#ADDAZERO Business Challenge: Recent Episodes
Jay Allen
Are you a business owner who dreams of buying your forever dream home, regularly taking extensive exotic holidays whilst your business continues to reward you with the level of income you and your family deserve?
Then your in the right place!
We've made it our MISSION to help and support 1,000,000 Business owners/entrepreneurs to Significantly and Sustainably SCALE them and their business with the ultimate aim to #ADDAZERO to YOUR Personal Disposable Income.
Welcome to the #ADDAZERO Business Podcast, YOUR guide to SCALE YOUR business.
Are you an accidental business owner who feels trapped in your own company—pulled into daily operations with no way out? In this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen dives deep into the transformative steps you need to break free from being the bottleneck in your business and finally become the strategic CEO your company needs.Jay introduces our brand-new 12-Week Transformation Program, tailored to help business owners transition from operator to empowered leader. Learn how to reclaim your freedom, delegate effectively, and build a team that runs the business—whether you’re present or not.In this episode, you’ll discover:The three-phase “Business Freedom Technique” that liberates overwhelmed ownersHow to assess the current reliance on you and take action to shift itStrategies for delegating big projects without fear of losing controlWhy organizational charts for the future are a game-changer for growth and team loyaltyThe CEO mindset shift: From micromanaging to coaching and mentoring your peopleThe power of masterminds and collaborative leadership to future-proof your companyCritical mistakes that reduce business value and how to avoid themJay shares real client stories and actionable tips on succession planning, creating true career paths for your team, and building a legacy rather than just leaving one. Whether you’re planning to scale or ultimately exit your business, these insights are essential for sustainable growth.Download your FREE Freedom Assessment (link in Show Notes) to discover just how “trapped” you are—and start your journey to true business freedom today!🚀 Want to learn more? Ready to add a zero? Contact us using the link below for a no-pressure chat.#BusinessGrowth #ScaleYourBusiness #Leadership #SmallBusiness #BusinessFreedom #Entrepreneurship #CEO #AddAZeroPodcast #MyTrueNorth #BusinessAdviceListen & Subscribe:Never miss an episode! Hit the subscribe button and share this with your business network.About #Add A Zero Podcast:Presented by Jay Allen, in partnership with My True North—the UK’s leading ethical coaching company. We help ethical business owners achieve significant, sustainable growth and a legacy that lasts.Please visit my website to get more information: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ ✨ Check out the ADDAZERO Free Scaleup audit report here: http://www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit🔔𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬.https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1 🔗 Stay Connected With Me.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayallen-mytruenorth/ Website: http://www.mytruenorth.biz/ 📩 For business inquiries: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz ✅ About My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company.Welcome to My TrueNORTH – The Ethical Coaching Company! I’m Jay Allen, a 2x Global Entrepreneur Award winner and former British Army medic turned business scale mentor. After leading change at the board level and scaling & exiting multiple businesses, I now help business owners grow sustainably and ethically. Through My TrueNORTH, I coach purpose-driven entrepreneurs to scale with integrity and clarity. I also founded the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge with a bold goal: to help 1,000,000 business owners add a zero to their income. Join me for real, ethical growth strategies that make a lasting impact.For Business inquiries, please use the contact information below:📩 Email: Enquiries@MyTrueNORTH.Biz🔔 Ready to scale ethically and sustainably? Subscribe for ethical business mentoring, expert business coaching, growth strategies, and the tools to grow your business!https://www.youtube.com/@MyTrueNORTHUK/?sub_confirmation=1
As business owners, one of the most consistent pieces of advice we hear is to “delegate.” We’re told, directly or indirectly, that, to grow beyond being a one-person show, we need to let go of tasks—especially the low-value ones—and hand them off so we can focus on higher-level work. Yet, in this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, Jay Allen shares hard-won truths and detailed case studies that reveal why delegation, as commonly practiced, often fails, and what must change to truly scale a business.
This insightful episode provides both practical and philosophical guidance for business owners who aspire not just to grow their operations, but to make their businesses sustainable and valuable—transforming what might feel like a one-person bottleneck into a legacy enterprise. Let’s break down the episode in detail.
The Common Delegation Myth—and Its Pitfalls
At the onset, Jay acknowledges the prevailing wisdom: delegation is supposed to free up business owners to move from working in their business to working on it. Give those “£10 tasks”—the routine, repetitive jobs—to others so you can pursue the big-ticket opportunities that bring in thousands or tens of thousands of pounds. That’s the theory, and it does have merit. But in practice, “most people do it badly, do it wrong,” he observes.
Owners frequently:
- Hand off the wrong tasks to the wrong people
- Fail to provide the necessary structure and support
- End up with delegated work boomeranging back onto their plates
- Become convinced it’s easier just to do it themselves
The result of failed delegation isn’t just inefficiency or annoyance—it’s a business where everything revolves around the owner. If they aren’t there, decisions stall and progress halts. The owner is not just a leader; they’re a bottleneck, stifling growth and jeopardizing sustainability.
The Cost of Owner Dependency
In both cases, the lesson is stark: a business that depends on its owner for every key decision, relationship, or permission is fragile and effectively “unsellable.” As Jay stresses, no buyer wants to purchase a business whose assets, processes, or relationships are inextricably tied to the seller’s personal efforts and brainpower.
This isn’t just about holidays or sick leave: it’s about creating a business that could thrive—or at least function—without you “at a moment’s notice.” If that’s not the case, the business can crumble rapidly, as the profit model and operations are not sustainable past the owner’s presence.
Episode 96 of the #Add A Zero Podcast lays down a challenge for every business owner. It's time to move beyond the myth of “just delegate more.” Instead, true value, resilience, and scale come from embedding systems, structures, accountability, and succession at every level.
A real business is not an extension of its founder but a living, growing organism, able to withstand the test of time, adversity, and—even more importantly—absence. If your business depends solely on you, you have an urgent call to action.
Listen for the powerful stories, reflect on your own practice, and if you’re ready, take meaningful steps to build legacy, not just income.
Thank you for being part of the #Add A Zero community. If you found this review insightful, don't forget to subscribe, share your reflections, and connect for further support. Your business—and legacy—are worth it.
Welcome to the #Add A Zero Podcast Episode 95, where hosts Jay Allen and MC dive deep into the often-hidden reality behind business success. If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or leader seeking sustainable growth without sacrificing your personal life, this episode is a must-listen!
🔑 Episode Highlights:
- Why many high-achieving business owners feel more trapped than ever before, despite outward success
- The “Five-Star Prison” phenomenon—how your thriving business can become your biggest limitation
- Relatable client stories: Going from solo operation to a bustling team, yet missing out on family moments
- Jay Allen’s raw personal journey: Building, nearly losing, and ultimately exiting a multi-seven figure business
- Practical solutions: How to identify if you’re trapped and Jay’s proven techniques to break free and reclaim your freedom
- Exclusive business freedom assessment & audit tool—find out how “trapped” you really are
The Accidental Business Owner
Are you an “accidental business owner”? Jay explains this is a common thread among his clients—people who didn’t necessarily plan to build an empire, but became so good at what they do that demand skyrocketed. In response, they take on help, expand, and before long are running a complex organization.
But this growth, if unmanaged, leads to a scenario where business owners become central to everything—nothing works without them, and stepping away feels impossible. Your business, designed for freedom and impact, starts to feel like a padded cell.
Jay introduces the concept of the “five-star prison”: a business that looks great on the outside—amazing reviews, healthy revenues, a happy team—but quietly traps its owner inside. Family holidays, personal time, even basic self-care get sacrificed on the altar of keeping the business afloat.
Jay shares how he fell into this trap himself: After leaving a corporate career to buy a micro-business in 2005, he grew aggressively, but the stress and personal toll mounted. Major industry changes (like Woolworths’ collapse) put everything at risk, and even after a remarkable turnaround, Jay realized the emotional cost was too high. He exited the business—then committed his life to helping others avoid the same fate.
This episode is a wake-up call for entrepreneurs: If your business requires you to be present 24/7, constantly “on,” and always available, it may be thriving in numbers—but failing in purpose. Jay and MC discuss how easy it is to lose sight of the original motivation behind your business when scaling gets tough.
The loss of connection with family, friends, and self is real. Jay describes the deep regret that can come when a business owner realizes they were “absent” from the most important moments of their family’s lives, despite financial success.
Frustrated by how often he saw this pattern, Jay developed a straightforward audit: the Business Freedom Assessment, offered free in the show notes. This tool helps business owners quickly pinpoint how “trapped” they’ve become—and offers practical steps to change course. If you’re missing out on life, working longer hours without increased rewards, or have built a team that relies entirely on you, it’s time for a change.
Jay’s mission is clear: No business owner should ever have to choose between business success and personal happiness. The methods and resources shared on #Add A Zero can help you reclaim your time, delegate with confidence, and design a business that works for you—not the other way around.#AddAZero #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurFreedom #ExitPlanning #BusinessCoaching #SustainableSuccess #MyTrueNorth #JayAllen #WorkLifeBalance #BusinessPodcast
Keywords: business reinvention, business rebuilding, small business growth, entrepreneurial mindset, scale and exit mentorship, business coaching, ethical business, business reset, niche business coaching, Add a Zero methodology, My True North
In “Why I’m Blowing Up My Business (And Why You Might Need to Do the Same),” Jay Allen lays bare the sometimes uncomfortable truths that all growth-focused business owners must face:
- What happens when your business quietly drifts from its purpose due to relentless pressures and market “sameness”?
- Why even successful businesses can become victims of their own growth, morphing into just another generic service provider
- How to spot the subtle ways your company’s “north star” has wavered – and what to do about it before you slide into burnout, irrelevance, or price-driven competition
Jay kicks off by sharing heartfelt reflections from My True North’s 10th birthday celebration, complete with staff, suppliers, achievements, and gratitude for being among the rare 30% of small businesses still thriving after a full decade.
But beneath the celebration, Jay faced a stark realization: Over 10 years, My True North had gradually shifted from a specialist “scale and exit” mentorship service into a more mainstream business coaching offering – the exact thing he’d sworn never to do.
In chasing wider appeal and relentless delivery to clients, his own business had become vulnerable to “the sea of sameness” – that dangerous place where you blend in, comparison shopping kicks in, and price wars drive you toward burnout and mediocrity.
Jay didn’t just spot the problem; he attacked it head-on. Instead of falling further adrift, he ran a brutal, honest audit of My True North using his own Add a Zero methodology – treating himself as a customer, hunting for every flaw and missed opportunity.
The result? Painful truths. Despite a powerful brand and hundreds of client wins, My True North wasn’t applying its own advice consistently. The urgent, customer-centric focus left core processes, innovation, and differentiation to languish in the background. Jay realized: To serve at the next level, he had to put his own “MTN 1.0” business model to bed – despite its financial success.
This isn’t business as usual. Jay is archiving top-selling programs and relaunching My True North with a single, signature offer – targeted exclusively at “accidental business owners.” These are individuals who excel at what they do, built teams around their brilliance, and suddenly find themselves overworked, overwhelmed, and wondering if success is meant to be so draining.
In place of complexity and generalism, Jay introduces a simple, three-step framework within a focused 12-week program:
- Moving business owners from trapped, hands-on operators to true CEOs
- Applying the proven Add a Zero methodology to create scale, purpose, freedom, and sustainable impact
- Providing clarity, accountability, and direct transformation – not just more information or generic advice
This laser-sharp niche is the antidote to comparison-driven race-to-the-bottom competition. It’s a call for every conscientious leader to reevaluate, differentiate, and build a business that stands for something more.
- For business owners and entrepreneurs: Jay’s story is your reality check. Whether you’ve hit your own growth ceiling, lost sight of your unique value, or feel overwhelmed by trying to “do it all,” you’ll get a roadmap for reclaiming control.
- For coaches and consultants: Learn how to retain your edge, compete with integrity, and niche down – even if it means letting go of profitable offers.
- For conscious leaders: Get inspired by My True North’s mission-driven approach: scaling ethically, empowering teams, eradicating unemployment, and leaving a legacy.
Don’t miss Jay’s practical steps for running your own “secret shopper” audit, differentiating from the crowd, and choosing courage over comfort.
Welcome to another inspiring episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, brought to you by My True North – the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy! In Episode 93, hosts MC and Jay Allen (he/him) dive deep into the game of business, breaking down the seven magical numbers every business owner must understand and influence to create remarkable, sustainable growth.
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a growing founder, this episode is packed with actionable insights and profound strategies straight from the minds of those who’ve truly mastered the business game. You’ll discover how high-performing business leaders play by a very different set of rules – and why adopting these principles could revolutionize your results.
🎧 What’s Inside This Episode
- Why Business is a Game
Jay Allen shares a powerful story of meeting a 79-year-old billionaire whose business turns over £2 billion a year. Despite his age and challenges, the billionaire is still hooked on “playing the game” – but his version of winning isn’t about chance or luck. It’s about understanding—and influencing—seven essential numbers. -
Do You Know the Seven Magical Numbers?
In the world of the super-successful, business outcomes become predictable because they know which numbers to track and exactly how to move them.
Jay reveals these seven magical numbers:- Number of inbound enquiries: Are you measuring how many people reach out to your business—through landing pages, forms, emails, or phone calls?
- Conversion rate: How many of those enquiries become customers? Are you tracking this by channel, landing page, or strategy?
- Number of customers: The total paying customers in a set period.
- Average first-time spend: What’s the value of a customer’s first purchase?
- Purchase progression and lifetime value: How do customers’ behaviour and spending change over time?
- Cost of goods sold (COGS): What does it actually cost you to deliver your product or service?
- Net profit margin: After everything is done, what’s left in profit? How can you influence and predict this?
- Strategic Influence vs. Random Effort
Instead of just working harder or relying on luck, Jay explains how elite entrepreneurs develop multiple strategies—174 at last count!—to directly influence these numbers. These aren’t theoretical tips. They’re tried and tested tactics, refined over years of working with more than 120,000 businesses. - Methodology That Works
Jay introduces the award-winning #AddAZERO methodology, a system based on deep research and real-world data that’s consistently delivered a 26% net profit increase on average for clients. Some businesses have even doubled in less than seven months or grown by 250% within three years! -
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Welcome to Episode 92 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, presented by Jay Allen and brought to you in association with My TrueNORTH, the UK’s leading ethical coaching company. In this thought-provoking episode, Jay dives deep into a subject critical to every business—ethics. Do ethics truly matter in business, or are they just buzzwords thrown around in mission statements and sales pitches? Join us as we challenge assumptions and explore a powerful real-world example that shows exactly why ethics can mean the difference between life and death—not just for public image, but literally.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
- Why ethics, culture, and standards should be in place from day one
- The risks of neglecting business values and code of conduct
- A real-life (though anonymized) case study showing the tragic impact of unchecked unethical practices
- The importance of validation and accountability in business procedures
- How My TrueNORTH leads by example in the realm of business ethics
- Practical takeaways for business owners wanting to ensure authenticity and ethical standards from the ground up
Episode Overview
Most business owners assume that ethics, culture, and codes of conduct are things you deal with after you’ve grown—something to install “when you get to X size.” But as Jay Allen shares, this mindset is dangerously flawed. Using the fictional company “LearnCo” as a stand-in for a real company, Jay tells the story of how prioritizing metrics and rapid growth over genuine ethical standards can have catastrophic consequences.
LearnCo positioned itself as an innovative online training platform, offering businesses like Costa Coffee a one-stop solution for staff development and onboarding. With impressive metrics at their fingertips and promises of seamless reporting, companies flocked to LearnCo’s platform. But when a barista’s lack of adequate training led to a fatal error—a child’s tragic allergic reaction—the very foundation of half-measures, unchecked boxes, and lack of validation exposed the immense risks of ethical negligence.
Why Listen to This Episode?
- Real-World Lessons: This episode isn’t theoretical. Jay’s storytelling makes the cost of ethics failure painfully clear—reminding us all what’s truly at stake.
- Inspiration from the Experts: Learn how My TrueNORTH was recognized for its unwavering ethical stand, and how you can apply these learnings to your own business.
- Actionable Takeaways: Whether you’re a solopreneur or a CEO, you’ll walk away with concrete questions and challenges to raise your own standards.
Who Should Listen?
- Business owners and entrepreneurs serious about building scalable and sustainable companies
- HR professionals and training officers responsible for employee development and onboarding
- Board members and C-Suite leaders concerned with reputational risk and organizational resilience
- Anyone interested in the intersection of business growth, ethics, and real-world impact
- Suppliers, partners, and procurement professionals looking to validate claims of authenticity and ethical practice
Listener Challenge
As you finish this episode, ask yourself:
- Are you living up to the ethics and standards your brand claims?
- How do you verify your suppliers’ and partners’ claims of authenticity?
- Are you validating more than “box-ticking” performance metrics?
Email your thoughts, stories, and questions to podcast@mytruenorth.biz – Jay and the team welcome your feedback and real-world challenges.
Welcome to Episode 91 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, the go-to show for ambitious business owners committed to driving significant and sustainable growth for both themselves and their companies. Hosted by Jay Allen, founder of My True North and a renowned ethical business coach, this episode dives deep into one of the most overlooked keys to real progress: embracing failure as a crucial step toward success.
Whether you’re a small business owner, an entrepreneur with bold dreams, or a leader keen to future-proof your company, this episode is packed with practical insights, hard-earned lessons, and leadership strategies to help turn your obstacles into powerful opportunities.
- The Real Value of Failing Forward: Discover why mistakes and setbacks are not roadblocks but essential milestones on your business growth journey.
- Business “Banana Skins”: Learn to spot the most common pitfalls (Jay’s “banana skins”) successful businesses encounter – and how to avoid slipping up.
- Case Study – The 64% Revenue Risk: Hear a real-world client story about dangerous overreliance on a single income source, and how to shift toward a more resilient, diversified revenue model.
- Leadership Blind Spots: Uncover the subtle warning signs leaders often miss amid busy day-to-day operations—and how an outside perspective can reveal hidden opportunities and threats.
- The Power of Non-Negotiable Standards: Understand how maintaining and upholding consistent business standards is vital for trust, growth, and long-term reputation.
- Practical Steps for Sustainable Growth: Actionable advice to help implement change, evaluate your business from multiple perspectives, and lead with greater confidence and integrity.
In an eye-opening client case study, Jay discusses a company where a single client made up a staggering 64% of annual revenue. This overdependence created massive cash flow vulnerability, especially when payment terms slipped out of sync. Jay’s solution? Diversify revenue sources to ensure no invoice or client exceeds the net annual profit, drastically reducing risk and ensuring business continuity—no matter what happens to one major account.
Borrowing lessons from his time in the British Army, Jay explains the concept of “the standard”—a non-negotiable benchmark that defines how business is done. He warns against the slow erosion of standards (like quietly accepting late payments or overlooked conditions), because these small lapses can undermine trust and set dangerous precedents. “The standard is the standard,” he says—keep your word, uphold your terms, and maintain consistency in every facet of your company.
Even the best leaders can miss subtle signs of trouble: loyal team members leaving for competitors, suppliers bending rules, or seemingly small exceptions to your core policies. These “leadership blind spots” often go unaddressed when things are generally good, yet they can hide serious risks or lost opportunities underneath the surface. Jay stresses the value of seeking outside perspectives—from a coach, mentor, or even by role-playing as your own supplier or employee—to catch what you might otherwise overlook.
The episode closes with a call to action: regularly step out of your business and look back with a critical eye. Evaluate your company from the perspective of clients, suppliers, stakeholders, and potential recruits. This 360-degree view can be the catalyst for game-changing breakthroughs, revealing new paths for growth while protecting against avoidable disasters.
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Episode 90: How We Found £225,000 in Hidden Revenue – Real Business Audit Breakdown | #Add A Zero Podcast
Unlock hidden profits in your business! In this episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen shares the step-by-step process he used to discover over £225,000 of missed revenue for a business owner—before they even became a client. Dive into real examples of common business leaks: unbilled work, underpricing, missed upsell opportunities, and the importance of effective follow-up.
Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a thriving company, learn actionable strategies to plug hidden profit leaks and scale your revenue. Listen as we break down real-life business challenges, discuss ethical scaling, and showcase how My True North’s award-winning #AddAZERO methodology empowers UK business leaders to achieve sustainable growth.
Don’t miss:
- Real-world audit findings turning lost time into cash
- How a simple follow-up can immediately boost revenue
- Steps you can take today to uncover and reclaim lost profits in your business
- The value of ethical consultancy in sustainable business success
Subscribe for more powerful business growth tips and stories!
BusinessGrowth #BusinessAudit #AddAZero #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #EthicalBusiness #RevenueGrowth #MyTrueNorth
— Presented by Jay Allen, Founder of My True North – The UK’s Leading Ethical Coaching Company
Listen now and discover the hidden gold in your business!
Welcome to Episode 89 of the #Add A Zero Podcast!
Are you a business owner looking for sustainable growth and real-world insights?
In this episode, hosts Jay Allen does a deep dive into the theme: “What Got You Here Won’t Get You There.” Jay shares the journey of Alex, a business owner who transitioned from redundancy to running a thriving business—before encountering the roadblocks of time, scaling, and burnout. Discover how targeted auditing, strategic tweaks, and courageous investments can transform your business trajectory.
Learn:
- Why working harder doesn’t always lead to meaningful growth
- The power of stepping off the tools and working ON your business
- When and how to seek outside help, including funding and mentorship
- Real stories of scale, including how Alex doubled his business output and began winning five-figure contracts
- The critical importance of exit strategies and leadership planning for long-term business security
Whether you’re just starting up, finding yourself stuck, or planning an exit, this episode delivers valuable takeaways on scaling sustainably, maintaining work-life balance, and future-proofing your success.
👥 Hosted by: Jay Allen, presented in partnership with My True North – the UK’s leading ethical coaching company
Subscribe, comment, and share your thoughts below!
Contact us at podcast@mytruenorth.biz
BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #SustainableScaling #Podcast #AddAZero
Are you a business owner committed to the sustainable and significant growth of your company? In this episode, Jay Allen (he/him), founder of My True North and ethical business growth expert, dives deep into the top five future trends every SME business leader needs to prepare for to succeed in the next decade.
Building on insights from his popular TEDx talk, “The 50 Careers to Train for Which Don’t Exist Yet,” Jay shares the realities and challenges business owners face as predicted changes arrive faster than expected. Covering key themes—hybrid working, skills evolution, employee well-being, technology and AI developments, and the rise of purpose-driven business—this episode is packed with actionable ideas.
Key Topics Covered:
- The rise and impact of hybrid working and why resistance is futile
- How evolving skillsets and continuous professional development (CPD) are essential for business survival
- The growing importance of workplace wellness and supporting employees as humans, not just “resources”
- Navigating the relentless pace of technology and staying relevant with AI, machine learning, and automation
- Why leading with purpose now outweighs sheer profitability and how to build a business people are proud to support
Whether you want to attract top talent, retain customers, or ensure your business thrives in shifting times, this episode provides the guidance you need.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and join the conversation! Share your thoughts and questions in the comments, or email us at podcast@mytruenorth.biz
Brought to you by My True North—the UK’s leading ethical coaching company, helping conscientious business owners scale and leave a meaningful legacy.
BusinessGrowth #Leadership #FutureofWork #AIPodcast #SME #BusinessTrends #HybridWorking #PurposeDriven #MyTrueNorth
Are you building a business for today—or for the future?
In Episode 87 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen of My True North challenges conscientious business owners to confront one of the most overlooked, yet critical aspects of business leadership: planning your exit.
Jay shares real-life stories, including his own hard lessons from running a company that faced upheaval when a major client collapsed, and the personal cost of being “tied” to a business with no succession plan. Discover why even successful, thriving businesses face the risk of sudden collapse or unethical closure if continuity and legacy aren't part of your growth strategy.
Through insightful examples—from sudden health scares to undervalued business sales and fractured partnerships—this episode unpacks the importance of:
- Building a business that thrives without your daily involvement
- Creating continuity and legacy plans to protect your team and investment
- Establishing clear, legally binding partnership agreements before you need them
- Ensuring your business, brand, and staff are future-proofed against the unexpected
Whether you intend to sell, scale, or simply secure your enterprise for the long haul, Jay’s advice will provoke important questions and offer actionable steps to future-proof your company.
