My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business

My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your BusinessMy Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business

My Favorite Business Tools for Marketing (and running) Your Business

Ready to level up your marketing game and reclaim your time?  I’m all about finding the right tools to help you work smarter, not harder. Because let’s be honest, time is money, and who doesn’t want more of both? Get ready to dive into my top picks for streamlining your business and boosting results.

Let’s get this efficiency party started!

Let’s be real – running a business is a wild ride, and finding your perfect marketing flow? That can feel like finding a needle in a haystack (while juggling flaming chainsaws… blindfolded).

But worry not! I’m here to help you ditch the overwhelm and conquer those marketing goals. 

And finding the PERFECT business tools for YOU? It’s kinda like finding the perfect pair of power heels. Gotta try a few on til you find the ones that make you wanna strut!

That’s why I’m spillin’ the beans on my fave tools in alpha order.   

NOTE:  **This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you choose to click through and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.**

AddEvent

(FREE + Paid) Click Here

AddEvent can easily share your events and calendars using our amazing.  It includes add-to-calendar buttons, beautiful embeddable widgets, RSVP, and subscriber tools.

The most used and trusted add-to-calendar button on the internet since 2012.  You can add a beautiful add-to-calendar button to your website, give your users a simple way to save your event to their calendars, increase attendance, and make it a success.

Aftershoot

(PAID!) Click Here

I know you may be thinking what – why are you sharing this??!! Well, I’ve been a professional photographer since 2009 and launched my Pinterest Marketing business in 2018.  Without Aftershoot, I would never have time to run a second business.

Culling: I’ve been using Aftershoot to cull my images for years.  I’m shocked at how accurate it is to remove any blurry or eyes closed. I do view the closed eyes in case the photos in emotional but it takes the thousands of images I shot and gives a quarter to give to my client.  You can choose more or less too!   I’ve always had a problem with culling and took hours — this works as fast as 15 minutes for 3k images! 

Editing: Right now, if you are a culling client, Aftershoot is offering free editing as it’s in beta.  My images are 90% there then I fine-tune a few things.  With indoor consistent light, I rarely have to make changes!

Asana

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

A smarter way to work! With Asana, you can drive clarity and impact at scale by connecting work and workflows to company-wide goals. Asana powers businesses by organizing work in one connected space. More than 100,000 paying organizations and millions of teams worldwide use Asana to focus on the work that counts.

I use this for my ToDo list and also for client work.

 

BIGVu

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

Have trouble showing up online or tripping over your words? Want to make more effective videos? Use BIGVU! It’s a teleprompter plus it’s an all-in-one tool for scripting, recording, and styling professional videos. BIGVU helps you:

  • Write scripts instantly with AI. Just say what you want, and it’s done!
  • Record easily with a teleprompter, then trim with a single tap.
  • Add subtitles, cool effects, and your logo for a polished look.
  • Share your videos seamlessly across all your social channels.

I use the paid version as I love to use this and create videos for Instagram, TikTok, YouTube shorts, and Pinterest videos succinctly!

Buzzsprout

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

Podcast Hosting Made Easy! Easy and powerful tools, with free learning materials, and remarkable customer support.  I used to use Anchor that got bought by Spotify which is now called Spotify for Podcasters.  The week I changed to buzzsprout, my I got my highest analytics to date!!  I’m not in the top 25% of podcasts with 208 podcast downloads in the last 7 days.  This software made all the difference with being able to add tags!

Canva

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

This simple and amazing content creation site will help you to create all kinds of images, presentations, posters, infographics, social media images, and really anything you can think of.  There is a free version or you can pay for the pro version that gives you Pro stock photos and one click resizing and more. 

I use this daily from YouTube thumbnails, Instagram graphics, facebook graphics, blog graphics, and so much more!

ChatGPT

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

Simply put, ChatGPT by OpenAi is trained to follow instructions in a prompt and provide a detailed response.  I’ve been using it since it launched in November 2022 and in February of 2023 I started paying $20 monthly for the Pro version because it is so much faster and I never have a problem getting in.

I use it for blogs, client emails, newsletters, creating titles for blogs and YouTube videos, TikTok scripts, and Instagram reels (different).  I’m telling you this is incredible.  Here’s a video on how I use it with tips and warnings to ensure you are using it correctly.

CloudSpot.io

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

Build a thriving photography business on a budget! For just $3, get the tools you need to streamline your workflow, impress clients, and sell your work. Start with a free trial and experience the difference yourself.

Sell your photos with ease! Set up your own customizable storefront, offer prints, products, and digital downloads, and keep 100% of your profits. Clients will love the professional galleries and simple, secure download options.

Manage your business like a pro. Create contracts, send invoices, and track important insights about your clients and sales – all in one easy-to-use platform. Spend less time on paperwork and more time behind the camera with these powerful business management tools.

