Easy creative tips

Think in Color 2023: Head of the Table

Nov 19, 2023

The Thinking In Color 2023 event has officially come to an end! We're grateful and happy for the chance to be in our line-up of brilliant women, as well as BIPOC creators and innovators on the scene. We'd like to believe that by the end the day, you're impressed by our speaker's adventures and gained knowledge on how to establish an online community that is effective, expand your offerings and increase your revenue, as well as other topics.

While many subjects were discussed in the forum, we've done our best to share the best moments with our readers. Find out more about the key points from every speaker.

Skip ahead:

     Creating Cozy & Collaborative Virtual Communities    

Cicely Blain, anti-racism consultant & Founder Bakau Consulting. Bakau Consulting

The session's description The session focuses on remote work. While it was a reality before COVID-19, this epidemic has accelerated the necessity for organizations to transition to a digital setting. As a result, organizations seeking to maintain close relationships with their customers established virtual communities where the same-minded customers could benefit and assist one another. It can, however, be difficult to establish an online community that is as close like one you can find physically.

In this talk, Cicely Blain shares their journey to build their virtual community called Living Room. The group shared how they created warm and welcoming atmospheres within the virtual world. making sure that their communities are safe and inclusive as well as using technology to help meet the needs of people.

The main lessons

 Be aware of the people you want to target and what they're looking for.

Prior to the launch of Living Room, Cicely had determine the demographic they were trying to create their digital platform for. Because their work is rooted in the fight against racism and oppression, Cicely knew that this audience would mostly be individuals like DEI practitioners, consultants, and HR professionals who do similar things.

After, Cicely had to figure out what they truly wanted.

"I was contemplating about"What do these people yearning to have, in particular during these critical times in which so many things are shifting and they're being called differently?

     People are seeking a feeling of community, of connection to one another, of solidarity and unity although they may not feel that sense of. They're also looking for sources and are eager to gain knowledge."

Your content should be relatable to your audience

One of the best ways to attract individuals to become part of your online community is to offer them something they can relate to. For Cicely the only thing relevant was their home. They wanted for the same comfortable and warm atmosphere their own living room provided their family.

     "I wondered, "What is it that I would like people to feel in this area? I thought, hey I would like people to feel exactly as they do when they come into a physical space which is warm, welcoming and cozy. I would like them to feel comfortable and content, that they are supported by others, a sense of belonging, and a sense of being seen."

Cicely brings this energy into the community by:

  • Every virtual conference is an initial reflection lasting 10 minutes. They ask a simple question on screen to allow participants to reflect on their own.
  • Playing a relaxing music playlist inspired by R&B to ease listeners into their surroundings and become comfortable in the chat.
  • Approaching each call like they're with their best family members. When they're making videos for their online courses, Cicely might be doing her makeup, or making an iced tea in the kitchen.

Give a wide range of options for community members can access what they want

The members of the online community are generally similar to each other, they will have different needs along with strengths and weaknesses. Within your company it is necessary to find various ways that you can meet the requirements of your members in spite of their differences.

With Living Room, Cicely met the requirements of its members with:

  • The company offers a variety of ways to engage (e.g. online chat rooms, in-person discussions complete online classes and more. );
  • Defines the community's values as well as the guidelines for its members;
  • Let people be themselves and show their real selves.
  • Decrease unnecessary stressors, for instance time limitations as well as meeting agendas
  • Take into consideration accessibility requirements (e.g. impairments and neurodivergence) as well as other.

Fonds In The Funnel Maximizing sales through an effective funnel focused on the customer.

Ellie Diop, Content and Coaching Coach for Funding at Ellievated Academy

The session's description for the session: To create an effective company your customers must buy or utilize your products. However, many businesses fail to create content they think they would like their customers to buy instead of what customers actually want. In this talk, Ellie explains how you will grow your company and increase sales by establishing the right funnel to attract the ideal customer and responds to their desires and requirements.