Here are 3 key takeaways every conscientious business owner should consider:
- Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Even thriving businesses are vulnerable if the owner is at the center. An unexpected health issue or life event can derail years of hard work if there’s no succession plan in place.
- Your Business Needs Independence: The more your business relies on you personally, the less valuable (and less stable) it becomes. Building systems and a strong team enable your company to grow and succeed—with or without your daily involvement.
- Plan for Legacy, Not Just Income: Closing the doors on a profitable business when you retire isn’t just shortsighted—Jay argues it’s unethical if it puts loyal employees out of work. Planning for exit ensures your business, and the livelihoods it supports, continue to thrive.
Ask yourself honestly: If you had to step back tomorrow, would your business (and your people) flourish or flounder? Now is the time to put solid continuity and exit plans in place—for your peace of mind, your team, and your legacy.
Want to learn more about exit planning, succession, and ethical business growth? Don’t miss this powerful conversation designed to help you create a company that leaves a lasting legacy, not just a bottom line.
Tune in now and take the next steps toward a more resilient, impactful business!
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BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ExitPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #EthicalBusiness #ScaleYourBusiness #LegacyBuilding #FutureProofYourBusiness #Partnerships #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #SustainableGrowth #BusinessAdvice #AddAZero #MyTrueNorth #BusinessStrategy #UKBusiness #JobCreation #BusinessContinuity
Listen and discover why every business owner needs an exit strategy—before you think you need it!
Are you building a business for today—or for the future? In Episode 87 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen of My True North challenges conscientious business owners to confront one of the most overlooked, yet critical aspects of business leadership: planning your exit.Jay shares real-life stories, including his own hard lessons from running a company that faced upheaval when a major client collapsed, and the personal cost of being “tied” to a business with no succession plan. Discover why even successful, thriving businesses face the risk of sudden collapse or unethical closure if continuity and legacy aren't part of your growth strategy.Through insightful examples—from sudden health scares to undervalued business sales and fractured partnerships—this episode unpacks the importance of:Building a business that thrives without your daily involvementCreating continuity and legacy plans to protect your team and investmentEstablishing clear, legally binding partnership agreements before you need themEnsuring your business, brand, and staff are future-proofed against the unexpectedWhether you intend to sell, scale, or simply secure your enterprise for the long haul, Jay’s advice will provoke important questions and offer actionable steps to future-proof your company. Here are 3 key takeaways every conscientious business owner should consider:Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Even thriving businesses are vulnerable if the owner is at the center. An unexpected health issue or life event can derail years of hard work if there’s no succession plan in place.Your Business Needs Independence: The more your business relies on you personally, the less valuable (and less stable) it becomes. Building systems and a strong team enable your company to grow and succeed—with or without your daily involvement.Plan for Legacy, Not Just Income: Closing the doors on a profitable business when you retire isn’t just shortsighted—Jay argues it’s unethical if it puts loyal employees out of work. Planning for exit ensures your business, and the livelihoods it supports, continue to thrive.Ask yourself honestly: If you had to step back tomorrow, would your business (and your people) flourish or flounder? Now is the time to put solid continuity and exit plans in place—for your peace of mind, your team, and your legacy.Want to learn more about exit planning, succession, and ethical business growth? Don’t miss this powerful conversation designed to help you create a company that leaves a lasting legacy, not just a bottom line.Tune in now and take the next steps toward a more resilient, impactful business!#Tags:#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ExitPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #EthicalBusiness #ScaleYourBusiness #LegacyBuilding #FutureProofYourBusiness #Partnerships #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #SustainableGrowth #BusinessAdvice #AddAZero #MyTrueNorth #BusinessStrategy #UKBusiness #JobCreation #BusinessContinuityListen and discover why every business owner needs an exit strategy—before you think you need it!
Are you building a business for today—or for the future? In Episode 87 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen of My True North challenges conscientious business owners to confront one of the most overlooked, yet critical aspects of business leadership: planning your exit.Jay shares real-life stories, including his own hard lessons from running a company that faced upheaval when a major client collapsed, and the personal cost of being “tied” to a business with no succession plan. Discover why even successful, thriving businesses face the risk of sudden collapse or unethical closure if continuity and legacy aren't part of your growth strategy.Through insightful examples—from sudden health scares to undervalued business sales and fractured partnerships—this episode unpacks the importance of:Building a business that thrives without your daily involvementCreating continuity and legacy plans to protect your team and investmentEstablishing clear, legally binding partnership agreements before you need themEnsuring your business, brand, and staff are future-proofed against the unexpectedWhether you intend to sell, scale, or simply secure your enterprise for the long haul, Jay’s advice will provoke important questions and offer actionable steps to future-proof your company. Here are 3 key takeaways every conscientious business owner should consider:Don’t Wait for a Crisis: Even thriving businesses are vulnerable if the owner is at the center. An unexpected health issue or life event can derail years of hard work if there’s no succession plan in place.Your Business Needs Independence: The more your business relies on you personally, the less valuable (and less stable) it becomes. Building systems and a strong team enable your company to grow and succeed—with or without your daily involvement.Plan for Legacy, Not Just Income: Closing the doors on a profitable business when you retire isn’t just shortsighted—Jay argues it’s unethical if it puts loyal employees out of work. Planning for exit ensures your business, and the livelihoods it supports, continue to thrive.Ask yourself honestly: If you had to step back tomorrow, would your business (and your people) flourish or flounder? Now is the time to put solid continuity and exit plans in place—for your peace of mind, your team, and your legacy.Want to learn more about exit planning, succession, and ethical business growth? Don’t miss this powerful conversation designed to help you create a company that leaves a lasting legacy, not just a bottom line.Tune in now and take the next steps toward a more resilient, impactful business!#Tags:#BusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #ExitPlanning #BusinessGrowth #SuccessionPlanning #Leadership #EthicalBusiness #ScaleYourBusiness #LegacyBuilding #FutureProofYourBusiness #Partnerships #SmallBusiness #BusinessOwner #SustainableGrowth #BusinessAdvice #AddAZero #MyTrueNorth #BusinessStrategy #UKBusiness #JobCreation #BusinessContinuityListen and discover why every business owner needs an exit strategy—before you think you need it!
Ready to break through the ceiling and scale your business from seven figures to eight? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen—founder of My True North, the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy—dives deep into the real challenges and opportunities of innovation for multimillion-pound business owners.
Jay reveals the two classic traps that high-revenue businesses face when striving for that next level: clinging to “the way we’ve always done it” and getting lost in a never-ending cycle of innovation without genuine traction. With stories, actionable insights, and wisdom from blue ocean strategy and change management, Jay unpacks how to keep your business relevant, avoid costly mistakes, and truly own your market niche.
You’ll learn:
- Why your current success could be holding you back from bigger opportunities
- How businesses thrived or failed during the 2020 lockdown by innovating (or not!)
- The crucial importance of staying relevant to your ideal target client
- Jay’s four-step Blue Ocean Strategy to escape price wars and become a “Category of One”
- When and how to diversify, what to stop doing, and how to serve your best-fit customers even better
Whether you’re aiming to scale your business sustainably, retain loyal customers, or position your brand as a market leader, this episode is packed with practical advice and provocative thinking to drive you forward.
Don’t miss out—listen now, subscribe for more no-nonsense business growth strategies, and start innovating your way to the next level!
Keywords: business growth, innovation, 7 figure business, 8 figure business, relevance, market positioning, blue ocean strategy, business podcast, business advice, scaling business, My True North, Jay Allen, #ADDAZERO, ethical business, sustainable growth, UK business, entrepreneurial podcast
Hit subscribe to empower your journey toward ethical, profitable, and impactful business growth!
BusinessGrowth
ScaleYourBusiness
EightFigureJourney
BlueOceanStrategy
DisruptiveThinking
BusinessInnovation
SustainableGrowth
StayRelevant
BusinessEvolution
ChangeManagement
EntrepreneurMindset
EthicalBusiness
CategoryOfOne
BusinessStrategy
LeadershipMatters
SmarterScaling
CustomerCentric
BusinessPodcast
Ready to break through the ceiling and scale your business from seven figures to eight? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen—founder of My True North, the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy—dives deep into the real challenges and opportunities of innovation for multimillion-pound business owners.Jay reveals the two classic traps that high-revenue businesses face when striving for that next level: clinging to “the way we’ve always done it” and getting lost in a never-ending cycle of innovation without genuine traction. With stories, actionable insights, and wisdom from blue ocean strategy and change management, Jay unpacks how to keep your business relevant, avoid costly mistakes, and truly own your market niche.You’ll learn:Why your current success could be holding you back from bigger opportunitiesHow businesses thrived or failed during the 2020 lockdown by innovating (or not!)The crucial importance of staying relevant to your ideal target clientJay’s four-step Blue Ocean Strategy to escape price wars and become a “Category of One”When and how to diversify, what to stop doing, and how to serve your best-fit customers even betterWhether you’re aiming to scale your business sustainably, retain loyal customers, or position your brand as a market leader, this episode is packed with practical advice and provocative thinking to drive you forward.Don’t miss out—listen now, subscribe for more no-nonsense business growth strategies, and start innovating your way to the next level!Keywords: business growth, innovation, 7 figure business, 8 figure business, relevance, market positioning, blue ocean strategy, business podcast, business advice, scaling business, My True North, Jay Allen, #ADDAZERO, ethical business, sustainable growth, UK business, entrepreneurial podcastHit subscribe to empower your journey toward ethical, profitable, and impactful business growth!#BusinessGrowth#ScaleYourBusiness#EightFigureJourney#BlueOceanStrategy#DisruptiveThinking#BusinessInnovation#SustainableGrowth#StayRelevant#BusinessEvolution#ChangeManagement#EntrepreneurMindset#EthicalBusiness#CategoryOfOne#BusinessStrategy#LeadershipMatters#SmarterScaling#CustomerCentric#BusinessPodcast
Ready to break through the ceiling and scale your business from seven figures to eight? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, host Jay Allen—founder of My True North, the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy—dives deep into the real challenges and opportunities of innovation for multimillion-pound business owners.Jay reveals the two classic traps that high-revenue businesses face when striving for that next level: clinging to “the way we’ve always done it” and getting lost in a never-ending cycle of innovation without genuine traction. With stories, actionable insights, and wisdom from blue ocean strategy and change management, Jay unpacks how to keep your business relevant, avoid costly mistakes, and truly own your market niche.You’ll learn:Why your current success could be holding you back from bigger opportunitiesHow businesses thrived or failed during the 2020 lockdown by innovating (or not!)The crucial importance of staying relevant to your ideal target clientJay’s four-step Blue Ocean Strategy to escape price wars and become a “Category of One”When and how to diversify, what to stop doing, and how to serve your best-fit customers even betterWhether you’re aiming to scale your business sustainably, retain loyal customers, or position your brand as a market leader, this episode is packed with practical advice and provocative thinking to drive you forward.Don’t miss out—listen now, subscribe for more no-nonsense business growth strategies, and start innovating your way to the next level!Keywords: business growth, innovation, 7 figure business, 8 figure business, relevance, market positioning, blue ocean strategy, business podcast, business advice, scaling business, My True North, Jay Allen, #ADDAZERO, ethical business, sustainable growth, UK business, entrepreneurial podcastHit subscribe to empower your journey toward ethical, profitable, and impactful business growth!#BusinessGrowth#ScaleYourBusiness#EightFigureJourney#BlueOceanStrategy#DisruptiveThinking#BusinessInnovation#SustainableGrowth#StayRelevant#BusinessEvolution#ChangeManagement#EntrepreneurMindset#EthicalBusiness#CategoryOfOne#BusinessStrategy#LeadershipMatters#SmarterScaling#CustomerCentric#BusinessPodcast
Welcome to the #Add A Zero Podcast, hosted by Jay Allen of My True North—the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy. In Episode 85, Jay dives deep into what it truly takes to lead a 7-figure or multi-7-figure business, as part of the Capacity Compass series. This insightful episode uncovers the three biggest challenges faced by successful business owners, with a powerful focus on leadership.
Jay draws from his 12 years in the British Armed Forces, sharing transformative lessons from military leadership and real-world business growth. He walks listeners through the “Five Levels of Leadership”: Positioning, Permission, Production, People Development, and Pinnacle, explaining how to progress from managing tasks to inspiring teams and creating real, sustainable business impact.
Whether you’re leading your first employee, a fast-growing team, or an established multi-million pound business, this episode offers actionable strategies to evolve your leadership style. You’ll learn:
- How to move beyond positional authority and build meaningful relationships within your organization.
- Why results-based leadership is vital as you scale, and how to create high-performing teams.
- The secrets to developing people, not just processes—empowering others and planning for succession.
- What it means to embody “servant leadership,” stepping back to help your business thrive at every level.
Jay’s personal stories—serving alongside decorated leaders in high-pressure environments—add credibility and inspiration for business owners looking to recruit, retain, and reward world-class teams.
If you’re ready to scale with integrity and leave a lasting legacy, don’t miss this high-impact episode. Listen now, subscribe, and discover how to unlock your leadership potential for seven-figure growth!
Leadership #BusinessGrowth #SevenFigureBusiness #ScalingUp #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #BusinessSuccess #ServantLeadership #BusinessOwners #EthicalLeadership #MyTrueNorth #CapacityCompass #AddAZERO #BusinessPodcast #LegacyLeadership #LeadershipJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #SustainableGrowthDon’t miss actionable tips, inspiring stories, and a roadmap to take your leadership—and your company—to the next level. Click “Follow” on Spotify and stay ahead with the #Add A Zero Podcast.
Welcome to the #Add A Zero Podcast, hosted by Jay Allen of My True North—the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy. In Episode 85, Jay dives deep into what it truly takes to lead a 7-figure or multi-7-figure business, as part of the Capacity Compass series. This insightful episode uncovers the three biggest challenges faced by successful business owners, with a powerful focus on leadership.Jay draws from his 12 years in the British Armed Forces, sharing transformative lessons from military leadership and real-world business growth. He walks listeners through the “Five Levels of Leadership”: Positioning, Permission, Production, People Development, and Pinnacle, explaining how to progress from managing tasks to inspiring teams and creating real, sustainable business impact.Whether you’re leading your first employee, a fast-growing team, or an established multi-million pound business, this episode offers actionable strategies to evolve your leadership style. You’ll learn:How to move beyond positional authority and build meaningful relationships within your organization.Why results-based leadership is vital as you scale, and how to create high-performing teams.The secrets to developing people, not just processes—empowering others and planning for succession.What it means to embody “servant leadership,” stepping back to help your business thrive at every level.Jay’s personal stories—serving alongside decorated leaders in high-pressure environments—add credibility and inspiration for business owners looking to recruit, retain, and reward world-class teams.If you’re ready to scale with integrity and leave a lasting legacy, don’t miss this high-impact episode. Listen now, subscribe, and discover how to unlock your leadership potential for seven-figure growth!#Leadership #BusinessGrowth #SevenFigureBusiness #ScalingUp #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #BusinessSuccess #ServantLeadership #BusinessOwners #EthicalLeadership #MyTrueNorth #CapacityCompass #AddAZERO #BusinessPodcast #LegacyLeadership #LeadershipJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #SustainableGrowthDon’t miss actionable tips, inspiring stories, and a roadmap to take your leadership—and your company—to the next level. Click “Follow” on Spotify and stay ahead with the #Add A Zero Podcast.
Welcome to the #Add A Zero Podcast, hosted by Jay Allen of My True North—the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy. In Episode 85, Jay dives deep into what it truly takes to lead a 7-figure or multi-7-figure business, as part of the Capacity Compass series. This insightful episode uncovers the three biggest challenges faced by successful business owners, with a powerful focus on leadership.Jay draws from his 12 years in the British Armed Forces, sharing transformative lessons from military leadership and real-world business growth. He walks listeners through the “Five Levels of Leadership”: Positioning, Permission, Production, People Development, and Pinnacle, explaining how to progress from managing tasks to inspiring teams and creating real, sustainable business impact.Whether you’re leading your first employee, a fast-growing team, or an established multi-million pound business, this episode offers actionable strategies to evolve your leadership style. You’ll learn:How to move beyond positional authority and build meaningful relationships within your organization.Why results-based leadership is vital as you scale, and how to create high-performing teams.The secrets to developing people, not just processes—empowering others and planning for succession.What it means to embody “servant leadership,” stepping back to help your business thrive at every level.Jay’s personal stories—serving alongside decorated leaders in high-pressure environments—add credibility and inspiration for business owners looking to recruit, retain, and reward world-class teams.If you’re ready to scale with integrity and leave a lasting legacy, don’t miss this high-impact episode. Listen now, subscribe, and discover how to unlock your leadership potential for seven-figure growth!#Leadership #BusinessGrowth #SevenFigureBusiness #ScalingUp #LeadershipDevelopment #TeamBuilding #BusinessSuccess #ServantLeadership #BusinessOwners #EthicalLeadership #MyTrueNorth #CapacityCompass #AddAZERO #BusinessPodcast #LegacyLeadership #LeadershipJourney #EntrepreneurMindset #SustainableGrowthDon’t miss actionable tips, inspiring stories, and a roadmap to take your leadership—and your company—to the next level. Click “Follow” on Spotify and stay ahead with the #Add A Zero Podcast.
Are you a business owner striving to build a remarkable team that pushes your business to new heights?
Welcome to Episode 84 of the #Add A Zero Podcast by My TrueNORTH – the UK’s premier ethical business consultancy.
In this game-changing episode, hosts Jay Allen and the MC dive deep into one of the most pressing issues faced by modern entrepreneurs: how to recruit, retain, and reward your team of “superheroes” to ensure sustainable business success.
Why Listen to Episode 84?
In a job market overflowing with opportunities — and just as many challenges — finding and keeping the right people is the magic ingredient for scaling any business. The practical strategies, hard-earned insights, and ethical principles discussed in this episode are designed for business leaders who want to:
- Elevate their recruitment game beyond traditional methods
- Retain talented team members who don’t just see your business as a stepping stone
- Reward and inspire staff for long-term loyalty and exponential impact
Whether you are preparing to hire your first employee, building a brand-new department, or expanding rapidly towards seven figures, the timeless advice in this episode is for you.
🔥 Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
I lay out the eighth element of the #AddAZERO methodology: “Recruit, Retain, Reward Superheroes.” Highlighting a critical mistake that business owners make — only advertising for roles when there’s an immediate vacancy. I advocate for a proactive, continuous approach to recruitment. By consistently putting out feelers into the market, you prime your business to capitalize on superstar talent as soon as it becomes available.
Listen, as I challenge conventional thinking by reframing hiring as an investment, not a financial risk. I share how, especially for sales and revenue-generating roles, every new hire should be covering at least 2x their salary by the end of their probation.
This breakthrough mindset helps business owners stop thinking of wages as a “cost” and start seeing them as the fuel for exponential growth.
Forget bland, run-of-the-mill interviews. I detail how to stand out to top candidates by designing a unique interview process. This includes focusing more on your company’s vision, values, and the type of culture you’re building — not just the job description.
Listeners learn how to sell the opportunity, not just the paycheck, and attract those looking for more than a 9-5.
I'll also share my five-step superhero recruitment framework and discuss the importance of an impactful first 100 days, from pairing new hires with “buddies” to setting clear expectations for success. It’s all about setting people up to shine.
Industry data and Jay’s lived experience reveal a fact every entrepreneur should know: salary is rarely the reason employees stay. Instead, purpose, vision, values, and opportunities for personal growth are the true magnets for loyalty.
In this episode, listeners discover 11 actionable strategies to become a “superboss,” building an environment that people never want to leave.
RecruitRetainReward
SuperheroTeam
BusinessGrowth
HiringStrategy
BusinessScaling
AddAZero
TeamBuilding
CompanyCulture
BusinessSuccess
EmployeeExperience
GrowWithPurpose
MyTrueNORTH
ConsciousLeadership
LegacyBusiness
EmployeeRetention
EthicalRecruitment
BusinessVision
PurposeDriven
NextLevelHiring
SmartHiring
Are you a business owner striving to build a remarkable team that pushes your business to new heights?
Welcome to Episode 84 of the #Add A Zero Podcast by My TrueNORTH – the UK’s premier ethical business consultancy.
In this game-changing episode, hosts Jay Allen and the MC dive deep into one of the most pressing issues faced by modern entrepreneurs: how to recruit, retain, and reward your team of “superheroes” to ensure sustainable business success.
Why Listen to Episode 84?
In a job market overflowing with opportunities — and just as many challenges — finding and keeping the right people is the magic ingredient for scaling any business. The practical strategies, hard-earned insights, and ethical principles discussed in this episode are designed for business leaders who want to:
Elevate their recruitment game beyond traditional methods
Retain talented team members who don’t just see your business as a stepping stone
Reward and inspire staff for long-term loyalty and exponential impact
Whether you are preparing to hire your first employee, building a brand-new department, or expanding rapidly towards seven figures, the timeless advice in this episode is for you.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode:
Jay Allen lays out the eighth element of the #AddAZERO methodology: “Recruit, Retain, Reward Superheroes.” He highlights a critical mistake that business owners make — only advertising for roles when there’s an immediate vacancy.
Jay advocates for a proactive, continuous approach to recruitment. By consistently putting out feelers into the market, you prime your business to capitalize on superstar talent as soon as it becomes available.
Jay challenges conventional thinking by reframing hiring as an investment, not a financial risk. He shares how, especially for sales and revenue-generating roles, every new hire should be covering at least 2x their salary by the end of their probation.
This breakthrough mindset helps business owners stop thinking of wages as a “cost” and start seeing them as the fuel for exponential growth.
Jay details how to stand out to top candidates by designing a unique interview process. This includes focusing more on your company’s vision, values, and the type of culture you’re building — not just the job description.
Listeners learn how to sell the opportunity, not just the paycheck, and attract those looking for more than a 9-5.
Jay also shares his five-step superhero recruitment framework and discusses the importance of an impactful first 100 days — from pairing new hires with “buddies” to setting clear expectations for success. It’s all about setting people up to shine.
And Jay’s lived experience reveal a fact every entrepreneur should know: salary is rarely the reason employees stay. Instead, purpose, vision, values, and opportunities for personal growth are the true magnets for loyalty.
In this episode, listeners discover 11 actionable strategies to become a “superboss,” building an environment that people never want to leave.
