Dear Fellow Self Employed Professional,
If your business is like mine used to be you probably:
• Work tons of hours but have little to show for it.
• Have a business that doesn’t run if you’re sick or take a day off.
• Feel guilty when you take time off and feel guilty when you don't take time off.
• Feel overwhelmed or unfocused trying to balance all the aspects of running
your business.
• Are unsure of yourself when dealing with things like marketing, finances, strategy,
and planning.
• Have a hard time talking about fees with your clients.
• Are alone with all the pressures and challenges in running your business.
• Want more money but don’t have any hours left in the day to earn it.
• Want a business that works as well for you as for your clients.
Being a self employed professional isn’t easy. Not only do you have to develop professional competence in your field but you also need an entirely different set of competencies to run a business. And unfortunately, those skills aren’t taught in graduate school!
So, many self employed professionals like consultants, engineers, veterinarians, and architects struggle for years trying to build their businesses. And while they’re struggling to learn how to run a business, they also work full time IN the bursiness.
You may be experiencing that, too. You may feel unsure of yourself when it comes to to the business side of running your business. You may feel unfocused or overwhelmed trying to balance all the aspects of working in and running your business. You may be working tons of hours with little to show for it. And sometimes you think maybe you should just pitch it all and GET A JOB! Yikes, don’t do that!
Feeling Like a "Complete Dope"
Let me tell you, you’re not alone in your struggles…Most self employed professionals experience the same types of problems. One consultant I spoke with put it this way. She said, “I’m very competent in my field but when it comes to the business side of my business, I feel like a complete dope.”
Let’s face it; the deep skills you mastered in your field didn’t prepare you for the rigors and challenges of running a business. And if you're someone who become self employed after years of working in a corporate environment, you wonder where "the people" are who used to do all the business stuff. You need a whole set of skills to build a successful business. The good news is…it IS a skill set. And like any skill, you can learn it or hire it.
You're Not Alone...We're All Dopes in Our Own Way!
Just to show you that having an MBA isn't a guarantee of business success, I'd like to share my own story with you...I call it....
The Mercedes Dope Slap
On a beautiful summer afternoon a few years ago, I was hard at work in a client’s office. I had worked with the client for about two years helping her triple her sales, add two new locations, enhance her reputation, and develop new revenue streams. My client bounded into the office and excitedly asked, “Do you want to see my new car?” We headed out to the parking lot to admire her new car, a sleek, luxurious Mercedes.
As I talked to her about her new (well deserved) car, I glanced over at my own car, a rapidly aging Dodge Neon with a tendency to develop spontaneous leaks of various vital fluids, and I suddenly felt the need to give myself a big Dope Slap.
You see, I realized that although I was creating success for others, I neglected to create success for myself. Sure, I was doing okay. My bills were paid every month with a little left over. But that really wasn’t the point.
Like many self employed professionals, I was undercharging for my services, relying on the Billable Hours Trap for my income, and working “in” my business instead of “on” my business.
The really sad thing was that as an MBA and a business consultant, I knew better. I wasn’t following my own advice! That’s like being a doctor who smokes and telling my patients they need to quit!
Consultant Heal Thyself
After my big Dope Slap moment, I set about making the needed changes in my business. What came next was a long hard slog up the learning curve with tons of time and money invested in new software, seminars, information products, and a whole lot of trial and error to find out what worked best for me.
Was it worth it?
You bet!
Here’s What Happened
One of my goals was to be able to move my business to a rural location without having to rely on a rural economy for my income. In 2004, I moved my business to lovely Waterford, Maine. We built a new office for my business with a bank of windows that looks out onto an ever changing landscape. I attract clients from across the nation (and the world) who I enjoy working with and who can afford to pay me and who understand the value I bring to them. I continue to develop sources of revenue that bring money in even when I’m off playing with my quilting friends or working on a church supper.
All this allowed me to take on another project. In 2004, I married the pastor of my childhood church. My redesigned business allows me time to serve my church as pastor’s wife, fundraiser, publicity coordinator, supper organizer, and floor sweeper. It’s the most rewarding work of my life and I never would have had time to do it without the changes I made in my business.
Oh yes, the Dodge Neon was traded in for a Toyota RAV4—I’m not a Mercedes kind of girl.
Here's What's In It For You!
I have taken the same techniques and strategies I used in my own business and developed a set of cost-predictive consulting packages so other self employed professionals can get great results for their own businesses. Let's see if one of these services can help you with the challenges you're facing right now!
Consulting Option #1 Focused Help Where You Need It, When You Need It
Doctor, Doctor! My Business Doesn’t Feel Too Good…What Can the Problem Be? Businesses are as complex as the human body so it can be difficult for you, the business owner, to diagnose the problems cropping up in your business, especially when you're already working furiously just to keep your clients happy. You can spend countless hours of frustration trying to sort out the problems, asking yourself the same questions over and over, and banging your head against the wall OR you can spend one hour getting expert insights into your business. Let’s put a name to the pain so you can begin solving the underlying problems and start moving your business forward again. Also great for helping you make choices about direction for your business. Your investment $197. Schedule your appointment now.
