Quarterly Planning Your Business For Online Entrepreneurs

Quarterly Planning Your Business For Online Entrepreneurs

by | Online Business, Planning-Organization-Productivity

Quarterly Planning for Entrepreneurs

Can you believe it is almost the end of June already? Crazy. Wow. Time flies when you're having fun. What does the end of June mean for you? For me, it means looking ahead at the next quarter and seeing all the things I want to accomplish in my life and business. Quarterly planning for Entrepreneurs is essential to the success of your business. As an Operations Manager, I understand that quarterly planning isn’t always an entrepreneur's cup of tea. Here are the things that go into the quarterly planning process. Do you resist planning? Here is a link to download a quarterly plan template! 

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Quarterly Planning Your Business For Online Entrepreneurs

Process for Planning Your Business Quarterly

You may be wondering about different steps in the quarterly planning process. Is creating a quarterly plan necessary? Yes, it is. 

With quarterly planning entrepreneur, you figure out what you want to accomplish in the next quarter verse flying by the seat of your pants. 

Do you know everything you want to achieve and the steps to accomplish it? 

Creating a quarterly plan will keep you from feeling completely overwhelmed and busy daily. Calm and ease are why planning is a good thing.

Well, first off, we always get to pick our hard. You have two choices, would you rather spend a little bit of time working on the hard now by quarterly planning, or do you want your hard to be spending a lot of effort and time spinning your wheels every day? 

It's your choice; you get to choose and make sure you do what feels best for you. Is creating a quarterly plan for your business the best use of your time and energy? 

Psst… Yes, it is. 

Figure out your time

You must be wondering what I feel is necessary when quarterly planning. 

Pull out your calendar. 

If you haven't already, put the dates that you're planning to be out of the office for time off, such as vacation, appointments, rest, leisure, whatever it is, figure those days out, and put them on your calendar as Out Of Office. Do it right now for the third quarter. Heck, while you’re at it, block off your out-of-office days for the remainder of the year. 

Once you have all your time blocked off on your calendar, that's the number of the working days you have to move forward with all your different goals and projects that you have scheduled or are hoping to accomplish in the third quarter. 

Define Your Goals.

An excellent quarterly plan should help define your goals. You need to set realistic goals so you can measure your progress. If you set too high a goal, you might not achieve it. If you set too low a goal, you won't feel satisfied.

Now grab your notebook, open up your computer, whatever it is, time to create an exhausted list of all the projects and goals you would love to accomplish in the next three months.

Start by defining what success looks like for your business. What do you want to accomplish? How will you know when you've achieved those results? Once you've defined your goals, think about where you want to go next. Are there any new products or services you'd like to offer? Do you want to expand into a different market? Or maybe you just want to make more money. Whatever your goals are, write them down.

What if everything were to go as planned? As you write out your list, think of all the “What ifs” that will help you create a big dream list of all the things you want to get done.

What are all your ideas?

Get it out. Even those crazy ideas don't matter. Whatever it is, no project is too small or too simple for this list. Write it down. Everything that pops into your mind without any judgment add it to your list.

Creating the list should not be a tremendous amount of time, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, whatever feels right for you—just enough time to get everything out of your mind. Heck, you might even be able to do it in five. Whatever works for you time-wise, set a timer, and get everything out of your head.

Now you have it. How are those projects aligned with how you want to think, feel, and your vision for your life and your business?

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Quarterly Planning Your Business For Online Entrepreneurs

Cross things off the list

When you have your whole and exhausted list, look at the things that feel the most aligned with how you want your life to feel. How do you want your business to feel when tackling that list. Go ahead and cross off anything on that list that is out of alignment or does not bring you joy.

Cross off the things you dread unless it's an essential project; then, you probably need to leave it there.

However, when you break things down, they all become easier. Now I want you to go ahead and circle all the ideas you feel are in alignment with your life and your business. So what are those things?

What are those goals that are important to you? What are the things that you feel called to do and accomplish?

 

Mindmap the Actions For Your Quarterly Plan

After that, we have what we want to accomplish for our life and business in the next three months. Let's go ahead and mindmap out that project. 

My favorite way to create a project plan is, to begin with, a mindmap. Have you created a mindmap before? If not, I recommend this to all my creative entrepreneurs. 

You can do it however you want. I like paper. You might prefer to do it on an app that allows you to mind map. However, it is entirely up to you. 

Mindmap Actions

First, write one goal or project in the middle of the paper and draw a circle around it. 

Second, all around the big circle, write all the ideas that pop into your mind on how to accomplish this project. Go ahead and circle those too. Connect the big circle to the idea circles with lines. 

It will look like spokes coming off the big circling connecting your ideas. 

Third, add the actions you need for all the ideas. These actions will also be circled and connected to the idea with a line. 