Full episode on Wednesday at 12pm
RecruitRetainReward#SuperheroTeam#BusinessGrowth#HiringStrategy#BusinessScaling#AddAZero#TeamBuilding#CompanyCulture#BusinessSuccess#EmployeeExperience#GrowWithPurpose#MyTrueNORTH#ConsciousLeadership#LegacyBusiness#EmployeeRetention#EthicalRecruitment#BusinessVision#PurposeDriven#NextLevelHiring#SmartHiring
Are you a business owner striving to build a remarkable team that pushes your business to new heights? Welcome to Episode 84 of the #Add A Zero Podcast by My TrueNORTH – the UK’s premier ethical business consultancy. In this game-changing episode, hosts Jay Allen and the MC dive deep into one of the most pressing issues faced by modern entrepreneurs: how to recruit, retain, and reward your team of “superheroes” to ensure sustainable business success.Why Listen to Episode 84?In a job market overflowing with opportunities — and just as many challenges — finding and keeping the right people is the magic ingredient for scaling any business. The practical strategies, hard-earned insights, and ethical principles discussed in this episode are designed for business leaders who want to:Elevate their recruitment game beyond traditional methodsRetain talented team members who don’t just see your business as a stepping stoneReward and inspire staff for long-term loyalty and exponential impactWhether you are preparing to hire your first employee, building a brand-new department, or expanding rapidly towards seven figures, the timeless advice in this episode is for you.🔥 Key Topics Covered in This Episode:Jay Allen lays out the eighth element of the #AddAZERO methodology: “Recruit, Retain, Reward Superheroes.” He highlights a critical mistake that business owners make — only advertising for roles when there’s an immediate vacancy. Jay advocates for a proactive, continuous approach to recruitment. By consistently putting out feelers into the market, you prime your business to capitalize on superstar talent as soon as it becomes available.Spotify Search Keywords: business hiring tips, recruit the right employees, recruitment strategy, proactive hiring, business team growthJay challenges conventional thinking by reframing hiring as an investment, not a financial risk. He shares how, especially for sales and revenue-generating roles, every new hire should be covering at least 2x their salary by the end of their probation. This breakthrough mindset helps business owners stop thinking of wages as a “cost” and start seeing them as the fuel for exponential growth.Spotify Search Keywords: employee investment, business assets, team ROI, talent value, growing business teamsForget bland, run-of-the-mill interviews. Jay details how to stand out to top candidates by designing a unique interview process. This includes focusing more on your company’s vision, values, and the type of culture you’re building — not just the job description. Listeners learn how to sell the opportunity, not just the paycheck, and attract those looking for more than a 9-5.Jay also shares his five-step superhero recruitment framework and discusses the importance of an impactful first 100 days — from pairing new hires with “buddies” to setting clear expectations for success. It’s all about setting people up to shine.Spotify Search Keywords: unique interview process, hiring for culture, onboarding best practice, first 100 days, business culture fitIndustry data and Jay’s lived experience reveal a fact every entrepreneur should know: salary is rarely the reason employees stay. Instead, purpose, vision, values, and opportunities for personal growth are the true magnets for loyalty. In this episode, listeners discover 11 actionable strategies to become a “superboss,” building an environment that people never want to leave.Full episode on Wednesday at 12pmSpotify Search Keywords: staff retention strategies, keeping employees, retaining talent, employee loyalty, superboss business#RecruitRetainReward#SuperheroTeam#BusinessGrowth#HiringStrategy#BusinessScaling#AddAZero#TeamBuilding#CompanyCulture#BusinessSuccess#EmployeeExperience#GrowWithPurpose#MyTrueNORTH#ConsciousLeadership#LegacyBusiness#EmployeeRetention#EthicalRecruitment#BusinessVision#PurposeDriven#NextLevelHiring#SmartHiring
Are you a business owner who feels tied to your business 24/7? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, Jay Allen reveals the game-changing strategies to break free from your business bottlenecks and create a company that thrives—without you always being present.
Drawing from over 10 years of research and insights from 100,000+ businesses, Jay dives deep into critical topics for conscientious business leaders:
- Why most businesses get stuck relying on the owner—and how it crushes growth and exit value
- The secret to building a business that can run (and grow) while you take real time off
- Step-by-step tactics to delegate, create rock-solid processes, and empower your team
- How one simple shift led to a client boosting revenue by £700,000 in just 12 months
- Why succession planning is non-negotiable if you want long-term success or a smooth exit
- Actionable advice you can implement now—plus a challenge to identify your top business bottlenecks
If you’re ready to scale without burning out, ensure your business legacy, and unlock true entrepreneurial freedom, this episode is a must-listen!
Drawing on a decade of research with over 100,000 businesses, Jay shares eye-opening insights about the true cost of being indispensable—and why stepping away is critical for growth, scalability, and eventual exit.
Jay challenges listeners to reflect on their own roles: when was the last time you truly disconnected from your business? Could your team thrive if you took a week—or even a month—off? Through real-life stories and practical advice, Jay highlights how creating effective systems, delegating responsibility, and building a business that isn’t solely reliant on you can transform results. Listeners will hear about the remarkable turnaround of a business owner who moved from micromanagement to delegation, resulting in explosive growth and a healthier work-life balance.
Tune in to discover how to get out of your own way, ensure your business can succeed without you, and build a legacy that lasts beyond your direct involvement. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your exit strategy, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone who wants to scale sustainably and ethically.
▶️ Subscribe and listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.
🌍 Learn more about ethical, sustainable business growth at My TrueNORTH.
BusinessGrowth
BusinessStrategy
Leadership
ScaleYourBusiness
BusinessOwner
SuccessionPlanning
Delegation
SustainableBusiness
ExitStrategy
WorkOnTheBusiness
SystemsAndProcesses
BusinessLegacy
Entrepreneurship
SmallBusinessSuccess
BusinessMentor
GrowthMindset
OperationalExcellence
RemoveTheBottleneck
MyTrueNORTH
EthicalBusiness
Mastery
Respect
Accountability
BusinessPodcast
Are you a business owner who feels tied to your business 24/7? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, Jay Allen reveals the game-changing strategies to break free from your business bottlenecks and create a company that thrives—without you always being present.Drawing from over 10 years of research and insights from 100,000+ businesses, Jay dives deep into critical topics for conscientious business leaders:Why most businesses get stuck relying on the owner—and how it crushes growth and exit valueThe secret to building a business that can run (and grow) while you take real time offStep-by-step tactics to delegate, create rock-solid processes, and empower your teamHow one simple shift led to a client boosting revenue by £700,000 in just 12 monthsWhy succession planning is non-negotiable if you want long-term success or a smooth exitActionable advice you can implement now—plus a challenge to identify your top business bottlenecksIf you’re ready to scale without burning out, ensure your business legacy, and unlock true entrepreneurial freedom, this episode is a must-listen!Drawing on a decade of research with over 100,000 businesses, Jay shares eye-opening insights about the true cost of being indispensable—and why stepping away is critical for growth, scalability, and eventual exit.Jay challenges listeners to reflect on their own roles: when was the last time you truly disconnected from your business? Could your team thrive if you took a week—or even a month—off? Through real-life stories and practical advice, Jay highlights how creating effective systems, delegating responsibility, and building a business that isn’t solely reliant on you can transform results. Listeners will hear about the remarkable turnaround of a business owner who moved from micromanagement to delegation, resulting in explosive growth and a healthier work-life balance.Tune in to discover how to get out of your own way, ensure your business can succeed without you, and build a legacy that lasts beyond your direct involvement. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your exit strategy, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone who wants to scale sustainably and ethically.Full Episode this Wednesday at 12pm▶️ Subscribe and listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.🌍 Learn more about ethical, sustainable business growth at My TrueNORTH.#BusinessGrowth#BusinessStrategy#Leadership#ScaleYourBusiness#BusinessOwner#SuccessionPlanning#Delegation#SustainableBusiness#ExitStrategy#WorkOnTheBusiness#SystemsAndProcesses#BusinessLegacy#Entrepreneurship#SmallBusinessSuccess#BusinessMentor#GrowthMindset#OperationalExcellence#RemoveTheBottleneck#MyTrueNORTH#EthicalBusiness#Mastery#Respect#Accountability#BusinessPodcast
Are you a business owner who feels tied to your business 24/7? In this powerful episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast, Jay Allen reveals the game-changing strategies to break free from your business bottlenecks and create a company that thrives—without you always being present.Drawing from over 10 years of research and insights from 100,000+ businesses, Jay dives deep into critical topics for conscientious business leaders:Why most businesses get stuck relying on the owner—and how it crushes growth and exit valueThe secret to building a business that can run (and grow) while you take real time offStep-by-step tactics to delegate, create rock-solid processes, and empower your teamHow one simple shift led to a client boosting revenue by £700,000 in just 12 monthsWhy succession planning is non-negotiable if you want long-term success or a smooth exitActionable advice you can implement now—plus a challenge to identify your top business bottlenecksIf you’re ready to scale without burning out, ensure your business legacy, and unlock true entrepreneurial freedom, this episode is a must-listen!Drawing on a decade of research with over 100,000 businesses, Jay shares eye-opening insights about the true cost of being indispensable—and why stepping away is critical for growth, scalability, and eventual exit.Jay challenges listeners to reflect on their own roles: when was the last time you truly disconnected from your business? Could your team thrive if you took a week—or even a month—off? Through real-life stories and practical advice, Jay highlights how creating effective systems, delegating responsibility, and building a business that isn’t solely reliant on you can transform results. Listeners will hear about the remarkable turnaround of a business owner who moved from micromanagement to delegation, resulting in explosive growth and a healthier work-life balance.Tune in to discover how to get out of your own way, ensure your business can succeed without you, and build a legacy that lasts beyond your direct involvement. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your exit strategy, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone who wants to scale sustainably and ethically.Full Episode this Wednesday at 12pm▶️ Subscribe and listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform.🌍 Learn more about ethical, sustainable business growth at My TrueNORTH.#BusinessGrowth#BusinessStrategy#Leadership#ScaleYourBusiness#BusinessOwner#SuccessionPlanning#Delegation#SustainableBusiness#ExitStrategy#WorkOnTheBusiness#SystemsAndProcesses#BusinessLegacy#Entrepreneurship#SmallBusinessSuccess#BusinessMentor#GrowthMindset#OperationalExcellence#RemoveTheBottleneck#MyTrueNORTH#EthicalBusiness#Mastery#Respect#Accountability#BusinessPodcast
In this episode, host Jay Allen from My True North dives deep into one of the biggest hurdles for businesses hovering in the six-figure range: managing money and cash flow as you push toward that elusive seven-figure milestone.
Jay unpacks the hidden dangers of “growing broke” versus simply “going broke,” revealing how rapid expansion can put your business at risk if cash flow isn’t managed with foresight and discipline. Drawing on years of research and real-life cautionary tales, including his own personal business setbacks, Jay breaks down practical strategies for building cash reserves, forecasting cash flow, and negotiating payment terms—especially when dealing with large corporate clients.
This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you avoid the most common financial pitfalls and confidently scale your business to new heights. If you’re ready to take control of your company’s financial health and ensure it thrives through every stage of growth, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
3 Key Takeaways for Growth-Minded Business Owners:
- Distinguish "Going Broke" vs. "Growing Broke": It’s not only a lack of money that kills businesses, but sometimes, fast growth with poor cashflow planning. Scaling too quickly without reserves can be just as dangerous as not making enough sales.
- Cashflow Forecasting is Critical: Don’t just rely on historical data or your profit and loss statement. Proactively manage when money is due in and out with comprehensive cashflow forecasting. It’s a game-changer for making confident business decisions.
- Negotiate Better Payment Terms: If long payment cycles are standard in your industry, don’t just accept the risk. Renegotiate terms, consider offering early payment discounts, or align with initiatives like the Fair Pay to Small Business scheme. It’s YOUR business—set terms that protect your growth.
If you haven’t yet, think about embedding a cashflow forecast into your business toolkit—Jay shares a ready-made calculator and actionable advice in this episode.
Unlock the secrets to sustainable business growth in Episode 82 of the #Add A Zero Podcast! Join host Jay Allen from My True North as he dives deep into the three biggest money and cash flow challenges faced by ambitious six-figure businesses aiming for that elusive seven-figure milestone. Discover practical strategies to avoid the dangers of "growing broke," manage your cash flow like a pro, and build the financial foundations to scale your business with confidence. Whether you’re an owner with a small team or an entrepreneur hungry to break into the next tier, this episode is packed with real-world advice, actionable tips, and proven tools to help you master your finances and transform your business journey. Subscribe now and start scaling smarter with the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy!
BusinessGrowth #CashFlow #EntrepreneurTips #SmallBusiness #MyTrueNorth #ADDAZERO
In this episode, host Jay Allen from My True North dives deep into one of the biggest hurdles for businesses hovering in the six-figure range: managing money and cash flow as you push toward that elusive seven-figure milestone.Jay unpacks the hidden dangers of “growing broke” versus simply “going broke,” revealing how rapid expansion can put your business at risk if cash flow isn’t managed with foresight and discipline. Drawing on years of research and real-life cautionary tales, including his own personal business setbacks, Jay breaks down practical strategies for building cash reserves, forecasting cash flow, and negotiating payment terms—especially when dealing with large corporate clients.This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you avoid the most common financial pitfalls and confidently scale your business to new heights. If you’re ready to take control of your company’s financial health and ensure it thrives through every stage of growth, you won’t want to miss this conversation.3 Key Takeaways for Growth-Minded Business Owners:Distinguish "Going Broke" vs. "Growing Broke": It’s not only a lack of money that kills businesses, but sometimes, fast growth with poor cashflow planning. Scaling too quickly without reserves can be just as dangerous as not making enough sales.Cashflow Forecasting is Critical: Don’t just rely on historical data or your profit and loss statement. Proactively manage when money is due in and out with comprehensive cashflow forecasting. It’s a game-changer for making confident business decisions.Negotiate Better Payment Terms: If long payment cycles are standard in your industry, don’t just accept the risk. Renegotiate terms, consider offering early payment discounts, or align with initiatives like the Fair Pay to Small Business scheme. It’s YOUR business—set terms that protect your growth.If you haven’t yet, think about embedding a cashflow forecast into your business toolkit—Jay shares a ready-made calculator and actionable advice in this episode.Unlock the secrets to sustainable business growth in Episode 82 of the #Add A Zero Podcast! Join host Jay Allen from My True North as he dives deep into the three biggest money and cash flow challenges faced by ambitious six-figure businesses aiming for that elusive seven-figure milestone. Discover practical strategies to avoid the dangers of "growing broke," manage your cash flow like a pro, and build the financial foundations to scale your business with confidence. Whether you’re an owner with a small team or an entrepreneur hungry to break into the next tier, this episode is packed with real-world advice, actionable tips, and proven tools to help you master your finances and transform your business journey. Subscribe now and start scaling smarter with the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy!#BusinessGrowth #CashFlow #EntrepreneurTips #SmallBusiness #MyTrueNorth #ADDAZEROFull Episode on Wednesday at 12pm
In this episode, host Jay Allen from My True North dives deep into one of the biggest hurdles for businesses hovering in the six-figure range: managing money and cash flow as you push toward that elusive seven-figure milestone.Jay unpacks the hidden dangers of “growing broke” versus simply “going broke,” revealing how rapid expansion can put your business at risk if cash flow isn’t managed with foresight and discipline. Drawing on years of research and real-life cautionary tales, including his own personal business setbacks, Jay breaks down practical strategies for building cash reserves, forecasting cash flow, and negotiating payment terms—especially when dealing with large corporate clients.This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you avoid the most common financial pitfalls and confidently scale your business to new heights. If you’re ready to take control of your company’s financial health and ensure it thrives through every stage of growth, you won’t want to miss this conversation.3 Key Takeaways for Growth-Minded Business Owners:Distinguish "Going Broke" vs. "Growing Broke": It’s not only a lack of money that kills businesses, but sometimes, fast growth with poor cashflow planning. Scaling too quickly without reserves can be just as dangerous as not making enough sales.Cashflow Forecasting is Critical: Don’t just rely on historical data or your profit and loss statement. Proactively manage when money is due in and out with comprehensive cashflow forecasting. It’s a game-changer for making confident business decisions.Negotiate Better Payment Terms: If long payment cycles are standard in your industry, don’t just accept the risk. Renegotiate terms, consider offering early payment discounts, or align with initiatives like the Fair Pay to Small Business scheme. It’s YOUR business—set terms that protect your growth.If you haven’t yet, think about embedding a cashflow forecast into your business toolkit—Jay shares a ready-made calculator and actionable advice in this episode.Unlock the secrets to sustainable business growth in Episode 82 of the #Add A Zero Podcast! Join host Jay Allen from My True North as he dives deep into the three biggest money and cash flow challenges faced by ambitious six-figure businesses aiming for that elusive seven-figure milestone. Discover practical strategies to avoid the dangers of "growing broke," manage your cash flow like a pro, and build the financial foundations to scale your business with confidence. Whether you’re an owner with a small team or an entrepreneur hungry to break into the next tier, this episode is packed with real-world advice, actionable tips, and proven tools to help you master your finances and transform your business journey. Subscribe now and start scaling smarter with the UK’s leading ethical business consultancy!#BusinessGrowth #CashFlow #EntrepreneurTips #SmallBusiness #MyTrueNorth #ADDAZEROFull Episode on Wednesday at 12pm
In episode 81 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two insightful guests, Adam Lawson and Steven, co-directors of Swift Tree Services. Over the course of the episode, they shared transformative experiences propelled by the Add A Zero Basecamp program that have profoundly impacted their business.
Their story begins with an all-too-familiar scenario for many entrepreneurs: a thriving business operating at full throttle, but with a catch—they were on the brink of burnout, caught in a cycle of saying yes to everyone and struggling to keep up. Like many business owners, they faced the dilemma of whether to continue down this exhausting path or to make a conscious pivot in their approach.
Enter the concept they adopted, which I like to call "Structured Growth." It’s not just about addressing the immediate challenges but designing a strategy that focuses on key areas critical for sustainable growth. Adam and Steven highlighted how their initial engagement involved completing a detailed 35-question survey that exposed significant knowledge gaps and opportunities for improvement, particularly in financial management and operational structure.
Just like an athlete analysing and refining their technique, Adam and Steven committed to a systematic review of their business processes. The structured approach taken through the Add A Zero methodology—emphasising clear cash flow forecasts and credit control—became their new practice plan, akin to a musician refining scales or a sportsperson mastering basic drills before advancing to complex moves.
The importance of this new methodology was not just the clarity it brought, but the empowerment to shift from reactive firefighting to proactive structuring. Within just three months, their approach saw tangible results: improved profits, a healthier cash flow, and better team morale, as the strain on their staff decreased and their future with the company seemed more assured.
Why is Structured Growth significant? Because it’s about calculated, measurable steps that prioritise the wellbeing of both leadership and team, creating an environment where motivation thrives. It’s about moving beyond day-to-day survival to strategised advancement, ensuring that the path to success is sustainable and impactful.
For Adam and Steven, the resonance of Structured Growth continues to ripple through their team. As they looked forward to the next 3-5 years, the roadmap provided by the Add A Zero methodology paved the way for balanced growth, more informed decision-making, and the freedom to shape their entrepreneurial journey on their terms.
Their experience exemplifies how changing the practice to focus on structure and calculated decisions can transform the trajectory of a business, much like how an athlete fine-tunes their training regimen to leap further, run faster, or play better.
So, for all those business owners out there who feel like they are at a crossroads, teetering on the edge of exhaustion, consider this approach. Take the leap into Structured Growth and see how it can not only add a zero to your revenue but also to the satisfaction, impact, and sustainability of your business. Get in touch, and let’s shape the future of business success together.
BusinessGrowth, #SustainableGrowth, #CoachingImpact, #LeadershipChallenge, #SwiftTreeServices, #ADAZero, #BasecampProgram, #CashFlowForecasting, #CreditControl, #TeamDevelopment, #ClientPerspective, #BusinessTurnaround, #EntrepreneurialJourney, #DirectorExperience, #OperationalEfficiency
In episode 81 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two insightful guests, Adam Lawson and Steven, co-directors of Swift Tree Services. Over the course of the episode, they shared transformative experiences propelled by the Add A Zero Basecamp program that have profoundly impacted their business.Their story begins with an all-too-familiar scenario for many entrepreneurs: a thriving business operating at full throttle, but with a catch—they were on the brink of burnout, caught in a cycle of saying yes to everyone and struggling to keep up. Like many business owners, they faced the dilemma of whether to continue down this exhausting path or to make a conscious pivot in their approach.Enter the concept they adopted which I like to call "Structured Growth." It’s not just about addressing the immediate challenges but designing a strategy that focuses on key areas critical for sustainable growth. Adam and Steven highlighted how their initial engagement involved completing a detailed 35-question survey that exposed significant knowledge gaps and opportunities for improvement, particularly in financial management and operational structure.Just like an athlete analyzing and refining their technique, Adam and Steven committed to a systematic review of their business processes. The structured approach taken through the Add A Zero methodology—emphasizing clear cash flow forecasts and credit control—became their new practice plan, akin to a musician refining scales or a sportsperson mastering basic drills before advancing to complex moves.The importance of this new methodology was not just the clarity it brought, but the empowerment to shift from reactive firefighting to proactive structuring. Within just three months, their approach saw tangible results: improved profits, a healthier cash flow, and better team morale, as the strain on their staff decreased and their future with the company seemed more assured.Why is Structured Growth significant? Because it’s about calculated, measurable steps that prioritize the wellbeing of both leadership and team, creating an environment where motivation thrives. It’s about moving beyond day-to-day survival to strategized advancement, ensuring that the path to success is sustainable and impactful.For Adam and Steven, the resonance of Structured Growth continues to ripple through their team. As they looked forward to the next 3-5 years, the roadmap provided by the Add A Zero methodology paved the way for balanced growth, more informed decision-making, and the freedom to shape their entrepreneurial journey on their terms.Their experience exemplifies how changing the practice to focus on structure and calculated decisions can transform the trajectory of a business, much like how an athlete fine-tunes their training regimen to leap further, run faster, or play better.So, for all those business owners out there who feel like they are at a crossroads, teetering on the edge of exhaustion, consider this approach. Take the leap into Structured Growth and see how it can not only add a zero to your revenue but also to the satisfaction, impact, and sustainability of your business. Try it out, and let’s shape the future of business success together.#BusinessGrowth, #SustainableGrowth, #CoachingImpact, #LeadershipChallenge, #SwiftTreeServices, #ADAZero, #BasecampProgram, #CashFlowForecasting, #CreditControl, #TeamDevelopment, #ClientPerspective, #BusinessTurnaround, #EntrepreneurialJourney, #DirectorExperience, #OperationalEfficiencyFull Episode Wednesday from 12pm
In episode 81 of the #Add A Zero Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with two insightful guests, Adam Lawson and Steven, co-directors of Swift Tree Services. Over the course of the episode, they shared transformative experiences propelled by the Add A Zero Basecamp program that have profoundly impacted their business.Their story begins with an all-too-familiar scenario for many entrepreneurs: a thriving business operating at full throttle, but with a catch—they were on the brink of burnout, caught in a cycle of saying yes to everyone and struggling to keep up. Like many business owners, they faced the dilemma of whether to continue down this exhausting path or to make a conscious pivot in their approach.Enter the concept they adopted which I like to call "Structured Growth." It’s not just about addressing the immediate challenges but designing a strategy that focuses on key areas critical for sustainable growth. Adam and Steven highlighted how their initial engagement involved completing a detailed 35-question survey that exposed significant knowledge gaps and opportunities for improvement, particularly in financial management and operational structure.Just like an athlete analyzing and refining their technique, Adam and Steven committed to a systematic review of their business processes. The structured approach taken through the Add A Zero methodology—emphasizing clear cash flow forecasts and credit control—became their new practice plan, akin to a musician refining scales or a sportsperson mastering basic drills before advancing to complex moves.The importance of this new methodology was not just the clarity it brought, but the empowerment to shift from reactive firefighting to proactive structuring. Within just three months, their approach saw tangible results: improved profits, a healthier cash flow, and better team morale, as the strain on their staff decreased and their future with the company seemed more assured.Why is Structured Growth significant? Because it’s about calculated, measurable steps that prioritize the wellbeing of both leadership and team, creating an environment where motivation thrives. It’s about moving beyond day-to-day survival to strategized advancement, ensuring that the path to success is sustainable and impactful.For Adam and Steven, the resonance of Structured Growth continues to ripple through their team. As they looked forward to the next 3-5 years, the roadmap provided by the Add A Zero methodology paved the way for balanced growth, more informed decision-making, and the freedom to shape their entrepreneurial journey on their terms.Their experience exemplifies how changing the practice to focus on structure and calculated decisions can transform the trajectory of a business, much like how an athlete fine-tunes their training regimen to leap further, run faster, or play better.So, for all those business owners out there who feel like they are at a crossroads, teetering on the edge of exhaustion, consider this approach. Take the leap into Structured Growth and see how it can not only add a zero to your revenue but also to the satisfaction, impact, and sustainability of your business. Try it out, and let’s shape the future of business success together.#BusinessGrowth, #SustainableGrowth, #CoachingImpact, #LeadershipChallenge, #SwiftTreeServices, #ADAZero, #BasecampProgram, #CashFlowForecasting, #CreditControl, #TeamDevelopment, #ClientPerspective, #BusinessTurnaround, #EntrepreneurialJourney, #DirectorExperience, #OperationalEfficiency
Full Episode Wednesday at 12pm
In this weeks video we're diving deep into one of the most pressing challenges faced by SME businesses in the UK: pricing strategy.
Over the last couple of weeks, we've explored other fundamental issues like marketing and sales processes. Now, imagine your marketing efforts have hit the bullseye and your sales strategy is on point. You're selling, but how confident are you in your pricing model?
Many businesses fall into the trap of using a simple cost plus markup or pegging their prices somewhere between market averages, both of which often underestimate the true costs and potential profit margins.
