#031 - The Importance of Live Events for the Growth of Your Business

Last week, I attended the Less Annoying CRM user conference in St. Louis. Cute name, isn't it? Well, I think so. I have to say, it has been my experience that it is actually less annoying than other systems I've worked with. A CRM system is a powerful tool where you not only store your contacts, but it enhances your workflow. If you are only storing your contacts in your phone, as a Google contact, or even in an Excel spreadsheet, you are missing out on a huge efficiency opportunity by not using a CRM database. As virtual assistants, my team and I are flexible. We work with the systems our clients choose and use. Sometimes, our clients will solicit my advice as to what systems to implement or what systems I have experience with. If they are asking about a CRM, most of the time I recommend Less Annoying CRM. Some people are in industries where I may recommend an industry-specific CRM because of the features they offer that would be directly related to their industry. However, for the most part, Less Annoying CRM is great for the small business owner because: it has the essential features a small business need it has some customization it fills the need of most small business owners it's affordable and best of all, it's simple and less annoying to use My intent in today's podcast isn't to win you over in selecting a CRM for your business. My true intent is to go over the five reasons why going to live events boosts the growth of your business. You get out of your bubble You make new connections (i.e. friends) New perspective You learn stuff Renewed energy Mainly, I talked about the importance of going to a live event outside of your geographical area. I did touch on belonging to a local networking group. Both, I believe, are valuable. Another very important investment, I believe, is online education and online communities. Becoming a part of an online community helps you learn skills whereas you may not feel like you have the time to go to a traditional class. You can participate in forums or discussion groups and create conversations. You learn, not only from the instruction classes or coaching, but you learn from other participants and like a live event you gain perspective and renewed energy. Live events, local networking, and online community membership all serve the purpose of investing in yourself with education, perspective, and most of all making connections. I believe in working into your schedule a blend of all three. I'm glad I went to the Less Annoying CRM user conference. I can't tell you how pleased I am with the whole experience. We are taking our conversation online, which I'm excited about. I look forward to seeing how people are doing. If you are looking for renewed energy, have some accountability in moving forward in your business, and especially if you fear techy stuff, I encourage you to invest in yourself. I invite you to go to accomplishmoreacademy.com to learn more. You can always drop me a note at [email protected] if you have any specific questions to see if Accomplish More Academy would be right for you. Resources Mentioned: Less Annoying CRM* Accomplish More Academy *Referral Link