From Creator to CEO with Amanda Northcutt from Level Up Creator

Meeting summary for Level Up Creators Q and A (07/16/2024)

Quick recapAmanda, the CEO of Level Up Creators, discussed the company's mission to empower women and marginalized groups through digital products and services, and the challenges of transitioning from a creator to a CEO. The team also explored best practices for hiring and managing Virtual Assistants, strategies for improving business efficiency, and the importance of building strong relationships with customers. Lastly, they discussed the potential of the Creator economy, the need for developing both creative and business skills, and recommended various books for further education.

Next steps•

Authors to consider creating a "suck list" of tasks they dislike and could potentially delegate or automate.• Authors to develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for tasks they do frequently but dislike.• Authors to explore options for outsourcing personal tasks (e.g. meal planning, cleaning) to free up more creative time.• Authors to document their vision, mission, values, goals, and strategy to help engage potential hires.• Authors to focus on building and owning their email list rather than relying solely on retailer platforms.• Authors to explore options for creating recurring revenue streams (e.g. subscription models, series).• Authors to consider direct sales strategies alongside retailer sales to have more control over customer data.• Interested authors to book a free 30-minute call with Amanda to discuss business strategies.

SummaryLevel Up Creators CEO's Mission and Challenges

Amanda, the CEO of Level Up Creators, discussed her mission to help women and marginalized groups build organizations and create opportunities through digital products and services. The group also discussed the challenges of transitioning from a creator to a CEO, with a focus on delegation and the importance of efficiency and systems. They explored the benefits of outsourcing tasks, particularly for women, and the need to hire individuals with a proven track record in the specific role or industry. The use of AI to generate discussion points for interviews was also discussed as a potential tool.

Best Practices for Virtual Assistant Management

Amanda, Russell, and Monica discussed the best practices for hiring and managing Virtual Assistants (VAs). They emphasized the importance of clearly defining tasks and expectations, as well as the need for effective communication and understanding. The team also discussed the challenges of managing and firing employees, with Amanda suggesting a trial period for new hires and stressing the importance of feedback and correction. Lastly, they explored the benefits of their company's creator services, which provide white-glove, high-touch services for those handling their own creative work, and discussed the potential legal protections and focus on unique, proprietary information.

Improving Business Efficiency and Funnel

Amanda, Russell, and Monica discussed strategies to improve business efficiency and prioritize tasks using tools like the Eisenhower Matrix and the "Do delegate, defer, or don't do" system. They debated the relevance of social media for business and considered ways to monetize it. The team also explored the concept of a "bow tie funnel," emphasizing the importance of email marketing and the need to create initial purchase opportunities to move potential customers further down the funnel. They agreed on the need for a social media manager to help with networking and audience building.

Sales Funnel, Recurring Revenue, and Education

Amanda introduced the concept of a sales funnel, emphasizing its role in guiding potential customers towards becoming repeat buyers. She highlighted the importance of offering recurring revenue products and services to the same customer over time, which not only provides a reliable income but also allows for continuous improvement of the existing product. Monica then explained the sales funnel graphic used in their operations, noting its role in deepening relationships with readers. The discussion also touched on the importance of education in the sales and marketing process, with Amanda's presentation and methods highlighting the potential for automation in building trust with potential customers before a purchase.

Customer Retention Strategies and Subscription Models

Amanda emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with customers to encourage loyalty and repeat business. She suggested offering incentives like exclusive content to those interested in the company. Monica and Russell agreed, noting many businesses focus too much on new products instead of retaining existing customers. They discussed subscription models for fiction authors, with Amanda suggesting platforms like ConvertKit and Active Campaign. Russell shared plans to launch three new books and consider using Amazon and Facebook ads focused on his direct store. The team discussed the changing landscape where readers increasingly buy directly from authors.

Systematic Business for Creators

Monica, Russell, and Amanda discussed the importance of building a systematic business for authors and content creators. They emphasized the need for outsourcing tasks, investing in structures and systems, and owning one's audience for recurring revenue. They also highlighted the potential of the Creator economy and the importance of developing both creative and business skills. Lastly, they recommended various books for further education and encouraged the group to make use of a free 30-minute call with Amanda for personalized advice.

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