Example how to use mindmap for planning

For example, if one project in the next quarter is to create a new opt-in. You’ll need a landing page for one of the items. What are the small accomplishable daily tasks to create a landing page? Here are a few ideas. 

Find images 
Write Copy
Create Wireframe
What else do you need to do? 

Using a mindmap would be how I suggest for the brain sweep or thought download of all the actions that need to take place for that project to happen. 

Now, granted, sometimes, when I'm laying everything out in my project management system, I'll have other things that pop into my mind. I didn't take that into consideration. So, that is how you do a general mindmap. 

Since you have all your action items, let's get it scheduled.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Quarterly Planning Your Business For Online Entrepreneurs

Get it scheduled

Now that you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, it's time to implement your plan. This means creating a detailed strategy for reaching your goals. 

If you have a project management system, you can set this up inside so you know what to do when. If not, a paper calendar or Bullet Journal will work just fine. 

Once you know all the actions that will need to be done, give each an estimated time it will take to complete. A quick word of advice, if you’re not sure about the time, estimate double the amount of time you think it would take if you did know. 

You should also consider who will help you reach these goals. Who will you need to hire? Who will you need to partner with? And who will you need to outsource some work too?

Let's get it on your calendar and figure out the who and the when.

Generally speaking, work from the end forward because if you know the date you want it done by, it will allow you to have the correct timeline. 

Do not build too many bridges

Build one bridge at a time, focusing on one project until it is completed instead of jumping back and forth between multiple projects. 

So now you have your list of everything that needs to be done. You have an idea of the due date; the next question is, who will get it done? Is it you or somebody on your team who needs to get it done? 

Perhaps, you’re focused on a life goal over the summer while you’re spending more time with the kids. Are you the only one who can do the work, or can you involve your kids? 

Do you need any special resources to be able to accomplish your project and get it done? 

For example, if you're landscaping your front yard, what are all the things you'll need to get ordered before you can even start working on that project? 

As yourself again, are you the best person to do this task? It's essential that you stay in your own lane and delegate out any task that somebody can do more efficiently because they have better knowledge of the project, and it will take them far less time to get accomplished than if you kept it on your plate.

Review Your Results.

Once you've completed your plan, review your results. Did you meet your goals? If not, why not? What did you learn from your efforts? How do you think you can improve next quarter?

 

What is your goal? 

If you have any questions, write them down below in the comments. I'd love to hear what is the next big project your planning for the quarter? 

I hope you have a wonderful day. I appreciate you.

If you need some help figuring these out, I invite you to apply for my private coaching. Here is the link: https://misstask.com/mini-session; working on all those project plans together would be fun. 

Download the Quarterly Plan Template. 

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Best Tips To Keep Track of Open Orders for Life Coaches

Best Tips To Keep Track of Open Orders for Life Coaches

by | Life and Success

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Tracking Open Orders Successfully As An Online Coach

“What do you do after selling your service? How do you keep track of what needs to be fulfilled?” A question popped up in a group, sparking a discussion many of us can relate to. It's funny how often we overlook the importance of tracking open orders, especially after securing a coaching client during a flash sale. You’ll likely have a staggered onboarding, and some may even plan to start in a few months. It's crucial not to lose track, and here's how you can ensure everything stays organized in your coaching business.

Strategies and Tools for Effective Lead and Client Management

Managing leads and clients can indeed be overwhelming, particularly for coaches just starting. Implementing a system for tracking open orders is vital to ensure your marketing efforts are not useless. Let's look at some strategies and tools to help you stay organized and efficient.

Lead Management to Tracking Open Orders

If you’ve been around for any amount of time, you’ll know my belief that having a system in place is the first essential step. You can use a simple spreadsheet or a CRM tool like Honeybook to keep everything in check. Whether it's a project management tool such as Asana, Trello, or MeisterTask, these platforms can streamline your process. You can create tasks for each service request, assign them, set deadlines, and monitor progress. Remember, duplication of your lead template simplifies the process significantly.

A spreadsheet might seem basic for those just starting, but it's incredibly effective. I've assisted a multiple six-figure business coach who relied on Google Sheets for lead management. Tools like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets can help you maintain a detailed log of customer names, services provided, due dates, status updates, payments due, and links to essential documents.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

A CRM system, such as Honeybook, is invaluable for managing leads and client interactions. It’s an all-in-one solution that grows with your business, avoiding the need to switch systems as your business grows. Honeybook simplifies scheduling, invoicing, payments, and managing open orders or service requests.

A CRM tool allows you to store and organize your leads' contact information and any notes or communication history. 

Honeybook is an all-in-one system that allows you to create automation. Best of all, it will grow with you; therefore, you’ll not need to change your process and system. 

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Tracking Open Orders Successfully As An Online Coach

Project Management Tool

Using a project management tool like Asana, Trello, or MeisterTask can help you manage and track your open orders.

