrade your video equipment. In this case, for instance, you could invest in a more expensive camera or webcam and tripod stand (worth around $500-$1,000), a green screen and E-Camm Live as also a teleprompter application along with an Adobe Premiere subscription for editing.

When it comes to upgrade alternatives for your equipment and sets, XayLi says, "[At the moment] it's possible to use several camera angles. The number of options is endless. Now is the time to make the investment as you're earning money. Many of us believe we must be appealing before we can earn money. No. You must go on the market, and after that the money is expected to start flowing in."

After you've earned enough cash, you are able to contract your edits to video as well as distribution and recording to contractors, or an internal team.

Be attentive to only one thing at any given period of time

There's a common misconception that you must do all things to increase the size of your company posting on every channel and join every trend and discuss a variety of subjects. It's not always the case. It is better to focus just one area at a time as you create your image. Not only does this prevent burning out, but it also lets the viewers know what they should expect of you every when you upload an image or video.

According to XayLi's "Rule of 5 Ones" The five elements to focus on when defining your digital plan of action:

  • One product or service
  • One possible market
  • One Lead Conversion Tool
  • Most important source of traffic
  • One goal for a business

Memberships & Memberships The Good, The Bad The Ugly and The Ugly

Teri Ijeoma who was the founder of Trade & Travel

Session description: When done right, memberships make a perfect opportunity business opportunities to develop better relationships with their customers, in addition to generating additional revenues. Teri Ijeoma is the creator of an online platform for membership that concentrates on Trade & Travel and she now has more than 35,000 users attending her courses and more than 185,000 people on her list of email subscribers. In this session, Teri shares the benefits when establishing a membership program membership and discusses how businesses can establish and utilize to create memberships in a way that is efficient.

HTML0Make sure you know when you're able to move from a group which is completely free, to one that has a member model

If you're not a popular firm, then you'll be required to launch your membership program with offering value for free. Teri launched her membership plan with a group in Facebook that was free. As you expand your group, you'll need to know when to transition from a no-cost community to an paid membership model.

This is a sign to be aware of before making a decision:

  • Your group is growing in size but your members only pay an annual cost to get the services you provide instead of paying for other benefits that your group offers, e.g. year-long customer support, etc.
  • Members of the group begin the meetings themselves or in sub-groups and it becomes difficult to manage the group's administration.
  • Moderators of groups are employed as coaches, offering consulting services for group members. They are they do not earn any extra income by referring group members to you.

 Your Membership program is an item in its own

Certain companies that create online courses may also provide subscription programs to the courses. While membership programs are an excellent method of making your course look more appealing, you must treat it as a full product, not as an added-on.

As she discusses the benefits of her Trade & Travel membership, Teri says "In the beginning I was convinced that it was a continuation of my studies. It's not the case -it's an item on its own. It should have its own team, staff along with promotions, marketing plans and even a business program... you should take the membership into consideration as an "product."

You must be conscious of your price

As you move from a no-cost group to a membership model, take note of the objectives for income you set and price your products on the basis of those goals. In this point, it's simple to set your price lower to get more members. If you're confident that your product is full of worth, do not be reluctant to ask for a high cost to access it.

If, for instance, your goal is to earn 10,000 dollars per month, it's better to get 500 customers to commit $200 per month than to get 1,000 customers paying $100 a month. The more costly your expenses are and the more customers you're not able to attract are likely to sign up. It also means that you'll be able to reach your goals for income quicker and will be able to regulate your plan.

Panel discussion on Head of Table

Diandra Marizet (Host) The Executive Director and Co-founder of Intersectional Environmentalist

Description of the session: This panel discussion will feature four speakers Cicely, Ellie, Jessica and XayLi talking about their opinions regarding the importance of inclusiveness and diversity in the world of business, and the issues women as well as BIPOC business owners confront as they seek to establish themselves within the creative economy and also how they can price their products ethically within the market of capital.

