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MICHAEL'S MARKETING AGENCY, LLC
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Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work

4/28/2019

 
I know what you're thinking.

Wait, doesn't Mike do Facebook ads for businesses?

Yes, I do.

And I still do - because they work well... but not for everything.

Turns out, it's tough to get someone, who has never heard of your business, to buy your product or service directly through a Facebook ad.

I've tried it for a couple of my clients and the results have been miserable.

So we're not doing that anymore.

But before you declare Facebook ads dead… keep reading.

Here's the better play: if you sell a product or service, don't try to sell it directly to a cold Facebook audience.

Instead, use Facebook ads to get them into a sales funnel.

The targeting features on Facebook’s ad platform are still second to none (as of 4/28/19).

Use FB ads to grow your email list, hit them with an automated email sequence to warm them up, build and strengthen a relationship with them, then offer your product or service. And don’t hesitate to offer your product/service in your first email.

Back to Facebook...

Facebook ads work well when it comes to capturing leads, driving targeted traffic to your website, getting exposure to your target audience, and building an email list.

I want to highlight the last one - building an email list.

This is important: The money is in the list.
​

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The money is in the list

You've heard that before, right?

It's true.

You have free access to people who said, “yea, I actually want to hear what you have to say and offer.”

THAT IS HUGE.

If you use the power of your email list, correctly - you will generate more sales, turn clients into loyalists and brand ambassadors, and build relationships that strengthen over time. People will make a connection with you and your business.

All you need is 1,000 true fans.


If you haven’t read that book, you should.

It’ll only take about an hour.

It’s only 46 pages and it costs $3.

Here’s the link if you want to check it out: 1,000 True Fans

​
About the whole email marketing thing..

You can’t just offer a coupon or discount.

People are flooded with mundane and predictable offers in their inbox every day.

There’s some kind of “sale” every day.

That’s why most people just hit the DELETE button.

So make sure to make your emails stick out.

Craft a catchy subject line that creates curiosity - but make sure it’s not clickbait. Address whatever your subject line indicates, so people don’t feel like you ripped them off.

You’ll notice my emails are plain and simple. That’s on purpose. I want my emails to feel personal. I’m writing to you. I’m not blasting an advertisement to thousands of people with fancy HTML graphics all over the place.

This is not an advertisement.

It’s a story-driven email with valuable information you can implement right now in your business... with a soft sell at the end.

It works. 

Give it a shot.

Sometimes I use bold lettering. That’s because some people don’t read every single word in every single email. They skim the text and move on. I want to make sure they see the important parts - hence the bold lettering.

Tell a story.

Human beings love stories. They have since the beginning of mankind.

I’m telling a story right now, and you’re still reading, right?

People connect with stories.

Provide value and make people feel something.

People buy products & services based on emotion.

More importantly, people buy from people.. Not businesses or brands.

I know you’ve heard that one before.. but it’s a good reminder for me every time I hear it.

On a personal note; my business is shifting slightly.
​

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It's a shift...

​I used to be a Facebook ads guy - and I still am.

But email marketing is a better way for me to help businesses grow.. and to help people.. and that’s what I like to do.

I also like to write compelling copy. I could write all day long.

There’s a craft, strategy, and structure to writing words that make people feel something and take action. I’ve invested a lot of time and money into online courses taught by big names in the email copywriting industry (yes, such an industry exists).

So while FB ads used to be the focus of my business, they are now just a very important complement to it.

Facebook ads can grow an email list as fast as the weeds in my front yard.

But that’s only the first step of turning a cold audience into a hot & bothered new client who can’t get enough of you.

The money is in the list.

It may sound corny (I am).. but I’m no longer calling myself a Facebook ads guy.

I’m a Sales Generating Storyteller.

It’s ok.. you can laugh. :)
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Hahahah!

So…

With all this said, I hope you have some takeaways.

**Use the power of your email list**

If you understand the importance of email marketing, but simply don’t have time to do the research, interviews, and storytelling… I can help.

I’m doing it for two awesome businesses right now.. and both business owners have told me their clients have mentioned how much they enjoy reading their emails.

The clients mentioned the stories in the emails, to the business owner, which created a stronger relationship between business owner and client… perfect.

