The Resilient Retail Game Plan

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, host Catherine Erdly and coach Annabel Gonifas explore how mindset influences business performance. Catherine discusses her personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of addressing mindset in her Product Business Mastermind. Annabel elaborates on the key challenges small business owners face, such as limiting beliefs, values alignment, and understanding personality strengths using tools like Clarity 4D. They discuss how understanding these elements can help business owners overcome procrastination, enhance motivation, and align their businesses with their true values and strengths. The conversation offers practical insights into how a strong partnership between strategic consulting and mindset coaching can lead to business transformation. [00:00] How Mindset Impacts Business Success[02:55] Welcome to Annabel Gonifas[03:43] What are some of the ways that small business owners are holding themselves backMarker[04:46] Examples of some common limiting beliefs and how they might play out in your business[07:37] Why do so many small business owners struggle with mental blocks when it comes to running a business (that they didn't seem to have in a 9-5)?[10:50] What can procrastination tells us?[14:44] What is personality profiling? How does it work and how is useful in your business? Links:Learn more about my mastermind for product business owners: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Related Episodes:143: Four Key Traits That Product Business Owners Need To Have In Order To Flourish - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/four-key-traits-that-product-business-owners-need-to-have-in-order-to-flourish/ 147: 7 Vital Ways To Avoid Giving Up On Slow Sales Days - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/7-vital-ways-to-avoid-giving-up-on-slow-sales-days/ 179: 7 Lessons I Learned from My Mastermind Members - https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/7-lessons-i-learned-from-my-mastermind-members/

It's amazing the difference that a year can make.  I am one year into my signature mastermind and I'm just about to start welcoming the fifth cohort of my signature Mastermind program where I work in-depth with ambitious product business owners, finding out what's going on with them, discovering what their challenges are, and helping them achieve their business goals. And since I effectively become part of their teams for six-months (or more), it has given me this insight into what is going on inside these amazing and successful businesses.  What I want to share with you in this episode are the lessons that I have learned from working with a wide variety of ambitious product business owners, e-commerce brands, and independent retailers and help you to think more broadly about what it means to be a product business owner in 2024. So let’s dive in: [03:10] The Benefits of the Mastermind for Product-based Business Owners[05:42] Lesson One: There are lots of different routes to success for product-based businesses[09:47] Lesson Two: High Street is NOT dead - there is a place for independent retailers[11:53] Lesson Three: A founder’s focus is critical to the success of your business[15:39] Lesson Four: It is possible to be in control of your business numbers[19:34] Lesson Five: (With help) It may take a lot less time than you think to accomplish your most pressing goals.[22:35] Five things that I've learned from running a Mastermind for product-based business owners.[23:30] Join the next cohort of the Mastermind! Learn more about the mastermind at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/Get all of the show details on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-lessons-ive-learned-from-ambitious-product-business-owners/

I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but it's episode number 200 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan.  It is unbelievable to me that the podcast that I started nearly four years ago in 2020 has just hit its 200th episode, and I wanted to do something a little bit different today. I have swapped places with my guests and I am being interviewed for today's episode.  I'm being interviewed by Sarah Scott, who is my podcast manager. We are diving into why I started the podcast, what I love about hosting this show and where we are going.  I want to sincerely thank every single one of you who has listened to the podcast today and at any point in the last four years, you've been a huge part of getting the podcast to 200 episodes, and I am so incredibly grateful. And if you have a story that you would like to share with other product-based retailers, then please reach out, I would love to talk to you about being a guest in an upcoming episode.  [00:00] Celebrating 200 Episodes of the Resilient Retail Game Plan[02:30] How it started - With all the different content strategies available for businesses, why start a podcast?[04:28] What format did the podcast start in and how has that evolved?[08:33] The benefits of having a podcast has had on the business[15:47] Which type of episode does Catherine enjoy more - solo or interview?[17:35] Where do guests come from?[19:16] Would you like to be a guest ... this is how you do it![21:49] What are your favorite things about being a podcast host?[27:13] What inspires ideas for new episodes?[30:57] What's next for the podcast? Get all of the resources on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/celebrating-200-episodes/

Father's Day is coming and it is the last big gift-giving occasion before Christmas. Generally speaking its not as big as big as Mother's Day in terms of spend, but it's still significant and it is definitely worth exploring. Today I’m going to share 12 marketing ideas for you in your business when it comes to Father's Day.  Let’s Dive In [00:00] Father’s Day is Coming [02:02] #1 Highlight what collections you have for Father's Day[02:58] 2024 Trending Categories for Father's Day[05:47] #2 Curate Gift Bundles[07:34] #3 Gift Guides[08:09] #4 Emphasize Personalization[08:51] #5 Introduce New Products[09:40] #6 Lean into Dad and Grandad Personalized Items[10:31] #7 Engage Wholesale Clients[11:06] #8 Special Promotions[11:40] #9 Additional Father's Day Incentives[12:24] #10 Keep an eye on seasonal inventory[13:37] #11 Giveaway Competitions[15:40] #12 Promote Gift Cards Get all the details on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/12-essential-fathers-day-marketing-tips-for-your-product-business/

How do you find managing cash flow in your business?   If it is something that comes to you easily, you may be surprised to hear that you are definitely in the minority.  If you're one of the people who feels like cash flow is stressful and everybody else has it figured out, then I can promise you it is not the case.  Over the last few weeks, I have spent some time talking to retailers one-on-one about how they manage their cash flow in their business. And it has been absolutely fascinating If you are feeling like cash flow is a bit stressful I want to let you know that there is a way forward, it is possible to have a business where you can feel in control of your cash flow. I'm working on a new service that I will be launching later in the year. If you would like to learn more as details are released please sign up for the waitlist. https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s get into this episode: [00:00] 5 Truths About Cash Flow in Retail[02:54] What is cash flow exactly?[04:40] What does good cash flow management look like?[06:56] What does it look like when you don't have a handle on your cash flow?[08:54] 5 truths about cash flow management that I learned from retailers[09:06] Truth #1: If you are feeling in control of your cash flow, then you are in the minority. [09:58] Truth #2: Everyone believes that everyone else is managing their cash flow better than they are.[11:26] Truth #3: Your accountant might not be giving you all the services you need to manage your cash flow.[12:33] Truth #4: Retailers have a lot of information, but they don't always know what to do with it (Or how to take action based on the information)[14:08] Truth #5: Retailers want to know how do they compare to everyone else or at least understand how other retailers are managing their cash flow.[15:02] This is what I want you to take away from my cash flow research  Get all of the details and resources on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/5-truths-about-cash-flow-in-retail/ 

Creating content for our businesses, love it or hate it, it is part of the everyday life of a small business owner. But how do you do it in a way that doesn't suck all of the joy and fun out of the process?  In this episode, I'm joined by Char Dixon. Char is the founder of Loudmouth Content. She also has a really in-depth background in the retail industry and a whole host of knowledge about what it takes to market and promote your product business in a way that feels joyful, fun, and without the overwhelm.  This episode has a lot of actionable tips for your business so let's dive in. [00:00] Social Media Content Creation Secrets for Retailers with Char Dixon from Loudmouth Content[01:50] Welcome Char Dixion of Loudmouth Content[04:48]  How do you think people should be optimizing it or making the most out of their content to make sure it's pulling its weight?[08:10] How do we make our own headlines?[10:36] How can you use content to move people through the sales process?[13:02] What type of digital content fits each phase of the buyer's journey?[15:29] How do you create content that builds community and connection?[21:21] Tips for streamlining content creation for small businesses.[24:50] How do you measure the success of your content? [27:32] Where to find out more about Char Dixon at Loudmouth Content Want to learn more about content creation? Check out these other episodes. 169: Strategic Content Production And Youtube With Matthew Hughes 170: All Things TikTok With Penny Walker Get all of the resources on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/social-media-content-creation-secrets-with-char-dixon/