Here is a list of the most poignant, important concerns and questions that are raised in this discussion:

     Many women of color entrepreneurs are gaining financial stability for the very first time. What challenges, issues and possibilities do the future hold for them?

Ellie Diop: Just like poverty's trauma, there's also wealth trauma too. If you're one of the few within your family to have an e-commerce company, there's not an example to follow. The stigma exists when speaking about finances, particularly for a person who is from a minority and earns more than most people see in their lifetimes.

After I had my first million, I was afraid of leaving my home with my mother. I wasn't yet ready to make a commitment to buying a house since I was unsure of what I'd be doing if the house was taken away. Also, it was a little nerve-wracking to discuss the decision with my family because I was afraid that they would think different about my character.

The thing I'd like to see seeing more of are collaborative places like such as these, which can help eliminate this stigma and tell people "Hey is there anything going on? If you're struggling to earn more money, and you're not sure how to spend your earnings Don't be reluctant to talk about it". The stigma perpetuated is a reason why many people earn a lot of money only to go back to where they were.

     Often, in the business world there's a requirement to be integrated, code-switch, or stay silent, or set certain aspects of us off. It is not always easy to imagine that we conform to the notion of professionalism. What did that experience teach you about how you contribute to your community? How do you apply that knowledge to your work as a DEI professional?

Cicely Blain: In the same systems we grew up in and the way we see similar types of people being featured on television, media as well as social media as well as where certain people online are gaining a lot of attention and others get banned, people begin to believe that they must to conform to a certain style of living as well as the manner in which you communicate.

If you can find a place that you're recognized as what you're like by the people who surround you, and by your peers in authority (even when they may not have the same experiences that you), that's truly liberating. Even though the variety of people represented is growing and there are more chances available but there's a rule that's not written on how you should present yourself their best. We tend to internalize the two norms (even even though they may be untrue) which can hinder us.

On TikTok the majority of users aren't dressed and polished all the time. Although that's great, I'm convinced the chance to do so is limited to a select few, and that there's more expectation for others and how they portray themselves.

When do you decide that the direction you're taking doesn't align with the place your capabilities are and what your dream can be, and you make the decision to shift to full-time business?

Jessica Chen: All of us will reach a point at which we realize that what we had planned to do was not achieved and that we're now ready for a completely new adventure. Personally, I worked in an amazing job I was passionate about, but after 10 years I realized that I had something else to give. I've always been the type that has the ability to design my own style. It was then that I thought about how I could teach the techniques I've mastered.

My first position was the field of journalism. Although it's something you consider to be the only "proper" work that does not allow you to express your thoughts, but you're not allowed to speak your mind and are merely telling others' stories. It was quite an experience to begin creating my own voice and showing my personal style. It was certainly a learning steeple.

     What is the best way to price your offerings or services in order order to draw people who share your values, are eager to learn more about you and recognize the benefits of your product?

XayLi Barclay Says: Lots of the time we offer cheap prices, but we overload investorswhich is not good for the investor. There is a temptation to think that you'll draw a large number of customers if you're selling low. However, chances are that you're dealing with buyers who are overwhelmed that are unwilling to take an informed final decision.

I enlisted a coach to help my business to determine how much I should be making which then determined my pricing based on volume. We see a lot of creators who launch an online course for $7 and earn six figures from that course and yet they lack the amount. If you're a smaller-scale creator You must know the goals you have set for yourself for your business, so that you're able to set price based on your objectives.

If I offer 5 online classes at $1,000 for each class, I'll earn five thousand dollars, as opposed to selling 500 courses at $10 for each course. Think about it this way. That's exactly what I wanted to go through.

Session Videos of Think In Color 2023 available as a streaming service

Here's the deal. The most significant takeaways that you can draw from the event that lasted three hours, designed for new and experienced entrepreneurs involved in the creation economy. We invite you to dive deeper into the topics which have caught your attention.

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