Join me as we uncover the hidden factors in these pricing models and introduce effective strategies to maximise your profits.
Plus, hear real-life success stories, like a client who transformed their single-figure profit margins into substantial gains by re-evaluating their pricing strategy.
What is the cost-plus pricing model, and how does it function? The cost-plus pricing model is a straightforward method used by many businesses for setting prices. It begins with calculating the total cost of producing a product or delivering a service, including all expenses such as materials, labour, and overhead.
Once the total cost is established, a markup percentage is added on top to ensure profit. For example, if a product costs £100 to produce and the business wants a 20% profit margin, the price would be set at £120.Despite its simplicity, the cost-plus model is not without its pitfalls.
As I discuss in the Add A Zero Podcast, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gravitate towards this model without fully understanding their fixed and variable costs, leading to misinformed pricing strategies. Fixed costs include regular expenses like rent and utilities, necessary for keeping the business operational, irrespective of sales volume. Variable costs fluctuate depending on the level of production or service provision, such as raw material costs or hourly wages.
Understanding these cost components is crucial. Companies often fall into the trap of either underpricing or overpricing, both of which can be detrimental. Underpricing may erode profit margins, while overpricing can reduce competitive edge. The significance of a robust pricing strategy cannot be overstated; it supports sustainable business growth, improving both the top and bottom lines. By knowing their numbers and strategically packaging and promoting their offerings, businesses can optimise their pricing strategies, ensuring profitability and long-term success.
The key takeaway?
Know your fixed and variable costs inside out, then tailor your pricing strategy to improve profit margins. It’s all about adding a zero to your bottom line. If you're ready to transform your pricing game, this episode is a must-listen!
AddAZeroPodcast, #PricingStrategy, #SMEChallenges, #CostPlusPricing, #MarketAverages, #FixedCosts, #VariableCosts, #ProfitMargin, #PricingModels, #Masterclass, #BusinessGrowth, #PricingAndProfit
In this weeks video we're diving deep into one of the most pressing challenges faced by SME businesses in the UK: pricing strategy. Over the last couple of weeks, we've explored other fundamental issues like marketing and sales processes. Now, imagine your marketing efforts have hit the bullseye and your sales strategy is on point. You're selling, but how confident are you in your pricing model? Many businesses fall into the trap of using a simple cost plus markup or pegging their prices somewhere between market averages, both of which often underestimate the true costs and potential profit margins. Join me as we uncover the hidden factors in these pricing models and introduce effective strategies to maximize your profits. Plus, hear real-life success stories, like a client who transformed their single-figure profit margins into substantial gains by re-evaluating their pricing strategy. What is the cost-plus pricing model, and how does it function? The cost-plus pricing model is a straightforward method used by many businesses for setting prices. It begins with calculating the total cost of producing a product or delivering a service, including all expenses such as materials, labor, and overheads. Once the total cost is established, a markup percentage is added on top to ensure profit. For example, if a product costs $100 to produce and the business wants a 20% profit margin, the price would be set at $120.Despite its simplicity, the cost-plus model is not without its pitfalls. As Jay Allen discussed in the Add A Zero Podcast, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gravitate towards this model without fully understanding their fixed and variable costs, leading to misinformed pricing strategies. Fixed costs include regular expenses like rent and utilities, necessary for keeping the business operational, irrespective of sales volume. Variable costs fluctuate depending on the level of production or service provision, such as raw material costs or hourly wages.Understanding these cost components is crucial. Companies often fall into the trap of either underpricing or overpricing, both of which can be detrimental. Underpricing may erode profit margins while overpricing can reduce competitive edge. The significance of a robust pricing strategy cannot be overstated; it supports sustainable business growth, improving both the top and bottom lines. By knowing their numbers and strategically packaging and promoting their offerings, businesses can optimize their pricing strategies, ensuring profitability and long-term success.The key takeaway? Know your fixed and variable costs inside out, then tailor your pricing strategy to improve profit margins. It’s all about adding a zero to your bottom line. If you're ready to transform your pricing game, this episode is a must-listen!#AddAZeroPodcast, #PricingStrategy, #SMEChallenges, #CostPlusPricing, #MarketAverages, #FixedCosts, #VariableCosts, #ProfitMargin, #PricingModels, #Masterclass, #BusinessGrowth, #PricingAndProfitFull episode Wednesday at 12pm
In this weeks video we're diving deep into one of the most pressing challenges faced by SME businesses in the UK: pricing strategy. Over the last couple of weeks, we've explored other fundamental issues like marketing and sales processes. Now, imagine your marketing efforts have hit the bullseye and your sales strategy is on point. You're selling, but how confident are you in your pricing model? Many businesses fall into the trap of using a simple cost plus markup or pegging their prices somewhere between market averages, both of which often underestimate the true costs and potential profit margins. Join me as we uncover the hidden factors in these pricing models and introduce effective strategies to maximize your profits. Plus, hear real-life success stories, like a client who transformed their single-figure profit margins into substantial gains by re-evaluating their pricing strategy. What is the cost-plus pricing model, and how does it function? The cost-plus pricing model is a straightforward method used by many businesses for setting prices. It begins with calculating the total cost of producing a product or delivering a service, including all expenses such as materials, labor, and overheads. Once the total cost is established, a markup percentage is added on top to ensure profit. For example, if a product costs $100 to produce and the business wants a 20% profit margin, the price would be set at $120.Despite its simplicity, the cost-plus model is not without its pitfalls. As Jay Allen discussed in the Add A Zero Podcast, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) gravitate towards this model without fully understanding their fixed and variable costs, leading to misinformed pricing strategies. Fixed costs include regular expenses like rent and utilities, necessary for keeping the business operational, irrespective of sales volume. Variable costs fluctuate depending on the level of production or service provision, such as raw material costs or hourly wages.Understanding these cost components is crucial. Companies often fall into the trap of either underpricing or overpricing, both of which can be detrimental. Underpricing may erode profit margins while overpricing can reduce competitive edge. The significance of a robust pricing strategy cannot be overstated; it supports sustainable business growth, improving both the top and bottom lines. By knowing their numbers and strategically packaging and promoting their offerings, businesses can optimize their pricing strategies, ensuring profitability and long-term success.The key takeaway? Know your fixed and variable costs inside out, then tailor your pricing strategy to improve profit margins. It’s all about adding a zero to your bottom line. If you're ready to transform your pricing game, this episode is a must-listen!#AddAZeroPodcast, #PricingStrategy, #SMEChallenges, #CostPlusPricing, #MarketAverages, #FixedCosts, #VariableCosts, #ProfitMargin, #PricingModels, #Masterclass, #BusinessGrowth, #PricingAndProfitFull episode Wednesday @ 12pm
In this weeks video we talk about one of the intriguing concepts mentioned in the latest episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast is the idea of "sales as a service" and the dynamics of the buyer-seller dance. This concept revolves around a more holistic and service-oriented approach to sales, rather than simply focusing on closing the deal or boosting commission.
Sales as a service challenges the traditional view that the ultimate goal of sales is merely cash in the bank. Instead, it places emphasis on how a salesperson can be of genuine service to a potential buyer. This involves a strategy where you don't rush the process, but instead, nurture it by understanding the customer's needs, challenges, and the right steps to move them towards a successful purchase decision.
Imagine you walk into a store and a salesperson approaches you immediately with, "How can I help you today?" Your instinctive response might be, "Thanks, I'm just looking." This reflexive reaction is part of the intricacies of the buyer-seller dance, a subconscious "not yet" that many of us default to, simply because we need time to adjust to a new environment and maintain a sense of control over the decision-making process.
Sales as a service recognizes these buyer defenses and suggests slowing down the sales process to improve the overall conversion rate. By allowing a potential customer to move at their own pace, and by providing valuable assistance and information at each stage, you enhance their buying experience and build a foundation of trust.
There are four key stages to this sales process. Firstly, there's education, where the salesperson informs the buyer about potential needs or challenges they may not even be aware of. The second step involves questioning and qualifying, ensuring that both parties understand the problem accurately and are equipped to find the best solution. The third stage is concerned with budgeting and timing, determining whether the buyer is ready and able to proceed with a purchase. Finally, a considerate and timely approach to closing the sale ensures that both seller and buyer end up satisfied with the outcome.
This method aligns with the notion that as a business owner or sales professional, you're also a customer in other aspects of your life. Those previous experiences as a buyer inform your selling habits, sometimes detrimentally. Putting an emphasis on the aim of improving a customer's condition through service means parking those biases, learning from past purchase experiences, and focusing on the customer's journey.
Ultimately, when practiced effectively, sales as a service leads to a more authentic, trust-based relationship between buyer and seller, where both parties feel they have gained value from the exchange. This approach not only improves conversion rates but leads to more meaningful, lasting business relationships. Just like the #Add A Zero Podcast illustrates, by understanding the complexities of the buyer-seller dance and adopting a service mindset, you can turn every sales opportunity into an enriching interaction.
An aligned sales cycle doesn't just boost your conversion rates, but it also means you've made a real difference for your customer. Stay tuned for next week where we'll tackle pricing for profit to ensure you're always on the path of sustainable growth.
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SMEChallenges, #SalesStrategy, #BuyerSellerDance, #SalesAsService, #CustomerCentric, #PsychologyOfSales, #SlowSalesProcess, #ImproveConversionRates, #SalesCycle, #SoundBusinessSteps
In this weeks video we talk about one of the intriguing concepts mentioned in the latest episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast is the idea of "sales as a service" and the dynamics of the buyer-seller dance. This concept revolves around a more holistic and service-oriented approach to sales, rather than simply focusing on closing the deal or boosting commission.Sales as a service challenges the traditional view that the ultimate goal of sales is merely cash in the bank. Instead, it places emphasis on how a salesperson can be of genuine service to a potential buyer. This involves a strategy where you don't rush the process, but instead, nurture it by understanding the customer's needs, challenges, and the right steps to move them towards a successful purchase decision.Imagine you walk into a store and a salesperson approaches you immediately with, "How can I help you today?" Your instinctive response might be, "Thanks, I'm just looking." This reflexive reaction is part of the intricacies of the buyer-seller dance, a subconscious "not yet" that many of us default to, simply because we need time to adjust to a new environment and maintain a sense of control over the decision-making process.Sales as a service recognizes these buyer defenses and suggests slowing down the sales process to improve the overall conversion rate. By allowing a potential customer to move at their own pace, and by providing valuable assistance and information at each stage, you enhance their buying experience and build a foundation of trust.There are four key stages to this sales process. Firstly, there's education, where the salesperson informs the buyer about potential needs or challenges they may not even be aware of. The second step involves questioning and qualifying, ensuring that both parties understand the problem accurately and are equipped to find the best solution. The third stage is concerned with budgeting and timing, determining whether the buyer is ready and able to proceed with a purchase. Finally, a considerate and timely approach to closing the sale ensures that both seller and buyer end up satisfied with the outcome.This method aligns with the notion that as a business owner or sales professional, you're also a customer in other aspects of your life. Those previous experiences as a buyer inform your selling habits, sometimes detrimentally. Putting an emphasis on the aim of improving a customer's condition through service means parking those biases, learning from past purchase experiences, and focusing on the customer's journey.Ultimately, when practiced effectively, sales as a service leads to a more authentic, trust-based relationship between buyer and seller, where both parties feel they have gained value from the exchange. This approach not only improves conversion rates but leads to more meaningful, lasting business relationships. Just like the #Add A Zero Podcast illustrates, by understanding the complexities of the buyer-seller dance and adopting a service mindset, you can turn every sales opportunity into an enriching interaction.An aligned sales cycle doesn't just boost your conversion rates, but it also means you've made a real difference for your customer. Stay tuned for next week where we'll tackle pricing for profit to ensure you're always on the path of sustainable growth. #SMEChallenges, #SalesStrategy, #BuyerSellerDance, #SalesAsService, #CustomerCentric, #PsychologyOfSales, #SlowSalesProcess, #ImproveConversionRates, #SalesCycle, #SoundBusinessStepsFull Episode Wednesday at 12pm
In this weeks video we talk about one of the intriguing concepts mentioned in the latest episode of the #Add A Zero Podcast is the idea of "sales as a service" and the dynamics of the buyer-seller dance. This concept revolves around a more holistic and service-oriented approach to sales, rather than simply focusing on closing the deal or boosting commission.Sales as a service challenges the traditional view that the ultimate goal of sales is merely cash in the bank. Instead, it places emphasis on how a salesperson can be of genuine service to a potential buyer. This involves a strategy where you don't rush the process, but instead, nurture it by understanding the customer's needs, challenges, and the right steps to move them towards a successful purchase decision.Imagine you walk into a store and a salesperson approaches you immediately with, "How can I help you today?" Your instinctive response might be, "Thanks, I'm just looking." This reflexive reaction is part of the intricacies of the buyer-seller dance, a subconscious "not yet" that many of us default to, simply because we need time to adjust to a new environment and maintain a sense of control over the decision-making process.Sales as a service recognizes these buyer defenses and suggests slowing down the sales process to improve the overall conversion rate. By allowing a potential customer to move at their own pace, and by providing valuable assistance and information at each stage, you enhance their buying experience and build a foundation of trust.There are four key stages to this sales process. Firstly, there's education, where the salesperson informs the buyer about potential needs or challenges they may not even be aware of. The second step involves questioning and qualifying, ensuring that both parties understand the problem accurately and are equipped to find the best solution. The third stage is concerned with budgeting and timing, determining whether the buyer is ready and able to proceed with a purchase. Finally, a considerate and timely approach to closing the sale ensures that both seller and buyer end up satisfied with the outcome.This method aligns with the notion that as a business owner or sales professional, you're also a customer in other aspects of your life. Those previous experiences as a buyer inform your selling habits, sometimes detrimentally. Putting an emphasis on the aim of improving a customer's condition through service means parking those biases, learning from past purchase experiences, and focusing on the customer's journey.Ultimately, when practiced effectively, sales as a service leads to a more authentic, trust-based relationship between buyer and seller, where both parties feel they have gained value from the exchange. This approach not only improves conversion rates but leads to more meaningful, lasting business relationships. Just like the #Add A Zero Podcast illustrates, by understanding the complexities of the buyer-seller dance and adopting a service mindset, you can turn every sales opportunity into an enriching interaction.An aligned sales cycle doesn't just boost your conversion rates, but it also means you've made a real difference for your customer. Stay tuned for next week where we'll tackle pricing for profit to ensure you're always on the path of sustainable growth. #SMEChallenges, #SalesStrategy, #BuyerSellerDance, #SalesAsService, #CustomerCentric, #PsychologyOfSales, #SlowSalesProcess, #ImproveConversionRates, #SalesCycle, #SoundBusinessStepsFull episode Wednesday at 12pm
In this weeks video I had a fascinating conversation with a client during one of our My True North business consultancy sessions. This particular client owned a healthy snack company and was struggling with improving their marketing effectiveness. Now, the client was running advertisements and pushing out content but wasn't seeing the engagement or sales conversions they had hoped for. This resonated with me as it tied back to a fundamental aspect of our Add A Zero podcast that we focus on: understanding what metrics truly matter for your business.
During our consultation, we delved into the intricacies of their marketing strategy. I introduced them to a concept I like to call "Metric Shift Awareness." Often, as business owners, we get caught up in measuring success by revenue alone. However, as discussed in episode 78 of the podcast, marketing's effectiveness isn't just about pounds and pence. The real metric is engagement—how well are we connecting with the right type of client?
With this new perspective, the client began to accurately measure the impact of their campaigns by tracking the number of inquiries, the types of inquiries, and online engagement rather than just immediate sales. The client realized their efforts were reaching a wider audience, sparking more inquiries, and, over time, translating into sales. It's akin to planting seeds and nurturing them to grow into a flourishing garden.
This approach clearly highlighted the importance of patience and proper analysis in marketing, emphasizing that true success isn't immediate but cultivated over time through consistent and engaging interaction with your audience. So, we dubbed this shift in focus "Engagement Cultivation." By focusing on cultivating authentic relationships through meaningful engagement, the client was able to see a significant uptick in their long-term customer base and brand loyalty.
To sum it up, if you're looking to grow your business effectively, embrace Engagement Cultivation. Look beyond immediate revenue and start focusing on how well you're connecting with your audience. Remember, marketing's true job is to make the phone ring or prompt an inquiry. Apply this methodology, and let me know the difference it makes in your business journey.
Forget measuring marketing success by cash alone. It's all about attracting the right customers by tuning into crucial metrics, creating engagement, and making those phones ring. Remember, marketing's role is to set the stage for sales by building relationships and sparking meaningful conversations.
Here's what you can learn:
👉 Measure the Right Metrics: Marketing is not about instant cash returns. Instead, focus on engagement metrics. How many inquiries are you getting? Is your phone ringing? These are the real indicators of successful marketing.
👉 Know Your Audience: To communicate effectively, it's essential to understand your target client. What do they need to hear or see from you? Tailoring your message to resonate with them can make all the difference.
👉 Marketing is Storytelling: Beyond features and benefits, your marketing should be about creating an emotional connection. Inform, educate, and engage your audience through "edutainment" to build trust and awareness.
Jay’s insights are all about helping you craft a marketing strategy that attracts your ideal clients and fuels sustainable growth 📈.
Tune into this episode to learn how to make your marketing efforts truly impactful. 🎧 #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #SMEs
Feel free to let us know your thoughts or reach out if you need guidance with your marketing!
-
Marketing effectiveness, #Marketing efficiency, #Marketing metrics, #Business scalability, #Job creation, #Marketing measurement, #Ideal client attraction, #A-grade clients, #Marketing strategies, #Marketing myths, #Marketing and sales relationship, #Engagement metrics
In this weeks video I had a fascinating conversation with a client during one of our My True North business consultancy sessions. This particular client owned a healthy snack company and was struggling with improving their marketing effectiveness. Now, the client was running advertisements and pushing out content but wasn't seeing the engagement or sales conversions they had hoped for. This resonated with me as it tied back to a fundamental aspect of our Add A Zero podcast that we focus on: understanding what metrics truly matter for your business.During our consultation, we delved into the intricacies of their marketing strategy. I introduced them to a concept I like to call "Metric Shift Awareness." Often, as business owners, we get caught up in measuring success by revenue alone. However, as discussed in episode 78 of the podcast, marketing's effectiveness isn't just about pounds and pence. The real metric is engagement—how well are we connecting with the right type of client?With this new perspective, the client began to accurately measure the impact of their campaigns by tracking the number of inquiries, the types of inquiries, and online engagement rather than just immediate sales. The client realized their efforts were reaching a wider audience, sparking more inquiries, and, over time, translating into sales. It's akin to planting seeds and nurturing them to grow into a flourishing garden.This approach clearly highlighted the importance of patience and proper analysis in marketing, emphasizing that true success isn't immediate but cultivated over time through consistent and engaging interaction with your audience. So, we dubbed this shift in focus "Engagement Cultivation." By focusing on cultivating authentic relationships through meaningful engagement, the client was able to see a significant uptick in their long-term customer base and brand loyalty.To sum it up, if you're looking to grow your business effectively, embrace Engagement Cultivation. Look beyond immediate revenue and start focusing on how well you're connecting with your audience. Remember, marketing's true job is to make the phone ring or prompt an inquiry. Apply this methodology, and let me know the difference it makes in your business journey.Forget measuring marketing success by cash alone. It's all about attracting the right customers by tuning into crucial metrics, creating engagement, and making those phones ring. Remember, marketing's role is to set the stage for sales by building relationships and sparking meaningful conversations.Here's what you can learn:👉 Measure the Right Metrics: Marketing is not about instant cash returns. Instead, focus on engagement metrics. How many inquiries are you getting? Is your phone ringing? These are the real indicators of successful marketing.👉 Know Your Audience: To communicate effectively, it's essential to understand your target client. What do they need to hear or see from you? Tailoring your message to resonate with them can make all the difference.👉 Marketing is Storytelling: Beyond features and benefits, your marketing should be about creating an emotional connection. Inform, educate, and engage your audience through "edutainment" to build trust and awareness.Jay’s insights are all about helping you craft a marketing strategy that attracts your ideal clients and fuels sustainable growth 📈. Tune into this episode to learn how to make your marketing efforts truly impactful. 🎧 #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #SMEsFeel free to let us know your thoughts or reach out if you need guidance with your marketing!#Marketing effectiveness, #Marketing efficiency, #Marketing metrics, #Business scalability, #Job creation, #Marketing measurement, #Ideal client attraction, #A-grade clients, #Marketing strategies, #Marketing myths, #Marketing and sales relationship, #Engagement metricsFull episode this Wednesday at 12pm
In this weeks video I had a fascinating conversation with a client during one of our My True North business consultancy sessions. This particular client owned a healthy snack company and was struggling with improving their marketing effectiveness. Now, the client was running advertisements and pushing out content but wasn't seeing the engagement or sales conversions they had hoped for. This resonated with me as it tied back to a fundamental aspect of our Add A Zero podcast that we focus on: understanding what metrics truly matter for your business.During our consultation, we delved into the intricacies of their marketing strategy. I introduced them to a concept I like to call "Metric Shift Awareness." Often, as business owners, we get caught up in measuring success by revenue alone. However, as discussed in episode 78 of the podcast, marketing's effectiveness isn't just about pounds and pence. The real metric is engagement—how well are we connecting with the right type of client?With this new perspective, the client began to accurately measure the impact of their campaigns by tracking the number of inquiries, the types of inquiries, and online engagement rather than just immediate sales. The client realized their efforts were reaching a wider audience, sparking more inquiries, and, over time, translating into sales. It's akin to planting seeds and nurturing them to grow into a flourishing garden.This approach clearly highlighted the importance of patience and proper analysis in marketing, emphasizing that true success isn't immediate but cultivated over time through consistent and engaging interaction with your audience. So, we dubbed this shift in focus "Engagement Cultivation." By focusing on cultivating authentic relationships through meaningful engagement, the client was able to see a significant uptick in their long-term customer base and brand loyalty.To sum it up, if you're looking to grow your business effectively, embrace Engagement Cultivation. Look beyond immediate revenue and start focusing on how well you're connecting with your audience. Remember, marketing's true job is to make the phone ring or prompt an inquiry. Apply this methodology, and let me know the difference it makes in your business journey.Forget measuring marketing success by cash alone. It's all about attracting the right customers by tuning into crucial metrics, creating engagement, and making those phones ring. Remember, marketing's role is to set the stage for sales by building relationships and sparking meaningful conversations.Here's what you can learn:👉 Measure the Right Metrics: Marketing is not about instant cash returns. Instead, focus on engagement metrics. How many inquiries are you getting? Is your phone ringing? These are the real indicators of successful marketing.👉 Know Your Audience: To communicate effectively, it's essential to understand your target client. What do they need to hear or see from you? Tailoring your message to resonate with them can make all the difference.👉 Marketing is Storytelling: Beyond features and benefits, your marketing should be about creating an emotional connection. Inform, educate, and engage your audience through "edutainment" to build trust and awareness.Jay’s insights are all about helping you craft a marketing strategy that attracts your ideal clients and fuels sustainable growth 📈. Tune into this episode to learn how to make your marketing efforts truly impactful. 🎧 #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #SMEsFeel free to let us know your thoughts or reach out if you need guidance with your marketing!#Marketing effectiveness, #Marketing efficiency, #Marketing metrics, #Business scalability, #Job creation, #Marketing measurement, #Ideal client attraction, #A-grade clients, #Marketing strategies, #Marketing myths, #Marketing and sales relationship, #Engagement metricsFull episode Wednesday from 12pm
Are you ready to quit your business?
in this weeks video I'm asking if you've thought about your exit strategy. No one likes surprises, especially in business. What if life throws a curveball? Do you have a plan B? Most business owners don't. In today’s session, I challenged you to start thinking about what your legacy looks like. Let’s turn hope into a plan. Ready to create a strategy that ensures your business lasts—and thrives—beyond you? Let’s chat and make your legacy a living one.
Here are 3 key takeaways:
- Anticipate the What-Ifs: Jay walks us through various scenarios that can unexpectedly impact our businesses. From personal health issues to unforeseen legislation changes, it’s crucial to have a Plan B in place. Being prepared means you can pivot without panic.