 Primary Takeaways

Every element of content can have a role play.

A funnel that is focused on the customer can be defined as creating the connection between your clients. One of the most efficient ways to do this is to develop information that is useful, useful, relevant and beneficial to customers. A funnel designed to cater to the needs of customers includes five phases:

  • Awareness
  • Discovery
  • Then there is the consideration
  • Conversion
  • Retention + Relationship

In terms of what is the importance of creating relevant article Ellie says, "Every piece of content that you write is an integral part of the sales personnel. Therefore, whatever you published within the past three months will help move customers down this funnel... Be consistent in your presentation and present every day with a consistent tone creates something predictable for the customer to understand, and help them navigate the funnel of sales."

Your brand's definition

If you're not sure whom your goods or services have a purpose, no one will buy from you, or partner with them. Therefore, before you build the funnel, determine the mission and goal of your company beginning with the ideal customer. It is possible to ask you:

  • Who do I serve?
  • What can I do to help them to solve?
  • What can I do?

Answers to these questions provide the basis for every business choice. Ellie offers a straightforward model to help your target audience to achieve your goal by using the use of [your product/service]

In her own experience with growing her business, Ellie states, "For me, it could be "I aid women to build profitable businesses by offering them methods and strategies for financing. '... In the past, I had this in a post-it note in a corner, so each time I set out to create a video, I recalled whom I had spoken to. "

Develop your social media followers

Social media is believed to be one of the most efficient digital channels for establishing the brand's reputation and driving sales for your business. It's so efficient that a majority of users look through the content of your company's Instagram profile (or other pages on social media) prior to navigating your site.

Therefore, you need to devote your time (and perhaps funds) into the content on your social media to ensure it is more noticeable. One way to do it is:

  • making engaging, educational and share-friendly videos (especially video)
  • Paid ads running
  • Collaborating with influencers with similar target markets in the same way

HTML1 Utilize lead magnets to build out your list of email subscribers

While you're producing content, you want to include the largest number of individuals who aren't using social media to the mailing lists of your subscribers. If they sign up for your email list, it offers an opportunity for you to get in touch directly with them. This is more beneficial than if they come across your posts and videos when they visit Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). Lead magnets are where they can help.

By using lead magnets, you're offering value to obtain people's details of contact (usually their email address and address). You can request more information too. For example, at the beginning of her business, Ellie offered free 1-on-1 sessions for customers to collect feedback. Ellie took the reviews she got to get her first customers who were willing to pay.

     "You've gotta look at the following question "What's an area that you can provide a fantastic service for free that can inspire people? And make it your primary draw. [In my business], I've implemented a recent approach that, instead of taking you directly to a product, we encourage users to sign up to receive a deal for free that is a free masterclass. Then we sell through the website's backend. We've had amazing results."

 The process of keeping existing customers easier than acquiring new customers

For each new lead you receive each lead you are given, you undergo the procedure of moving through your sales funnel -- which is much more difficult than convincing an previous customer to purchase from you to purchase from you again. Thus, focus on retaining customers equally, if not more in comparison to acquiring new clients.

To keep your clients, here are the steps you should follow:

  • Offer high-quality service to customers
  • Utilize surveys of customers to gather feedback
  • Find testimonials from satisfied customers (offer incentives, if it is possible)
  • Develop a product that will fill the gaps on the market

When she came up with the second offer, Ellie shares, "I created my first business credit class for $15. At the same time, I was getting feedback from my clients on their future requirements. So I came up with my Business Credit revamped. Then I created the Business Credit masterclass, and after that, the whole collection. It turned out that the vast majority of buyers of the first item then purchased the next one to fill in the gaps elements. Then, they purchased the 3rd because they were growing in their skills and desired to learn more."