You can create tasks or projects for each service request, assign them to team members, set deadlines, and track progress.

When a new lead comes in, simply duplicate your lead template and check off all the boxes. 

Use A Spreadsheet

As a new small business, even a simple spreadsheet will work. As I mentioned previously, I helped out a multiple six-figure business coach who utilized a Google Sheet for lead management in the past.

You can use a spreadsheet like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets to track open orders or service requests. 

Create columns for details such as the customer's name, the service being provided, the due date, the request status, the start date, the end date, team member assigned along with payments due and links to supporting documents. 

Scheduling Tool

Using a scheduling tool like Calendly or TinyCal can be helpful if your coaching services need to be scheduled. This is a simple way to manage your availability and schedule appointments with future clients. This too, I’ve seen this in action with one of my past coaches. 

The process was simple and streamlined. 

Leads would fill out an application, and once reviewed and approved, email invitations with Calendly links would be sent to schedule a consultation.

If it were a “yes” client, following the onboarding process they would receive another Calendly link to book out all the calls with the coach. 

Regardless of which method you choose, it is essential to have a system in place to track your open orders so you can ensure that they are completed efficiently and on time.

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Lead Qualification

When it comes to managing leads, it’s essential to know which is a good fit for your business. As much as you want, you can't be everything to everyone, so it's important to qualify your leads to find the ones that are a good fit for your coaching services. 

With this in mind, one way to do this is by asking qualifying questions during your initial contact with a lead. Without a doubt, a video call is the best way to get a good sense of who they are and if they’re serious about working with you.

Fortunately, there’s a simple solution. That is, create an application with good qualifying questions that will provide you with the information to decide if they are someone you’d like to work with. 

Here are a few basic questions:

  • What are your specific goals or objectives?
  • What challenges are you currently facing?
  • How soon are you looking to start working with a coach?
  • By asking these questions, you can quickly determine which leads are serious about working with you and which are not.

Lead Nurturing

But wait, just because a lead isn't a good fit at the moment doesn't mean they never will be. That's where lead nurturing comes in. 

Lead nurturing is building relationships with your leads and keeping them engaged until they are ready to become clients. This can be done through regular communication, such as email newsletters or quick check-ins on social media. 

Some ways to nurture leads or build up trust and respect include:

Sending out regular newsletters with valuable information and tips related to your coaching services.

Free resources, such as worksheets or e-books, can help your leads achieve their goals.

Follow up with leads regularly to check in and see how they progress.

Regularly nurturing your leads can keep them engaged and excited about working with you.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Tracking Open Orders Successfully As An Online Coach

Client Management

Once a lead has become a client, it's necessary to have a system to manage their progress. This can include setting up regular check-ins and progress reports, as well as tracking their goals and progress. 

Some ways to manage your clients effectively include:

Make sure you have regular check-ins or progress reports to track their progress and make any necessary adjustments to their coaching plan.

Use a project management tool, such as Trello or Asana, to keep track of your client's goals and progress. 

Keep detailed notes of all communication and sessions with your clients so you can refer back to them as needed. Here’s a quick tip on note-taking: using a note-taking app during your calls will transcribe the call as you go.

During the call, the best thing to do is keep track of the action items from the call. At the end of the coaching session, review the action items and set a check-in date to keep your client accountable. 

Following the session consolidate notes, action items and other vital information in a Google Doc that can be shared with your client, this ensures everyone is on the same page.

It’s Time To Wrap This Up

The management of leads and clients is one of the most important aspects of growing a successful online business. In order to stay organized and ensure that you make the most of your time and resources, it is important that you pick a system that work for you. Whether it is a CRM tool, spreadsheet or project management software. Start with a simple process to qualify leads, nurture them, and manage your clients effectively. 

Thank you so much for your time. I appreciate you, and I hope you have a wonderful week!

Streamline Your Content Planning with a Trello Content Calendar

Streamline Your Content Planning with a Trello Content Calendar

by | Content Systems

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Streamline Your Content Planning with a Trello Content Calendar

​Feeling swamped by the endless task of planning your business's organic content? Are you overwhelmed by the sheer volume of online marketing material you need to generate? I get it. Do you find yourself running in circles trying to organize your content strategy? It's time to switch to a Trello content calendar for managing your long-form content.

 

The Importance of a Content Calendar

Ever wonder why a content calendar is crucial?

Here's the thing: Constantly brainstorming new ideas can be downright tiring.

I won't even begin to mention how frustrating it can be searching for the last brilliant content idea, as you have no idea where you wrote it down.

A content calendar is your roadmap, clearly outlining what needs to be created and when, saving you from the dreaded desk-head-banging moments.

Today, we're diving into how to set up your content calendar in Trello.

What Makes Trello Stand Out?

Now, you might ask, “What's so special about Trello?” 