- Define Your End Goal: Whether it’s selling your business, passing it on, or winding it down, having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve is essential. Success isn't just about growing your business; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy as well.
- Start Planning Today: According to Jay, the best time to prepare your exit strategy is the day you launch your business. Don’t be part of the 95% of businesses that don’t sell successfully. Plan ahead to live your legacy instead of just hoping to leave one.
If this strikes a chord with you or sparks a question, it might be time to look at your own business plans and see where you stand. Let's make sure we're not only building businesses but also preparing them to thrive in the future. 💼
While it might seem counterintuitive for a business scale coach to talk about quitting, Jay emphasizes the importance of having a solid plan for when you decide to leave your business. Drawing from real-life scenarios where unexpected changes forced business shifts, Jay invites listeners to think about potential "what if" situations and score themselves on their preparedness. From sudden illness to legislative changes or family expectations not aligning with succession plans, it's vital to have a backup plan in place. Jay shares eye-opening statistics and insights, urging business owners to plan their legacy and avoid being part of the 87% without a follow-up plan. Join the conversation and start crafting your future today.
BusinessGrowth #ExitStrategy #Leadership #MyTrueNorth #PlanB #ADDAZERO
Are you ready to quit your business?in this weeks video I'm asking if you've thought about your exit strategy. No one likes surprises, especially in business. What if life throws a curveball? Do you have a plan B? Most business owners don't. In today’s session, I challenged you to start thinking about what your legacy looks like. Let’s turn hope into a plan. Ready to create a strategy that ensures your business lasts—and thrives—beyond you? Let’s chat and make your legacy a living one.Here are 3 key takeaways:Anticipate the What-Ifs: Jay walks us through various scenarios that can unexpectedly impact our businesses. From personal health issues to unforeseen legislation changes, it’s crucial to have a Plan B in place. Being prepared means you can pivot without panic.Define Your End Goal: Whether it’s selling your business, passing it on, or winding it down, having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve is essential. Success isn't just about growing your business; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy as well.Start Planning Today: According to Jay, the best time to prepare your exit strategy is the day you launch your business. Don’t be part of the 95% of businesses that don’t sell successfully. Plan ahead to live your legacy instead of just hoping to leave one.If this strikes a chord with you or sparks a question, it might be time to look at your own business plans and see where you stand. Let's make sure we're not only building businesses but also preparing them to thrive in the future. 💼While it might seem counterintuitive for a business scale coach to talk about quitting, Jay emphasizes the importance of having a solid plan for when you decide to leave your business. Drawing from real-life scenarios where unexpected changes forced business shifts, Jay invites listeners to think about potential "what if" situations and score themselves on their preparedness. From sudden illness to legislative changes or family expectations not aligning with succession plans, it's vital to have a backup plan in place. Jay shares eye-opening statistics and insights, urging business owners to plan their legacy and avoid being part of the 87% without a follow-up plan. Join the conversation and start crafting your future today.#BusinessGrowth #ExitStrategy #Leadership #MyTrueNorth #PlanB #ADDAZEROFull Episode this Wednesday from 12pm
Are you ready to quit your business?in this weeks video I'm asking if you've thought about your exit strategy. No one likes surprises, especially in business. What if life throws a curveball? Do you have a plan B? Most business owners don't. In today’s session, I challenged you to start thinking about what your legacy looks like. Let’s turn hope into a plan. Ready to create a strategy that ensures your business lasts—and thrives—beyond you? Let’s chat and make your legacy a living one.Here are 3 key takeaways:Anticipate the What-Ifs: Jay walks us through various scenarios that can unexpectedly impact our businesses. From personal health issues to unforeseen legislation changes, it’s crucial to have a Plan B in place. Being prepared means you can pivot without panic.Define Your End Goal: Whether it’s selling your business, passing it on, or winding it down, having a clear understanding of what you want to achieve is essential. Success isn't just about growing your business; it’s about leaving a lasting legacy as well.Start Planning Today: According to Jay, the best time to prepare your exit strategy is the day you launch your business. Don’t be part of the 95% of businesses that don’t sell successfully. Plan ahead to live your legacy instead of just hoping to leave one.If this strikes a chord with you or sparks a question, it might be time to look at your own business plans and see where you stand. Let's make sure we're not only building businesses but also preparing them to thrive in the future. 💼While it might seem counterintuitive for a business scale coach to talk about quitting, Jay emphasizes the importance of having a solid plan for when you decide to leave your business. Drawing from real-life scenarios where unexpected changes forced business shifts, Jay invites listeners to think about potential "what if" situations and score themselves on their preparedness. From sudden illness to legislative changes or family expectations not aligning with succession plans, it's vital to have a backup plan in place. Jay shares eye-opening statistics and insights, urging business owners to plan their legacy and avoid being part of the 87% without a follow-up plan. Join the conversation and start crafting your future today.#BusinessGrowth #ExitStrategy #Leadership #MyTrueNorth #PlanB #ADDAZEROFull episode this Wednesday from 12pm
This week, we dived deep into why you're the most important person in your world, not for an ego boost, but for sustainability.
We've seen our clients facing health crises by juggling too much in their businesses, Early mornings, Late nights, and everything in between. In a desire to 'get on top of it' - that is, until........
The key takeaway?
Focus on reducing stress by prioritising your own well-being. Simplify your to-do list and tackle just one impactful task at a time. Remember, you're in control. Put yourself first and watch your productivity soar while avoiding burnout.
Here's what you should take away:
- Prioritise Personal Well-being
Before you give your all to your business, ensure you've taken care of YOURSELF. Self-care isn't selfish; it's necessary to perform at your best. * Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
Increase productivity by doing less but doing it better. Identify the key tasks that will drive the biggest impact and dedicate your energy there. * Transform Ideas into Actions
Convert your overwhelming to-do list into actionable steps by prioritising tasks that will create significant changes, both short and long-term.
To thrive in business and life, remember - You are the most important person in your world. Place yourself first to effectively lead others
What steps will you take to minimise stress and maximise impact?
Share in the comments below! 👇
BusinessGrowth #WellbeingFirst #ProductivityHacks #EntrepreneurLife #SustainableSuccess
In this weeks episode on Wednesday, we dive deep into why you're the most important person in your world—not for an ego boost, but for sustainability. We've seen our clients facing health crises by juggling too much in their businesses.
The key takeaway?
Focus on reducing stress by prioritizing your own well-being. Simplify your to-do list and tackle just one impactful task at a time. Remember, you're in control. Put yourself first and watch your productivity soar while avoiding burnout.To thrive in business and life, remember: You are the most important person in your world. Place yourself first to effectively lead others. What steps will you take to minimize stress and maximize impact?
BusinessGrowth #WellbeingFirst #ProductivityHacks #EntrepreneurLife #SustainableSuccess
In This weeks Episode on Wednesday, we dive deep into why you're the most important person in your world—not for an ego boost, but for sustainability. We've seen our clients facing health crises by juggling too much in their businesses.
The key takeaway?
Focus on reducing stress by prioritizing your own well-being. Simplify your to-do list and tackle just one impactful task at a time. Remember, you're in control. Put yourself first and watch your productivity soar while avoiding burnout.To thrive in business and life, remember: You are the most important person in your world. Place yourself first to effectively lead others. What steps will you take to minimize stress and maximize impact?
BusinessGrowth #WellbeingFirst #ProductivityHacks #EntrepreneurLife #SustainableSuccess
In this episode, we're diving into the secrets of crafting a cohesive team that's driven to succeed. We explore lessons from the British Armed Forces about building trust and camaraderie, and translate those into business insights. Discover how creating a set of unifying values and behaviors can elevate your team, making them thrive beyond just monetary rewards.
What are Attitudes and Behaviors in a workplace and how do they unite a team? Attitudes and behaviors in a workplace are standardized expectations that an organization uses to align its team members toward a unified goal. Much like a mission statement, these expectations create a cohesive environment but focus on individual actions and interactions rather than broad objectives.
Consider Disney, which implements this concept robustly. Rather than confining employees to a rigid job description, Disney advocates for a shift towards a shared set of attitudes and behaviors. This ensures every employee, from entry-level to management, aligns with a defined way of conducting themselves, overarching the entire brand. This alignment fosters a work culture where teamwork thrives, as every colleague operates with the same understanding of what's expected.
Why does this matter? Having a clear, consistent framework of attitudes and behaviors transforms how an organization functions. It builds trust, supports collaboration, and encourages individuals to exceed the boundaries of conventional roles, thereby fortifying the team’s ability to achieve common objectives. By setting these parameters, businesses create an environment where each member is inspired to focus less on rigid duties and more on the collective success of the organization, leading to sustainable business growth and enhanced morale among team members.
Ready to transform your leadership and team dynamics? Tune in, and let's supercharge your business growth together!
team building, #business growth, #leadership, #British Armed Forces, #team dynamics, #turnover, #revenue impact, #morale, #camaraderie, #right people, #onboarding, #probationary period, #business owner, #job description, #recruitment process, #loyalty, #productivity, #Disney Institute, #attitudes and behaviors
In this episode, we're diving into the secrets of crafting a cohesive team that's driven to succeed. We explore lessons from the British Armed Forces about building trust and camaraderie, and translate those into business insights. Discover how creating a set of unifying values and behaviors can elevate your team, making them thrive beyond just monetary rewards.Ready to transform your leadership and team dynamics? Tune in this Wednesday from 12pm, and let's supercharge your business growth together!
team building, #business growth, #leadership, #British Armed Forces, #team dynamics, #turnover, #revenue impact, #morale, #camaraderie, #right people, #onboarding, #probationary period, #business owner, #job description, #recruitment process, #loyalty, #productivity, #Disney Institute, #attitudes and behaviors
In this weeks episode on Wednesday, we're diving into the secrets of crafting a cohesive team that's driven to succeed. We explore lessons from the British Armed Forces about building trust and camaraderie, and translate those into business insights. Discover how creating a set of unifying values and behaviors can elevate your team, making them thrive beyond just monetary rewards.
Ready to transform your leadership and team dynamics? Tune in this Wednesday from 12pm, and let's supercharge your business growth together!
team building, #business growth, #leadership, #British Armed Forces, #team dynamics, #turnover, #revenue impact, #morale, #camaraderie, #right people, #onboarding, #probationary period, #business owner, #job description, #recruitment process, #loyalty, #productivity, #Disney Institute, #attitudes and behaviors
Have you ever wondered, "When is it time to quit?" Join me, Jay Allen, in the latest #ADDAZERO Podcast episode. We dive into when pursuing your passion project needs a reality check and how to know if you're in a niche too tiny to scale. Let's assess your business goals, understand the market size, and determine if it's time to review, revise, and progress. Get ready to unlock sustainable growth and learn when shedding the old is key to embracing the new!
Here are three key takeaways:
- Market Size Matters: Assess the size of your industry and determine whether your niche is big enough to achieve your desired impact. Sometimes it helps to recognize if your passion project is simply that—a project, not a scalable business.
- Identify the Bottleneck: Understand where your business might hit a plateau. If substantial investment or other resources are required to grow beyond a certain point, it's crucial to re-evaluate your strategy.
- Embrace Change: To reach the next level, you may need to let go of current practices. Learning to quit the methods that no longer serve you allows for new approaches that align with your growth trajectory.
Business scale, #Quitting, #Right reasons, #Business model, #Passion project, #Lifestyle business, #Market supremacy, #Industry leader, #Scalable business, #Business audit, #Glass ceiling, #Infrastructure investment, #Cash regeneration, #Mediocrity risk, #Saying no
I’d love to hear your thoughts and key takeaways from this episode! Share your experiences or any questions you might have — let’s continue the conversation.
Website: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mytruenorthuk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyTrueNORTHUK/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mytruenorth/
🎧 Welcome to the #ADDAZERO Podcast – Where growth meets strategy! 🚀
Join Jay Allen, our passionate presenter, as he dives into the essential topic of "When To Quit". Have you ever wondered when it's time to pivot or make that bold decision in your business? 🕒 Jay guides us through real-world scenarios, where knowing when to stop and reassess can make all the difference in achieving sustainable growth. Whether you're battling bottlenecks or striving for industry leadership, this episode unpacks the power of strategic quitting for scaling success.
🔍 Discover how to identify the right moments to change course, and learn from Jay's experiences as he shares actionable insights from the #Add A Zero methodology.
Ready to add a zero to your growth strategy?
🚀 Tune in and empower your business journey today!
Hit subscribe to stay updated on more episodes packed with valuable insights, and don't forget to share this with your colleagues and business network! 🌟
Watch on Wednesday 7th May from 12pm and take the first step towards significant and sustainable growth! 🎥
AddAZero #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Podcast
🎧 Welcome to the #ADDAZERO Podcast – Where growth meets strategy! 🚀
Join Jay Allen, our passionate presenter, as he dives into the essential topic of "When To Quit". Have you ever wondered when it's time to pivot or make that bold decision in your business? 🕒 Jay guides us through real-world scenarios, where knowing when to stop and reassess can make all the difference in achieving sustainable growth. Whether you're battling bottlenecks or striving for industry leadership, this episode unpacks the power of strategic quitting for scaling success.
🔍 Discover how to identify the right moments to change course, and learn from Jay's experiences as he shares actionable insights from the #Add A Zero methodology.
Ready to add a zero to your growth strategy?
🚀 Tune in and empower your business journey today!
Hit subscribe to stay updated on more episodes packed with valuable insights, and don't forget to share this with your colleagues and business network! 🌟
Watch on Wednesday 7th May from 12pm and take the first step towards significant and sustainable growth! 🎥
AddAZero #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Podcast
7 years in the making, almost three years of testing and implementation. Then COVID-19, Global Lockdown and a visit to Tony Robbins!
This is the news so many business owners in the UK have been waiting for! And, I'm DELIGHTED to share that the wait, is almost over.
In today's episode, we reveal the journey we've been on, in sharing the #ADDAZERO content over the past 2-3 years, and how it sometimes takes a proper size 12 KUTA to step back, and look at the bigger picture!
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message
The Get BIG or Go Home Principles
Welcome to another exciting episode of #ADDAZERO, the podcast that empowers you to think big and achieve transformative outcomes.
In today's episode, we dive into the #ADDAZERO Get Big or Go Home principles, exploring the mindset and strategies needed to accelerate growth and unlock your hidden potential.
We'll delve into the science behind visualization, the power of embracing discomfort, the importance of collaboration and iteration, and the impact of setting audacious goals.
Are you ready to #ADDAZERO to your aspirations, efforts, and outcomes?
Then listen in as we explore these principles and inspire you to break free from limitations, think big, and achieve extraordinary results.
Key topics
The importance of thinking beyond goals and embracing discomfort
Familiar thinking patterns and their limitations
The power of mental rehearsal and visualization
Shifting perspective to future-oriented thinking
Unlocking hidden potential through thinking big
Neuroscientific evidence and success stories
Elon Musk, Jim Carrey Steve Jobb's all who achieved success through audacious thinking
The significance of setting audacious goals
Edwin Locke's goal-setting theory and the impact of specific challenging goals
How audacious health goals can increase adherence to healthier behaviour
The role of discomfort in personal and professional growth
The connection between discomfort and long-term achievement
The concept of the learning zone and its relationship to growth and innovation
Success stories and the impact of pushing beyond comfort
Breaking free from current time thinking and limitations
The brain's potential for growth and adaptability
The importance of venturing into uncharted territory
Common concerns that hinder big thinking
Strategies to challenge and overcome self-imposed boundaries
Collaboration and iteration as catalysts for innovation
The role of mirror neurons and collaboration in effective communication
The benefits of diverse collaboration and its impact on success
The transformative power of continuous iteration and adaptation
The importance of quick testing, feedback, and adapting for innovation
Avoiding sunk costs and optimizing resources through iterative thinking
The concept of failing fast and learning from failures
Don't forget to subscribe and share this podcast with your friends. Let's #ADDAZERO together!
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Welcome back to another episode of #ADDAZERO, the podcast where we dive deep into the world of scaling up businesses for tremendous success. Today we have a fascinating episode lined up for you as we unpack the Scaleup Scorecard and explore the key factors that can make or break your business.
In this episode, we'll be delving into the importance of building a world-class business with significant scale opportunities, and how to identify hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities within your own organization using the ADDAZERO scorecard. We'll also be sharing a personal story that highlights the impact of unexpected closures and the need to understand the reasons behind them.
But that's not all! We'll be unveiling an exciting research plan where we analyze data from 150 national businesses that experienced significant growth, only to eventually fail. Discover the secrets to sustainable success and learn from the mistakes of others.
Throughout this episode, we'll be exploring the three floors of business success. We'll discuss the importance of a consistent business plan, finding the right balance between people, systems, and processes, and remaining people-centric in decision-making and customer experience.
Key Topics Covered
- Importance of creating a world-class business with significant and sustainable scale opportunities
- Understanding the potential for growth and expansion
- Maximizing opportunities for scalability in business operations
- Introduction of the ADDAZERO scorecard tool
- Identifying hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities within a business
- Assessing the overall health and growth potential of a business
- A personal story about the impact of Woolworths' closure
- Demonstrating the need to understand the reasons behind business decisions
- Highlighting the importance of adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges
- Development of a research plan to analyze data from failed businesses
- Analyzing the factors that led to the failure of 150 national businesses
- Identifying common pitfalls and challenges in scaling up businesses
- The three flaws within business growth
- Consistent business planning and strategy development
- Finding the right balance between people, systems, and processes
- Prioritizing people-centric decision-making and customer experience
As we near the end of the episode, we want to take a moment to thank all of our amazing listeners for their continuous support. Your feedback, comments, thoughts, and suggestions are invaluable to us. Don't hesitate to reach out to us via email, as we'd love to hear from you.
If you haven't already, be sure to subscribe to the ADDAZERO podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode.
And remember, sharing is caring! Share this podcast with your colleagues and business network to help spread the word.
Sit back, relax, and get ready for an insightful episode as we dive deep into the Scaleup Scorecard.
Let's ADDAZERO to your business success, grab your Scorecard report HERE
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by enabling business owners to significantly and sustainably scale up their businesses. That collectively, we can create more new roles, than there are those ACTIVELY seeking employment.
Are YOU ready to #ADDAZERO?
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Cracking the Code of the Numbers Game
In today's episode, titled "The Game of Business," we delve deep into the world of numbers and how understanding them can make or break your success.
It's time to level up your game as we explore the crucial metrics for sustainable small business growth.
We'll uncover the power of revenue and profit margins, discover the importance of customer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (CLTV), and learn how to navigate the waters of cash flow, inventory turnover, customer churn, and retention rates.
But it doesn't stop there. We'll also dive into the finer details, exploring gross and net profit margins by product and service, as well as understanding return on investment and breakeven points. These key metrics are the foundation for informed decision-making, resource optimization, and strategic planning.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the numbers behind your business or wondered if you're making the right financial choices, this episode is for you. Don't let a lack of understanding hold you back from achieving your full potential.
Key topics covered
- Introduction to the importance of numbers in the game of business
- Exploring key metrics for sustainable small business growth
- Revenue and profit margins
- Customer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (CLTV)
- Cash flow
- Inventory turnover
- Customer churn and retention rates
- Gross and net profit margins by product and service
- Return on investment and breakeven points
- The consequences of failing to measure and understand critical numbers
- Misguided decisions
- Financial instability
- Stagnation
- Inefficient resource allocation
- Lack of focus
- The benefits of strategic focus on critical metrics
- Informed decision-making
- Resource optimization
- Agile adaptation
- Financial resilience
- Strategic planning
As this enlightening episode comes to a close, we invite you to share your thoughts, comments, and suggestions with us.
Send an email to podcast@myTrueNORTH.biz.And don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your chosen platform. By subscribing, you'll never miss an episode packed with valuable insights and strategies that will help you add a zero to your business.
Remember, sharing is caring. If you find this episode valuable, share it with your colleagues and business network. Together, we can create a community of entrepreneurs who are armed with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive.
All as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK. By supporting business owners to significantly and sustainably scale up their businesses. That collectively, we can create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment.
Have YOU got what it takes to #ADDAZERO?
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message
Welcome to a completely 'different' episode of #ADDAZERO!
In today's #ADDAZERO Insights episode, we are going to dive deep into the world of brainstorming winning moves for your business.
Get ready to unlock those big ideas and opportunities that have been lingering in the back of your mind. We all have our fair share of ideas that we've discussed but haven't acted upon yet. Life gets busy, and sometimes the timing just doesn't feel right.
But here's the thing – those ideas could be game-changers for your business, and it's time to give them the attention they deserve.
In this episode, we'll explore different strategies and methods to help you turn those ideas into winning moves. We'll be referencing the incredibly powerful book called '#ADDAZERO - Scale to Summit' which provides invaluable insights into achieving scalable growth.
Our focus today is on establishing a strong foundation, exploring different models and strategies, and aligning your visions, values, and culture with your long-term goals.
We'll discuss the three fundamental elements needed to run a successful business: marketing, sales, and operations.
But that's not all – we'll also touch upon the importance of creating a solid team, whether that's through hiring new employees or outsourcing certain tasks.
Financial management, especially monitoring cash flow, will be emphasized as a critical aspect of scaling up your business.
We'll delve into the art of identifying untapped areas within your business, removing barriers that prevent prospects from becoming customers and uncovering new revenue opportunities through partnerships and cross-promotions.
And as always, we'll share insights from the Addazero Community, where business owners can come together, learn from one another, and share their experiences.
So, if you're ready to brainstorm those winning moves and take your business to new heights, this episode is for you.
Let's #ADDAZERO together!
To join our thriving #Entrepreneur community of other like-minded business owners, simply visit: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MTNAddAZero
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Welcome back to another exciting episode of #ADDAZERO! In today's episode is all about the valuable lessons I learned from the one and only Tony Robbins. If you're a fan of personal growth and eager to address your limiting beliefs, then you're in for a treat.
I'll be sharing three powerful lessons inspired by Tony Robbins and other exceptional presenters that have truly transformed the way I approach life and business. We'll dive deep into the importance of managing our emotions and energy, and how our mindset directly impacts the impact we have on the world.
But it doesn't stop there. We'll also discuss the significance of prioritizing self-care in order to be of service to others. It's a common phenomenon for us to feel motivated to make changes after attending a life-changing event or listening to an inspiring podcast, only to lose that drive when life gets busy. We'll explore why this happens and why putting personal development on the back burner can actually hinder our progress for years.
During the conference I attended, there was a three-hour ritual to delve into habit change and ensure that the lessons learned became ingrained in our daily routines. The conference was a whirlwind of emotions, highlighted by an ironic final song, suggesting that life would never be the same again.
But that's exactly what we're aiming for! We want to show up every day as a different person, with a different mindset and intent. It's about shedding the limiting beliefs that held us back before and embracing a new way of being. It's about giving 100% to ourselves and in turn, being able to give 100% to others without burning out.
We'll also explore the transformative impact of the UPW event, the unconventional digital experience that challenged our perception of what a conference could achieve. From interactive elements like an app, kinesthetic items, and a workbook, to the powerful connections and networking opportunities with thousands of like-minded individuals, the conference was a game changer.
I'm excited to share my insights on sustainable business growth and unlocking untapped potential. We'll discuss the importance of finding what sets your business apart, shifting from price competition to providing real value, and stepping into your full potential as a business owner. It's time to break free from limiting beliefs and forge ahead toward new heights of success and recognition.
So grab your headphones, tune in, and let's dive into these life-altering lessons together. Don't forget to book a virtual coffee with me, as I'm eager to connect and help you unlock your full potential. Get ready to #ADDAZERO and transform your life and business!
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message
The Journey to Harmonizing Your Life and Achieving Success
Welcome back to another episode of #ADDAZERO!
In today's episode, we have an incredible duo joining us, Fintech turned Yoggie Sarah Ratner and her father Jewelry mogul Gerald Ratner , as they share their unique insights and experiences on finding balance, overcoming challenges, and discovering purpose in both work and life.
Sarah is working to transform the growing & restrictive epidemic of burnout culture. She spent the last 9 years working with a truly exceptional team, growing the FinTech team at Lendable from 5 - 350 people. Where she went from a solo-ops agent to leading an operation of 100, as COO.