If you want to talk about how we can generate more sales and strengthen relationships in your business, let’s hop on a call.

Here’s the link to book a call

Thanks for reading.

​It means a lot to me.


​Thank you,
Michael


P.S. Do you like my redesigned website? Melanie Amorim from NAx2 Creative did it. I tried doing it myself and it looked terrible. I'm not a web designer, but Melanie is. She’s awesome if you ever need a fresh look to your website.


tap here for 6 words to use in every email
tap here for 7 best practices for fb ads
Here's more content that can help you...

This $16 investment made me thousands (and can make you even more)

The best marketing strategies in 2019

Why you need an email list (and the fastest way to grow your existing one)

How my baby can help grow your business

How my awkward ride to work can help you




​​Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018-2019 - All Rights Reserved
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The Biz Lesson My Baby Boy Taught Me at A Brewery

4/28/2019

 
My wife and I brought our baby boy, Brady, to a brewery on St. Patrick's Day (say that five times fast).

Turns out, we weren't the only cool parents there.

There were babies everywhere.

As soon as we walked through the front doors, about a dozen beer drinkers put their pints down, stopped their conversations, and greeted Brady with smiles and, "Oh, my God. He's soooo cute!"

Brady got the red carpet treatment as we made our way to the back corner of the brewery.

Yes... we put baby in a corner.

Before we sat down, we said hello to a couple who had the same idea we did.

They brought their baby, too.

A few minutes later, our niece and nephews walked in with my wife's sister and her husband.

We hadn't seen them in more than a month - so we decided to meet them at a local watering hole before going back to our house.

We tried a couple tasty beers at the family-friendly brewery.

Then Brady stole the show.

He was full of smiles as he locked in with laser focus on his chew toys (we think he might be teething).

The people at the two tables next to us couldn't get enough of him.

And naturally, as babies do, Brady made them smile and start conversations with us.

We shared some short stories and made a connection.

After about an hour, with two beers down the hatch, we decided to call it quits... before Brady started getting fussy.

Our little lucky charm was well-behaved.

So we got up, took a family photo, and walked out to the same happy stares and bright smiles that we were greeted with.

Here's that family photo...
​
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Brady's 1st St. Patrick's Day, 2019

When night arrived, and Brady was fast asleep, I realized he reminded me to make sure I do something important every single day. 

I have a high-stress career in TV news.

I have a brand new baby boy who isn't a fan of sleeping through the night quite yet (but I still love em).

And I'm working my tail off to grow my own business.

It's easy for me to get caught up in the grind.

And I know you might feel like that sometimes, too.

So here's what Brady reminded me to do...

Don't forget to smile.

Don't forget to make people smile.

Don't forget to make connections with people.

And don't forget to strengthen them over time.

Do it with your family.

Do it with your friends.

Do it with your clients.

Don't worry about hitting the reset button.

If you've been thinking about testing something new - do it.

Stay fresh, like Brady's baby face.

Life (and business) will be better.


Go get em',
Michael Sullivan


P.S. As a new parent, I'm sure my mini-me will teach me a lot of lessons. What's something your child, or any child, has taught you, that has stuck with you? Shoot me an email!
​
tap here for 6 words you should use in every email
tap here for 7 best practices for FB ads
Here's more content that can help you...

Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work

This $16 investment made me thousands (and can make you even more)

The best marketing strategies in 2019

Why you need an email list (and the fastest way to grow your existing one)

How my baby can help grow your business

How my awkward ride to work can help you



​Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018-2019 - All Rights Reserved
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How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You

2/26/2019

 

So I had an interesting ride to work the other day.


I listen to marketing & business-related podcasts every single time I’m in the car (except when my wife’s with me. She doesn’t particularly like my podcasts. But if it’s just me and my baby boy in the car, we listen to them… because he can’t talk yet).

I couldn’t name one Top 40 Song right now.

I’d rather use my drive time to learn, than to listen to mediocre music.

I might be a dork...

But I’m ok with that.

Anyway...

I listen to The Marketing Book Podcast, Laptop Empires Podcast, The Greatness Unlimited Podcast, and a few others.

I recommend all of them.

I honestly think you’ll get some really good takeaways for your business.

Each episode inspires me and gives me fresh ideas I can implement to help my clients - and myself (they’ll do the same for you).