Today I will be answering four questions that I've been asked from my membership and mastermind about stock management.   If you've got a question about stock management that isn’t answered by today's podcast, you can join the Resilient Retail Club, where you will be able to ask me whatever questions you’d like whenever you like.  And if you have enjoyed this series on stock management but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s Dive In: [00:00] Your Stock Management Questions Answered[01:51] If you have questions about stock management that are not answered here reach out![02:22] Question 1: I'm a stationery company and I sell both direct to consumer and business to business. It would take me around 10 business days to get more stock.  I've heard that you should always order the minimum order quantity (MOQ) when testing out a new product. But what if that minimum is one? [06:28] Question 2: Quite a bit of my stock has a really long lead time, like six months, and I need to buy quite a bit to get a decent price in shipping. How do you balance making sure you don't run out of stock with not carrying too much? Should I carry smaller amounts and order more often, even if it means the margin takes a hit?  [10:16] Question #3: I would like some guidance when stock has to be ordered a long way in advance. So for example, in my case, children's clothes are pre-ordered in autumn for spring delivery with new designs and styles released. I find this challenging as I'm being forced to buy in larger quantities than I would usually as I can only pre-order. They have no stock to order again if I misjudge. Plus it's a new design so I feel like I'm gambling on what would sell well. Often the order arrives one to two months late and it is a large sum of money I have to pay in one go when I wouldn't usually spend like that.[15:58] Question 4: I'm buying Christmas stock, how much stock should I have, ideally in terms of value? Is it as simple as I want to turn over X during November and December so my stock value should be Y?  

How often are you reviewing your stock? Stock management is not a one-and-done type scenario.   I certainly would be able to sit down with you and audit your stock. We would be able to go through it, look at how much you've got, understand what's working, and what's not working, and I could make recommendations on how you could trim that stock back and what you should focus on going forward. And while this can be incredibly helpful it won’t prevent issues on an ongoing basis.  Moving into a monthly review is a simple, but powerful way to get a vision of what the impact of the month that's just gone by is going to have on your future stock. And then you can use that information to actually take action.  And I'm a big believer in information for action. You want to be able to look at your last month's sales and understand immediately what that means for you going forward.   So today we are talking about my third golden rule of stock management - making stock management a monthly review process and what steps you need to take to accomplish it.  If this all sounds very interesting, but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s Dive In: [00:00] My third Golden Rule of Stock Management: Make stock management an ongoing process in your store[03:21] Why stock management is not a one-and-done activity for your store[04:08] What activities are included in a monthly stock management review[07:08] Examples of what can happen when you are actively managing your stock plan[08:15] Questions to ask yourself on an ongoing basis about your stock plan[14:40] The Three Golden Rules of Stock Management [16:43] Final thoughts and my new service 

How well are you managing the most valuable asset in your business? In other words, your stock. The chances are, if you are a product business owner, whether that is an e-commerce brand or an independent retailer, then the majority of the financial value of your business is tied up in your stock. And my question to you is how well are you managing that asset? In the last episode asked you, do you have a cashflow problem or a stock management problem. And I suggested that you have a stock plan to determine the answer. Once you have your stock plan, the its time to dive a little deeper. Today I want to talk about my second golden rule of stock management. And that is be really clear about what's selling and being productive in your business versus what isn't selling and is sucking up all of your cash. If this all sounds very interesting, but you know, for a fact, you will just not have the time to do it, then I do encourage you to join the waiting list for my new service, which will be launching later this year. I am going to be able to work with you to manage your stock better. Join the waiting list here: https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s Dive In: [0:00] The Golden Rules of Stock Management Recap [02:46] The Second Golden Rule of Stock Management - You need to know which stock is selling and which is not [03:14] A stock plan is a good place to start, but it won't tell you the full story...it has a major flaw [04:55] We fix that flaw by looking at the tail. [07:25] Knowing what product is selling and what is not has other benefits to your business that will put you ahead of most retailers [10:29] Making a stock plan by product type helps you understand even more [12:14] If creating a stock plan by product type is overwhelming - then try a stock-to-sales ratio [14:35] This is what you should be doing to start getting control of your stock [16:22] Do you need this but find it overwhelming? Then learn more about my newest service

Is your cash flow problem really a stock management problem? The reason I asked this question is because recently when I ran the Retail ROAR summit, I asked everyone who signed up what their biggest issues were. And the biggest issue that came up, particularly in people with a six-figure (or more) businesses,  was their cash flow and people were talking about issues that they were having managing it. This happens to be an area that I love to geek out about so I wanted to share my experience from the retail industry to explore how improper stock management can lead to significant cash flow challenges. And to that end I have three golden rules for stock management that I want to share with you over the next three episodes. Today is Golden Rule Number One - have a stock management plan. We dive deeper into why this is so important to start with and I will give you some tips on how to accomplish this.  And if you are looking to get some help with managing your stock register to get more information about my latest service at https://futureretail.lpages.co/feel-good-business/ Let’s Dive In: [00:00] Introducing The Golden Rules of Stock Management[02:0]3 Do you have a cash flow problem or do you have a stock management problem?[07:56] Why I understand so much about stock management. [10:18] How Tame Your Tiger will help your stock management[12:43] Golden Rule of Stock Management #1 - Have a Stock Plan[18:05] Coming Up Next - What is driving your sales? 

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I’m talking with Tamsin Rennie, founder of Monroe Creative, about the critical balance between aesthetic appeal and functional performance of websites for product-based businesses.  We discuss common mistakes businesses make when DIYing their websites, the significance of professional branding and web design, and how to strategically appeal to your specific customers. We also cover practical tips for improving website functionality, the importance of SEO, and making sites user-friendly and accessible.  Tamsin emphasizes the value of cohesive and strategic branding in conjunction with a well-designed, functional website to enhance business success. [01:47] Welcome Tamsin! Tell us a bit more about your business[02:22] Tamsin shares about her experience with her own product businesses[07:25] How important is it for a website to really have the right look for the brand?[09:02] Can you talk me through what the process might look like to create a specific appeal for a very specific customer?[11:09] What kinds of mistakes does Tamsin see shops make when they DIY their website?[17:16] The relationship between branding and web design[22:27] How to learn more about Tamsin Get the full show notes on our website at https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/a-retail-owners-guide-to-effective-branding-and-website-design-with-tamsin-rennie/ 