Sarah now runs ikigai holistic, where she empowers businesses to incorporate mindfulness practices in the workplace, further enhancing well-being and productivity.
Gerald gained significant attention and notoriety for his role as the former CEO of Ratners Group, a once-prominent jewellery retail chain in the United Kingdom. Under his leadership, the company became one of the largest jewellery chains in Britain. That was until a speech he delivered at an Institute of Directors conference in 1991, which led to a dramatic downfall in his business empire.
Despite the setbacks he faced, Gerald Ratner has demonstrated resilience and a sense of humour about the situation over the years. For me, and many others Gerald's journey is a reminder that even amidst setbacks, entrepreneurs can find ways to rebuild, learn, and evolve.
What did they learn from this?
It’s all about the people. How we think about things, rather than what we knew. How we moved quickly and didn’t obsess over perfection. And how we treated each other, the laughter and care that created a family, in turn, created a multi-product, multi-continent, multi-unicorn business.
The most valuable lesson?
How to truly invest in people. To offer meaning, joy and value each day. So work can be fulfilling, transformative, expansive and sustainable. So we can be well. And so Ikigai Flow was born, combining my time as founding team/ COO, and yoga teacher.
Gerald and Sarah invite us into their world, shedding light on the importance of harmonizing various aspects of our lives, whether it's family, social connections, faith, or pursuing our passions.
In this engaging three-way conversation, we explore the significance of work-life harmony (rather than balance) and the joy that can be found in activities outside of work.
Both highlight the importance of physical exercise and mental stimulation, revealing how having a well-rounded life can lead to true happiness.
To the wisdom imparted by my great-grandmother, who lived to be 100 and emphasized daily exercise and continuous learning, to the significance of being self-conscious in order to be selfless, our guests provide valuable advice on achieving fulfilment and supporting others along the way.
They also delve into their own entrepreneurial journeys, sharing Gerald's experiences in the jewellery business and the secret to his success - By going against conventional wisdom and catering to a younger market's desires for affordable and impulse-buy items, they managed to capture a remarkable 50% of the market.
But it hasn't always been smooth sailing for Sarah or Gerald. They both discuss facing obstacles and learning from their mistakes.
Join us as we dive deeper into the inspiring stories and invaluable lessons shared by our incredible guests, and discover how finding balance and purpose can lead to extraordinary success in both work and life.
So grab a notebook and pen, as we dive into #ADDAZERO: The Ratner Duo!
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On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the 11 steps to be voted SUPERBOSS.
Our discussion begins with the importance of leaders taking the time to personally know each member of their team and ensuring they are prepared for operational commitments.
We then explore the significance of leaders showing genuine interest in their employees as individuals and how an inspiring mission statement that goes beyond just making money can rally a workforce.
Next, we examine the impact of employees understanding how their role contributes to the mission statement and how companies that do not tolerate fools easily create a strong work environment.
We also explore the value of acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes, which is seen as a major factor in making a company a great place to work. Diving deeper, we discuss the importance of financial considerations, such as receiving salaries early after the holiday season, as a way to show employees that their well-being matters.
We also explore how creating a fun and enjoyable work culture, like Google's innovative workplace ideas, can enhance employee productivity. Recognizing personal development is another crucial factor discussed, with examples from Google funding employees' activities like windsurfing as rewards for good work.
We explore key facts from a survey of over 17,000 employees, ranking the most important factors for a great workplace, including flexible working, recognition, and genuine interest from employers. Lastly, we touch on the annual list of the top 100 companies to work for in the world and the research conducted by DeMontford University to understand the factors that make these companies the best places to work.
Join us as we uncover the secrets to becoming a SUPERBOSS in this enlightening episode of #ADDAZERO.
Key points 1. The Power of Personal Connection- Taking the time to personally know each member of the regiment- Ensuring everyone is ready for operational commitments
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Genuine Interest in Employees- Showing genuine interest in employees as individuals, not just workers- Recognizing the importance of knowing employees beyond their job role
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Inspiring Mission Statement- Having an inspiring mission statement that everyone can support- Moving beyond solely focusing on making money towards bigger goals
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Understanding Individual Contribution- Helping employees understand how their role contributes to the mission statement- Making sure employees see the impact they have on the bigger picture
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Not Suffering Fools- Creating an environment that doesn't tolerate slack work- Acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes made by HR or management
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Quick to Fire and Apologize- Being humble enough to admit when wrong- Taking quick action to rectify hiring mistakes or cultural differences
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Acknowledging and Apologizing- Recognizing that acknowledging and apologizing for mistakes is vital- Understanding the impact this has on making the company a great place to work
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Financial Consideration- Considering employee financial well-being beyond salary- Recognizing the importance of receiving January salary early
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Creating a Fun Culture- Understanding the importance of a fun and enjoyable work environment- Highlighting the success of innovative workplace ideas such as Google's
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Recognition of Personal Development- Recognizing and supporting employees' personal development activities- Demonstrating care for employees' growth outside of the workplace
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Importance of Incentives and Benefits- Discussing the importance of bonuses and added benefits- Exploring various examples of incentives and benefits offered
Brought to you, as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders to grow sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment. Visit www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit to learn more about the hidden opportunities and vulnerabilities in YOUR business.
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message
In this episode of the #ADDAZERO podcast, we address common objections to coaching and share inspiring success stories. Let's dive in!
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Referrals and Trusted Networks: Discover how referrals from colleagues and trusted friends can boost awareness and confidence in the coaching process, providing invaluable support.
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Tailored Coaching Approaches: Explore how different types of business coaching and approaches can address specific needs and goals, ensuring you receive personalized strategies to excel.
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Embracing Change and Growth: Overcome the fear of change and pave the way for personal and professional growth, enabling you to reach your full potential.
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Establishing Trust: Learn why building a strong foundation of trust with your coach is crucial for effective coaching, creating a safe space for growth and development.
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Ethical Standards and Confidentiality: Understand how business coaches prioritize client confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards, offering a secure and confidential environment for collaboration.
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Building Rapport and Trust: Discover why coaches offer sessions to establish rapport and build trust before committing to a coaching relationship, ensuring a strong partnership.
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Expertise and Fresh Perspectives: Uncover how business coaches bring expertise and fresh perspectives to enhance your overall competency and decision-making skills, amplifying your success.
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Seeking Support Network: Explore the importance of building a support network when pursuing coaching, and overcoming scepticism or resistance from others.
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Researching and Communication: Learn how conducting research and communicating past negative experiences can help you select the right coach, ensuring a fruitful coaching relationship.
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Humility and Growth Mindset: Embrace humility and a growth mindset for continual learning and improvement, propelling you towards long-term success.
Remember, #ADDAZERO has received awards and helped clients achieve remarkable growth and success. As passionate advocates for scaling businesses, they invite you to book a call and explore how they can support your journey.
Despite common objections to coaching, the podcast addresses each concern head-on. From addressing perceived costs and time commitments to showcasing personalized strategies, testimonials, and free consultations, they strive to eliminate any doubts about the effectiveness of business coaching.
In other news, we share the inspiring story of a business that experienced unprecedented growth in the last four months. The owner's overwhelming success has resulted in an unexpected offer to buy the business. We delve into their decision-making process and journey towards early retirement.
As always, we appreciate your support and encourage you to share your thoughts, comments, and suggestions with us by sending an email. Don't forget to subscribe to the #ADDAZERO podcast and spread the word among your colleagues and business network. And support our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Owners and Entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment.
Warm regards,
The #ADDAZERO Team
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Have you ever found yourself constantly firefighting and addressing immediate problems in your business?
How did it impact your overall productivity and growth?
How important are systems and processes in ensuring efficiency, reducing costs, and satisfying customers?
On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the role of business owners as primary problem solvers, or as we like to call them, 'firefighters.' Hosted by Jay Allen, this podcast aims to help business owners eradicate unemployment in the UK by promoting business growth.
We explore Your role as a primary problem solver or "firefighter" in their own business
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Discussion on the common issue of owners and leaders constantly firefighting and not having a strategic plan
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Emphasis on the importance of prevention and long-term planning for successful business ownership
Negative consequences of not delegating, including burnout, stifled growth, and reduced employee morale
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Highlighting the impact of poor systems and processes, leading to inefficiency, increased costs, and customer dissatisfaction
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Exploring the effects of ineffective time management on neglecting strategic planning and reduced productivity
The need to implement strategies and processes to prevent problems in business
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Emphasizing the importance of a proactive approach focused on prevention and long-term planning
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Outlining the necessary tools, resources, expertise, and preparation required to navigate challenges
The significance of recovery, restoration, and learning after challenges arise
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Explanation of how a strategic plan provides clarity, focus, and a proactive approach to long-term success
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Introduction of the role of an independent mentor in providing valuable feedback, challenging thinking, and offering guidance and support
Highlighting the risks of firefighting without a strategic plan
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Discussion on the lack of direction, missed opportunities, and burnout that can arise from firefighting
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Importance of strategic planning and mentorship in navigating challenges and achieving sustainable success
Acknowledging that different business circumstances may require different planning and mindsets
- Encouragement to view the business from a higher perspective and detach oneself to determine impact and plan for the future
All brought to you, as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Owners & Entrepreneurs to Scaleup their businesses sufficiently, so that collectively we can create more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment.
Care to learn more? Book a call
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mytruenorth/message
On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we delve into the world of B Corp certification with Russ Wakeham, co-founder of 2 Drifters Distillery. Russ shares his insights on the importance of adopting B Corp certification and how it aligns with the culture of a business. He emphasizes that while certification alone cannot transform a culture overnight, it is worth going through the exercise of conducting the free assessment and utilizing the tools provided by B Corp to develop one's business.
Russ discusses the cost and significant work involved in obtaining B Corp certification but also highlights the value of the free tools available on the B Corp website that can help businesses understand different ways of thinking and problem-solving. Many businesses today are striving for transparency and sustainability, and Russ mentions how 2 Drifters Distillery has made conscious choices, such as partnering with carbon-neutral courier service DPD and actively seeking sustainable transport solutions.
We learn about Russ's background as an academic chemist researching carbon capture and storage, and how this passion led him to start his own venture in the distillery industry. 2 Drifters Distillery aims to be a carbon-negative distillery and has partnered with Climbworks to remove CO2 from the atmosphere and store it underground. Russ emphasizes the importance of mitigating environmental impact and avoiding greenwashing and shares his experiences and challenges in obtaining B Corp certification.
Certification has become one of the best tools for pushing 2 Drifters Distillery forward in sustainability, encouraging continuous improvement and putting purpose before profit. The distillery not only aims to produce great rum but also to educate people about carbon capture technologies and the importance of considering carbon as a waste material. By fully embracing renewable energy and being an example for other businesses, the distillery hopes to have a massive impact on reducing carbon emissions across industries.
Russ also shares his research on the failure of big corporate businesses and the lessons that can be learned from it. He highlights the importance of creating a workplace that is enjoyable and fun, which sets 2 Drifters Distillery apart in the market.
The episode explores the holistic approach to scaling a business and the need for constant review, revision, and adaptation to keep up with changing circumstances and advancements in technology. The discussion also touches upon the potential misuse of B Corp certification for short-term commercial gain, and Russ encourages consumers to look beyond just the certification and consider a company's history and commitment to B Corp. He shares some of the big wins 2 Drifters Distillery has directly attributed to their B Corp certification, such as partnerships with British Airways and The Pig Hotels. The B Corp journey has not only changed the company's thinking but has also led to the creation of a run club and regular beach clean events, reflecting their commitment to sustainability.
This episode concludes with the exciting news of 2 Drifters Distillery launching an event inviting buyers and customers, including The Pig Hotels, to participate in beach clean activities at Smith Beach. It's an engaging episode that explores the importance of B Corp certification and sustainability in the distillery industry, providing insights and inspiration for businesses of all sizes.
All as part of our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs to scale up their businesses sufficiently, that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment. To learn more, about the scaleability of your business, visit: www.addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit
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On this episode of #ADDAZERO, we tackle the nine most common hurdles that startups face and provide valuable insights and strategies for overcoming them. From adapting to uncertainty to securing funding and building a strong network, I cover it all.
Topics covered in this audio session:
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Adapting to Uncertainty and Setbacks- Risks of making decisions alone or with a small team- Importance of having a ScaleUp mentor for guidance and support
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Feasibility and Unique Business Ideas- Being exceptional in a niche is not enough- Market research and testing for a viable business idea
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Capital and Funding Challenges- Difficulty acquiring enough capital- Traditional financing sources and personal savings limitations
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Testing Before Launching- Importance of testing the business model before launch- Likelihood of relying on personal savings or loans from family and friends for funding
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Effective Communication and Differentiation- Importance of communicating value proposition- Differentiating oneself from competitors in the digital age
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Attracting and Maintaining Clients- Challenges in attracting and retaining clients- Managing multiple responsibilities and prioritizing tasks
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Funding Options and Addazero's Assistance- Self-funding, bootstrapping, crowdfunding, or bank loans- Addazero's connections with funding professionals
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Building a Strong Network- Importance of building connections and relationships- Building a network of suppliers, industry experts, and potential customers
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ADDAZERO Community and Resources- Access to resources and networking opportunities- The AddAZero Vault and its business plan template and webinars
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Managing Cash Flow and Relationships- Building relationships with supportive people- Importance of tight financial control and ongoing marketing presence
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Developing a Competitive Advantage- Challenges in standing out in a crowded marketplace
Tune in to this episode of #ADDAZERO to gain valuable strategies and insights on overcoming the most common startup hurdles and taking your business to the next level.
Timestamps
[00:01:15] Understanding niche not enough for business success.
[00:04:30] Acquiring capital for a business is difficult.
[00:06:19] Starting a business takes time, money, and connections.
[00:10:37] Managing money, marketing, and standing out crucial.
[00:16:43] Guidance, advice, feedback for confident progress. Safe community supports vulnerability, testing & scaling.
[00:18:08] Various funding options available, connections to professionals.
[00:21:35] Financially astute actions for business growth.
[00:24:42] ScaleUp mentor enables business growth and support.
Summary Remember, building a scalable business takes time and effort, but with the right guidance and resources, you can achieve extraordinary growth. We've made it our mission to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by supporting Business Leaders & Entrepreneurs to scale up sufficiently, so that collectively we create more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment! - Visit www.mytruenorth.biz to learn more
Stay tuned for our upcoming episodes focusing on additional strategies and insights for your entrepreneurial journey.
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We all know of the famous Heineken adverts, and their cool strapline: Probably the best lager in the world!
Well, If Heineken did healthcare, it would probably be the 2nd best healthcare in the world! Because in the first place, has to be a not-for-profit healthcare provider called WPA Healthcare!
I've been with WPA for about a decade now, and so it was a delight to physically meet up with one of their areas accounts managers and talk about what makes WPA so different. And why (with an NHS bursting at the seams and with a waiting list 5000 times longer than trying to get front-row tickets to a rock concert these days WHY as a Business Owners this really could be one of the best investments (in terms of keeping you available for work) you could possibly make!
Jimmy Creighton is an Account Manager for Mark Manaton, Director of M.N.M. Healthcare Ltd who is an Appointed Representative of the WPA Healthcare Practice PLC.
The Healthcare Practice is a wholly owned subsidiary of WPA, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. He advises on WPA’s products and services, which provide access to the sort of healthcare that I want for myself and those around me.
The Healthcare Practice holds itself to the highest professional standards. They are full members of the British Franchise Association, adhering to its Code of Ethics.
As an Account Manager, Jimmy focuses on the service he so expertly provides to his clients. "I am trained first and foremost to listen and ask questions, so I truly understand the needs of my clients. To give the best advice. Never rush. To always act in my client's best interest." Jimmy explained.
WPA offer ground-breaking personal and business health insurance policies that have truly revolutionized healthcare in the UK. From funding cancer drugs not readily available on the NHS, the first benefit of its kind, to being recognized by the World Health Organisation as leading in the development of new policies that reduce costs for clients.
For any questions or advice required, please contact him on jimmy.creighton@wpa-hcp.org.uk
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If walking into a room full of strangers feels like your worst fear, you’re not alone. Many people do their best to avoid networking altogether, but this attitude can be very detrimental to your success. Networking is crucial to both you and your business, but it doesn’t have to be as intimidating as you think.
Love it or hate it—it works - It’s about initiating, building, and maintaining relationships.
Your network is the group of people you know who like you, trust you, hire you, and send their friends and family to you. Networking is about connection and caring. Networking is about compassion and commitment. It's about knowing, understanding, communicating, and demonstrating that what you do and say is coming from a place of support, encouragement and being of service.
Networking is not:
- selling
- connecting on Facebook or LinkedIn
- attending for a 'free lunch'
- trying to meet every single person at the event you didn’t want to attend
- talking about yourself
- throwing business cards at people as you make eye contact with the next person at which you intend to throw a card
- e-mailing the same article to 200 people on “your list,” or
- having lunch and never calling again.
Networking is about creating relationships with people who are a good fit for you and for whom you can be a good fit. It's about building those relationships over time so trust grows. Learning what it is that other people need to fulfil their dreams and revealing what you need as well. Ultimately, it's about helping one another make those dreams come true.
Today, I got to catch up and hang out with the former youngest FTSE 250 Managing Director, turned Entrepreneur to discuss What, How and WHY to network effectively.
Jamie Stewart had an impressive career in 'corporate' rising the being Managing Director of a FTSE 250 at the age of 33. However, these days you'll find him enjoying time with his family, walking the dogs, having lunch/dinner out and generally enjoying all life has to offer! No, he's not yet retired, he's the founder of Circle Networks.
Jamie identified what everyone else complained about when attending other network events, and set about to create something completely new, different and HIGHLY effective. In his own words "Circle Networks more than fills the gap in virtual networking, driving quality conversations, and helping you to make great connections that lead to new business opportunities."
You can hear Jamies' interview of me on the Networking LAB podcast here
You can visit circle networks as a guest completely free of charge for 2 weeks, by clicking here
(And, if you chose to join, remember to state that you were referred by Jay Allen :)
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One of the things I’ve observed in the last 18 months or so, is how many people are telling white lies!
I’m not calling people liars – we’ve all been guilty of not wanting to admit the real reason we are late to attend the endless zoom meetings was “I needed the loo”. But there appears to be a growing urge to tell everyone “everything’s fine” when clearly it’s not!
Social media (and people's addiction to it) has seen endless scrolling of “Success stories” with people draped over expensive cars, scantily clad exotic holiday pics, and sumptuous surroundings whilst out for dinner. Viewers see this as a personal challenge against their own microwave tea, and a race to do better!
And so, the lies begin. It’s not intentional, but a ‘social necessity' to fit in, to be someone to be accepted!
However, what is even worse than this, is the lies we are told and those we tell ourselves!
In today's podcast, I unearth some of the most popular myths and lies Business Owners are told! And the most common lies we tell ourselves!
Thankfully, it's not all doom and gloom though as I also share how to break the habit and the impact doing so can have on both you and your business.
A full transcript of the podcast, and links to all I've mentioned within, can be found here
Brought to you by Jay Allen, host of the ADDAZERO Podcast, and founder of My TrueNORTH - Home of the ADDAZERO Business Masterminds.
We've made it our mission to support YOU to ADDAZERO to your Personal Disposable Income! So that you can buy the home of your dreams, take extensive exotic holidays, and fall back in love with your business, by enabling it to fully reward you for the time, effort and sacrifices you have made to build it.
To learn more, visit: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/about-us/our-mission/
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- Are you an established business owner wanting to grow and considering financing to do so?
- Are you frustrated by constant cash flow issues despite a healthy order book and client list?
- Are you constantly challenged when it's payroll week or time to pay suppliers?
It doesn't matter what stage or type of business we are operating, being in business determines there is a need for not only knowing your numbers, but also managing the rhythmic flow of money into, through and out the business.
So, for all those who keep suggesting "times are hard" and that "there is another recession looming" or those that offer "in my industry" I chose to catch up with CFO and Financial Alchemist Russell Green and talk CASH.
All this uncertainty breeds opportunity, and those with solid cash flow will be the big winners - Russell Green
Does the need to win or finance your next big contract to enable cash flow which distracts you from running the business, having effective business development strategies and fundamentally executing your growth plan?
- Is growing your business post-covid more challenging with tighter supplier credit, government support withdrawn, and customers paying slower?
- Do you love what you do, have a great business and the desire to expand strategically, but are feeling frustrated at every turn that the capital isn't available, finance is too costly, or what you have in place isn't helping you grow?
The worry about money and cashflow can often have a significant impact on your health, well-being and home life. And often because you don't have (or feel you have) an opportunity to talk through your current position and goals for the future, look at the big picture and put a funding plan in place that is sustainable, affordable and allows the growth you are ready for?
That you can eventually feel in control of your finances, energised to grow towards your goals and confident of winning the next big deal?
Amplify is an FCA regulated commercial finance brokerage that helps business owners to have better cash flow and confidence in their business. By focussing on your business and personal goals, Russell builds funding solutions whilst providing a listening ear that sets you up for success.
Prior to his role as CFO at Amplify, Russell used to head up underwriting teams for national and international funding organisations. But now really enjoys being a trusted partner who can help you navigate the complex world of business finance.
As you'll hear, he has a down-to-earth, common-sense approach that allows him to translate finance products into your language and show how strong cash flow helps you achieve your goals. He can help feel less stressed and provide a clear view of your options, and can put a plan in place to secure funding as and when required.
With Government loan packages ending, now is the time to get finances sorted.
To learn more about Russell and the work Amplify does, you can connect with him on LinkedIn.
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Business Coaching Company as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income. Have YOU got what it takes to #ADDAZERO?
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An insight into the role and profession of coaching
Today's guest works with female coaches to help grow their online coaching business with confidence, find their self-belief and dissolve old, unhelpful patterns of thinking and feeling to overcome fears and beat imposter syndrome.
I've known Teresa for a number of years now, initially through our work as NLP practitioners, and subsequently as a coach. With a background in PR and publishing, in May 2019, she spotted a niche for a high quality info-torial magazine specifically for the coaching industry, and launched COACH. Which has proven to be a hit, and must read for those in the industry.
Teresa kindly invited me to be interviewed for the magazine in 2020 to discuss Mental Health and the importance of speaking out. And more recently, I was invited back to be interviewed again on the subject of Ethics in Coaching.
Teresa has previously won Bedfordshire Business Woman of the Year, and is a Certified Coach, NLP Practitioner and MHFA (England). She is also Founder of COACH Magazine and host of COACH Podcast, created to support the (currently) unregulated industry and to showcase professional coaches and champion accredited coach training and courses.
In this episode, we took a dive into the world of coaching as we see it today, and shared some insights as to what Teresa does, who she works with, and where we think the coaching industry is heading.
You can find out more about Teresa by visiting her profile on LinkedIn.
Brought to you, courtesy of My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company
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Who is the most important person in your life?
Most parents tell me it's their kids.
Those without children, remark it's their partner, parents or pet!
And yet far fewer (and I've asked this question to literally hundreds of people) will respond with a resounding me.
So why is that?
Why are we so focussed on others? of being needed, wanted, on being of service that we pay such little attention to ourselves?
So let me ask you another question: What would they do, if you weren't here?
Who would look after you?
Do all the things you do?
Manage your business, if you were unable to work?
In this episode, I got to 'hang out' with Jimmy Creighton - A young, fit, sports fanatic whose got an infectious passion for helping people live healthier, safer and longer by having private medical insurance.
Health insurance is designed to cover some or all of the costs of private healthcare, from consultations with diagnostic scans and tests through to treatment. Having a health insurance policy gives you peace of mind that you or a family member will have access to the very best treatment at a time and place that is convenient to you. Health insurance, or private medical insurance (PMI) as it is sometimes known, may be provided by a company to their employees or it can be purchased on an individual or family basis.
Whats wrong with the NHS?
In theory, nothing. We've got a world class National Health Service, that we have access to. However, demand for hospital treatment outstripping capacity even before COVID-19, it is no surprise that the demands of delivering care during a pandemic have led to significant backlogs and longer waits for patients.
How bad is the problem?
High waits for treatment are not new. Prior to the pandemic in February 2020 there were already 4.43 million people on a waiting list for care.