But the other day, something strange happened when I started listening…

I WAS THE GUEST ON THE SHOW!

I’m not gonna lie…

It was a little awkward to hear my own voice coming through my car’s speakers.

I’m not used to that… (but I could get used to it)

But ya know what?

I don’t think it was that bad.

In fact, I think my slightly awkward ride to work could help you.

I’d really appreciate it if you flipped on Bluetooth and listened to the 23 minute podcast.

I got to share some valuable and actionable information and tips that you can use right now to help generate new leads and convert them to new paying clients.

It was an honor to be a guest on, “The Greatness Unlimited Podcast”, with Coach Chris.

Check it out here:


I hope there’s at least one takeaway for you.


Have an awesome day & thank you,
Mike Sullivan

​
P.S. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you really like it, feel free to share with anyone you feel can benefit from it.

Want an edge over your competition?
then join my email list
You'll get two FREE GIFTS just for joining the family!

1. Seven Best Practices for Facebook ads
​2. Six Words to Use in Every Email


Here's some more content that can help you...

​Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work

This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it could make you even more)

The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019
​

​How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business
​
​
Why You Need an Email List (and the fastest way to grow your existing one)

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​Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018-2019 - All Rights Reserved
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This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it could make you even more)

1/28/2019

 
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​OBJECTIONS… they suck.


I’m sure you’ve heard at least one of these in your career...

“I need to think about it."

“Let me talk it over with my wife/husband.”

“It’s too much money for me right now.”

“I don’t think the timing’s right.”

Sound familiar?

I’ve been in business for a year now, and I’m still ‘weak sauce’ at handling objections.

In general, I don’t like confrontation. I’m quick to say, “OK, thanks for your time and have a good day”.

I work hard to get leads, only to watch them slip away in seconds.

It sucks.

I feel like I wasted my time and theirs.

When someone says, “I’ll get back to you”, I know 99% of the time he or she won’t.

When someone says, “I’ll talk to my wife/husband about it”...

Yea, right.

99% of the time, they have no desire to ever hear from me again.

But that’s cool…

Because every failure is a learning experience…

and I’m getting better at handling objections.

In fact, I’ve learned objections aren’t a bad thing at all.

I almost prefer to hear them.

Instead of freezing once an objection is thrown my way, I’ve found a way to turn (most of) them into an opportunity where I can actually help the person I’m speaking with.

I’ve learned a lot from my small group of mentors.

One of them told me to read the book, “Objections”.

Makes sense, right?

It’s an easy read, packed with valuable information you can implement as soon as you hear your next objection… because it’s only a matter of time before you do.

I’m glad my mentor recommended it - so I’m doing the same for you.

The $16 investment has turned “hard NO’s” into thousands of dollars in revenue.

It could do the same, or better, for you.
 

You might be great at handling every objection in the book (sure, pun intended).

But if you know there’s room for even the slightest bit of improvement…

If you want to stop watching potential clients slip away and walk out the door or hang up the phone…

And if you want to not freeze like a deer in the headlights once you hear an objection…

Then buy the book…

Read it…

And turn objections into new clients that’ll pay you for help, recommend you to friends and family, and become your biggest fans.

Go kick some butt,
Michael
​

P.S. What books do you recommend for me? I love learning new things all the time!

Want an edge over your competition?
Then join my email list
You'll get two FREE GIFTS just for joining the family!

1. Seven Best Practices for Facebook ads
​2. Six Words to Use in Every Email

Here's some more content that can help you...

Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work
​

How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You
​

The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019

​How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business

Why You Need an Email List (and the fastest way to grow your existing one)

How can I help you? Fill this out and we'll get to work

Submit



​Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018-2019 - All Rights Reserved
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The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019

12/19/2018

 
The marketing industry is changing now, more than ever. And if you don't keep up, you'll fall behind your competition.. and quickly. 

Two years ago, for the first time in history, digital advertising outspent TV advertising - and don't expect that to be a fluke.

Plain and simple, the ways businesses reach people are different than they were 20, 10, five, even two years ago. That's because the ways people consume content and media have changed dramatically.

Hello Netflix. 

(confession - I don't have Netflix. I just know a lot of people do)

So.. gone are the days when TV, radio, and newspaper ads were all you needed. 