Have you used Google Shopping in your business? Maybe you've given it a go, but you're not really sure if you're getting the best results. Or you've taken a look and it just all seems too complicated.  Today I’m joined by Sara Jones. She is the founder of the online retail Academy and she's a specialist in Google Shopping Ads. She's going to be talking to us about the difference between Google Shopping Ads and Meta Ads, how to set it up and how to get the best results for your business. Let’s dive in! [00:00] Diving into Google Shopping Ads with Sara Jones[01:39] Welcome Sara Jones! Founder of the Online Retail Academy[02:04] What is the difference between advertising on social media versus Google advertising?[06:08] What is the difference between sponsored listings and shopping images in Google?[07:52] Are there specific types of businesses that are eligible to run Google Shopping?[10:07 ]What do retailers need to have to get started with Google Shopping Ads?[14:10] What are some of the nice to have things that make it more likely to succeed?[18:37] Let's talk about keyword research[22:49] What kind of budget do people need to be thinking about for this kind of shopping ad?[27:11] Will Google Shopping Ads see the same shift in cost as we've seen in the social media sites?[29:07] Where can you learn more about Sara and the Online Retail Academy  

Being in the retail business today has been described to me as standing on one side of the Grand Canyon and being able to see the other side, but having no idea how to get across.  You are an ambitious, focused business owner who has big plans, and big dreams for their businesses, but you just can’t see how to bridge the gap between where you are today and where you want to be.  So today I'm going to be sharing with you some of the behaviors and actions that I've seen small business owners take that keep them stuck in the business they have today. Then I'm going to be sharing with you four golden rules that will help you build a business that not only looks good, but feels good too! And if you're somebody who is thinking “Yes, okay, Catherine, I've got it I want to get to the heart of my business!” Then I am going to be launching something this year that will help you if you want to get the foundations right in your business but you don't have the time. If you want to learn more you can sign up to register your interest and then you'll be the first to know about my new service. [0:00] Welcome![04:03] Creating a business that not only looks good but feels good too.[08:41] Four habits that are keeping you from the business you desire[09:53] Habit #1: You're Always Talking About the Weather (you blame external factors for what was happening internally)[13:15] Habit #2: Believing success is linear and that there is a finish line.[17:28] Habit #3: You are being distracted by somebody else's idea of success.[20:36] Habit #4: You are eating too many donuts (spending lots of time and money on things that don't make a difference while neglecting those that do.).[23:56] Four Golden Rules that will Help you Build a Business You Love[24:04] Golden Rule #1: Radical Responsibility: taking full responsibility and full ownership for everything that happens in your business.[25:58] Golden Rule #2: Celebrating that there is only one you. [27:46] Golden Rule #3: Always Eat Your Vegetables: Focus on the things that are not super sexy or exciting from an external perspective but will 100% help you grow your business.[29:56] Golden Rule #4: Resilience on Repeat

Maybe you've been wondering, will my customers buy this? Will they like this new product line I'm developing or purchasing? Or what, quite simply, do my customers want to see from me? We often get told that we need to talk to our customers to understand them. It's advice I've certainly given out a lot in my lifetime, for sure.  But what do we actually say to them? How do we even figure that out? And how do we get people to share information with us that is genuine?  How many times have you maybe asked people, do you like this? And they've all said yes. And then nobody bought it.  If that sounds familiar or if you've ever wondered how best to get information out of customers and satisfy that curiosity, then you want to listen to today's episode.  I'm joined by Katie Tucker. She is an author and a market research expert  and her book, "Do penguins eat peaches?" Is an absolutely phenomenal practical guide for small business owners when it comes to answering that all-important question, which is what do my customers want? And another important question, are they prepared to buy it from me? Let’s find out! [02:36] Welcome Katie Tucker, business consultant and author of Do Penguins Eat Peaches?[04:24] How did Katie get involved in customer research?[05:50] One of the biggest problems that businesses have is knowing how to structure productive conversations with their customers. Here are some tips to make it better.[08:55] What are some of the best ways to learn what our customers want? Here’s a hint, don’t ask them what they want, discover their behaviors instead.[11:14] Why you should avoid focus groups and what to do instead.[15:22]How can you truly validate a new product idea?[22:29] What do you do when your vision as a business owner doesn't match the needs of the customer?[28:45] How to connect with Katie Connect with Katie Tucker:Sign up for her newsletter - www.productjungle.co.uk 

Sales - without it, we don’t have a business, just an expensive hobby.  And yet, for many of us, when it comes to thinking about selling our products or services, or promoting our businesses to the world, it suddenly feels very difficult.   One of the people I come back to time and time again when it comes to getting clear about selling on social media is Sara Dalrymple.  I can’t actually remember how I first came across Sara, but we’ve been chatting on Instagram for years, and I’ve invited her into my membership on more than one occasion to share her pearls of wisdom about selling on social media. If you want a masterclass on how to promote your business regularly and joyfully, go check out @saleswithsara on Instagram and see how Sara shows up day after day to share her message. So when Sara announced she was publishing a book on sales, ‘More Sales, Please’ (with the same publisher as my book Tame Your Tiger), I knew I had to get her onto the podcast to tell us all about it.  Today’s episode provides practical advice on making the sales process simpler and more approachable for small business owners, aiming to boost sales and customer satisfaction. Sara shares valuable insights on approaching sales with clarity, confidence, and ease, emphasizing the importance of selling in a way that feels natural and aligned with one's personality.  We talk about overcoming common sales myths, the effectiveness of listening to customers, and the crucial role of energy and enthusiasm in connecting with potential buyers. [00:17] Welcome Sara Dalrymple, Author of More Sales, Please![03:20] Sara's message behind her book - We live in a time where anyone can open a business, but we aren't taught about sales and marketing. Most small business owners feel its complicated, Sara wants to prove that its not.[05:31] Is there a way of approaching sales if you are more of an introvert?[07:00] Sara's process to make sales feel more natural [11:08] What is the difference between selling a product and selling a service?[12:54] Sales aren't about forcing the buyer's choice. It's about creating a space where they are happy to buy.[19:26] Sales can start off as an emotional journey, so we need to set the stage for our buyers with the messages we want them to receive.[24:23] What is the relationship between your passion for your product and [sales?[33:39] How to connect with Sara Dalrymple 

Today's podcast is a pep talk. And the theme of the pep talk today is that the UK is officially in recession. So you might think this is an odd theme for a pep talk, but I know that it can feel overwhelming and demotivating when you hear headlines like “ UK officially in a recession after Christmas sales collapse.” It can feel like a very worrying time for a business owner. And we've also had other high-profile bad news recently in the press, for example, the body shop going into administration, which a lot of people are also feeling demotivated about.And so what I wanted to do with this episode is dig in a little bit into the data and the stats behind the headlines, tell you why I think you should be optimistic, and five things to do instead of letting it overwhelm you. [00:00] It’s time for a Pep Talk[03:00] Let's Define What Recession Means[05:21] Reasons I believe you can be optimistic despite the headlines[07:36] What actually happened to the Body Shop[08:53] Five Things to Do to Beat Feeling Overwhelmed[08:58] Focus on your circle of control. Make your business as good as it can be as opposed to spending that time getting distracted or, demotivated by external factors.[09:49] Keep Your Business Nimble. Now, more than ever, it's important to keep your stock under control, to not have too much of your money tied up in your stock so that you have got some flexibility.[10:36] Understand Your Customers. No matter what the economic environment, no matter what's going on in the world, knowing your customers, talking to them, really understanding them is only going to help you as a business owner.[11:03] Take Action! Make sure that you are thinking about your circle of control, what you can do, to move things on and focusing on that instead of the things that you can't control.[12:05] Get Support. You want to have that environment where you can talk to other people going through the same thing as you so you can share your worries and concerns and get ideas from what other people are doing too.[12:42] Don't Forget to Join Retail ROAR