ConvertKit (Known Now as Kit)

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

I don’t use ConvertKit (Kit) anymore now that I use FG Funnels for this and so much else, but years ago when I went from Mailchimp to ConvertKit, my open rate jumped 20%!

This is free to start and I used it free for years! The analytics are great and you can A/B test email subject lines.  Check it out!

Descript

(Free+Paid) Click Here

There’s a new way to make videos and podcasts. A good way. Descript is a simple, powerful, and fun way to edit. One tool for your full workflow. Descript is the only tool you need to write, record, transcribe, edit, collaborate, and share your videos and podcasts.

Instead of a timeline type of editing, when you have a video it pulls in a script.  Delete a word and the video is edited.  It is insanely cool and makes it so easy to be consistent with creating video content to market your business..

Listen to my podcast about it here and I’m sharing a video soon!

Dropbox

(PAID!) Click Here

Simplify file sharing and streamline your workflow with Dropbox!

  • Deliver a seamless client experience: Easily share large videos, photos, PDFs, and documents without any frustrating size limits or clunky downloads.
  • Budget-friendly storage: Forget about expensive storage plans. Dropbox offers an affordable solution that won’t break the bank.
  • Work from anywhere: Access and send your files from your computer, phone, or tablet – stay productive on the go.
  • Collaborate effortlessly: Create shared folders where clients can directly upload the photos, videos, or documents you need

Say goodbye to complicated file transfers. Try Dropbox and discover the difference!  I use Dropbox for gathering photos, docs, and videos for my annual summit Creative Marketing Summit and Marketing Strategy Academy Podcast for guests

Pinterest Driving You Nuts? It Doesn't Have To!

Imagine easily driving traffic and booking more clients with Pinterest. Our Pinterest Strategy Club takes the guesswork out of this powerful platform. Think of it like your Pinterest shortcut!

What you get inside:

  • LIVE coaching, pinning sessions, and masterminds: No more outdated YouTube videos! Get real-time help tailored to you.
  • Time-saving templates & tools: Gorgeous pins in minutes, plus insider resources to streamline your strategy.
  • A supportive community: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and get the motivation you need.

Ditch the Pinterest struggle. This club is for you if:

  • You’re tired of feeling lost and frustrated with Pinterest.
  • You crave a simple, effective approach that fits your workflow.
  • You want more leads without breaking the bank on ads.

Ready to turn Pinterest into your client-booking machine?

👉 Join the Pinterest Strategy Club today!

Élevae Visuals

(PAID!) Click Here 

Tired of generic stock photos that don’t reflect your brand? Élevae Visuals (formerly Social Squares) is the solution! Their exclusive library of 8,000+ images is designed specifically for female entrepreneurs, giving you the perfect visuals for social media, websites, and more.

Forget the expense of custom photoshoots! With Élevae, you’ll find bright, on-brand images in all the colors you need. Plus, they don’t just offer photos – you’ll get expert marketing tips, captions, and access to a supportive community of like-minded businesswomen.

As a professional photographer, I ONLY use Élevae for my stock photo needs beyond my own photography. Elevate your brand and book more clients with Élevae Visuals.

evmux

(Free) Click Here

Evmux has a ton of great features including multistreaming, ISO video recording, multiple guests and a dedicated green room for speakers. Whether you want live stream software for Facebook Live, YouTube Live, LinkedIn Live or Twitch – Evmux has you covered.

There’s even a workaround so you can go live on TikTok too (although I haven’t used it yet).  Create professional recorded and LIVE content all from your browser!  This is what I used for Creative Marketing Summit with recorded content and live streaming at the same time.

Fathom

(FREE+Paid) Click Here

Fathom records, transcribes, highlights, and summarizes your meetings so you can focus on the conversation. Get setup in minutes.

I’ve tried many notetakers (you’ll see Otter in this list) but I love Fathom as I just set it and forget it as a Zoom user.  I hook it up via the apps in my Zoom and it automatically records the video (great backup) and gives a summary but also lists the questions asked during the call.  One click and I can share it with those that were on the call.  This is a no-brainer.

FG Funnels

(PAID!) Click Here

This software changed my business! (And my bottom line.)

Every year, I invest in my business. It’s a year-end tradition. In 2022, I discovered FG Funnels, and honestly, it might be the best decision I’ve ever made.

Imagine this: a single platform that builds gorgeous sales pages, automates your email campaigns, AND sets up your lead magnets, courses, or memberships – all without breaking the bank!

FG Funnels streamlined my entire process. Forget juggling multiple tools for email, scheduling, and courses! It does it all, saving me time and serious money.

Want to hear the best part? FG Funnels has incredible features, but the price tag is what sold me. Intrigued? I bet you are! Check it out and send me an email if you want more information.