These days you can get right up in someone's grill. 
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No, not that kind... 

... this kind.

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You know.. the thing that's always within an arm's length.. the thing that can ruin relationships.. the thing that people can't live without and have become addicted to.. their cell phones.
 
A huge chunk of consumers are glued to their phones, so it's no surprise mobile marketing has skyrocketed over the last two years. 

That's why, in 2019, ya gotta do digital and ya gotta make it mobile.

​Content is KING (but only if people see it)

People don't like getting smacked in the face with advertisements. They can smell a sales pitch from a mile away, and quite frankly, they're over it.

That's why you need to provide valuable (online) content. People like doing their own research before they buy. So produce content to show you're an expert. Prove you're the best choice for the product/service by giving them valuable information. And when they're ready to make a purchase, they'll remember you. 


If people have questions, give them answers. If they want more information, give it to them.

Now here's the "(but only if people see it)" part.

You can produce the best content in the world, but if people don't see it - man, what a damn shame.

That's why paid traffic is the way to go. 

As of this writing, despite recent scandals involving people's personal information & Russian hack jobs, Facebook is still the king of social media/digital advertising. 

That may change in the near future, but as of right now, FB is still the way to go. 

Look out for Pinterest and Instagram to step up their advertising/marketing game in the near future. If they do, you better believe I'll be producing Pinterest and Instagram ads for my clients. We're going to stay ahead of the curve.

And oh yea, email marketing is a must. 

I wrote an entire post about that. You can check it out here if you haven't read it yet.

​Do something WEIRD
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OK, maybe not THAT weird...

But these days you have to be good at what you do. If you're not, your competition will eat your lunch.. and maybe your dinner. Being good at what you do is the very least of what your clients expect. If you're not good, they'll go to your competition and forget you existed.


Damn, Mike.. why you being so tough today?

(I'm a dad now, so I'm just offering up some tough love. I just want to help you stay ahead of the game, that's all.)

That's why I want you to do something weird.

Marketing is all about getting someone's attention. It's about staying "top of mind".

It's like middle school recess, when awkward pre-teen boys do their best to show off in front of girls. 

You know what I'm talking about..

I did it back in the mid-90's.. and failed miserably.

OK, back on track.

Question - what makes you stick out? 

So you're good at what you do. So is everyone else. What are you doing that's different than your competition?

​Think about that for a minute...
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She's thinking - you should, too

​No, I'm serious.

​Take a minute and think about it.

Write it down.

Remember it.

​Implement it.



Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies

One major hotel chain is known for giving its guests warm chocolate chip cookies at check-in. The comforting offer is just strange/weird/unique enough that it leaves a memorable mark.

People rave about the damn cookies.

It's what they remember most.

Whatever your weird thing is, doesn't have to be extremely strange. I mean, it CAN be if you want it to. But just do something that makes people remember their experience with you.

I, for example, offer my clients $50 off a Facebook ad if they do a testimonial for me.

I also give my clients 50% off every single ad during our fourth month together. It's a simple way of me saying, 'thank you' for your loyalty.

I also give my clients $100 off a Facebook ad for every new client they refer to me.

It's not too crazy, but hopefully it's something my clients appreciate and remember.

Keeping a client is easier than acquiring a new one.

Remember that. 
​
So, what can you do that makes people remember you?


​What I learned in my 1st year of business...

I'll keep this part short, because I plan to dedicate an entire post to this topic. But, perhaps the most important thing I learned in my first year of business, is to go above and beyond what my clients expect. 

It's simply another way to stand out from the rest. 

I don't nickel and dime any of my clients - because I genuinely want to help them, not hurt them.

So ask yourself what you can do, to go above and beyond your clients' expectations. It'll only lead to good things for you (and your clients) moving forward.

​
Testimonials are HUGE

People are more likely to buy a product or service if they hear a complete stranger recommend it, rather than the business itself.

For example, I can say, "you should hire me because I'll help you grow your business."

Or you can read these testimonials from my awesome clients:

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Having testimonials is a proof of performance. They can reveal results or shed light on your character. Those things help build trust with potential clients. So make sure you use testimonials in your marketing efforts. They work.


My no. 1 rule of business

As a mentor of mine says, "just be a good sh*t human being."

He's right.