Growing Both B2C and B2B Business to generate multiple revenue streams

Jessica Chen, Global Communications Expert and CEO of Soulcast Media

Description of the session: Companies in general, have three primary elements of sales and revenue that they must consider: the services or products they provide, the content they create for the purpose of explaining their services or products and the media channels the channels they distribute that information. In this presentation, Jessica discusses the power of LinkedIn to aid businesses in connecting to both customers (B2C) as well as other organizations (B2B) What you can do to tailor your content to speak to both audiences, and strategies to expand the scope of products and services that you provide to suit both groups.

LinkedIn LinkedIn is a powerful method to promote content via LinkedIn and grow your visibility

While many entrepreneurs and professionals use LinkedIn however, they aren't looking at it as a platform through which it is possible to expand your reach and publish content. Instead, they see it as an avenue to revise resumes, discover job opportunities, and communicating with friends and acquaintances.

In reality, LinkedIn is a social media platform, similar to Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), and is treated the same manner. There is only one difference that is the kind of content you publish.

LinkedIn's appeal is obvious. Jessica says, "The beauty of LinkedIn is this you're communicating with a particular segment of people who are engaged in personal development and are eager to grow. "

Jessica is also able to share the story of how she went from sharing her experience reporting in the year 2018 to becoming an accredited Top Voice and a LinkedIn instructor in just five years. Jessica attributes this to posting consistently on the platform as well as connecting with a large variety of individuals who could benefit from her expertise in helping people develop their communication skills.

Modify your message to accommodate B2C and B2B users.

The majority of business owners believe that they will only be able to gain attention in the event that their content is targeted to consumers who are merely individuals. However, this isn't so.

The advantage of LinkedIn is the ability of the user to alter their message so that it is tailored for B2B and B2C audiences. The content you offer does not need to change, but changing how you present your company can increase its exposure and draw in users and business.

"I am aware that when I need to communicate to an audience B2C, I use language like "you," "your" Did you think about ...?'""you"?" "You" asks Jessica. "My style of speaking is clear, so anyone who reads my writings is able to feel as though it's a personal message.

     "[With the B2B market] instead of using  the words "you" and "your", I'm framing my message by saying things like"the team' and 'the company'. It's more positive, and not as personal."

Position yourself as a thought-leader for B2B customers.

As opposed to consumers that want a high-quality item, B2B buyers need to know that they're getting only the best. To attract the interest of B2B customers, you'll have make yourself known as a specialist or thought leader in your sector even though your offering is primarily targeted towards B2C consumers.

For artists, you may develop and market courses in photography to your target audience of B2C. To get B2B prospects, you could publish thought-provoking content about having a career in the arts or about creating a successful business by being an artist. If you are able to offer individual training classes to help people improve their efficiency and productivity you could appeal to B2B clients by publishing articles about improving productivity in the workplace.

You'll then be able switch from selling B2C items like e-courses or one-on-one classes to offering talks and workshops.

Crafting a Visible personal brand using video

XayLi Barclay specialist as well as Visual Content Coach through Start Shoot Develop

Session Description If you're a business owner is easy to get thought of as less important, particularly if you're selling in the midst of a highly competitive market or sector. It is possible to combat this through creating your own personal brand via video content, like smaller TikTok clips, Instagram Reels, or longer-form YouTube videos. In this talk, XayLi explains how you could make use of video content to promote your course online in addition to generating sales. Make your name known on the minds of the people who purchase your products.

It's not a lot of data to get started.

When creating your first livestream, or creating your first livestream everything has to be flawless. Start with the footage you already have. As you begin your journey the viewers may not like the poor quality of your video and weak editing skills, since they realize that over time, you'll be better.

XayLi herself got started with her laptop with a basic white background, as well as a ring light that was ripped from the mill.

"This is the place where I got my start in my first job and then I was even asked to become an expert," she shares. "I did not wait until I built my newsroom to begin instructing other people. I made use of what I could find because I realized the information I needed to impart was not only about how stunning your setup can be.

