Working with other small business owners on their modern marketing strategies, I’ve noticed that the same fears and frustrations come up – no matter how unique as individuals they are, or what type of business they own.

Right here, I’m sharing the 5 things I tell my clients most often.

This advice helps get them moving ahead, enjoying their work day and creating more freedom for themselves. It stops the second-guessing, brings more ease and cuts the fantasy thinking about what it really takes to be a modern entrepreneur.

(Thankfully, one of the 5 things I most often say is not: “Pay me” – because I have the loveliest clients)

Stick to ONE!

You don’t have to be on 2, 3, 4 or even 5 social networks. Concentrate on building relationships and your reputation in one place. Make it work so that it’s creating success for you.

My advice is to spend the majority of your marketing time creating your own content and sharing it with your community. Write blogs, make videos, record podcasts or upload images. Think creatively and tap into whichever format attracts you.

Then, focus on building your subscriber list because this is your most lucrative source of income using the internet.

You can learn more about my simple modern marketing strategy in this free audio training.

Streamline and K.I.S.S. those social networks goodbye (Keep It Simple, Superstar!)

Scheduling = FREEDOM

Schedule every part of your business – especially the parts you don’t like or deep down know are a big distraction (Facebook, anyone??).

Keeping to a schedule creates more freedom in your life and business. Sounds like a contradiction but it really does!

Where that huge time-waster social media is concerned, scheduling and planning means less distractions during your working week. Plus, by planning your updates ahead of time you’re more likely to include your client-attracting key messages into the mix too.

You’re on social media to build your business and generate revenue not to waste time. Limit how much you spend there because your time is better used elsewhere. You could even indulge in a little ‘me time’ instead.

For me, I’d much rather be sipping a glass of red to a beautiful Ibiza sunset on my terrace, strolling to the beach, taking a dip in the sea or hanging with my besties.

You have a treasure chest of expertise to share, yes you do…

You are an expert, you have amazing talent. If you think otherwise, I’m calling B.S. on that right now. They are your untrue thoughts getting in your way of success and sharing your genius.

You have PLENTY of wisdom to share that is valuable and interesting to those who want to work with you. They come to you because they don’t know what you know. THEY want to hear from you!

All it takes is a little understanding of how to tap into it, where to find it, then working that marketing muscle until it becomes second nature. One session with me can shine a light on your expertise and show you how to communicate it effortlessly with the world.

Tech is NOT the problem

Tech is part of the modern world – it’s everywhere – you can’t escape it, and it’s here to stay. Remember, the internet was created for ALL people, whatever age or background, which means the barriers to entry are low. You just need to adopt the right attitude. Embrace it, play with it, experiment, be prepared to make mistakes, learn from those who are getting it right, get training. You CAN totally do this!

Sometimes you have to treat your business like a J.O.B.

There are always going to be parts of your business that you don’t enjoy. Days when you don’t want to get out of bed. Tasks that you try to put off forever…

When I dreamed up my business I wanted it to be fun n’ freedom all the way. I now know that’s not reality! I still have to do my accounts, deal with too many emails, grapple with tech issues…

For my clients, it’s often marketing and sales that has them diving undercover – that’s why they come to me for help.

Self discipline, structure, business systems, hired help and reward systems help me get down to the J.O.B tasks.

Then, I make those projects a pleasurable experience by creating a totally decadent work space: music, chocolate, wine, plumped up cushions, comfy chair, beautiful view.

Plus, strict time limits to keep my procrastination monkey at bay. Because, the sooner I get them done, the sooner I can reward myself with that glass of red.

What about you?

Do any of these points resonate with you? What things do you find yourself telling your customers and clients (hint: it could be a great blog post!)

Share you experience in the comments below.