Just be a good human being. If you genuinely want to help people, the rest will fall into place.

Zig Ziglar once said, "You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want."

It's true, right?

Be a problem solver. 

Care about your clients.

Help them succeed.

Get them results.

Doing so will make you stand out. And that's what marketing is all about - especially in 2019.


​Have you joined my email list?
​

If so, thank you so much!
If not, I'd love it if you did!

In fact, here are two FREE gifts to help you implement two of the strategies that'll help grow your business starting right now.

tap here for 7 best practices for fb ads
6 words to use in every email

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Here's some more content that can help you...

This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it can make you even more)

​
Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work

How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You

How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business
Three Reasons Why Your Business Needs Facebook Ads
For more stories like this, be sure to follow me on Facebook, LinkedIn, & Pinterest (Michael's Marketing Agency) - I'd really appreciate it!





Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018 - All Rights Reserved
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Why You Need an Email List (& the fastest way to grow your existing one)

12/8/2018

 
Plain and simple, having an email list can mean more green in your pocket.

It's pretty much FREE ADVERTISING.

Think about it.

You get to connect with people who voluntarily sign up to receive your emails, whenever you want to send them one.

And the best part? They're already fans of yours. 
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She loves getting emails
Most of them have probably already purchased your product or service - and they don't mind when you show up in their inbox. In fact, they want you to!

Just don't be spammy or annoying. You don't have to try and sell something every single time you send an email. You can try if you want - but you might see people "unsubscribe".

What you have to do is PROVIDE VALUE.

Make them FEEL SOMETHING.
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When you do these things regularly, you'll make natural connections with your loyal customers.

After you provide value, be sure to include a CTA - a Call To Action - at the bottom of your email.

Whether you ask people to simply respond to your email, or ask them to click the link that leads to your website/blog/"shop now" page, etc. 

Most people don't like making decisions. It's like when you ask your friends where they want to go out to eat, and everyone says, "I don't care. I'm cool with whatever." 

​They be lookin' like...
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Just tell me what to do
​Again, most people don't like making decisions. They like to be told what to do. So tell them what to do - and they'll probably do it.

Having an email list allows you to build stronger relationships with people who already love you. And people do business with people they like.

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It might sound intimidating or a lot of work to make it happen. 

But good news! It's not terribly hard. 

There are plenty of great ESP's (Email Service Providers) available today.

Check out companies like, Mailchimp, AWeber, Drip, or Constant Contact. There are plenty more, so make sure to do your research. 

I, personally, use Mailchimp. It's free and easy to use. There are paid options, but I am still using the free one. 

You can import or manually add your customers' email addresses to create a "list". From there, you can send single emails to your list - or create automated campaigns. 

In an automated campaign, you usually do all the work upfront. Then you relax and let everything run on autopilot... even when you're sleeping. You could technically make money while you sleep!
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For starters, you have to give someone an incentive to join your list. Your family and friends might join just because they love you. But customers or people who are new to your brand, need a reason. 

What's in it for me (WIIFM)? What do I GET? Why should I join your list? 

I speak to business owners about email lists, copywriting, and Facebook ads - three crucial assets every business should invest in right now. That's why I offer my clients and readers:
tap here for 7 best practices for FB ads
(You should tap above. It'll only help you)
It all goes back to providing value - whether it's exclusive offers ONLY your email subscribers will get, a FREE guide/checklist/toolkit, etc. or a great story that helps, educates, or entertains. All those things provide value. 

Also, make sure you include sign up forms on your website. You can embed code or create a fancy landing page. You can even use a pop-up window and have it trigger automatically when someone is about to close out of your website. Those features are all available on ESP's.

The fastest way to grow your email list is through paid traffic - specifically, Facebook ads (as of 12/8/18). 

Short Proof of Concept
I helped one of my clients gain 151 new email subscribers in one month - at a cost of $161.41. 

That's $1.07 per email subscriber. Would you pay that much for a new client/customer? 

So would I.

Think about it. My client is now able to build relationships, offer exclusive deals, and promote her products to those 151 people - for FREE, through an email. 

Talk about return on investment. 

And oh yea, she already has more than 8,000 people on her email list. She must be killing it with email marketing, aka FREE ADVERTISING.