Google Gemini

(FREE) Click Here

Google Gemini is a cutting-edge AI language model that’s changing how we work and create. It can generate different creative text formats, translate languages, provide comprehensive summaries, assist with coding, and much more. 

Unlike ChatGPT, Gemini boasts multimodality, seamlessly understanding and processing various input types like text, images, and video. This, along with its access to real-time information through Google Search, makes Gemini even more versatile and informative. 

Whether you need help brainstorming, writing content, or streamlining research, Gemini is a powerful tool designed to boost your productivity and unlock your creativity. 

I literally use this EVERY SINGLE DAY!

Google Workspace

(PAID!) Click Here

Imagine ditching that generic email address and upgrading to one that reflects my business. That’s just the start with Google Workspace! I get all the tools I need to streamline how I work – my own custom email, shared calendars, video meetings, secure cloud storage, and of course, the familiar Docs, Sheets, spreadsheets, and Slides for easy collaboration. 

It’s like having my own digital office assistant! Want to see if it’s right for you? Check it out to elevate your business.

Instacart

(PAID!) Click Here

Okay, I’ll admit – I used to loathe grocery shopping. Now, thanks to Instacart, I’m a total convert! It’s the ultimate time-saving tool. Think about it: someone else does the shopping while I tackle other stuff on my to-do list. I can either pick up my groceries or have them delivered right to my door. Hours of my life back every week? Yes, please! 

If you’re always feeling crunched for time, Instacart might just become your favorite life hack, too.

LastPass

(FREE! + Paid)  Click Here

Remember how frustrating it is when you need a password and can’t find it? LastPass totally saved me from that headache! It’s my password lifesaver, and I use it for all my clients.

The best part? I can securely share passwords with my family, so nobody’s locked out of any of our apps like Hulu, Amazon…you name it.

Pin Inspector 

(FREE!) Click Here

Okay, fellow Pinterest marketers, I’ve stumbled on a game-changer! Pin Inspector is like having my own Pinterest detective agency. It helps me uncover what’s secretly working like crazy on the platform – hot trends, top-performing pins, even those sneaky ads that are crushing it. And hey, who doesn’t love a discount? Use code PIN20 at checkout for $20 off.

Disclaimer: Since it’s not a Pinterest ‘approved’ third party platform, I would not connect my Pinterest to the app.  You can still do so much with it! 

Slack

(FREE+Paid) Click Here

Honestly, work life used to feel like a never-ending juggling act – emails, meetings, random updates…it was chaos. Then I discovered Slack. Boom! Everything is streamlined: conversations, project updates, all my favorite tools in one spot.

It’s like an AI assistant for my entire workday, and my productivity has skyrocketed. Plus, being part of the Salesforce family means it’s only getting better!

Stripe

(PAID!) Click Here

As my online business started taking off, payments were a total nightmare. Then I found Stripe. It’s like the backbone of my digital sales – customers can pay seamlessly, I get my money quickly, and the whole system just works.

Whether you’re just launching your online store or running a full-fledged e-commerce empire, Stripe makes the money side of things a breeze.

Tailwind

(FREE!) Click Here

Okay, fellow marketers, let’s talk about social media sanity! I’ve been a Tailwind user since 2018, and even after testing all the competition, nothing comes close. It’s my secret weapon for Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook. Scheduling? Done. Optimal posting times? Tailwind’s got my back. Plus, their Communities feature is fantastic for growth.

But here’s the game-changer: Tailwind Create and Ghostwriter. Think killer graphics and engaging captions in a flash. Honestly, I’ve scaled back using Canva and ChatGPT because Tailwind does it so well for social media! Full disclosure: I work with Tailwind on education, but I’d shout their praises from the rooftops even if I didn’t!

Voxer

(FREE!) Click Here

Okay, if you’re constantly juggling communication, Voxer is about to change your life. Think of it as the ultimate walkie-talkie for your smartphone! I’m ditching endless text threads and using it for everything. Quick chats with my VA? Check. Speedy client updates? Done. Connecting with my Masterminds, memberships, and coaching? Yep!

And who wouldn’t want to talk versus type things out anyway? It’s crazy efficient and way more personal than just texting.

Summary

Give one or more of these tools a whirl and see which ones light your fire! 🔥

Rememberthe right tools + my proven methods = a streamlined marketing machine that fuels your success (and lets you get back to that zone of genius)!

Let me know if you want to explore how I can help you bring your business growth vision to life!

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Pinterest Trends Weekly:  Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All I’m baacckk with the latest trends this week on Pinterest. If you were inspired by the Autumn reset trends from last week, you’ll love what Pinners are falling for this week. As a highly aesthetic season approaches, searches on...

Don’t Forget To Pin It!