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Consulting Option #2, 3, and 4--For Serious Business Owners Only
Intensive, Focused Programs Designed to Eliminate Common Problems with GUARANTEED RESULTS!
The following options are focused, results driven, action oriented six month programs designed to eliminate specific problem areas in your business. The programs involve one to one support through phone calls and emails. We will focus relentlessly on eliminating the specific problem in your business.
Now, pardon me while I get stern for a moment. These intensive consulting packages aren't for everyone. They're designed for serious business owners who want to build lasting business success. And because these packages are so intensive and focused I limit the number of clients I work with at any one time. I take that very seriously and I'm careful about who I choose to work with. If you don't feel you can follow through with the program or you don't have the financial resources, please don't sign up for these programs--use the hourly consulting program instead!.
My role is to provide the knowledge and the focus, and to hold you accountable for making the changes you need to make in your business. Your role is to be open to new ideas and perspectives, have the courage and conviction to step outside your current comfort level, and complete your homework on a deadline. This is not a program for those who just want someone to push a button and have money and success rain down from above. Creating a successful business takes work and application of solid proven techniques. Before I make a committment of my time, I need assurances from you that you are able to follow through and create real lasting change in your business (and yourself, if need be).
Structure of the Program
We spend time exploring your specific business headache, diagnose the origins and underlying problems, and begin formulating a plan to overcome them. Then, step by step we implement the plan, working together, sharing feedback on what's working and not working. We continue tweaking the plan and the implementation of the plan until the problem is eliminated from your business. We have three mandatory hour long phone conversations each month to assess the progress, talk about new roadblocks, and continuously move forward in the implementation of the plan. We phone and email as needed as we work through the program so progress isn't bogged down by sudden roadblocks or bumps in the road.
Why is this a Six Month Program--Can't We Get it Done Quicker?
Over the years, I have tried a variety of approaches with my clients. What I have discovered is that the best, most lasting results happen after six months of relentless focus on a specific problem. That's the point where everything seems to gel. The plan has been in place long enough to work out any kinks, the business owner has had time to make changes or adjust to new business practices, the marketing, operations and/or financial efforts start to come together, and everything starts to really hum along.
Without a sustained effort for an extended period of time, any new directions or changes get sidetracked as soon as you get busy again. You start to slip back into the old, comfortable ways of doing things that got you where you didn't want to be to begin with. (Think about all the training programs you've gone to, all the seminars and information products you've bought. You know as well as I do, how easy it is to get fired up for a few days and then tumble down the slope again. I've found that the only way I can really get results for my clients is to relentlessly focus on the underlying problems and business conditions and hold them accountable for making the necessary changes. I feel so strongly about this that these are the ONLY consulting services I have ever guaranteed!
The programs currently available are:
Consulting Option #2
Stop the Cash Flow Roller Coaster, I Want to Get Off!
Vincent the Veterinarian is having a rough day. He opens his credit card bill and gasps, “I spent how much?!?!” His accountant calls to tell him his tax return is done and he owes $12,000. His vet tech pokes her head in the office to tell him the autoclave is malfunctioning. His bookkeeper reminds him that the first payment on his seasonal medication order is due this week. His wife calls to let him know his son needs braces. As busy as his practice is, he can’t understand why there’s never enough cash.
Get a structured, systems-based cash flow improvement solution so you can move beyond the constant roller coaster action of your bank balance to a calm and controlled financial future..
Consulting Option #3
Help! My Business Dried Up! Now What Do I Do?
Ernest the Engineer slowly rises to the surface after weeks of long hours working on the Henderson project. With one project complete he reaches for the next, only to find that Aack! he doesn’t have another project lined up! He was so busy working; he forgot that he needed to line up his next project. Suddenly, Ernie’s income plummets. He begins scrambling to find more work. He takes on a project he doesn’t want to do for less money than he should be earning just to keep the bills paid. Meanwhile just over the horizon is Ernie’s dream project but now that he’s tied up with work he didn’t want to do, he doesn’t have time to pursue the work he really wanted.
Get a structured, systems-based solution for the Feast or Famine syndrome that creates financial havoc in your business and personal life, discover how to attract customers you really enjoy, and learn how to enhance your professional reputation so clients come looking for you.
Consulting Option #4
Take Control and Drive Your Business Forward!
It’s Monday morning and Connie the Consultant sits in her executive office chair overseeing her business empire. Her desk is strewn with half finished projects, several weeks worth of To Do Lists (none of them completed), and scribbled post it notes. Somewhere buried deep in the rubble is Connie’s business plan. The last time she saw it was during the Clinton administration. Meanwhile, her income isn’t where she wants it to be, her customers are getting on her nerves, her cash flow is unpredictable, and she’s constantly fighting to meet deadlines. Connie hasn’t had a day off during the current millennium and she feels overwhelmed and exhausted.