One email marketing expert says having an email list is like having an ATM. Anytime you need money, just send an email and get people to buy. And it doesn't cost you anything.

So those are some of the main reasons you need an email list.

It's easier to keep a customer than to acquire a new one. So treat your email list with respect. Offer exclusive discounts that only your email subscribers have access to. Make them feel like they're part of your community/tribe/team, etc.

Again, people like doing business with people they like.
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We like each other
So make sure they like you.

Having an email list is crucial. It's the greatest return on investment you can get, if you do it right. 


If you know you need an email list - or need help growing it - I can help. Just shoot me an email and we'll come up with a customized plan that works best for you.

And do me a favor. If you haven't joined my email list, please do!

You'll actually get TWO FREE GIFTS! 7 Best Practices for FB Ads and this...
TAP HERE FOR THE 6 WORDS TO USE IN EVERY EMAIL
Here's some more content that can help you...

Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work
​

This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it can make you even more)

​How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You

The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019

How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business
For more stories like this, be sure to follow me on Facebook, LinkedIn, & Pinterest (Michael's Marketing Agency) - I'd really appreciate it!

    Fill this stuff out if you'd like me to help you

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How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business

11/23/2018

 
I get it. 

The headline's ridiculous, right?

But hear me out.

I can tell you this for a fact. My baby boy, Brady, has absolutely, 100% helped me grow my business. And he can help grow yours, too.

Why?

Because he's an infant and he doesn't sleep through the night yet. 

​Here's my boy...
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© Brittany Leclerc Photography
As brand new parents, my wife and I are already sleeping on pins and needles - making sure our little man is OK. 

Is he breathing? Is he choking on formula (yes, we're formula parents. We tried the breast milk thing and our kid was starving)? What was that sound? Should we go check on him?

But after seven weeks, we moved Brady out of the bassinet in our room. He's now in his room - in his crib (which probably feels like a king size bed), down the hall. 
Picture
© Brittany Leclerc Photography
We leave his door open and we leave ours open, too. We can still hear just about everything.

Just as we start to close our eyes each night, we hear the little man start whimpering. We freeze in bed and quietly hope the sweet baby struggle sounds will suddenly stop. 

Sometimes they do. Sometimes they don't. Sometimes they only grow louder, into a full-fledged cry. And the only thing that'll stop that cry is when mommy or daddy race to the rescue. 

Within a couple minutes, the wailing that bounces off the walls, as Brady waits for us to make his next meal, is suddenly replaced with the sound of him sucking on a freshly-made bottle. 

His soft baby lips surround the rubber nipple. With each swift sip, a small amount of formula balances on the side of his mouth, almost waiting for permission to run down the side of his face like a stream. But nine times out of ten - it doesn't. And I'm impressed by that.
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© Brittany Leclerc Photography
As Brady enjoys his midnight snack, his big blue eyes stare right into yours, as if to say 'thank you for feeding me'. 

Then suddenly, eye contact is lost. 

My son starts desperately searching for the one other thing that'll keep him calm in the middle of the night. He scans the room like a sniper, until he finds what he's looking for. 

Then BOOM! 

He's got it. 

Locked in with laser focus. 

His eyes make contact with the majestic structure tightly fastened to the highest point in his room - the ceiling fan. 

He stares deeply into the light fixture and delivers a deep, genuine smile. 

To him, it's success. To me, it's a freaking mystery.

Why the hell are babies obsessed with ceiling fans and lights?

Anyone?

After I finally win the war of regaining his attention, and he downs a few ounces, it's time to burp. 

I sit him up straight on my left knee, then lightly tap his back. The burp rag strategically placed, ready to catch any surprise that might surface from his tiny stomach.

He tries to keep his head held high, but his baby neck muscles aren't quite there yet. 

Then he lets out a big, juicy burp. 

Success for him, but a moment of uncertainty for me.

The smell of regurgitated baby formula is enough to make you queasy at 3:17 a.m.

But I'm able to keep it down.

Act like you've been there before, Mike.

OK, back to the story.

After he gets some good burps out, I keep him upright until I feel confident he can lay down and be OK. Then I put him back in his crib, sit in the rocking chair next to the crib... and wait.

I wait for him to stop squirming, and slowly drift back to sleep - sleep only a baby can get. And it's in those moments - the moments when I WAIT, that my son actually helps me grow my business. 