My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business
My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business
My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business
My Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your BusinessMy Favorite Business Tools for Running and Growing Your Business 2

The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output

The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output by Jen Vazquez Media

The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output

Hey there content creator! Feeling the pressure to keep up with that crazy content demand? Don’t sweat it! I’ve got the secret sauce to transform how you create. This post spills the beans on a totally unique strategy that’ll blast your content output into orbit. Get ready to say goodbye to endless content creation and hello to more time and epic results!

Hi, I’m Jen Vazquez, Pinterest marketing expert for busy service providers. If you’re tired of the Pinterest grind and want to attract more dream clients effortlessly, you’re in the right place!  Whether you need done-for-you Pinterest management to free up your time OR want to learn my proven strategies to grow your own business, I’ve got you covered. Just schedule a Discovery call to see how I can help you with Pinterest.

The Struggle is Real: Understanding Your Content Challenges

Picture this: You’re in a constant battle to crank out fresh, awesome stuff. Blog posts, social updates, videos… the to-do list is out of control! It’s like juggling a gazillion flaming chainsaws. Yikes! Plus, the content world changes faster than you can say “viral video.” It’s exhausting trying to keep up!

But that’s not all! You gotta make your content stand out in a sea of online noise. It takes major creativity and effort to get heard! Oh, and don’t forget about keeping that brand voice strong. With teams spread out, things can get messy, and your message gets lost.

Now take a deep breath ’cause here comes the good part… REPURPOSING! It’s the secret weapon that’ll save you time, boost productivity, and quadruple your output. Boom!

The Power of Repurposing: Work Smarter, Not Harder

Repurposing is like giving your content a costume change! Instead of starting from scratch every time, remix your awesome stuff into new formats. Here’s how:

  • Blog to Boom: Turn that killer post into a snazzy infographic or a podcast episode.
  • Social Snackables: Snip your content into bite-sized social media gold.
  • Consistency King/Queen: Repurposing keeps your message clear across all platforms.

Repurposing extends your content’s lifespan too. It’s like the best content party ever!

User-Generated Content: Your Community is Content Gold

Wanna tap into a content wonderland? Your community is the key! Testimonials, reviews, those hilarious blog comments… they’re all content treasure. Here’s how to make it happen:

  • Feedback Frenzy: Ask for opinions and show your followers that you care.
  • Testimonial Time: Feature customer wins on your website or social media.
  • Community Love: Respond to comments, share ideas, and give those shout-outs!

By using your community’s voice, your content becomes mega authentic and builds crazy trust.

Have a Question for Jen?

Brand New Offer

Get Lifetime Pinterest coaching with Jen Vazquez of a one-time fee of $197

Yo, want some kickass marketing coaching for LIFE?

Yeah, you heard that right! I’m giving you lifetime access to my brain, my Pinterest secrets, marketing workflows, and a whole community of rockstars – all for a one-time fee of just $197. 🤯

*Limited Time Offer

Streamline Your Workflow: Tools to the Rescue!

Time to level up your content game with some sweet tools and tactics:

  • The Content Calendar: Your new BFF for organization and planning power.
  • Repurposing Remix: It’s content makeover time!
  • Teamwork FTW: Collab tools like Google Docs keep everyone in sync.
  • Automate It: Social schedulers and email tools work magic while you sleep.

These tools are like giving your content creation superpowers!

Quality over Quantity: Content that Rocks

Now, let’s make that content shine! It’s not about volume; it’s about creating stuff that connects:

  • Know Your Tribe: Their problems, their dreams – that’s your content fuel.
  • Storytelling Superstar: Share those wins, fails, and everything in between.
  • Visuals FTW: Images, infographics, and videos make your content pop.
  • Call-to-Action Champ: Tell your readers what to do next with exciting CTAs.

Take Action for Awesome Results!

Ready to quadruple your output? Heck yeah! Download this checklist and unleash those content superpowers:

Remember, rockstar content isn’t about quantity, it’s about quality. Embrace these strategies and watch your content crush it!

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Pinterest Trends Weekly:  Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All I’m baacckk with the latest trends this week on Pinterest. If you were inspired by the Autumn reset trends from last week, you’ll love what Pinners are falling for this week. As a highly aesthetic season approaches, searches on...

Don’t Forget To Pin It!

The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output by Jen Vazquez Media
The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output by Jen Vazquez Media
The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output by Jen Vazquez Media
The Counter-Intuitive Approach to Quadruple Your Content Output by Jen Vazquez Media

My Favorite Business Tools for Marketing Your Business

My Favorite Business Tools for Small Business Owners

My Favorite Business Tools for Marketing (and running) Your Business To Save Time

Hey there, superstar! ✨ Jen Vazquez here, ready to streamline your marketing game and give your precious energy a big ol' boost!