At the beginning of the pandemic, the combination of suspension of non-urgent services and changes to individuals’ behaviour meant that the number of people joining the waiting list initially dropped. However, this has since been rising - and despite some improvements earlier in the year, waiting times remain far higher than pre-COVID - At the time of recording this,
- over 6.6 million people waiting for treatment
- 2.41 million patients waiting over 18 weeks for treatment
- 331,623 patients waiting over one year for treatment
- 13 times the number waiting over a year in May 2020
But this really is, just the tip of the iceberg
The hidden backlog consists of patients who require care but have either not yet presented, or who have had referrals cancelled due to the impact of Covid-19 on the NHS; patients who, in normal times, would have been referred for treatment, received elective care and attended outpatient appointments, but who for a number of reasons relating to the pandemic have not yet found their way into the health system.
So whats the answer?
WPA are a specialist UK not-for-profit health insurer offering award-winning health insurance solutions to individuals, families and companies of all sizes.
Jimmy can be found on LinkedIn, and welcomes listeners to connect with him, and book a complimentary call to answer your questions and determine if and how best he can be of service.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
I'm more than a little concerned about the sabotage I'm witnessing every day in your business!
I'm not talking about the intentional damage caused by hooligans, or those who have a set agenda to ruin you. No, I'm talking about the unintentional damage being caused by you and everyone associated with your business by failing to spot the opportunities to create WOW moments for every client, customer, connection and supplier!
Today, we are uncovering the distinct lack of Customer Experience, and the need to appoint a VXO champion within your business!
Without customers you do not have a business; repeating custom is the backbone of most businesses. Repeating custom is either different customers buying the same product or the same customer buying the same product or the same customer buying different product offers in your business. For repeating custom: your business needs to develop and maintain good customer relationships and satisfy the needs of the customer, developing loyalty from your customers. Customers make it possible for businesses to exist and grow.
The cost of apathy
It is estimated that it costs five times more to win a new customer than it does to keep an existing customer. If your business does not look after your customers and they look elsewhere, it will not only cost your business five times as must to attract a replacement customer but your business has lost the lifetime value of the departing customer. Loss of customer focus is commercial suicide.
6 reasons why businesses lose customers:
- Losing Customer Focus. Not investing the time and money to hire and train efficient and professional service providers.
- Taking a One-Size-Fits-All Approach. Today’s customer base is far more complex and diverse with specific preferences and needs…
- Failing to Allow Front-Line Problem Resolution. Empowered to handle instances in which the traditional approach or policy does not work.
- Using a Situational Approach to Service. Offering customer incentives to stimulate short-term sales goals without tying it to a long-term effort to market products and services in a manner that will encourage continued customer loyalty.
- Forgetting to Measure Service Levels. You must regularly gauge how well your service initiatives are doing.
- Ignoring Your Service Providers. Give opportunities to be involved in decision-making and discussions about issues that impact them and their customers personally.
What is the Solution?
Businesses that focus on their customers consistently outperform their competition. Customers make it possible for businesses to exist and grow. Make your customer the centre of your business:
- Analyse your customers and understand their similarities and differences to segment them with care.
- Create offers that will develop a long-term relationship and satisfy the differing needs of each segment.
- Create opportunities to exchange information with your customer.
The core of not just customer focuses in business but in business. Is to understand we are all customers of each other. And to remain PEOPLE-centric, with an of service attitude, not selling yourself as a service. And to understand the customer and their expectations and consistently deliver an outstanding customer experience.
To learn more, visit our online client portal, and (after registering for free) access the WINNING TEAM resources within the QM Stores
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I'm sure, like me (and so many others) as a business owner your aim is to build a sustainable business that enables you to do more, have more, and be more. But more than that, to have the time freedom to actually enjoy all that life has to offer?
I'm a firm subscriber that Entrepreneurs "Do, for a few short years, what most others won't. That they can live the rest of their lives, like most others can't"
So today, rather than talking about how to #ADDAZERO, I want to talk about how to SAVE a zero!
How many holidays do you take each year?
One, Two, Three?
How many would you LIKE to take once you have a super successful business that works effectively with or without you?
I certainly know, that most business owners would take more holidays and time away from work once the business is more successful.
So what's stopping you?
Time, systems, processes, people?
The majority of people who honestly answer this, tell me its both TIME and MONEY. Having the time to be able to step away from the business, and the funds to be able to travel where they would like to go!
Well, what if I told you that not only will applying the #ADDAZERO methodology quickly help you achieve MORe time freedom (by creating the people, systems and processes required, that reduces the demand on YOU as the business owner) and whilst we work towards transforming your personal disposable income. We can also help SAVE money.
One of the ways we can help do this is by getting far better deals on those desired trips away.
Today's special guest has mastered this, enabling both you and I to holiday for "Pence not pounds"
Welcome to the Show, Kevin Besford.
I started by asking Kevin how he got into becoming a travel club consultant? Before diving into a myriad of examples as to how the club works, why it's different from both timeshare and travel agents, and who is this geared to serving.
One quote (from a prominent lawyer-client) was "I can't understand, why the entire population isn't already a member of the club?" Which pretty much sums up my sentiments also.
You can connect with Kevin to learn more by:
Connecting with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/besfordkevin
Sending an email: seetheworld@uwclub.net
Or book to grab a 'virtual coffee' with him: https://calendly.com/seetheworld
He also shares a lot more examples of the deals available to be had, on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.besford.3
Do remember to mention you found him via the #ADDAZERO Podcast when you connect with him.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
At a time when there is growing uncertainty about the rapid rise in the cost of living. Against the backdrop of a war that continues in Europe, and continued scepticism as to what the future holds.
It could be quite easy, for the Business Owner to begin reviewing where cutbacks can be made, little corner-cutting that perhaps the customer is not aware of. (Like the reduction by 5gs of my favourite chocolate bar, whilst maintaining the same price, under the guise of being more concerned for my sugar intake than previously!!!)
I post the question: Is Ethics a luxury we simply cannot afford?
We examine:
- What are Ethics?
- What are Business Ethics?
- What are the 'layers' of Ethics to which we are speaking?
And, I share the 7 Ethical principles of modern business and why they are so important in today's society. And the 10 ethical standards to which we operate (and for which we were awarded the title Ethical Coaching Company on the Clear Business Thinking POWER 100.
You can also read my blog on this by visiting: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/about-us/our-mission/what-is-an-ethical-coaching-company/
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income. That collectively we can grow sufficiently, to eradicate unemployment in the UK, by generating more new roles than there are those actively seeking employment.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Do you know there is more that you could be doing, but something is holding you back?
Are you uncertain as to what is happening in the world right now, and how this may affect you?
Are you ever fearful of making a mistake, and risk losing everything you have achieved so far?
Then, this episode is for YOU!
Face the fear, so you can do it anyway!
Whether you fear failure, success, change, or the unknown? We all face fear within our lives, and yet it is how we respond to it, that determines a positive or negative outcome!
Today, I want to get deep into the roots of FEAR.
What is it?
Why is it?
How is it?
What to do about it!
We'll uncover the pros and cons of fear. Share 4 massive questions to help you address it, and 6 stages of moving through it, and not allowing it to determine who you are or what you are capable of achieving.
I also referenced the work of Prof. Steve Peters and his book Chimp Paradox
Brought to you, by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Business, sufficient to create more new roles, so that collectively we can eradicate unemployment, by creating more new roles, than there are those actively seeking employment!
To learn more: Our mission
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It doesn't matter how determined you are, how motivated you set out each morning or what keeps you up late at night. At some stage, the energy and enthusiasm will wear off, the realisation that owning your own business can be damned hard work, and you begin to doubt, question, and challenge as to whether it was the right thing to do at all!
Yes, I'm talking. to you.
In today's episode, we look at tapping into a higher purpose, identifying with something beyond self, and finding a reason, a calling, a WHY?
It is the incredibly talented, educated and inspiring Dr. Simon Sinek who first brought us to Start with WHY (and more recently How to find your Why) But in this episode, I wanted to share with you the impact of having and not having a Why can have on the business. How to determine what yours is, and then how to embed it into not just your 9-5, but onto every single breath you take from now until you achieve it!
All brought to you, as part of our own mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners, to #ADDAZERO, that collectively we can Significantly and Sustainable Scale-Up your businesses sufficient to, create more new jobs than there are those actively seeking employment, and so erradicate unemployment in the UK!
You can access Start with Why here
You can access Finding your why here
You can read our Mission statement here
You can learn more about how we have aligned our business with the Global Giving Community B1G1, here
You can access YOUR bespoke Scale-Up Scorecard here
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At the age of 25, our guest today was £50k in consumer debt. Less than five years later, a self-made multi-millionaire.
Today his property business has a portfolio of 900 rental units, with 140+ rental units under development, and a 9 figure training company.
His podcast is ranked within the top in the UK, with over 700 episodes, including interviews with 15 billionaires and over 150 of the most successful people on the planet in their discipline, regularly downloaded in more than 200 countries.
Born in Peterborough, and a former student of the University of Huddersfield. Today's VIP guest started his entrepreneurial journey at a young age, when his father encouraged him to assist in the family pub, cleaning and ‘bottling up’. Losing his way in his teenage days and 20s, with a lack of clarity and direction, whilst struggling as an artist.
That all changed on December 15 2005, when his father had a huge nervous collapse in his pub; was sectioned by the police in front of his customers, and has been suffering from bipolar disorder ever since. This was the harsh awakening, leaving him ashamed of himself for not living up to anything near his potential and for taking total advantage of the upbringing given to him by his family. To this day, this is one of the main drivers of his life and enterprises.
A self-made multi-millionaire by the age of 30, and currently with a net worth of over £250 million. Founder of the Progressive Group, chaos creator and playful rebel, welcome to the show Rob Moore.
Rob Moore is the co-founder of the UK’s leading property training company known as Progressive Property and subsequently became the host of the highly successful podcast “The Disruptive Entrepreneur” and later “The Money Podcast”, which are listened to in more than 192 countries worldwide.
Rob is a social media influencer, communicator, and writer. He has written at least 8 books including MONEY: Know more, make more, give more, which have now been translated into over a dozen languages and have gone on to receive over 9,000 reviews. This has grown into a whole digital agency: Progressive Media. Boasting over 800,000 subscribers and followers on email and social media.
He is a public speaker, having given over a thousand speeches in the last ten years and held 2 world records for the lengthiest individual speech marathon.
Now a philanthropist, through the Rob Moore Foundation, provides opportunities, start-ups, and established businesses for under-privileged individuals to gain valuable support, mentorship, and investments from some of the big names in the business. All profits from the sales of his books go to the Foundation. Through the Foundation, he manages to reach less-privileged people in society and guides them through ways to achieve whatever goals they set for themselves.
Having known Rob for the past decade, and seen the trials and tribulations of his journey to success. It was both a privilege and pleasure to have Rob join us on the show, and share not just one or two, but a bucket full of golden nuggets.
All, as part of our mission, to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
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I've had a few clients recently ask whether their business could raise money through sponsorship? Whether that be for a single event they are planning, or as an ongoing relationship to boost both standing, cash flow and opportunity. So today's podcast is all about raising money.
Now, before you sign off, and think sponsorship is only for Not for Profits, let me correct you. Over the past 17 years, I've either helped or witnessed MILLIONS of pounds be raised by SME businesses through sponsorship. But that doesn't have to come in the way of CASH
Sponsorship:
Promotes a positive brand
Increases brand awareness
Reaches a wider demographic
and it enhances the customer experience
And you find them in all sorts of places, some with rather interesting connections:
Just Eat and The X Factor
Rolex and TED
Emirates and Arsenal
Nike and Cristiano Ronaldo
Coca-Cola has been a sponsor of the Olympics since way back in 1928 Even though I'm left wondering how many top athletes drink Coke?)
So before you write this episode off thinking that's not applicable to me! I'd strongly recommend you do listen, as you may well find exactly how relevant it is to you.
Within this episode, I also make reference to a website to which we have used for some time, to better understand the characteristics of the person we are communicating with, that we can tailor our conversation accordingly. That can be found by visiting: https://www.crystalknows.com
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Do you cringe, run for the door, or put your boxing gloves on, the moment someone says "Can I give you some feedback?"
Trust me, I've yet to meet anyone who openly admitted to either liking or welcoming feedback. The very word appears to fill us with dread, wondering what you did wrong as a list of responses runs through our mind, justifying our actions to appease any further challenge!
But, what if, instead of fighting to defend our honour, we learned to say thank you. What if we actively sought it out, and welcomed it in for a cuppa tea and a biscuit? what if we made friends with feedback, and recognised it for the real value it is?
In today's podcast, I share the REAL value of feedback, and not just one or two but EIGHTEEN means of taking it, using it, and benefiting from it!
Grab pad and pen, tissues, and a ringmaster's bell, we go head to head with the Good, Bad, and UGLY of giving and receiving feedback!
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH, The Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income!
Want to know more? Book a call
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Have you ever wondered how some businesses appear overnight and the next day they are a global sensation, whilst the rest appear to be stuck in GroundHog day, never really moving forward?
What is the secret ingredient they have, which all the others don't that enables them to Scale Up whilst others struggle to grow?
In this episode, we take a look 'under the hood' of what it takes to ScaleUp your business and the actions YOU can take to make a huge and accelerated impact on both you and your business.
None of the shares today cost you money, they do cost you time, consideration, and determination. But, if you've got those three in your bag? Then these 9 steps are going to revolutionise who, what, where, when, and how you do business forever.
We'll uncover:
Why NOW is both a good and bad thing
The 3 FLAWS that cause the bottleneck to sustainable scale
The evolution of business (and where you sit)
The CORE of a business, and how it influences EVERYTHING
The 3R's of building a team of superheroes
Q Vs Q and how one massively impacts the other
Why taking time out is critical to time on
The power of partners
And why a little knowledge is more dangerous than no knowledge at all!
Grab a pad & pen, as we dive into the 9 Steps to Scale Up your Business
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our ongoing mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO.
Click here to access your #ADDAZERO ScaleUp Scorecard
To learn more about #Mastermind, visit: #ADDAZERO-Mastermind
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What's the biggest risk to the future success of your business?
- Brexit
- Government
- Change in the market
- Money
- .....The weather
Trust me, since I started asking that question over a decade ago, I've heard them all!
And yet, the biggest risk to the future of your business.......
is YOU!
Now before you sign off, and say "No it's not" I just want to quickly qualify that, by saying regardless of how careful, considered, measured you are, or whether your a 'flying by the seat of your pants type of owner is NOT what I'm referring to. More, despite your BEST intentions, the majority of business owners (particularly SME business owners) build their entire business around them, with them being at the very epi-centre of every choice, every decision, every action to grow the business. And that's great, until one day, it's not!
Around two years ago, I witnessed as a seasoned business owner of some standing, having run and grown his business for the past 38 years, watched as it crumbled to nothing within weeks, with NOTHING he could do to prevent it, the damage had already been done, and not something he was able to rectify!
I'm not talking about the business decisions you make, but about your HEALTH!
In today's SPECIAL GUEST episode, we get to interview Mike Donohoe, The Head of Business Insurance at Caspian Insurance. Insurance might not be sexy or the first thing you think about in the morning when it comes to the success of both you and your business. But, as we'll hear in this episode, for a few pounds a week, it gives us the knowledge and comfortability to go to work every day and make the decisions we do! And, without it, how EVERYTHING is at risk!
Grab a pad and pen, as we delve into the subject of Risk and Risk Protection, Business insights and Employee benefits ALL of which are not just relevant but essential for the sustainable growth of both you and your business.
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH, The Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO.
For further details as to how to connect with Mike and his team at Caspian for a completely complimentary conversation and review of what you should have in place: CLICK HERE
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What makes a good leader?
What's the difference between Leader and Manager?
How do you lead that people will happily follow?
As a Business Owner, it's imperative as we grow the business to build a team of others who collectively will help continue to grow the business. But rather than 'bums on seats' autocracy, we are seeking to invite, and inspire a different kind of employee. We are looking to build out a team of 'Super hero's who share our ethos, vision, and values, and are ready to do whatever it takes to support the business in its mission.
And yet, the majority of Business Owners, haven't had any formal training or experience on being a formidable leader. And so, their entire basis for what that looks like is based on their own experience!
- Who have I experienced as a good leader?
- What have I experienced as a poor leader?
- How do I compare?
It's not really a great start if we are looking to create a team of superheroes is it?
Particularly if you haven't experienced that many LEADERS.
In today's podcast (and the first Videocast) we explore in detail what strengths-based leadership is, and why it is so important in today's (and tomorrow's) working environment.
Grab a pad and pen, as we dive into the four elements of strengths-based leadership and learn how to adapt and overcome our own perceptions of leaders to become one!
Brought to you, by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to Significantly and Sustainably ScaleUp both them and their businesses. With the ultimate aim to #ADDAZERO to your personal disposable income.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
I often ask other Business Owners "When was the last time you amended your prices?" and SHOCKED when too many of them reply "I can't remember"
With the cost of living going up by the minute these days, why are so many business owners having such a hard time justifying and amending their own pricing?
In today's podcast, we take a deep dive into pricing strategies and take a look at not just ONE or TWO but a DOZEN different pricing strategies to help you generate more value, and more income for you and your business.
It's all part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
You might also appreciate reading: Should I put my prices up
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I'm often shocked when I ask business owners the last time they put their prices up?
It's very rarely recently...
It's infrequently in the past 12 months
And sometimes, they can't even remember it was that long ago!
I just don't get it!
You pay more at the pump almost EVERY time you fill up with fuel. Your groceries, your clothes shopping, your weekend away - EVERYTHING else in your life has gone up recently, and yet when it comes to raising your fee's there's a vague look and tumbleweed rather than a definitive YES!
In today's episode, we unpick the cost of not putting your prices up, and share 14 different pricing strategies YOU can implement TODAY across your business to begin to generate more revenue and more profit!
Putting your prices up
For me, there is at least 3 rules when it comes to raising your prices:
- Do it NOW
- Review it REGULARLY
- Continue to put them up regularly also!
The simple answer is, rarely do business owners put their prices up enough, or often enough. There is this innate FEAR of 'losing' business, which either prevents them from doing it or when they do, still not charging what they SHOULD be charging for the value they deliver!
Then, when they finally do it, they do it nervously, almost apologetically, often blaming something else (Government, Recension, Brexit, COVID) rather than simply doing it because you're worth it.
And finally, once it's done, we quickly see a multitude of Sales and Discounts under the pretense of offering added value but simply as another means of apology for having raised the price!
(Sound familiar?)
Well, grab a pad and pen, and get ready to make some notes, as we dive into a look at different 14 Pricing Strategies.
You might also appreciate: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/how-to-addazero/
and: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/business-purpose/
Ready to learn more? Book a complimentary #ADDAZERO ScaleUp call
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
"Until you have an employee, you are one"
Whilst not THE most endearing statement, it's the truth. Yet so many SME business owners have completely the wrong attitude towards taking on employees. It was Michael Gerber, who first coined the phrase "Working ON the business, not always IN the business" and that's only possible (without everything grinding to a halt when you have a WINNING TEAM.
But where to start?
What to look for?
How to attract the right candidates?
The Eighth element of the #ADDAZERO Methodology is WINNING TEAM, so today, we have the pleasure of interviewing (via zoom owing to lockdown restrictions) Founder & Managing Director of Dand HR Associates, my friend David Dand.
In this episode, we cover:
- Recruit, Retain, Reward
- Conscious and Unconscious Bias
- Partnerships and their place in SME business
- Remote working (and the future of the office)
- Organigram's
- CPD/Career progression
- Succession Planning
Within this interview, I also referenced Legacy by James Kerr in this interview. You can access that here
To learn more about our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO (and in doing eradicating Unemployment!) Visit https://www.mytruenorth.biz/about-us/our-mission/
Want to learn more?
Click HERE to get your own FREE ScaleUp assessment on the current opportunities and risks within your business
Dand HR Associates specialise in:
► Scalable HR solutions (insourced/outsourced), employer branding and recruitment expertise for accountancy, financial and other professional services SMEs
► Partnering with small/medium-sized independent providers of accountancy, financial and professional services.
www.DandHRassociates.com
▶ READY TO TALK?
You can book a 15 mins call with David via: https://calendly.com/david-dandhr/15min
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither shall your super successful business. The 8th Element of the #ADDAZERO Methodology is all around building a WINNING TEAM.
Whilst many business owners are initially nervous about hiring, as to whether they will 'find the right person' most fail to appreciate that you get what you give and that in order to build a winning team, you also have to be a winning leader!
In today's podcast, we begin to lift the lid on leadership and look at what it takes to build a winning team.
There's even more within the blogs on our website: www.mytruenorth.biz and a number of free to download resources on TEAM within the QM stores on our members site: www.mytruenorth.club
All as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Do you know, where you're going? (And is everyone else following you there)
In the last episode, we looked at Mission Statement and the importance that EVERY business develops one. Following on from that are a set of CLEAR OBJECTIVES. Whilst Jim Collins book "Good to Great" is some years old now, the principles run as true today as when it was first written. Helping to ensure the right people are doing the right things in the right way to attain the right results is critical in order to significantly and sustainably SCALE your business.
With a look at Michael Jordan, Jim Collins, and Belbin we establish the need to determined people's strengths and weaknesses, and how to turn these into strengths simply by identifying them and distributing workflow accordingly.
I'm exceptionally fortunate to have served alongside some of the most highly trained and professional soldiers in the world. And from this have seen firsthand the impact a well-prepared, briefed and aligned team can have on otherwise overwhelming odds. I share the impact of getting this right (and wrong) and where you can get started.
Brought to you as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
For more resources on building teams, head to www.mytruenorth.club and visit our QM stores
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
When people hear the word Mission Statement, many assume this to be associated with large corporate organisations, with a fancy poster on the Head Quarters Wall! And yet, as a former Rapid Deployment Soldier in the British Armed Forces, I cannot begin to tell you the importance that everyone in your company knows, understands and subscribes wholeheartedly to the Mission!
In today's Podcast, we look at WHY its imperative to have a company mission. Why you should never 'deliver it' to your team one Monday morning, and the impact of getting it right.
We'll share HOW one company created theirs and the impact it has on EVERYTHING they do!
If you don't currently have a mission statement, and are keen to learn more as to where to start? Head over to www.mytruenorth.club create a new (free) account and access our Mission statement planner from within the QM store.
It's all part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income!
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Throughout all my time's networking or in social gatherings, whenever I mention the word coaching, I'll invariably hear someone ask "Is coaching right for me?" or "Am I ready to be coached?" So today's episode is dedicated to those uncertain as to whether coaching is the right solution for them, and offers the 7 considerations to review before engaging with a coach.
Within the podcast, I also mention our FREE weekly SCALEUP sessions. More information for this can be found here: https://bit.ly/ADDAZERO_Microclass
If you'd like a FREE survey on the current scale vulnerabilities within your business, it can be found here: http://bit.ly/ADDAZEROAudit
Our coaching options, can be found here: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/
And, if you'd like a complimentary conversation on how to SCALE UP your business? Simply book a call here: https://calendly.com/mytruenorth/virtual-coffee
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Taken from one of our SCALEUP MAsterclasses, this episode looks at the 7 hurdles EVERY business owner faces as they take their business from Growth to SCALE.
Our research (of over 115,000 SME businesses) has recognised there are 7 KEY area's within EVERY business that has to be aligned for the business to push past Growth and into SCALE.
This episode looks at each of these in order of priority and offers practical guidance you can implement TODAY that WILL make a marked difference to both you and the significant and sustainable growth of both you and your business.
You will most definitely want Pad and Paper for this one, as the TOP TIPS come Thick and Fast.
BONUS 1: We've also created an EBook for this which can be accessed for FREE by visiting www.MyTrueNORTH.Biz and downloading from the homepage.
BONUS 2: AND, we also host FREE TO ATTEND ScaleUp sessions EVERY WEEK (via zoom) which you can access by registering here
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
I wanted to share with you something completely new that we've started doing!
Every week, we host. a FREE TO ATTEND, LIVE and INTERACTIVE zoom session entitled the #ADDAZERO ScaleUp sessions.