Those are the moments when I think and take action. 

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© Brittany Leclerc Photography
I think of ways to grow my business. I think of ways to improve my clients' results. I think of ways to help people and build relationships. 

That's why I'm writing this blog post.

Then, I take action.

I scroll through Facebook and search business databases. I make a list of business owners I'd like to help. I don't reach out to them immediately - because it's the middle of the night. But I write everything down so I don't forget it.

Sidenote: If you find yourself in bed at night and your head is filled with a list of things to do the next day, you should simply write them down. Grab a pen and paper, or grab your cell phone. Write down every single thing on your mind. It'll help clear your head because you won't have to worry about remembering everything you have to do. It'll be there on a nice list when you wake up - hopefully from sleep comparable to Brady's.
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© Brittany Leclerc Photography
Back to the story.

Before I know it, an hour or two has passed. I'm still sitting in the rocking chair, thinking. 

Brady is in a deep sleep. Sometimes my wife comes in his room, slightly frustrated, and reminds me to go back to bed. 

She just wants me to sleep. I love her for that. But what can I say, I'm an entrepreneur just like you - trying to grow my business and help solve other people's problems.

I eventually get out of the chair, tip-toe out of the room, walk gently down the hall, and hop back into bed. And then I fall back asleep with a clear head (because I wrote down everything I need to do when I wake up). 

Fast forward a few hours. 

It's now 8 a.m. and all three of us are up for good. 

Then it's time to work (in between feedings and diaper changes).

I take action on the items I thought of while most people slept. I reach out to the business owners I think I can help. I write blog posts like this one, to inspire, educate, and entertain.

My goal is to help you grow your business - by reading my blog posts, by producing and managing Facebook ads, by crushing copywriting, and providing the all-important email marketing services. 

As of this writing, Facebook ads and email marketing is a powerful combination, when it comes to growing business. That might change in the future. But right now, these two tools are a "must" for every business owner.

Email marketing is by far the most effective way to boost sales by creating relationships with your customers. Email marketing can drive sales, if it's done the right way. 

Don't annoy people. 

Just help, educate, and entertain.
tap here for the 6 words to use in every email
Facebook ads can help you grow your email list - quickly. Facebook ads can do a lot more, including boost sales - but only if they're done the right way, too. 

No "boosting" posts, please. It doesn't work.

Now to the part of the story you've been waiting for: How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business.
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© Brittany Leclerc Photography
A lot of business owners tell me they've tried using Facebook ads to promote their products and services - but many of them admit they don't know if they're doing it right - and therefore, aren't getting the results they'd like.

Brady to the rescue.

During one of the sleepless nights, I came up with a list of "7 Best Practices for Facebook Ads" - if you do these seven things, you'll enjoy better performing Facebook ads. Plain and simple.

So, in a way, Brady is the co-creator of this list - because he was awake at 2:39 a.m. one night, and so was I.

We did it together.

So here it is - for free.

No risk.

Nothing to lose.
Tap here for my list of "7 Best Practices for Facebook Ads"
I use these seven best practices every single time - to get my clients good results.

I want to help, educate, and entertain.


I hope I proved my baby boy helps me grow my business and he can help you grow yours, too. 

Make those seven best practices work for you, because they do make a difference.

Do me a favor and leave a comment (or question) if you liked this post. If not, that's cool too. 

I gotta run now because Brady just woke up again - and he probably has poop in his diaper.

I want your business to grow faster than Brady is.

I hope you took away one thing by reading this.

Thank you for your time. I know how valuable it is.

All I have to do is stare at Brady to realize that.
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© Brittany Leclerc Photography

Here's some more content that can help you...

Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work

​This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it can make you even more)


​How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You

The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019

Why You Need an Email List (& the fastest way to grow your existing one)

Three Reasons Why Your Business Needs Facebook Ads
For more stories like this, be sure to follow me on Facebook, LinkedIn & Pinterest - I'd really appreciate it!

    Fill this stuff out if you'd like me to help you

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Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018 - All Rights Reserved
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Back to Blog

Three Reasons Why Your Business Needs Facebook Ads

11/10/2018

 
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Facebook used to be amazing for businesses. It still is. You just have to pay-to-play.