Presently, I'm using an integrated studio within my residence. Nevertheless I'm in the same place which I first started years ago. "

More resources will be available as you get more

Once you have more exposure through your video content and start making money from them, you can start building the collection you have and then improve your equipment for video. In this case, for instance it is possible to purchase an upgraded camera or webcam, as well as a tripod stand (worth around $500-$1,000) and a green screen and E-Camm Live as along with a teleprompter program as well as an Adobe Premiere subscription for editing.

In a discussion about improvements to equipment and set, XayLi says, "[At the moment] it's possible to have different camera angles and so on. Now is the time to invest in these items because you're making cash. We [often] think that we have to be attractive before we can earn money. No. It is necessary to be on the market. After that the money will start flowing in."

When you start making enough cash, you may outsource your video recordings, editing, distribution and recording to contractors or an internal team.

 Pay attention to just one thing for a while

The common belief is that you have to do all the things to increase your revenue. It is essential to post on every platform, jump on every trend, and discuss a variety of topics. However, this isn't always true. It's better to concentrate on one thing one at a given time when you develop your image. This will not only stop the flow of energy that you've been working on as you work, but also let the viewers know what they can expect from you every when you upload the video.

In accordance with XayLi Barclay's "Rule of 5 Ones" There are five key elements to consider when you are deciding on your strategy for digital.

  • One item or service
  • One possible market
  • One lead conversion tool
  • The most important traffic source
  • One goal for a business

Memberships are The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

Teri Ijeoma who was the founder of Trade & Travel

The session's description In the right way it is a great way for companies to build more solid relationships with clients in addition to generating extra revenues. Teri Ijeoma is the creator of her membership program which she created to aid in Trade & Travel and she is now able to accommodate over 35,000 individuals who are enrolled in her programs and 185,000 subscribers to her email list. In this talk, Teri shares the benefits of establishing a membership system and provides a step-by-step guide to help companies to set up and maintain memberships in a way which is efficient.

Learn when it is time to move from a no-cost group to a membership model which is paid

If you're not an extremely well-known business, you'll be required to launch your own membership program, offering the benefits for absolutely no cost. Teri has created her own by creating an open Facebook group. But, as you build your network, it is essential to know how to move from a free community into a paid-membership model.

This is a sign to be aware of prior to making a decision:

  • The group you are working with is expanding in size but the members are paying a single fee for the service you offer, instead of paying for other benefits your group offers, e.g. year-long customer support, etc.
  • The group members begin their own group meetings, or sub-groups. It is difficult to oversee the management and management of the organization.
  • The group is hiring moderators and coaches who will provide coaching services for members of the group, with no additional revenue generated from your members.

Your member program is a service by it's own

A lot of companies that offer online courses also have membership programs as add-ons to the courses. Although a membership plan is an effective way of making your course more attractive however, it should be treated as a complete productit's not just a gimmick.

In discussing the benefits of her Trade & Travel membership, Teri says "In the beginning, I was thinking that it was an extension of my training. But that's not trueit's an entire product on its own. It should have its own marketing staff with a promotional and marketing strategy... You must think about it as a product in and of itself."

Make sure you are aware of this when pricing

As you transition from a free group in to a membership-based model, take note of your desired earnings and determine your pricing in line with that. You can make your price less to gain many more participants. However, if you're confident that your membership program has been designed with the highest quality in mind, then don't hesitate to request a higher cost to join the program.

If, for instance, you're hoping to earn $10,000 each month, you'll need 500 people to pay $200 per month instead than a thousand people paying $100 per month. In reality, the more expensive your rates have become, the less clients are likely to sign up. Also, you'll be able to reach your goals for income faster as well as finding it simpler to run your business.

The Head of the Discussion Panel for the Table

Diandra Marizet (Host) The Executive Director and co-founder of Intersectional Environmentalist

The session's description The panel discussion will feature four panelists Cicely, Ellie, Jessica as well as XayLi giving their opinions about the significance of inclusiveness and diversity within the entrepreneurial world. They will also discuss the difficulties women as well as BIPOC entrepreneurs face as they venture into the economy of creation and the best way to determine the right value for their products ethically within the capitalist system.