Why do you think this will work for me when so many others have not?

First off, its simplicity is a game-changer.

If you are seeking a straightforward and visually appealing planning tool, you will love Trello.

Centralize Your Content Ideas with Trello

Are your office surfaces buried under sticky notes? Would you burst into laughter if someone quizzed you on your content creation process?

That ends now. Trello is your ultimate idea storage solution, keeping everything organized in one spot. You'll know exactly where to look when it's time to plan. 

Forget the days of misplaced brilliant thoughts. With Trello, your next great idea goes straight into your idea bank. What is even better is creating an idea bank card for each of your content pillars.

And the best part? Trello’s mobile app means you can capture ideas on the go. Because let’s be real, you’re always on the go.

Gather All Your Resources in One Place

In your Trello Content Calendar, dedicate a card with all the links to the resources you rely on.

I understand how you can get off track if you must search for something. By having a resources card with your links.

This could include links to frequently used software for creating your pillar content. I don’t know about you, but for some reason, if I open a Google tab, I may end up somewhere that I shouldn’t be.

Create a Content Calendar Template

If there's a task you're repeating in your business, it screams for a workflow. Here’s the thing: you never miss a task with a system.

Creating a template in Trello for your content calendar simplifies your process, laying out all the necessary steps for creating your content.

With this template, forgetting the next step is a thing of the past. Just duplicate the template, and you're set to start.

Trello makes it easy to duplicate your card and boldly marks ‘This card is a template.’

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Streamline Your Content Planning with a Trello Content Calendar

Key Feature in Trello Content Calendar

In other words, Trello isn’t just another tool; it transforms how you organize your content calendar. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it incredibly user-friendly, allowing you to visualize your entire content strategy at a glance.

With Trello, you can create boards for each of the different areas of your business and develop simple checklists to mark off the tasks as they are completed.

Create cards for individual tasks or ideas. It’s funny how something so simple can be so powerful, right?

Trello also offers customizable labels for easy categorization, due date reminders to keep you on track, and the ability to attach files directly to cards, ensuring all your resources are in one place.

Using Trello, you're equipping yourself with a tool that adapts to your workflow and simplifies content planning.

If busy is distracting you, this may be a great solution.

Here is a screenshot of a Podcast Workflow and Trello Content Calendar:​

Why is it important to have your workflow and content calendar on one board? It keeps you from jumping around in the software. It keeps you focused on content creation. This helps you be more efficient and productive. It also allows you to be consistent with your content creation.

Show Up Consistently—Without Doing It All Yourself

Your Podcast, Repurposed into a Full Marketing Strategy

A done-for-you repurposing service where we turn one piece of content into 5 Days of Marketing Content so you can grow your audience and impact in less time.

5 Days of Content from 1 Podcast Episode

  • 2 vertical video clips
  • 1 Carousel post graphic and caption
  • 1 Quote/Static post graphic and caption
  • 1 Graphic and caption to specifically promote the podcast episode
  • 4 Additional Social Media Captions
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​Ready to Take the First Step Towards Consistent Content Creation?

Finding the right workflow for your content can seem overwhelming when facing many project management systems.  But guess what? It doesn’t have to be. With a Content Creation Simplified session, we dive deep to uncover the best project management tool and content workflow tailored specifically for you. Imagine having a streamlined process that saves you time and makes publishing consistent organic content easier. And the best part? This session is yours for only $97!

Don't let overwhelm dictate your content strategy. Book your session today, and let's transform your content creation process from chaotic to crystal clear. Your content deserves to shine; together, we’ll ensure it does. Book Now and Simplify Your Content Creation https://misstask.com/mini-session

Are you curious? If you’d like to know what a Content Simplified session is about, Listen to this podcast, where I take you behind the scenes into a session. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/content-systems-for-growth-project-management-software/id1680728514?i=1000646237882 Or Or visit the blog post here: https:/misstask.com/content-creation-simplified-coaching-session-amy-rolfs

Time To Wrap This Up With A Recap

Creating a content calendar in Trello can truly streamline your content planning process, making it less overwhelming and more efficient. By setting up a dedicated board, organizing your workflow with lists, and populating it with all your brilliant ideas, you’re laying down a solid foundation for your content strategy. 

Remember, the key to success is in the details—assigning labels, setting deadlines, and attaching all necessary resources directly to your cards keeps everything you need at your fingertips. 

And let’s not forget the importance of collaboration; Trello makes it easy to share your vision and work alongside your content team. By setting up a checklist, you’re well on your way to mastering your content calendar and ensuring consistency (which we know is essential), which becomes much more manageable. 

In addition to helping you organize your content, Trello will inspire creativity and intentionality within your content creation process. Now, that’s a win in my book!

Thank you for reading. I appreciate you, and I hope you have a wonderful week.