Today I want to share three tips on how you can get the most out of the Retail ROAR conference. The conference features a lineup of 10 founders of retail businesses or brands and 9 subject matter experts. To help you prepare to get the most from the conference I share a summary of the diverse range of speakers and their respective topics, which cover various aspects of retail business, including social media, website development, public relations, wholesale success, email strategy, and maintaining work-life balance. The event also features networking opportunities through a pop-up Facebook group. The focus of the conference is to help attendees create a business that not only looks good, but feels good too, helping them feel inspired and ready to succeed in 2024. Retail ROAR is a FREE online conference taking place from the 29th of February to the 1st of March. Sign up today!  www.retailroar.co.uk [00:00] Making the most of Retail ROAR[02:44] Tip #1: Check out the lineup of retail founders. Find the stories and experiences that interest you. Mark the date/time in your diary to attend that session.[10:12] Don't miss my opening remarks on how to create a business that not only looks good but feels good too.[10:42] Tip #2: Go back to your goals for the year and identify the experts who can help you move towards that goal. Mark their sessions in your diary.[14:08] Tip #3: Remember to network with other attendees in the Facebook group! Episode Links:Get Your Free Seat to Retail Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit at www.retailroar.co.uk 

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, I am talking with coach and facilitator Hayley Watts about effective team management, productivity, and your well-being as a founder. We talk about effectively giving responsibility to your team through an analogy with a 'fried egg', the importance of clarity and setting boundaries in team roles, as well as how best to approach difficult conversations with your staff. We also touched on the importance of looking after your health and well-being during stressful times. Haley Watts helps business owners focus on the work that matters. She helps people grow their businesses while looking after themselves. She gives business owners the confidence that what they are working on is the right thing to help achieve their goals 0:00 Welcome Hayley Watts02:54 As the team grows, how do founders stay productive?05:53 What tips does Halyley give to build a team that works together? 09:16 How can founders value the different external viewpoints of new team members?11:02 As a founder, what can you do to help the team perform at their best levels?14:05 What should you do when team members are not meeting expectations?19:31 How to bring your company's values into the recruitment process21:44 How can founders reduce their overall stress and improve their well-being?25:44 Get in touch with Hayley Connect with Hayley Watts:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hayley-watts/Website: www.inspireful.co.uk Episode Links:Get Your Free Seat to Retail Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit at www.retailroar.co.uk

Today we are celebrating the one-year anniversary of ‘Tame Your Tiger'. I just take a moment to reflect back on the last year and talk a little bit about what it's meant to me and to the business, to have this book out there into the world. I am also excited to announce my upcoming free online summit ‘Retail ROAR’ from February 29 to March 1, featuring an impressive lineup of speakers from the retail industry. [00:00] Introduction and Welcome[00:18] Announcement of the Retail Roar Summit[01:51] Reflecting on the One-Year Anniversary of 'Tame Your Tiger'[03:12] Surprising Benefits from Publishing the Book[05:39] Understanding the Premise of 'Tame Your Tiger'[08:57] The Importance of Stock Management[12:51] The Role of Break-even Analysis in Business[15:06] The Impact of 'Tame Your Tiger' on Business Owners[19:46] Conclusion and Invitation to the Retail Roar SummitEpisode Links:Get Your Free Sear to Retal Roar - The UK's most inspiring FREE retail online summit. Get a copy of Tame Your Tiger or Leave a Review

In this episode, I got to sit down with Resilient Retail Club member Ruth Sturdy, the founder of Color Chronicles. Ruth shared her journey after looking for a book that would not only allow her to record memories of her daughter but would bring her daughter into the process as well. When one couldn’t be found, Ruth decided to create it which led to her founding her own business and developing their bestselling product, 'The Book of You'. As her business grew, she found the freedom to start working on the business (instead of in the business) when she partnered with a fulfillment center. She also realized that it was important to outsource tasks that were not her strengths. Interestingly enough she has been able to demonstrate that you can grow your business and not need a large team! We talk about the constant need for resilience in managing a small business, handling various challenges and finding solutions. And we talk about how important it is to be able to lean on other business owners in a setting like the Resilient Retail Club. [01:35] Welcome Ruth Sturdy, Founder of Colour Chronicles! [07:34] In the digital age. how important does Ruth believe it is to have something physically written down? [08:52] What was Ruth's background before she started the business? [10:19] How has Ruth's business evolved? [11:36] What was the moment that Ruth realized she needed to stop doing everything herself? [12:35] How many fulfillment centers did Ruth look at before finding "the one"? [13:12] Was fulfillment the key to allowing Ruth to grow the business without having a big team? [15:26] How did Ruth know it was time to invest in outside help? [17:16] Why Ruth believes it's important to connect with people in the Club and Mastermind to grow your business [18:1]6 What is the best gift that you could give someone who is just starting their business? [21:35] What's next for Colour Chronicles? [22:16] How to connect with Colour Chronicles Connect with Colour Chronicles Website: https://www.colourchronicles.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colour.chronicles/

Do you have a sales plan for 2024? If not, do you know what is holding you back from having a sales goal? For some, they don't really grasp the importance of having one. They're not familiar with the importance and transformational nature of having a sales goal. And so they don't make the time for it. But if you want your business to be more profitable, if you want to have better cash flow, if you want to pay yourself more from your business and if you want to be able to manage your stock effectively so that it's not just eating up all of the spare cash in your business and leaving none for you, then you need a sales goal. That is crucial and that is very hard to do any of those things without your sales goal. So you need to take the time to set it. What I wanted to talk to you about today is planning your sales and specifically, we will talk about what is the sales plan, why you need one, and what some of the common reasons you might be holding back from creating one. If you want help setting your sales plan for 2024 I invite you to join my five-day challenge within the Resilient Retail Club. We start the first week in February. If you'd like to join us and you're not a member, head over to resilientretailclub.com and you can get your first month for half price, which means that you get to join the challenge for just 19 pounds. Let’s dive in: [0:00] How to effectively plan your 2024 Retail Sales Plan [01:50] What is a sales plan? How detailed does it need to be? [04:25] Why do you need to have a sales goal? [06:50] What might hold you back from having a sales goal? Join my 5-day Sales Plan Challenge inside of my Membership group (join us today for half off your first month) https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/

Do you ever find yourself looking at another business and thinking “I wish that my business was like that!” or “I want my business to be like XYZ.” or even “I just wish I could get to this point with my business and then everything will be fine.” You've probably seen on social media retail businesses that've got piles of mailing bags, or maybe they've been established for a long time, or they've had some fabulous collaborations. They are the business owners that are looked up to and envied. We can have a business that looks fabulous. You've got all these orders coming in. Your team is expanding. You're moving to a larger premises. And from an external perspective, if you're a business looking up at them, it may feel like, wow, they've really got this all sorted out. But what you may find is that these businesses that look like they're feeling fantastic, really don't feel fantastic at all to the business owner. And that is what this episode is all about, exploring this concept of what it takes to make a business feel good. Let’s dive in: [00:00] What it means to create a business that feels good (not just looks good) [05:35] Focus on your bottom line [11:49] Having a strategy and plan to get you away from being reactive and be more proactive [16:50] You control your business not the other way around [19:39] How do you know if you're chasing something that looks good versus something that feels good? [21:18] Focus on the fundamentals of your business before you get distracted by shiny objects [25:01] My recipe for a business that doesn't just look good, but also feels good. Get all of the details on our website at: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/181-how-to-create-a-business-that-feels-good-not-just-looks-good/