Whoever is first on the call, gets to join me in picking a random page from the #ADDAZERO Scale Up (BaseCamp) Book, from which we will take the subject heading, and then discuss that with those on the call. What it is, its importance and the impact of either having or not having this within YOUR business.
This week, we stopped on the Subject of the Mission Statement. And whilst I've briefly mentioned this in an earlier episode. As this is SO important to the ongoing growth and development of both the business and the people within it. We've dedicated this episode to really getting into, what it is (and what it isn't) why its important, and HOW to create a compelling mission statement for your business.
If you'd like to join us at a future LIVE and Unplugged #ADDAZERO ScaleUp Session? Simply click here to register on zoom.
The #ADDAZERO BaseCamp book can be accessed here
The Kindle version of the book can be found here
The Audio version can be found here
I've also discussed tying this to a 'greater purpose' and for us, that comes in the form of B1G1. The Global Giving Community making a difference to millions of people the world over.
You can learn more about how YOU can get involved here (Don't forget to use the code: BM14841) which in turn will also see us Give to another great Global Cause.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
In the last episode, we spoke about the importance of having a mission. And back in episode 4, we talked about your BFHAG (Big Fat Hairy Audacious Goal). The importance of thinking BIG.
Well, today, I’m delighted to share I’ve got a real treat, as this SPECIAL EDITION episode is an interview with someone who, in 2007 decided to think….GLOBAL.
B1G1 is a global business giving movement on a mission to create a world full of giving. Aligned directly in support of the UN 17 Global Goals, B1G1 encourages all to really understand and become a part of the power of giving. So, I was delighted earlier this week, to catch up with its Global CEO and Founder – Masami Sato.
ADDAZERO are PROUD to be members of B1G1, and have made the following commitments:
Every time we receive a testimonial/review we shall gift 365 days access to drinking water for people across the world. (You can leave a review HERE: http://bit.ly/MTN_GoogleReviewand help us contribute further)
Every time we receive a referral/Recommendation, we shall gift 50 days of access to educational books to underprivileged children across the world. (You can make a recommendation by email introduction to: Enquiries@mytruenorth.biz)
Every time someone joins our SASPathfinder Business Masterclass programme, we shall gift 150 days of Education to underprivileged children across the world. (Further details of this programme, can be found here: http://mytruenorth.biz/saspathfinder/
Every time someone joins our ADDAZERO Explorer Mastermind, we shall gift 365 days of Education to underprivileged children across the world. (Further details of this programme, can be found here: http://mytruenorth.biz/explorer-mastermind/
To learn more about B1G1 and the incredible work they do, AND how YOU can get involved also. Visit www.b1g1.com and use code BM14841 Which this month will donate 5 days of support to turtle protection in India
Enjoy.
To learn more about My TrueNORTH, our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO and help eradicate unemployment within the UK. Come and join one of our FREE TO ATTEND Weekly ADDAZERO Q&A sessions. Simply visit: https://bit.ly/ADDAZERO_Microclass for further details and to register.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
We start today with a question:
What does the word SUCCESS mean to you?
You see, despite the Oxford English Dictionary determining success to be:
noun. the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors; the accomplishment of one's goals. the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like. ... a person or thing that has had success, as measured by attainment of goals, wealth, etc...
The fact is, every time I ask someone what does success mean, it means something completely different to everyone!
As a business owner, you get to decide. Decide what you do, where you do, how you do and who you do it with. But deeper than this, you get to determine WHY you get up early, go to bed late and spend your time working in the business you do.
But it is only once you have clarity on what you are working to achieve, can you hope to achieve it.
Only then, can you turn your attention to the business, and establish what do you need to. d, in order to achieve your success?
However, as you will see, it doesn't end there! In fact, that's the start of the journey. So I wanted to share with you our business mission, and WHY it is critical to everything we do! AND a million business owners!
The link I refer to within the episode can be found here: https://addazero.co.uk/free-scale-audit/
I'd LOVE to hear YOUR mission, either drop a voice message or email podcast@mytruenorth.biz
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Start with the end in mind
We’ve heard the phrase, but perhaps don’t always give it real consideration. Particularly whilst we are still starting to think about possibly running a business?
In today's podcast, I get to interview a man who not only ‘fell’ into business quite by accident, but has gone from concept to sale and enjoying all life has to offer on the ‘other’ side as a business investor.
We’ll learn as to how opportunity comes knocking in the strangest of ways, how ‘taking a punt’ turned into a 7 figure business “quite by accident” and how preparing for a sale early can pay huge dividends when it comes to negotiating your exit.
To connect with Phil and learn more, simply visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philfraser/just don’t get his website mixed up, or you’ll be chatting with a medieval guy with chickens in tights! (Or maybe that is Phil! Lol)
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO.
Like to learn more? Simply join us on one of our free weekly LIVE & Unplugged sessions
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
What do you get if you cross Ray Kroc, James Bond, and Bob Borg?
When I first met this gentleman, I got very excited. From the moment we spoke and his enthusiasm was immediately electrifying. From humble beginings, he forged his own path, travelling over 300miles a day to learn from his first mentor on a route forward. From there, he has the most amazing story of difficulty, attitude, and overcoming adversity to becoming exceptionally successful.
Now the Dean of Givers University, EA Csolkovits shares some incredibly valuable lessons on how attitude affects emotion, affects input affects the outcome. And, if you want a different outcome, it starts with a different model of looking at the world.
The link to Givers University is: www.giversuniversity.com The link to the survey he refers to is www.giversuniversity.info
Brought to you courtesy of My TrueNORTH the UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our mission to support 1,000,000 to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable. To check your business's SCALE viability simply visit www.addazero.co.uk and complete our FREE SCALE AUDIT.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Whilst I hadn't planned to share this today. After an overwhelming number of clients who, in the last couple of weeks have reported 'getting stuck' I thought it best to share my 7 stages of progress paralysis (and how to overcome them).
In this episode, we look at the 7 most common blockers to significant and sustainable SCALE.
And yes, they ALL revolve around YOU as the business owner!
I'll share:
- What they are
- How they occur
- And most importantly how to address/avoid them in order to 'get back on the horse' and begin to make progress again.
I can't tell you the number of times I've found myself impacted by STUFF. And yet, it is only once we recognise and acknowledge something we can begin to address it.
In today's podcast, I've made it as simple as possible to identify, address and overcome 7 of the most common progress blockers, and a means of easily addressing each.
It's all part of our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to Significantly and Sustainably Scale both them and their businesses, with the ultimate aim to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
For further details, you may also wish to check out: www.addazero.co.uk
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
What got you here, may well not get you there!
There is a GREAT quote I remember vividly from my time in the Army:
"No plan survives first contact with the enemy"
And despite you having a great business, that was growing strong, EVERYTHING chanced in 2020 when a combination of COVID-19 and Lockdown changed the course and direction of pretty much every business on the planet!
But rather than see this as a problem, a hurdle, a challenge. I want to share with you how this has been the greatest gift we could ever have been given.
In this episode I'll share:
- The importance of reviewing your current offering
- The Business Bell Curve and knowing where you sit
- The 8 Step process to launching a new product
We'll start by looking at how pivoting is NOT new, but something we've been doing throughout our business lifecycle and so nothing to be worried or scared about.
What is the 'Business Bell Curve' Where do you sit on it, and more importantly where do your customers, your industry, your staff?
And the EIGHT steps to launching a new product/service!
And, it coincides with the GREAT news of the launch of our NEW PRODUCT: ADDAZERO, The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable SCALE - Establioshing BaseCamp
I'm SO excited that after almost 7 years of research, development, testing, trialling, BETA testing, Tweaking and amending we are NOW at a point where this has all been documented and now available to share with YOU.
This is by NO MEANS your average SUNDAY AFTERNOON couch read. It's (as suggested) a GUIDE book for ANY and EVERY Entrepreneur to ensure they have the people, system and processes required to significantly and sustainably SCALE both them and their businesses.
AND, (As your listening to this) I've got some GREAT news. The AUDIO version of the book shall be available on AUDIBLE before the end of April!
Within this podcast, I make reference to my: 50 Careers to train for, that don't exist yet - TED talk which can be watched by clicking on the link.
All that remains for me to share before the next episode, is that link once again to access YOUR copy (digital or paperback) of:
ADDAZERO The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable SCALE (Establishing BaseCamp)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Are you leaving money on the table?
Seriously, are you subconsciously sabotaging the current and future success of your own business, simply by not knowing the current scalability/vulnerability of it?
In this episode, I want to offer you a first-hand experience of exactly how most business owners are failing to recognise the opportunities within their own business, because they are so close to it!
"Can't see the wood for the trees"
The Business of Business is BUSINESS. And yet there are too many business owners currently still in the BUSYness of business! You are working hard, often longer than you want, and yet not earning anything like what you deserve! And for what? The 'promise' of things to come?
Today, we lift the lid on exactly how the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge works, how you can implement it within your business and the transformational results it so often brings to business owners!
A little over a year ago, a local business owner, clicked on THIS LINK and took our #ADDAZERO Scale Audit
In return for answering 30 NPS style questions about their business, we sent through an in-depth, bespoke report on the current scalability and vulnerability of their business. (Based on our researching over 115K SME businesses, and determining the DNA of Business Failure!). We identified, that whilst they had some really GREAT products/services, some relatively good and effective marketing and were very clear as to their motivation for being in business.
There were also some area's that lacked focus, attention and as a result left them exposed to risk. Which if left unattended to could well result in them either going or growing broke (as they continue to trade).
"I was quite sceptical when I first began filling in the questionnaire. After all, how much information can you glean from answering 30 quick questions?. However, was amazed as to how detailed and accurate the report was. It really highlighted to me why things weren't progressing the way I would have wanted. And was only too pleased Jay was able to work with us in reviewing, advising and supporting us in implementing many of the recommended changes"
Within weeks we began to see a marked change, not only in what business we did but how we did business and the result it had on customers old and new. Listen to this episode to learn about the hidden money tied up in your business, and the impact a FREE report can have on releasing it!
We are on a mission to help 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income! - Are YOU ready to #ADDAZERO?
Click here to get your ADDAZERO Scale Report: https://bit.ly/ADDAZEROFoundationSurvey
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Ask pretty much any business owner what they want, and hear the chorus of:
- More enquiries
- More conversions
- More sales
quickly followed by:
- Not having to work evenings/weekends
- Not having all the risk
- It Not being so dependant on them.
You see, whilst many business owners claim to want to SCALE their business. I'm not certain everyone's actions are congruent with their aspirations!
In today's episode, we take a lot closer look at what does it take to scale a business? To really understand the methodology behind the ADDAZERO Business Challenge, and determine the building blocks required to significantly and sustainably grow both personally and professionally.
We'll look at overwhelm and how so many business owners become so embedded IN the business, they fail to dedicate sufficient time working ON the business.
We'll understand what Christopher Columbus trigonometry can teach us about staying on course!
And determine the current vulnerability of your business prior to lighting the tough paper, hitting the accelerator and SCALING.
We've spent over 6 years now, really getting to understand what causes GOOD businesses to fail! It's enabled us to identify the DNA of failure, from which we've engineered a means of testing, reviewing, revising, and implementing this now proven SCALE methodology to YOUR business.
I was DELIGHTED to share on social media, last Friday how one client has 10X his business in just 5months since he first joined our SASPathfinder programme, on which we teach the 'BASECAMP' elements of the ADDAZERO Business Challenge. Another super happy business owner (in his own words) said "For the first time in my entire life, I've got more money than I know what to do with".
All, as part of our mission to #ADDAZERO to the Personal Disposable Income of more than 1,000,000 Business Owners!
The Scale Vulnerability Audit gifted to you within this podcast can be found by clicking HERE.
Go ahead, it takes around 6-7 minutes to complete, and we'll send you an in-depth, bespoke report on the current Scale vulnerabilities within YOUR business.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither shall your empire!
However, building a WINNING TEAM can often be a significant problem and fraught with difficulties for many business owners.
In today's episode, we'll lift the lid on what it takes to build a WINNING TEAM of SUPERHERO's on which you can depend to work together in creating a significant and sustainable business.
I'll share the 10 things Business Owners must-do if you're going to win the attention of SuperHero's
I'll share the 7 elements of the Recruitment process, and how offering the appointment is only the completion of PHASE ONE
And I'll share the impact Culture, Values and a Strong Mission Statement has on attracting the right people to you and your business.
There's a great story about the impact my Commanding Officer had on the Regiment, (and what this means to you and your team) and I'll dispell 4 Rumours about hiring from the very top of the industry!
For more information on this episode, you could read:
How to be a Great Boss
How to hire Superhero's
All brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our mission to help 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income. To learn more, simply click here.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
I'm delighted to welcome to the show, my good friend - International Change Management Consultant, and Culture connoisseur Gemma Toner.
I've known Gemma since we worked together in 2013, and have always taken my hat off to her exceptional knowledge, background, and in-depth understanding of people, culture, and behaviour. For a number of years, she was the lead consultant for one of the UK's leading Customer Service Training providers (specialising in supporting Telesales businesses) and has subsequently gone on to become a lead consultant in behavioural; change management at Achieving Breakthrough.
Today, we grabbed a zoom call together to discuss why Customer Service departments should be closed!
The importance CULTURE plays in forming a Customer Experience
And how EVERYTHING starts and ends with a conversation!
I'm delighted to bring to you, some exceptional insight on WHAT makes people who we are, and how attitudes, culture, values of the individual and the business as a whole, are key to creating a culture where customer experience is at the forefront of every thought action and deed both inside and outside the companies 4 walls.
You can connect with Gemma via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmatoner/
Brought to you as part of our mission to help and support 1,000,000 Business Owners to ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income! Want to know more? Visit www.MyTrueNORTH.Biz
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
The Business of Business is BUSINESS. And yet, for so many business owners, they struggle to feel comfortable about pricing their product/service and then asking for the sale! So why is that?
Well, one theory is that we have grown up and watched as our parents and grandparents have been continually lied to, by dodgy sales agents selling snake oil, only to find out is chip fat! We've become over-familiar with the BS Baffles Brains approach taken by so many trying to sell us the crap we don't want or need, and countless disappointments after falling for their deception!
So what is the answer?
Well, I'd like to think that by NOT selling your going to win LOTS more sales!
Listen in, with pad and pen at the ready, as with medical precision I put SALES under the knife, cut back the lies and fabrication as we dissect the SELL.
Just like with any other human, only by understanding its anatomy, can we begin to understand its heartbeat and what makes people tick!
I'm super excited about what we share here, and what it has done for us without our own business, and the countless of others we are now working with.
If you haven't already done so, don't forget to visit: http://bit.ly/ADDAZERO_Newsletter and sign up to our ADDAZERO Newsletter to be kept informed of all the details on our mission to support 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income!
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Why is it, that despite us all knowing and understanding that Marketing is a key element to every successful and progressive business. So many business owners get marketing completely wrong!
Don't get me wrong, its a minefield out there these days of what to do, where to do, when to do, how to do, in order to build that infamous Know Like Trust with your Ideal Target Client audience, sufficient that they not only move from window shopper to purchasing something, but that they become a regular returning client and an avid FAN of who you are and what you do!
Today's podcast we have a real treat, as its another SPECIAL GUEST edition.
Our guest today has worked in Marketing for over 20 years. Starting out as a Graphic Designer, and then attending a course entitled "How to build the internet". She has subsequently built websites for some of the largest companies on the country, (including Tesco, Wedgewood, PC World, Gadget Master and Liverpool FC to name but a few).
With a particular speciality in 'Customer Journey' (originated from having been born into International 5* service, and with it an eye for detail to a level I've never even seen before. Grab a pad and pen, for MANY of the golden nuggets shared here today in an extended episode, as we interview Amanda Daniels-Allen on:
- Why most people are measuring their Marketing ROI incorrectly
- The 6 M's of Effective Marketing
- How doing the right things in the wrong order, is as bad as not doing them at all!
Marketing in 2021 is going to take on a whole new level of complexity and competition. This really is an episode you don't want to miss if you want to GET AHEAD and BE SEEN by the RIGHT PEOPLE for the RIGHT THINGS in 2021.
Further details about Amanda can be found by visiting: https://www.koogar.co.uk/
The Marketing Oracle she mentions in the podcast can be found here: www.themarketingoracle.co.uk
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
When it comes to financials there are at least 7 financial numbers you MUST learn, know and understand in order to successfully manage and SCALE your business.
This enables you to work confidently on your pricing but ensures you are not missing opportunity or inadvertently transforming your business into a charity!
Understanding your critical financial numbers may not be as exciting as making a big sale but keeping an eye on these must-know figures will give you precious peace of mind—and a glimpse of what the future holds for your business.
It always alarms me the amount of business owners that DON'T know these numbers within their business, and reply on the end of year accounts to learn if all their time and effort for the last 12 months actually amounted to any net profit!
I'll also share:
- The role your customers have on your key numbers
- 14 of the most common pricing strategies
- The 4 key considerations when determining the right strategy for you
- And 13 tips on Pricing for profit
All brought to you, by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company, as part of our Mission to help 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to your Personal Disposable Income!
To get started, simply take our: FREE Scalability audit and learn the current scalability of YOUR business
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Values are rarely given the attention they deserve and yet I firmly believe in the 21st century, they are not just important, but likely to become the key to a business true capability of success.
Few companies put time and effort into defining, communicating and carrying-through their business values, which, in essence, are the guiding principles by which they operate. One company’s values could be honesty, transparency and integrity, whereas another company may value excellent customer service and innovation.
Whatever the values, they’re all too often neglected in favour of bottom-line results, especially when times are challenging and KPIs are seen as the priority.
However, values and results must go hand-in-hand. The two need to be equally matched or the implications could be disastrous.
In this episode, we'll look more closely at:
- WHY values are so important
- The 7 Fundamental values on what success is based
- How failing to live up to values can cost you the business
- What are Ethics
- And 12 tips on how to interweave both Values AND Ethics into your business!
To learn more about this, you can read the associated blog on our website: https://www.mytruenorth.biz/why-ethics-and-values-are-key-to-success/
All as part of our mission to help 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message
Success can mean different things to different people. For some its owning a huge, multi-national corporation with thousands of staff and a global presence. For others is sat quietly on a beach with their partner and children. A house that is paid for, a new car on the drive, and enough money in the bank to never have to work again! (Or maybe you want both?).
The trouble is, so few business owners who start off every achieve that! Why is that?
Well, as we discussed in the last episode many don't have a BFHAG! they haven't set their sights high enough, and as a result of not thinking big enough, don't achieve big enough for this to become a reality.
However, for others, they DO have a fabulous BFHAG, and yet STILL fail to achieve all they set out to! - In this episode we discover why that might be!
I discuss:
- Start with the END in mind
- A number of business models to consider and which might be right for you?
- WHY choosing the right model is critical. And how doing so could generate an additional £100K - £500K a year!
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH - The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company. As part of our #mission to help 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income!
What is the CURRENT scalability of your business?
How does this measure against other SME businesses?
Click HERE to: Take our FREE Scalability Audit
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In this episode, we’ll uncover If SMART isn’t, what is? What is a BFHAG? And the 6 steps to creating one within YOUR business?
At the time of recording this the UK has just gone back into the second National Lockdown as a result of the Corona Virus. There has never been a more worrying and uncertain time for many business owners, uncertain about the future and what it means for their and their businesses.
I’ve included a great analogy as to what’s happening right now, and both the physical, mental and energetic shift it’s having on businesses. And, by recognising this, what you can do to stop it having a detrimental impact on you, your family, your business AND your future.
Grab a drink and a note pad, as over the next 30mins I’ll share more on a different perspective to SMART, what we can all learn from the UN and how collaborative thinking, builds a better future for us all.
I mention Brendan’s book Motivation Manifesto within the episode, which can be found here: https://amzn.to/3kcyFrj
Brought to you by My TrueNORTH as part of our MISSION to help 1,000,000 Business Owners to #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income.
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If you’ve ever read anything related to achievement, motivation or personal development, you’ve no doubt come across the idea of SMART Goals? More often than not, the conversation revolves around setting SMART goals. This is an acronym for goals that are:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Relevant
- Time-Bound
Believe me, in all the time I worked in both Public Sector and PLC, they were ALWAYS going on about SMART goals, SMART targets. And KPI’s (Key Performance Indicators) based around achieving them!
However, all that changed for me, when I first met someone who has subsequently gone on to become a very good and close friend of mine, International researcher, 3 x Amazon Best Selling Author and motivational speaker Dave Hyner!
Like myself, Dave is also a motivational speaker, predominantly working with children and young adults to help them with self belief. However, he hasn’t always worked in schools, and previous to this has travelled most of the Western world interviewing professionals from pretty much every different walk of life and profession “from pop stars to politicians” as he advises, on WHAT enabled them to achieve the exceptional success they have within their chosen profession.
In ALL the interviews (and we are talking several hundred people) not ONE of them either spoke of, or had even heard of SMART goals!
Wonder why that might be?
Take just 33mins to listen to this interview (conducted via ZOOM owing to COVID lockdown restrictions) as we discuss Why SMARt simple isn't!
The course Dave mentioned can be found here: https://www.udemy.com/course/the-massive-goal-principle/
And if you'd like to know more about what to do INSTEAD of setting SMART goals? Then click here to learn why DUMB goals are the way forward!
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In this episode, rather than spend our time together me telling you about me, my background and how I came to discover the #ADDAZERO methodology, I thought it would be far more interesting if I were interviewed about the 3 flaws that led us to develop us the #ADDAZERO Business Challenge.
Martin Lee is the Founder of Quest for Excellence, a Disney Trained Customer Service consultant. Although we've known each other for a couple of years already, having been introduced through the Department of Trade & Industry where we have both done work, he had (until earlier today), never heard me keynote to a business audience.
I had been booked to deliver my award winning 'Get Big or Go Home' Keynote to a large group of Business Leaders, and as Martin lived local to the venue, invited him along to sit and listen in!
Immediately after the event he approached me and said "Oh my God, we've GOT to get a recording of that" and so this podcast, isn't recorded within the comfort of our studio in the office, but in the dressing room of the venue, directly after I'd finished.
Today, I'm sharing the 3 FUNDMANENTAL flaws within businesses, which either cause the glass ceiling or for them to either go or GROW broke!
Grab a pad and pen, as the nuggets in this one, come thick and fast!
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The #ADDAZERO Business Challenge is a culmination of more than 4 years of research and 2 years of testing to determine:
- What causes Big Businesses to Fail?
- What lessons can we learn from this?
- How will this impact my SME Business?
I was one of a large number of suppliers directly and significantly impacted by the collapse of Woolworths. Since then, I set about to learn HOW a company (with an annual turnover of over £3.9Bn) could possibly go bust! And what lessons we could all learn from this.
We've now researched more than 150 Big Business Failures and surveyed in excess of 100K SME businesses unearthing the 3 most common flaws in growing businesses. When they first occur, and the impact both ignoring and addressing them can have on YOUR business!
We've used this extensive research to cultivate a series of 'questions' and 'benchmarks' to pose to ANY business in order to reduce the risk of failure as they hit the accelerator from growth to SCALE.
With no less than 8 of our clients now have become finalists in the Entrepreneur of the year awards (4 winners within their category) and countless others winning both regional and industry-specific awards for growth, development, diversification, entrepreneurship.
Alongside our Global Entrepreneur 'Big Impact to Business' Awards, we were added to the UK 'Clear Business Thinking' POWER 100 list recognised for our Ethical approach to the Significant and Sustainable Business Scale.
The majority of the episodes are around 30mins in length. Interviews do tend to run beyond this up to 60mins.
We also have a designated #ADDAZERO Website: www.addazero.co.uk where you can access both the digital and physical copy of the #ADDAZERO book. The #ADDAZERO SCALEABILITY Audit AND how to book a complimentary call with me as a founder of #ADDAZERO SCALE Methodology.
Many thanks for reading through these Shownotes. Feel free to join our #ADDAZERO Facebook Community and access our 7 Hurdles EVERY business owner faces when thinking BIGGER e-Book.
We've now made it our MISSION to help 1,000,000 Business Owners #ADDAZERO to their Personal Disposable Income! - Welcome to the #ADDAZERO Podcast, brought to you by My TrueNORTH, The UK's leading Ethical Coaching Company.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mytruenorth/message