Let's be real – running a business is a wild ride, and finding your perfect marketing flow? That can feel like finding a needle in a haystack (while juggling flaming chainsaws... blindfolded).

But worry not! I'm here to help you ditch the overwhelm and conquer those marketing goals. I've got a Pinterest Marketing Method that works like magic, and if you're ready to completely hand Pinterest over, my trusty agency is here to take the reins. Think of us as your Pinterest Fairy Godmothers!

And hey, finding the PERFECT business tools for YOU? It's kinda like finding the perfect pair of power heels. Gotta try a few on til you find the ones that make you wanna strut!

That's why I'm spillin' the beans on my fave tools in alpha order.   You can also watch the video below if you prefer to watch than read.

NOTE:  **This post contains affiliate links, meaning that if you choose to click through and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.**

AddEvent

(FREE + Paid) Click Here

We make it easy to share your events and calendars using our amazing.  add-to-calendar buttons, beautiful embeddable widgets, RSVP, and subscriber tools.

The most used and trusted add-to-calendar button on the internet since 2012.  You can add a beautiful add-to-calendar button to your website, give your users a simple way to save your event to their calendars, and increase attendance and make your event a success.

Aftershoot

(PAID!) Click Here

I know you may be thinking what - why are you sharing this??!! Well, I've been a professional photographer since 2009 and launched my Pinterest Marketing business in 2018.  Without Aftershoot, I would never have time to run a second business.

Culling:  I've been using Aftershoot to cull my images for years.  I'm shocked at how accurate it is to remove any blurry or eyes closed. I do view the closed eyes in case the photos in emotional but it takes the thousands of images I shot and gives a quarter to give to my client.  You can choose more or less too!   I've always had a problem with culling and took hours -- this works as fast as 15 minutes for 3k images! 

Editing: Right now, if you are a culling client, Aftershoot is offering free editing as it's in beta.  My images are 90% there then I fine tune a few things.  With indoor consistant light, I rarely have to make changes!

BIGVu

(FREE!) Click Here

Be concise, record with a teleprompter.  Make your videos straight-to-point, read your script scrolling down the screen. Add automatic subtitles, your logo and colors.
Connect with your audience on social media, your vlog, emails or chat messages. Plus create 10x More Videos with AI. Script, Shoot, Edit, Style and Share Videos faster than ever!

Canva

(FREE!) Click Here

This simple and amazing content creation site will help you to create all kinds of images, presentations, posters, infographics, social media images and anything you can think of. There is a free version or you can pay $12.99 per month for the pro version. 

ChatGPT

(FREE!) Click Here

Simply put, ChatGPT by OpenAi.  It is a sibling model to InstructGPT, which is trained to follow an instruction in a prompt and provide a detailed response.  I've been using it since it lauched in November 2022 and February I started paying $20 because its so much faster and I never have a problem getting in.

I use it for blogs, client emails, newsletters, creating titles for blogs and Youtube video, TikTok scripts, and Instagram reels (different).  I'm telling you this is incredible.  Here's a video on how I use it with tips and warnings to ensure you are using it correctly.

ConvertKit

(FREE! + Paid) Click Here

ConvertKit simplifies email marketing by combining powerful automation with an easy-to-use interface and it looks pretty also!

Descript

(Free+Paid) Click Here

There’s a new way to make videos and podcasts. A good way. Descript is the simple, powerful, and fun way to edit. One tool for your full workflow. Descript is the only tool you need to write, record, transcribe, edit, collaborate, and share your videos and podcasts.

Instead of a timeline type of editing, when you have a video it pulls a script.  Delete a word and the video is editing.  It is insanely cool, easy and makes it so easy to be consistent with creating videos.

Listen to my podcast about it here and I'm sharing a video soon!

Dropbox

(PAID!) Click Here

Dropbox is a file hosting service operated by the American company Dropbox, Inc., headquartered in San Francisco, California, US that offers cloud storage, file synchronization, personal cloud, and client software. 

Élevae Visuals

(PAID!) Click Here 

Élevae Visuals (formerly Social Squares) is my FAVORITE and exclusive stock photo + video company.  Most entrepreneurs can't afford to get a completely custom gallery of images to use throughout their business. 

Élevae work primarily with female entrepreneurs from all types of businesses. Their subscription provides a gallery of over 6k images that are so perfect for social media, websites, and anywhere.  They are bright, come in a variety of colors that you can search for, and fit most brands. 