I know that for a lot of people, you're coming off a high from the fourth quarter. And I know it can feel like quite a slap in the face when you go from the biggest months of the year in November and December and then you get into January and it can feel like it's all dropped off a cliff. So first if this is one of your first Christmases or if you know this about your business, I want to remind you that you're not alone. And secondly, just be aware that there are still reasons people will buy from you in January. And I will share 10 (with a bonus) on today’s episode! [03:58] Reason #1 - January Sales! [08:19] Reason #2 - Redeem Holiday Gift Cards [09:20] Reason #3 - Something New! [12:26] Reason #4 - Limited Editions or Exclusive Collections [12:59] Reason #5 - Get Organized [14:40] Reason #6 - Veganuary / Dry January [16:14] Reason #7- Health, Well-Being and Fitness [17:43] Reason #8 - Holidays [19:39] Reason #9 - Cold Weather / Being Cozy [21:04] Reason #10- Wedding Planning and Prep [22:15] Bonus Idea! Customer Loyalty [23:03] Recap - 10 reasons why people will buy from you in the month of January

Last summer I launched a mastermind for product-based business owners and it has hands down been the most exciting that I’ve done in my business. The people in the mastermind have businesses of various sizes. Some are very large, and very well established. Some are earlier on in their journey or at different stages. But the thing that unites every single one of those product business owners is their ambition and their commitment to their business. And they have taught me a huge amount about what it means to be a successful driven product business owner in 2024. And on today’s episode, I want to share with you the 7 lessons that they have taught me! [00:00] 7 Lessons I Learned from My Mastermind Members [03:52] Lesson 1: Decision fatigue is real. Get support making decisions in your business! [06:02] Lesson 2: Leverage Big Bussiness Tools to be More Successful [09:00] Lesson 3: Working with a Mindset Coach is so Impactful to Your Business [11:54] Lesson 4: It helps to talk with other people who understand what you are going through [14:50] Lesson 5: Pre-planning your year is the best way to beat overwhelm in your busy season [17:08] Lesson 6: Spreadsheets can be habit-forming and are the key to your happiness as a retail business owner [19:52] Lesson 7: There is no magic formula. But if you make quick decisions, take action, see the results, and try new things you will see change. [24:34] The mastermind is open! Learn more! The next Cohort of the Mastermind Starts January 22nd Learn more and book your exploratory call here: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/ Book a call: https://calendly.com/resilientretail/product-business-mastermind-discovery-call?month=2024-01

Do you want to scale your business? In other words, do you want to grow it further than where it is now? Or maybe you're in the process of growing it and you want to feel more comfortable and proactive with what's happening to you and to your business. So what I wanted to dig into today, is to help you understand that if you're in this process of growing your business there are five key questions that you need to ask yourself to make sure that you're going in the right direction. [00:00] What does it mean to scale your business? [04:40] Question 1: Are you built on firm foundations? [06:29] Question 2: Who are you trying to reach? [09:58] Question 3: What makes you special? What is your unique selling proposition or USP? [11:58] Question 4: Do you have the systems? Are you ready to grow? How much of your business lives in your head? [16:26] Question 5: Are you prepared for the fact that there will be challenges along the way? Get Access to My Upcoming Session: Go from six-figure years to six-figure months. https://futureretail.lpages.co/from-six-figure-years-to-six-figure-months/

In this episode, we will discuss four key retail trends for 2024: sustainability and green fatigue, the rise of artificial intelligence, social commerce, and personalized communication. As a retailer, you need to embrace these trends and be proactive so you can ensure that your business continues to grow and continues to thrive in the coming year. [0:00] What trends will be reshaping the retail industry in 2024 [01:49] Why it's so important for product business owners to have an idea of what's going on in their industry [11:18] How did I come up with these trends? [11:59] What has been happening in the retail industry [12:58] Trend 1: Sustainability, navigating green fatigue [15:46] Trend 2: The rise of artificial intelligence [19:24] Trend 3: Social Commerce [25:12] Trend 4: Personalized Communication Read the full report 4 Biggest Retail Trends for 2024 Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.

In episode 176 of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, host Catherine Erdly, founder of the Resilient Retail Club, engages in an insightful discussion with Lindsay Schneider, founder of the self-tanning brand, Get Into the Limelight. We discuss the trials and triumphs of building a brand, focusing on Lindsay's experience in product sourcing, the process of creating a quality self-tanner, and the marketing strategies that worked best for her. Lindsay emphasizes the importance of influencer marketing, discussing strategies for selecting influencers that have a genuine love for the product and authenticity in their promotion. She also talks about the importance of taking calculated risks in business growth, detailing how outsourcing helped her business operations grow. Lindsay's story provides key insights into running a successful product business and using influencer marketing effectively. [00:00] Welcome Linday Schneider [01:58] Lindsay Schneider Business Backstory [04:49] When Linsday picked the wrong product she discovered she needed to make a shift in her business [06:54] Lindsay talks about the process of developing a skin care product. [09:22] Did Lindsay need to shift how she marketed her product after shifting her business? [10:21] Navigating the changes in influencer marketing [11:38] What has been the biggest change that propelled her business forward? [13:41] How do you know when you’re ready to hand off control in your business? [17:13] What advice does Linsay have for choosing influencer partnerships? [25:27] What's coming for Lindsay in 2024? [26:34] Learn More about Lindsay Get all of the resources here: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/podcast-episode/power-of-influencer-marketing-in-retail-with-lindsay-schneider/

In this episode of the Resilient Retail Game Plan, we are discussing the art and skill of negotiation in the retail business with Simon Duncan. We delve into why negotiation is a crucial skill for business owners, how to determine what the other party wants in a negotiation and the importance of planning before entering a negotiation situation. The discussion emphasizes the significance of understanding what you are trying to achieve, knowing the current facts of the business relationship, being aware of the balance of power, and getting into your counterpart's mindset. Throughout the conversation, we use practical examples to illustrate how these negotiation tactics have been successfully applied in real-life scenarios. There is a lot to take away from this conversation - always remember that if you don’t ask you won’t get! This is a fascinating interview. Tune in to learn: [0:00] Welcome Simon Duncan! [03:44] Why is negotiation such an important skill for retail business owners to have? [05:50] What are some of the key areas that retail owners don't negotiate (and should!)? And where would negotiating help help the bottom line the most? [09:19] What are some of the key steps that owners should take before entering into a negotiation situation? [14:41] What can be negotiated? [23:47] How do you figure out what people want before you negotiate with them? [27:01] These are the key skills needed to negotiate [28:36] Can negotiating strengthen your relationships? [29:52]Find out more about Simon Duncan Connect with Simon Duncan Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-duncan-9b491311 Get 10 pounds off your first month of Resilient Retail Club using code 10podcast.