Here are a few of the poignant concerns and questions during this debate:

     Women entrepreneurs from underrepresented groups are now financially stable at first. What new challenges, issues, and opportunities does this mean?

Ellie Diop: Just like you've experienced poverty trauma There's the same trauma for wealth. If you're one of the very few family members that owns an e-commerce store or have a business that is seven figures, there aren't numerous examples to use to follow. The stigma of discrimination still persists when discussing wealth, particularly when it comes to a person with a different race earning more than what most people would imagine to earn over many years.

As an example, when I first made a million dollars, I was terrified to leave my mom's house. I was hesitant to put in the funds because I wasn't sure what to do if it went away. It was also a concern of telling my family members as I was worried that they might think otherwise of my character.

The thing I'd love to see more of are collaboration spaces like this that remove this stigma and say "Hey there's something happening? If you're struggling to make some money, or decide what you want to put the money on Don't be shy to discuss it". The stigma perpetuated is a reason why it's commonplace for individuals to earn a lot of money and then be back at the same place from which they began.

     Oftentimes, in business settings there is a need to assimilate, code-switch, be silent or set certain aspects of us aside. Sometimes, we don't think that we belong to the idea of professionalism. Did that experience influence your interactions with your local community? How do you incorporate that experience into your work as an DEI professional?

Cicely Blain: We are seeing the systems that we were raised in, and are now seeing exactly the same type of person in media, TV and even social media, and when some creators on the internet get traction while others get banned, it is easy to believe that you need to conform to a specific style of living and talking.

If you can find a place in which you're seen as what is real by individuals around you, and by the people who are in charge (even in the event that they're having similar experiences to you) it's a great feeling. While there's a rising number of representations and opportunities can be found more easily but there are still two rules for what people are expected to perform. There are times when we believe that there are two rules (even though they might be false) which can keep us from meeting our objectives.

For example, on TikTok there's a large number of people who're not dressed in a professional manner and always polished. Although that's great, I'm of the opinion that the possibility of being a part of that is restricted to a select few as there is a higher expectation of others and how they present themselves.

What happens when you realize that the path you're currently on doesn't align with the direction you're able to take you and what your true passion might be, and you make the decision to move to full-time entrepreneurial?

Jessica Chen: All of people at some point in our lives when we realise the goal we set out to attain is done and we're ready for an entirely new experience. Personally, I was in a great career that I loved however after 10 years of working, I realized that there was more available. I've always been the type of person who has the capacity to create my own path. Then I considered how I could share the techniques I've learned.

My first job was a journalist, which may consider to be the only "proper" job that doesn't allow the freedom to express your opinions as well as having an individual voice, and instead you are simply sharing the experiences of other people. It was an upsetting transition to begin creating my own voice and displaying my personal fashion. This was definitely a process of learning process.

     How can you price the products or services you offer so that you can attract people who share your values, are ready to gain knowledge from you and recognize the value of your offering?

XayLi Barclay Says: A lot of the time we set prices low however we can overwhelm those who are investing, which is a disservice to the person. It's tempting to believe that you'll be able to attract lots of customers if you're priced cheap, but the reality is, you're getting overwhelmed individuals who have no idea how to make a decision.

I worked with a coach to calculate what I can earn and also to establish my price based upon volume. There are many creators who offer a course for $7 and make 6-figures off of this product but lack enough volume. If you're a small-scale creator it is important to know the goals you're trying to achieve in the business world to be able to set the right price for your product.

If I make five online courses available for sale at $1,000 per course, I'll earn five times that amount. This is in contrast to offering 500 courses for just $10 per course. Consider it this way. This is what I wanted to go through.

View Think In Color 2023 sessions available for on-demand

This is the inside scoop and a summary of the most important information from the event that lasted for three hours designed for aspiring as well established entrepreneurs in the creator economy. We encourage you to dive deeply into the topics you've been captivated by.

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