There's not just images, they also offer captions and marketing tips monthly from amazing experts (I am a contributor) and an amazing community of smart women running all kinds of businesses that you can chat with in their private Facebook community.  Run, don't walk to sign up so you can put a brand forward that will book clients. 

evmux

(Free) Click Here

Evmux has a ton of great features including multistreaming, ISO video recording, multiple guests and a dedicated green room for speakers. Whether you want live stream software for Facebook Live, YouTube Live, LinkedIn Live or Twitch – Evmux has you covered. There's even a workaround so you can go live on TikTok too (although I haven't used it yet).  Create professional recorded and LIVE content all from your browser!  This is what I used for Creative Marketing Summit with recorded content and live streaming at the same time.

Fathom

(FREE+Paid) Click Here

Fathom records, transcribes, highlights, and summarizes your meetings so you can focus on the conversation. Get setup in minutes.

I've tried many notetakers (you'll see Otter in this list) but I love Fathom as I just set it and forget it as a Zoom user.  I hook it up via the apps in my Zoom and it autmatically records the video (great backup) and gives a summary but also lists the questions asked during the call.  One click and I can share it with those that were on the call.  This is a no brainer.

FG Funnels

(PAID!) Click Here

Best gift I game to my business!  Every year I give my business a gift.  It’s typically at the end of the year (for tax purposes).  Two years ago it was FG Funnels.  

FG Funnels was founded by Julie Stoian and Cathy Olson in late 2020.  A little note: Julie was actually the former VP of ClickFunnels. The platform rivals ClickFunnels, and is similar to all in one platforms like BuilderAll and Kartra.  

The system helps you build high-converting sales funnels and campaigns quickly by automating tedious tasks like creating professional-looking landing pages, sending the right follow-up emails after a purchase is made, creating a landing page for lead magnets and automatically sends nurturing campaigns, or handling onboarding new course or membership members.  You can use it for forms for high ticket items like coaching or VIP days, which turns into purchasing them, and onboarding them.

Basically FG Funnels is designed to replace most of your tools like ConvertKit, Acuity and Thinkific (MONEY SAVED!). It includes features like a funnel builder, email marketing, has a membership where you can share affiliate links, it has texting.  I'm telling you this CRM is my dream come true in terms of how it works and the price tag.  Don't wait as this baby is gonna be right up there with Kajabi soon!

FocusKeeper

(FREE!) Click Here

Focus Keeper helps you keep your productivity high avoiding burnout using the timer. Work with time. Not against it.  You can add tasks in there and see a graph of your time.  They believe you should work 25 mins then 5 min break, repeat, repeat, repeat then a longer break.  omodoro Technique, also known as the tomato timer technique or just 25 minute timer technique refers to a popular time management hack that breaks your work time into blocks of 25 minutes for maximum focus and productivity, allowing 5 minutes breaks in between sessions.

GoodNotes

(PAID!)  Click Here

It’s an amazing software I use on my ipad to handwrite notes and also open and read workbooks or other PDF’s.

Google Workspace

(PAID!) Click Here

Similar to G Suite, all Google Workspace plans provide a custom email for your business and include collaboration tools like Gmail, Calendar, Meet, Chat, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, Sites, and more. For additional details, visit our plans and pricing page.

Instacart

(PAID!) Click Here

Instacart is an American delivery company that operates a grocery delivery and pick-up service in the United States and Canada. The company offers its services via a website and mobile app. The service allows customers to order groceries from participating retailers with the shopping being done by a personal shopper for you to pick up or they deliver.  This has saved me HOURS of time, energy, and effort (as well as gas) and it's my favorite hack to saving time.

 

LastPass

(FREE! + Paid)  Click Here

Password Management from Anywhere.  I not only use this for my business but also for my personal

Loom

(FREE!) Click Here

How to Screen Record With Loom.  Loom is the best screen recorder for Chrome, Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android. It’s quick to install, easy to use, and free.  I use it to help train my VA and to show my clients and potential clients how to do something.

Otter.ai 

(FREE!) Click Here

Automated note taking.  Still manually taking notes? Generate rich notes for meetings, interviews, lectures, and other important voice conversations with Otter, your AI-powered assistant.

Pin Generator

(FREE Trial!) Click Here

Creating pins used to take forever. We have reduced this to seconds. Create pins by grabbing images and data from any website and turn on autopilot.  I just started using this and I'm blown away -- check it out for free!

Pin Inspector 

(FREE!) Click Here

Pin Inspector Pin Inspector is the world's first Pinterest content research desktop software with 6 powerful built-in tools for easily uncovering hidden high-converting posts, videos, boards, pinners, ads and top trending searches from the massively popular social media network!  Use coupon code: PIN20 at checkout for $20 off

Disclaimer: As it’s not an “approved” pinterest tool, I don’t link it to my Pinterest specifically just in case. 

Stripe

(PAID!) Click Here

Payments infrastructure for the internet.  Millions of companies of all sizes—from startups to Fortune 500s—use Stripe’s software and APIs to accept payments, send payouts, and manage their businesses online.