Discover how you can comfortably work "in" your business and "on" your business at the same time. Get a structured, systems-based approach to running and growing your business that won't leave you feeling overwhelmed and out of control.
Is the Program Guaranteed?
Yes, with conditions. When you start your program we will talk about how to define the result you want in concrete terms--the point where you will feel the problem is under control. Then, we will focus relentlessly on reaching that point. This program is about you taking an active role in moving your business forward. You will have regular focused homework assignments. If you do the homework and follow the plan we develop together, I guarantee you will get the results you define at the beginning of the program. If at the end of six months of you doing the homework and following the plan, you haven't reached the result that you defined, I will continue to work with you for up to three months until you do reach that point. My goal is to get results and provide you with a solution that you can continue to use to keep the original problem under control. But understand, I will hold you accountable every step of the way. If you don't follow the plan and do your part the only guarantee is that the program will not work for you!
Special Bonus (6 month consulting packages only)
Upon completion of your program you will be given a complementary membership to The 20% Club which gives you special discounts on pay-by-the-hour consulting or other consulting packages, products, classes, CD's, and resources available exclusively to clients who have completed one of my programs to give them opportunities for ongoing support and access to my services. Call it Most Favored Client status or VIP treatment, you'll never have to wonder who to call when your business faces new challenges.
What will this investment in my business cost me?
The cost of this results driven program is $4275 for six months of one on one business or practice development. I provide two payment options. Pay for the entire program upfront and pay only $4000, a savings of $275. Or use a payment plan, pay $1500 up front and then pay five payments of $555 each, due on the first of the month. I accept payments by all major credit cards. If you choose the payment plan, your credit card will automatically be charged on the first of the month.
Who Benefits Most from Working with The Jordan Result
If you're a self employed professional like a consultant, engineer, real estate agent, coach, or architect who has been in business at least 3 years (usually more) and you have an income that pays your bills but you want more, you may be a good candidate for working with me. If you're just starting out, start with my by-the-hour consulting plan. Just a quick note: I don't work with multi level marketing companies or franchises and I only work with ethical business owners--I won't help you lie, cheat, or steal or break any other commandments. My reputation as a person of integrity is important to me and I won't compromise that.
So, are you ready to say...
YES, Caroline, I want to work with you to turn my business into a powerhouse! What happens next?
It's easy to get started. Choose your option and payment terms. Then, I'll be in touch with you either the same day or on the next business day to set up our first appointment. If you have additional questions you need answered, just call my office Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST at (207) 583-2630.
Here are your options and payment terms:
Consulting Option #2 Stop the Cash Flow Roller Coaster, I Want to Get Off
Consulting Option #3 Help! My Business Dried Up! Now What Do I Do?
Consulting Option #4 Take Control and Drive Your Business Forward!
a. Pay in full and save $275. Investment of $4000. Order Now.
b. Payment plan $1500 now and $555 for five months. Investment of
Remember, the results are guaranteed so you have nothing to lose.
What You Can Expect from Working with The Jordan Result
If you put the ideas into use, follow the plan we design together, and make the changes necessary in your business, you can expect the following results:
1. Running your business will be less of a struggle. It’s a matter of knowing what areas to focus on and learning how to design your business so it works with your own style. And it’s about developing a new comfort level with the business side of your business.
2. You’ll attract clients you enjoy working with. The language you use and the image your project have a direct correlation to the clients you attract. You’ll discover how to attract customers who understand the value you bring to them. And you’ll discover how to repel customers who drag your business down.
3. Clients will seek you instead of you chasing them. Let’s face it, trying to sell yourself is enough to make even the most ethical and talented professional feel like a snake oil salesman. You’ll learn how to enhance your reputation and position yourself so that clients come to you ready to buy your services and products.
4. You’ll work less but make more money. You’ve heard this before I’m sure…20% of your efforts produce 80% of your results. You’ll discover which 20% is the right 20% so you can focus your efforts for optimum results.
5. You’ll escape the Billable Hours Trap that keeps so many independent professionals from earning what you’re really worth. Learn how to set fees, package your services, and develop products to maximize your income.
6. You’ll avoid the burnout, stress, and frustration that cause so many self employed professionals to close their businesses and get a job.
The Bottom Line
So many business owners wait too long before they get help from a professional. They think they can figure it our themselves or they don't want to spend the money or any number of other reasons. But as an expert in your own field, you know that having the right skills can create success for your clients much more quickly for far less money in the long run. It's the same for your business. If you're a professional trying to run a business without a business background, let's work together to build the business you've always dreamed of having.
I look forward to working with you!
Best regards,
Caroline Jordan
P.S. If you have any questions about working with me, please give me a call at (207) 583-2630 or send me an email at TheJordanResult@adelphia.net.