Have you thought about what it would take to scale your e-commerce business to $5 million or more? What about getting an investment to grow your business further? In today’s episode, I spoke with Yoni Kozminski, an e-commerce scaling expert.. Yoni shares his expertise on scaling e-commerce businesses and the process of working with founders when investing in their businesses to help them grow. To achieve growth, Yoni emphasizes the importance of streamlining operations and building scalable systems. This involves documenting processes, defining roles, and leveraging technology to create efficient workflows. By doing so, businesses can free up the business owner from day-to-day operations and focus on high-impact tasks. Yoni also walks us through his process of investing in e-commerce businesses to help them scale toward an exit strategy. This is a fascinating interview. Tune in to learn: [00:00] Welcome Yoni Kozminski [04:23] What would you say needs to be in place before an e-commerce business starts to scale? [06:29] The mindset shift business owners need to have in order to scale [10:33] Does scaling equal systems? [12:43] What does it mean to exit an e-commerce business? [14:16] What is it that investors are looking for in a business before they invest? [25:56] When it comes to scaling quickly what levers do you need to pull? Connect with Yoni Kozminski https://www.southcol.co/media https://www.linkedin.com/in/yonkoz/

We know that starting a business is not for the faint of heart. Even those who are full of confidence can sometimes be plagued with the fear of losing everything we have built. In today's episode, I spoke with the inspiring Toks Aruoture, owner of the Baby Cot Shop. Toks has an incredible journey to share with us. After losing her store in the US she returned to the UK and reopened her business online with a goal to have a physical location on the high street. But despite achieving that dream, she still faced fear as she grew her business. Along the way, she learned that having a goal doesn't define the end of the journey - but that life is a constant evolution. Toks believes that she is bigger than her business and that her value extends far beyond the products she sells. She knows that the fear of losing a business can be more damaging than the actual situation, and she credits her faith and the support of her friends for helping her through the tough times. Throughout this episode, we'll dive deep into Toks' journey and explore the mindset shifts and strategies she used to bounce back from the loss of her business. From determination and faith to journaling and seeking outside perspectives, Toks has valuable insights to share with all of us. [00:00] Welcome Toks Aruoture [02:49] How did Toks get into luxury interior design for babies and children [05:14] How did Toks rebuild after the loss of her business in the US [08:16] What was Toks mindset has she faced the fear of losing her business a second time. [12:18] There are two ways to face fear in business. We offer some suggestions to not let fear paralyze you. [16:01] A journaling practice to help you focus on what is fact and how to handle assumptions that can affect your mindset [24:35] How does Toks manage negative self-talk? Connect with Toks Aruoture www.thebabycotshop.com www.toksaruoture.com

It’s no secret that the fashion industry is problematic. From materials to manufacturing to the retail models themselves, a lot of damage is wrought upon the people producing the clothes as well as the planet. As the world slowly wakes up to the long-term effects of these business practices, it’s encouraging to see people act more responsibly, taking steps to produce ’slow fashion’ centred around sustainability - putting people and the planet first. In episode 172 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Emma and Leanne of Rose's Wardrobe. A vintage-inspired clothing and accessories brand based in Langholm, South Scotland, Rose's Wardrobe produces bespoke, made-to-order, made-to-measure garments using local, vintage or deadstock fabrics and planet-conscious trims and haberdashery. In this podcast, we discuss creating an experience that’s about more than just picking something off a shelf, the joy of watching your employees and teams grow with your business and the importance of getting young people interested in traditional skills and industries. We also talk about the future of fashion trends, the beauty of being bespoke and working with your hands in a digital age. Check out Emma and Leanne’s gorgeous garments at: www.roseswardrobe.co.uk and the Creation Mill at: www.creationmill.org And connect with them: https://www.instagram.com/roseswardrobe_vintage https://www.facebook.com/roseswardrobevintage/ https://www.instagram.com/creation.mill.cic.langholm https://www.facebook.com/creationmill

Originating in the USA as a post-thanksgiving sales event, Black Friday has, over the last decade, become a major, and sometimes divisive shopping event in the UK retail calendar - and based on last year's figures it’s only getting bigger. As a small business, you shouldn’t feel obligated to take part in a sales event that’s traditionally a mainstay of larger retailers, but you also shouldn’t feel guilty or ashamed to get in on the action. Either way, it’s important to understand Black Friday’s effect on consumer behaviour, the scepticism buyers might have around certain deals and the pros and cons of taking or not taking part for your business. In this podcast, I discuss the importance of avoiding knee-jerk promotions, why Black Friday doesn’t always have to be about deep discounts, as well as how small businesses can create excitement through exclusivity. We’ll also talk about making sure you take extra-special care of your email subscribers, why you don’t need to be shy about promoting your promotions and to not forget that although they look like they’re for the customers, that any promotions you create should really be designed to benefit you and your business. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.

TikTok is a relative newcomer in the world of social media, but it’s been making serious waves since it entered the fray back in 2016. Hugely popular with the younger demographics, the platform has evolved and changed a lot since its inception, and with tools such as ‘TikTok Shop’ I’d suggest that it’s worth taking the time to consider whether setting up an account might be beneficial for your business. In episode 170 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to TikTok consultant Penny Walker, who helps lifestyle and creative businesses embrace new social trends and stand out in the market. She works with founders to produce engaging short-form content in the pursuit of new customers, bigger audiences and a steady supply of leads and sales. In this podcast, we talk about joining in with seasonal trends, repurposing content from other platforms and how having a live strategy can be brilliant for your growth. We also discuss the importance of testing and learning, making connecting and how to avoid content creation becoming burdensome. Check out Penny’s services at: www.barbrusa.com And connect with Penny and Barbrusa at: https://www.tiktok.com/@barbrusa_social https://www.instagram.com/barbrusa_social/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/penelopewalkerbrusarosco/

Video has become a commonplace and indispensable tool for small business owners. My often repeated adage that ‘people buy from people’ is exemplified perfectly by the amazing engagement and communities we see grow around brands and founders when they share the realities of their business, whether that’s through behind-the-scenes videos or product showcases. We’re all familiar with the various forms of social media short-form content such as TikTok skits and Instagram Reels, but it seems that not many of us have dipped our toes into, and reaped the benefits, of producing longer-form content. So, in episode 169 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to the “King Of Video” Matthew Hughes, who helps small business owners and entrepreneurs strategically launch and grow their YouTube channels. In this podcast, we discuss the power of playlists, repurposing content from long-form productions and putting your USP first. We also talk about the importance of being committed to consistent content creation and how leveraging people’s curiosity is key to attracting customers. Check out Matt’s services at: https://kingofvideo.co.uk/ and https://links.kingofvideo.co.uk/ And connect with him at: https://www.instagram.com/realkingofvideo/

If you’re feeling the pinch at the moment, trust me, you’re not alone. September through October are traditionally a major pinch point for retail - when you have lots of money going out as you stock up for the festive season, without any of the accompanying sales materialising until later in the year, cashflow can start to dry up and things can start to feel really tough. This isn’t just a small product business phenomenon - huge retailers are well known to take out loans or to secure lines of credit to get them through this challenging time of year, an option you could take if it came to it, but in episode 168 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to help you hold your nerve, to examine your numbers and get that cash flowing again. In this podcast, we’ll look at the three main areas that impact cash flow, setting a sales plan and making use of our sales history. We’ll also discuss the issues of holding too much stock throughout the calendar year and how a good stock plan can help you predict the future of your business. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.