Tailwind

(FREE!) Click Here

(for Pinterest and IG automation):  Save time scheduling to Pinterest and Instagram, post at the best times for engagement, grow together with Communities, get more actionable analytics.  I have been using Tailwind since February of 2018 and still tried all the competitors.  Hands down it's the best social media third party platform. 

 

It posts to Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook and it saves me so much time with its tool.  I love Tailwind Create and Ghostwriter.  I can do away with chatGPT and Canva because of them, but I use them for other things so not just yet.  

Full discloser, I help Tailwind with education so it is truly a favorite tool I believe in!

 

Tango

(FREE!) Click Here

Create stunning how-to guides in minutes, not hours. Document any process as you click, without ever taking another screenshot. Tango automatically documents any process and turns it into a step-by-step interactive walkthrough. Sound too good to be true? Here’s how they do it. Avoid hours of tedious work. Just click through your steps, and Tango will format screenshots, write descriptions, and create a shareable link to your new guide.

Voxer

(FREE!) Click Here

Voxer is a Walkie Talkie messaging app for your smartphone with live voice (like a PTT walkie talkie), text, photo and location sharing.  I use Voxer daily.  I use it to communicate effectively and easily with my VA as it’s so much easier to talk than to text.  And, I use it for all of my clients for my Pinterest Strategy Academy, VIP Days, and Agency clients. But also my female networking and coaching groups!

World Time Buddy

(FREE) Click Here

World Time Buddy is a popular visual time converter, scheduler, and world clock. Millions of people across the globe rely on our app and website to schedule meetings and events. This is the easiest to use, yet advanced, world clock app for dealing with time across multiple time zones!

Wordpress

(FREE + PAID!) Click Here

You may already be familiar with WordPress. This famous website platform boasts of providing 28% of all the websites on the globe. That’s a lot of sites! These websites are relatively easy to design, but many business owners hire a web designer to set everything up. I did mine myself with the help of Divi Plugin. Adding content and images is really easy; very similar to Microsoft Word. 

Zoom

(FREE!) Click Here

You can conduct online meetings and share screens with your clients. There is a free option with limited features and Pro plans.  You can do webinars also.  Zoom is kinda a staple since 2020.  It's a no brainer!

Summary

Give 'em a whirl and see which ones light your fire! 🔥

Remember – the right tools + my proven methods = a streamlined marketing machine that fuels your success (and lets you get back to that zone of genius)!

Let me know if you want to explore how I can help you bring this vision to life!

 

Don't Forget To Pin It!!

My Favorite Business Tools for Entrepreneurs
My Favorite Business Tools for Entrepreneurs
My Favorite Business Tools for Entrepreneurs
My Favorite Business Tools for Entrepreneurs
My Favorite Business Tools for Entrepreneurs

Intro to Affiliate Marketing: Your Way to Steady Online Income

Affiliate Marketing 101 The Beginner's Blueprint for Online Earnings with Enelin Toneva

Ready to turn your online activity into a passive income stream? Affiliate marketing can unlock your earning potential while you sleep. Affiliate marketing is a complex world with niche products, programs, and commissions. Don’t worry – we’re going to break it all down for you.

This blog post is a simplified, beginner-friendly guide to understanding the exciting world of affiliate marketing.

Special Guest Interview with Affiliate Marketing Pro Enelin Toneva

This post features insights from my recent interview with affiliate marketing expert Enelin Toneva, the founder and CEO of the Vivian Agency. Enelin shares her knowledge and expertise, answering common questions and laying out affiliate marketing basics to help you get started on your journey.

What is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a commission-based partnership where you promote another person or company’s products or services. You use a unique tracking link to lead potential customers to their website. When a customer makes a purchase using your link, you earn a percentage or a flat fee commission.

Why is Choosing the Right Niche Important?

Choosing the right niche is key to targeting the right audience and maximizing your success. For example, a broad lifestyle influencer is less likely to convert sales for a specific health and fitness supplement than a fitness influencer with a smaller but highly relevant follower base.

What Are Affiliate Programs – How Do You Sign Up?

Affiliate programs are partnerships between influencers/content creators and businesses looking to promote their products and services. To streamline the process, you can join affiliate networks like:

These networks allow you to browse, discover, and apply to suitable affiliate programs.

The Importance of Tracking Results

Tracking your progress and results is crucial to knowing what works and what doesn’t. The main things to track are:

  • Affiliate links: Use your links properly to ensure you get credit for every sale.
  • Promo codes: Offer special codes to your audience, giving them an incentive while helping you track results.

Want To Learn Pinterest? For FREE?

Join our Pinterest Spring Refresh Challenge to optimize your profile and help to grow your business!