A couple years ago, a business could post content and it would be seen by just about every single one of its followers. That's not the case anymore.

Facebook made the decision to show more posts from family & friends, rather than businesses. It was an effort to keep Facebook users happy - more pictures from family & friends, and fewer posts from businesses - pretty much advertising for free.

It was a win-win for the social media king.

Why?

Because it kept its users happy, and it started making a lot more money.
Businesses Have to Pay-to-Play
Facebook’s algorithm changes all the time. Right now, business owners are being forced into a pay-to-play scenario.  

Did You Know?
Only about 2-5% of your page followers actually SEE your organic posts? THAT’S WHY YOU NEED TO ADVERTISE ON FACEBOOK. Nobody’s seeing your posts unless you pay-to-play.
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Quality Leads: Your advertising dollars aren’t wasted on people who aren’t interested in your product/service. It's not like you're paying for a giant billboard on the side of the road, where thousands of people who couldn't care less about your business are seeing it. The targeting features on Facebook’s advertising platform are so good, it’s almost scary. That’s why Facebook ads generate quality leads.​

It’s cheap: You don’t have to break the bank on Facebook ads. You spend however much money you’re comfortable with. You could spend $1 per day if you want - and the money would only find the people interested in your product/service. I recommend $15 per day to my clients. The ads get seen by more of their targeted audience each day. It seems to be the magic number where results come in at a faster pace.

The Power of the Pixel: Have you ever searched something on Google and all of a sudden you start seeing ads for that product pop up everywhere? That’s the pixel. It’s the special code you put on your business website that ultimately re-targets people who click on your ad. And, oh boy, does it work. 


MATERIALS NEEDED
  1. Business Manager Account: A lot of business owners think they’re using Facebook ads simply by “boosting” a post. That is NOT Facebook advertising. If you aren’t producing ads through Business Manager, you’re not doing it right and you’re wasting money. 
  2. Proper Training: Producing Facebook ads through Business Manager can be intimidating - especially if you have zero experience with it. There is a lot that goes into a high-performing Facebook ad that actually generates leads and grows sales. If you want guidance, I can help.  
  3. Time: It can take 2-4 hours to produce an effective Facebook ad. You have to have compelling copy, an image that'll catch people's attention (with the correct aspect ratio), an irresistible headline, the pixel in place, and all of the other targeting features in place. An ad can be a waste of money if those things aren't in check. Simply put, most business owners don’t have that kind of time to dedicate to creating their own ads. Their busy doing what they do best - running their business.

​
SOLUTION TO YOUR PROBLEM
Learn Yourself or Hire An Expert: Facebook ads work well, but only if they’re done right. If you have TIME; hire an expert (me) to show you exactly how to produce Facebook ads the right way.

If you DON’T HAVE TIME; hire an expert to create the ads for you. Experts know a lot of secrets about the anatomy of a high-performing ad. Here are a few of them, for free:
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I CAN HELP
​ 

I’ve generated hundreds of leads and managed thousands of dollars in ad spend for my clients - and they leave me really nice testimonials.

If you want to talk about a game plan that’ll work for your business, shoot me a message on Facebook (Michael’s Marketing Agency, LLC) or email me at: [email protected]
​

We can also talk about how email marketing can take your business to the next level. It's pretty much FREE ADVERTISING... and you'll never have to worry about an algorithm changing!

​By the way, I hope you have an email list.

​As they say, “the money’s in the list”. I help my clients build their email lists, so they can explode their sales.
Want more of this?

Join my email list for more secrets to successful Facebook ads & email marketing. They'll change your business for the better.
tap here for 7 Best practices of fb ads
Here's some more content that can help you...

Don't do this with a FB ad... it won't work
​

This $16 Investment Made Me Thousands (and it can make you even more)

​How My Awkward Ride to Work Can Help You

The Best Marketing Strategies in 2019

How My Baby Can Help Grow Your Business

    Fill this stuff out if you'd like me to help you

Submit
Michael's Marketing Agency, LLC - © Copyright 2018 - All Rights Reserved
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Meet Michael

​"My real name is Michael, but everyone calls me Sully. My family is the most important thing in the world to me. I have a beautiful wife and two beautiful children who mean the world to me."
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