In episode 167 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Caroline Gogolak, CEO and founder of the New York fashion brand Saint Art. Producing effortless but luxe street-style sportswear, Caroline has seen great success with Saint Art by implementing an effective ‘test-and-learn’ approach and making clever business decisions that help address issues of overproduction and waste in the fashion industry. In this podcast, we discuss the power of wholesale in increasing your brand awareness and getting your products in front of people. We also talk about identifying which marketing structures will help you reach profitability sooner, the baked-in benefits of a product-first mindset and why it’s important to start small and grow slowly. Check out the amazing apparel at Saint Art here: https://saintartnewyork.com/ And connect with Caroline and Saint Art here: https://www.instagram.com/saintartnewyork/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-gogolak-97949542/

The retail landscape is constantly evolving. From the continued growth in online shopping, to the collapse of the department store model, as well as the effect of lockdowns on the high street, we’ve seen a lot of change in the last few years, especially when it comes to physical stores. When the need to buy a product is no longer enough reason to go to an actual store, how can brands ensure that they stay connected with their consumers? In episode 166 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak with Katie Mitchell, Managing Director of Seen Studios, a creative retail design and production agency, about re-evaluating the full consumer journey and how to create synergy between online and offline activity through human connection. In this podcast, we talk about what approach to take when bringing online brands offline, building flexibility into your commercial space and injecting some drama and theatre into experiential experience of shopping. We also discuss the importance of staying true to who you are as a brand and how building communities through loyalty and trust looks to be the future of the retail. Check out Seen Studios at: https://seen-studios.com/ And connect with Katie and Seen at: https://www.instagram.com/seenstudios_ https://www.linkedin.com/company/seen-studios/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-mitchell-a1b30221/

Paid Advertising can be incredibly effective for small product businesses. We’ve all undoubtedly seen some great sales success stories built off the back of social media-based ad campaigns, but paid advertising can be a bit of a confusing subject as well as a technical minefield - how do you know when you’re ready to jump into the Ads Manager, and if you’re already using the platform, how do you best optimise it for consistent results? In episode 165 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to the founder of Socially Sound, Melanie Eilers, who helps founder-led, purpose-driven e-commerce brands scale up sales through strategic Facebook and Instagram ads. Melanie shares her top five tips for paid advertising and explains why it’s imperative to lay some solid foundations before you start ploughing too much time, energy and money into the advertising platform. In this podcast, we discuss the need to expect and embrace change when it comes to the online advertising landscape, as well as what to expect in the near future. We also discuss the ever-present importance of email marketing and creating consistent touch-points throughout your customer journey. We also talk about making the most of your data and the importance of exercising patience if you want to see good, long-term results. Check out Melanie’s services over at: https://www.sociallysound.co.uk Connect with her at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieeilers https://www.instagram.com/socially_sound/ To access the Socially Sound quizzes mentioned in this episode head to: (for those already running ads ) https://sociallysound.scoreapp.com (for those thinking about getting started with ads) https://sociallysoundadready.scoreapp.com

Having run the Resilient Retail Club for the last three years, I’ve seen first-hand the transformative power being part of a community can have on not only your business but on your life. Fostering connections and relationships and sharing in experiences is such a crucial part of what it means to be human - in episode 164 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I cover five key ways that being part of a community can help transform your business and, quite possibly, enrich your life. In this podcast, I talk about the psychological importance of being understood and the value of sharing stories. We’ll discuss complimentary and non-competitive collaboration and how expanding our horizons opens us up to new possibilities. We’ll also talk about the many resources, from information to inspiration, that being part of a community affords you and how crucial it is to receive emotional support and encouragement from your peers. Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.

There are many reasons someone starts a business, but a pattern I often see with founders in the Resilient Retail Club is a combination of dissatisfaction with the working world and a desire to make a more significant impact, and today's guest is no exception! In episode 163 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Lucy Jeffrey, founder of bamboo sock brand, Bare Kind. Having started her business as a side hustle five years ago, Bare Kind is now partnered with over thirty charities and donates a percentage of its profits to protect endangered animals. With little to no prior experience in retail, Lucy has worked hard to build an amazing business, and shares some of her major successes (and advice), especially when it comes to wholesale. In this podcast, we discuss balancing demand with manufacturing, the value of merchandising, and holding your nerve as a seasonal business. We also talk about the importance of taking a step back, consistently reviewing the state of your business and the benefits of learning more about how your products are made. Check out Lucy’s beautiful socks at https://barekind.co.uk/ Connect with Lucy at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-jeffrey/ and check out Lucy’s e-commerce content over at: https://candidfounders.com/ Join the Christmas Sales Summit and get half off your first month in the Club - ENDS 17th September Midnight: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ This summit will get you thinking strategically about the upcoming Christmas season, and give you the strategies, tools and support to grow your sales. It includes: Expert workshops Strategy planning sessions Tools and templates for growth Co-working hours

The importance of Christmas for small product businesses can not be underestimated. Some businesses can end up taking half, and I’ve seen in some circumstances, even three-quarters of their annual sales in the fourth quarter! This sales period, and a highly competitive one at that, really has the potential to make or break your year. So if you want to achieve your Xmas sales goals and finish the year on a high, it’s imperative that you formulate a strategy and create and follow a robust and rigorous plan. In this podcast, we’ll discuss producing clear objectives with SMART goals and setting directions that make you, not others, happy. We’ll also be looking at what the past performance of our business can tell us about what decisions we should be making. We’ll cover tips for keeping things on track when things get crazy and staying on top of your stock management. We’ll also be thinking about our target audiences, how our ideal customer's qualities might differ at Christmas, and what form your marketing and promotional strategies might take from channel to channel at this time of year. Join the Christmas Sales Summit and get half off your first month in the Club - ENDS 17th September Midnight: https://www.resilientretailclub.com/membership/ This summit will get you thinking strategically about the upcoming Christmas season, and give you the strategies, tools and support to grow your sales. It includes: Expert workshops Strategy planning sessions Tools and templates for growth Co-working hours

If you’re a long-time listener to this podcast or have worked with me, you’ll know I love to start talking about Christmas early - from around May actually! With the holiday season but a few months away, I’ve been digging into lots of research around what we can expect for retail at Christmas this year. Xmas 2022 disproved a lot of predictions and exceeded many businesses' expectations, but with the bruising combination of high inflation, rising mortgage rates and the cost of living crisis customer spending is likely to be lower this year. It might sound all doom and gloom, but there are still some bright spots to focus on. In this podcast, we’ll discuss what customers want and how they’ll be shopping. We’ll talk about The Lipstick Effect, shaping consumer behaviour through discounts and the increasing importance of sustainability credentials. We’ll also discuss the ebb and flow of overall online purchasing, payment plans and mitigating delivery disasters. Don’t forget - my Product Business Mastermind is kicking off this September! Book a free discovery call now to find out more about this high-performance 6-month program, combining award-winning business mentoring with the magic of masterminding, for ambitious small business owners. https://www.resilientretailclub.com/retail-business-mentoring/

If you’re running a small product business and are feeling a bit squeezed for cash flow right now, you’re not alone! August and September are traditional, well-established pinch points in the retail industry calendar. So, whether you’re coming up a bit short due to putting in your orders for this coming Christmas or perhaps an unexpected bill has landed on your desk, in episode 160 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I want to give you my top tips for what to do if you need money quick. In this podcast, we’ll discuss dividing out your stock into three categories, with a different objective for each. We’ll discuss targeted discounting and why I believe it’s less brand-damaging than creating blanket offers, and we’ll also talk about why reaching out, 1-on-1, to your best customers might be the quickest and most dependable route to a sale.