Common Commission Structures Explained

Affiliate commissions can vary, so it’s important to understand the different structures you’ll likely encounter:

  • Fixed per sale: A set amount for each sale you drive.
  • Recurring subscriptions: Earn commissions for a set period for subscription-based products.
  • Percentage per sale: Receive a percentage of the total sales you generate.

Proven Strategies for Affiliate Marketing Success

Here are a few tactics experienced affiliates use for success:

  • Use multiple marketing channels: Expand your reach and boost exposure.
  • Create authentic content: Build trust by sharing genuine experiences with the product/service.
  • Build your presence: Grow an engaged audience that trusts your recommendations.

Affiliate Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

  • Forgetting to use your affiliate links
  • Promoting products without building your online presence first
  • Only promoting products you don’t believe in

Get Your Free Affiliate Marketing Guide

Enelin has generously provided her ebook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Own Affiliate Program. This guide is specifically designed for businesses interested in creating their own affiliate programs. [Insert a link to where they can download the guide]

Affiliate marketing can open doors to new income streams. Do your research, find the right programs, promote products you believe in, and you can start growing a passive income stream today!

Enelin’s services

Here’s her information and freebie:

Let’s take action!

Don’t delay, schedule time next week to apply Enelin’s advice for affiliate marketing.  You won’t regret it!

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Pinterest Trends Weekly:  Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All I’m baacckk with the latest trends this week on Pinterest. If you were inspired by the Autumn reset trends from last week, you’ll love what Pinners are falling for this week. As a highly aesthetic season approaches, searches on...

Don’t Forget to Pin It!

Unlocking the Power of Email Flows: The Key to Skyrocketing Your Sales with Amy Auble

Unlocking the Power of Email Flows: The Key to Skyrocketing Your Sales with Amy Auble marketing strategy academy podcast with jen Vazquez

Email marketing is a time-tested and effective tool for turning casual interest into loyal customers. Amy Auble, founder of Alpine Start Media, offers her invaluable experience in the industry for businesses that want to master email marketing to scale.

What are email flows?

Email flows are automated emails sent to subscribers after they join your list, providing ongoing engagement opportunities to nurture them into customers.

Top 3 email flows every business needs

  1. Welcome flow: Immediately greet new subscribers, deliver any promised freebies, and set the tone for your brand.
  2. Post-purchase flow: Follow-up with customers to provide product education and support, preventing buyer’s remorse.
  3. Abandoned cart flow: Remind those who left items in their cart to complete their purchase.

Biggest mistakes in setting up email flows

  • Easily exploited discount codes: Protect your margins by using individualized codes (available through platforms like Klaviyo).
  • Not optimizing for mobile: Design emails for the majority of users, who read on their phones. Ensure readability.
  • Not segmenting lists: Tailor emails to recipients by behavior – did they purchase multiple times? Tailor the email accordingly.

How to personalize email flows

Segment your audience: Break your list into smaller groups based on actions (opened emails recently? Clicked on links?) and send tailored content.

Tools for creating killer email flows

Klaviyo: This platform Amy recommends due to its Shopify integration, reporting, segmentation tools, and unique coupon code feature.

Design platforms: Utilize Canva for adding a custom, eye-catching design element to your emails.

Want to Learn Pinterest

We are doing a new Pinterest Challenge to learn to use Pinterest to grow YOUR business!

How to measure email flow success

Deliverability: Verify your domain with your email provider to ensure your emails aren’t flagged as spam. This is key!

Open rates: Aim for a 45%+ open rate. This depends on your industry, however.

Click rates: Even a 1-3% click rate is good for product-based businesses. Focus on building rapport over time to increase this.

3 things that helped Amy grow her business

  1. Networking: Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs offers support, insights, and new opportunities.
  2. Hiring help: Delegate tasks you’re not skilled at, or that you hate, to free up time to focus on your strengths.
  3. Stress management: Work-life balance is essential. Listen to your energy, make time for self-care, and prevent burnout.

The importance of sending regular emails

Stay consistent: Regularly sending emails keeps you top-of-mind and builds trust with your audience. Aim for at least one per week.

Provide value: Share educational content, promote your services, and offer insights that your subscribers find engaging.

Amy’s services

If you need help with your email marketing or social media strategy, consider visiting Amy’s agency, Alpine Start Media, which specializes in sustainable brands.  

Here’s her information and freebie: “5 Ways to Grow Your Email List”:

Let’s take action!

Don’t delay, schedule time next week to apply Amy’s advice to your email marketing – these strategies have the potential to significantly impact your business growth.

Here is more information that may be helpful!

Pinterest Trends Weekly:  Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All

Pinterest Trends Weekly: Fall + All I’m baacckk with the latest trends this week on Pinterest. If you were inspired by the Autumn reset trends from last week, you’ll love what Pinners are falling for this week. As a highly aesthetic season approaches, searches on...

Don’t Forget to Pin It!