From decreased footfall to financial constraints, retailers across the board continue to be hit hard in the wake of not only the Covid-19 Pandemic but the ongoing cost of living crisis as well. It is tough out there - it may even be one of the most challenging periods experienced in retail history, but as smaller independent businesses, we have something to be grateful for that the industry giants don’t - the ability to be agile, adapt, and pivot quickly. In episode 159 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Charlotte Broadbent from the revolutionary global wholesale marketplace for independent retailers, Faire. Providing retailers with opportunities to try new things in low-risk ways, Faire is helping fuel the growth of independent businesses and entrepreneurs everywhere. In today’s podcast, Charlotte shares her insights into the current state of the retail industry and the challenges faced by both major and independent retailers. We talk about the power of experiential retail and the importance of community connection. We also discuss the costs and benefits of trade shows post-lockdown and the steadfastness of value-based buying. Shop wholesale online from over 100,000 brands at: https://www.faire.com/ And Connect with Faire at: https://www.instagram.com/faire_wholesale/ To check out Corinne’s shop as mentioned in this episode head to: https://hackneyessentials.com/

When you start and run your own business it’s often not long before you realise you might need an extra pair of hands. Whether you’re struggling with picking and packing in those busy sales seasons or fumbling through your finances, it’s important to recognise how best to support the growth of your business. In episode 158 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Helen Dukes, founder of music-inspired clothing brand Disko Kids, about how she’s scaled up her business by growing a solid and supportive team through carefully focussing on training and on the needs of her staff as they change and evolve in tandem with the needs of the business. In this podcast, we discuss shifting our business focus naturally in response to demand, the importance of word of mouth and balancing happiness with growth. We also talk about the need to set up systems, to not forgo admin and organisation in favour of the shinier things and the importance of taking a step back and relinquishing some control to see what needs your attention in your business. To support Helen in her charity run for the Bowelbabe Fund: https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/helens-race-for-life-327470568 Check out Helen’s awesome products at: https://www.diskokids.co.uk/ And connect with her and Disko Kids at: https://www.instagram.com/diskokids

In episode 157 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Cally Russell, CEO and Co-founder of waste-free clothing brand ‘This Is Unfolded’, supporting children’s education and paying garment workers better wages. Cally inarguably posits that fast fashion and current retail models are killing the planet - but that they also create a bland customer experience. To change a global business model that is fundamentally flawed, Cally believes we need to create brands and production processes that are driven by communities and in collaboration with their customers, which is exactly what he’s doing with ‘This Is Unfolded’. In this podcast, we discuss educating people about the journey their purchases go on, the importance of identifying your best growth channels and extending the number of dopamine hits your customer experiences post-purchase. We also talk about how scaling bigger can take you away from your core customers as well as rethinking sustainability and circularity when it comes to the lifecycle of a product. Check out the amazing community-driven fashion range at: https://thisisunfolded.com/ Connect with Cally and ‘This Is Unfolded’ at: https://www.facebook.com/thisisunfolded https://www.instagram.com/thisisunfolded https://www.linkedin.com/in/callyrussell

Trying to increase a customer's average spend or basket size can be tricky. With a lot of focus across e-commerce on the pre-purchase experience, brands can easily fall into the trap of frustrating, and even losing their prospective customers with annoying pop-ups and offers that potentially cheapen their brand. In episode 156 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Ruth Even Haim, the COO & co-founder of ‘ReConvert’, the number-one upselling app on Shopify, about how focusing on the post-purchase experience has enabled her business to help merchants generate millions of extra revenue in sales. In this podcast we discuss the best practices for upselling, covering such areas as discounts and exclusivity. We talk about the shipping and profitability benefits of a successful upselling strategy, and we also discuss the importance of tailoring your post-purchase offering to your audience and not overwhelming your customers. Check out the ‘Reconvert’ app here: https://www.reconvert.io/ Connect with the brand at: https://www.instagram.com/reconvert.io/ Struggling with low-profit margins? Fix it today with Reconvert’s FREE Conversion Rate optimisation guide:: https://www.reconvert.io/shopify-conversion-rate

No business has shaped online retail, perhaps all retail, the way that Amazon has. Since its founding in 1994, the e-commerce giant has grown to become one of the most influential economic and cultural forces in the world, forever changing the way that we shop and sell. The idea then of trying to build a business on such a huge, busy and complex marketplace might seem a bit daunting at first, but in episode 155 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Amazon expert Emily Johnson who shares how she created her own semi-passive brand on the e-commerce platform and what you need to know to make the best go of setting up shop. In this podcast, we discuss the importance of research, the benefits of getting to grips with optimisation and marketing, and what different business models Amazon has to offer. We also talk about sales platform glitches, troubleshooting your product listings and why it’s worth looking into brand protection in the forms of design registrations and trademarking. Check out Emily’s Amazon coaching services at: https://www.hello-dream.co.uk/ And connect with her at: instagram.com/dreamers_should/ Don’t forget - use the code: 10podcast to get £10 off your first month when joining The Resilient Retail Club.

When it comes to retail it’s never too early to start talking about Christmas! In fact, if you’ve left it this long without considering the big day you might even be too late to take advantage of some of the best ways to prepare your business for the dependably lucrative Q4 sales period. The more work you can do now to get you and your business ready for the festive season, the smoother it’ll all go - you don’t want to be scrambling for stock and pleading for PR in November and December, you want to be selling your products and delighting your customers. In today’s episode of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I share seven ways you can use this summer to better prepare for Christmas 2023. We’ll begin by looking back at 2022, identifying patterns and peaks and producing a sales plan. We’ll talk about setting out your hero products ahead of time and getting savvy with your stock levels. We’ll also discuss taking part in seasonal events, pitching products to gift guides and managing your staffing situation during the busiest selling season. How ready are you for Christmas 2023? Take our quiz and get valuable feedback: resilientretailclub.com/christmasquiz

In episode 153 of The Resilient Retail Game Plan, I speak to Sabira Silcock of sustainable jewellery brand, SKEN Studios. Handmade in Manchester, Sabira produces fun and playful jewellery with personality, as well as running workshops and creating more bespoke pieces. Today she shares her journey from designer/maker to brand-builder, the story behind the rapid growth of SKEN Studios and the lessons she’s learnt along the way. Throughout the course of our conversation, we discuss operating on a budget, trading skills and services and allowing your product design to be informed by how you want to run your business. We also talk about baking sustainability into your brand values, the benefits of a made-to-order business model regarding cash flow and production timelines and being resilient in the face of equipment meltdowns and postal problems. Check out Sabira’s beautiful jewellery at: www.skenstudios.com And connect with her and SKEN at: www.instagram.com/skenstudios