Designed by Wingnut Social | Interior Design Business
The interior design business podcast for interior designers, architects, and home professionals. Hosted by interior design and digital marketing pro, Darla Powell. #interiordesign
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Episodes
Monday Sep 07, 2020
Monday Sep 07, 2020
Has posting on social media started to feel like drudgery? Are you ready to put the “social” back in social media? Do you want to make it FUN again? Social media marketing is a multibillion-dollar industry with a serious ROI—but it isn’t all about business. It can be a place to be fun and light-hearted. How? Listen to this Monday Marketing Minisode to find out!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:32] Is social media a drudgery?
[2:52] Check out the AR filters
[3:42] Create a challenge
[4:50] Insta stories: Jazz ‘em up
[7:09] Contests and giveaways
[7:59] The “Why” behind the episode
[9:37] Social media CAN be fun
[10:55] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
TikTok
Instagram
TikTok reminds us that social media IS fun
Anyone on TikTok knows that you can get wrapped up in hours of fun and laughter. Darla and Natalie’s 15-year-old is always on TikTok (and so is Darla…). It’s been a great way for their family to bond.
TikTok has revolutionized social media by bringing back what’s been missing for so long: fun. Everyone is noticing and every platform is trying to keep up—especially Instagram. But how do you get back on board?
How can you bring back the fun?
Need some ideas to spice up your social media? Darla and Natalie share a few:
Check out the AR filters: It can enhance your brand, make you laugh, and connect with fans. AR filters increase and broaden your reach.
Create a challenge: Get your community involved and engaged. Darla and Natalie did an Instagram challenge that was a blast!
Jazz up your Insta stories: The create mode is where it’s at. It has interactive stickers, drawings, or text. You can use it in your stories. The dice button shares all the templates of the day as well. Polls, quizzes, countdowns? Give it a shot!
Contests and giveaways: Wingnut did a contest where the prize was a Wingnut Social t-shirt. All of the winners posted photos in their shirts and tagged Wingnut. Not only did it broaden their reach, but they had a blast doing it.
The bottom line is that people want to see the human side of your business. Give someone insight into what you’re like and your true, authentic self. You have a personality—show it! In the process, you may just realize how much FUN you’ve been missing out on.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Friday Sep 04, 2020
Friday Sep 04, 2020
If you haven’t noticed (where have you been?!) the Wingnut Social website has gotten an upgrade. Thanks to Nicole Heymer at Curio Electro, it’s got a stunning new look. But the ravishing new website isn’t the only thing getting upgraded. What’s happening next? Listen to this Minisode to find out!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:33] In LOVE with the new website
[2:13] WHY the website upgrade?
[3:34] Upgrading the podcast
[4:34] What changes are coming?
[6:47] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Curio Electro
Wingnut is expanding its horizons
Wingnut Social has been very niche-focused on the interior design industry, and rightfully so. Darla and Natalie own an interior design firm in Miami—Darla Powell Interiors. Social Media Marketing for the firm has been tremendously successful, so the vertical fit. But they started to ask: What does all of the marketing we do have in common with other sectors?
They realized that commercial & residential design, the hospitality industry, and travel & tourism have a whole lot in common when it comes to marketing. So they’ve decided to broaden their verticals to include these businesses. What do they have in common? A high-aesthetic value.
The Wingnut Social podcast upgrade to come
It’s no secret that Darla LOVES social media marketing and helping people. So now—In addition to serving interior design clients—Wingnut will offer services for:
Commercial Interior Design
Travel & Tourism
Hospitality
Restaurants
Luxury Automotive
So what does that mean for the podcast? Firstly, The Monday Marketing Minisodes are here to stay! Darla and Natalie will still deliver the latest buzz in the social media realm. The big change? The Wednesday episode will now feature a wider variety of industry experts in a few different sectors. Don’t worry, the experts will always focus on how to make your business the best it can be. You’ll get the same great content geared to a wider audience—so stick around!
Stay Tuned: In 6 months we have another HUGE announcement coming.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Sep 02, 2020
Wednesday Sep 02, 2020
Do you know how to leverage your network? Do you know how to communicate with your personal and business connections in a way to foster relationships? And what’s the best communication medium to get the job done? Benjamin Shapiro joins Darla and Natalie in this episode of Wingnut Social to share his personal formula for success. Don’t miss it!
Benjamin Shapiro—not to be confused with the political commentator—is a Brand Development and Marketing Strategy Consultant. With 15+ years of experience in marketing, he honed his skills to find THE best method to leverage his network. His goal is to help companies grow and scale using effective marketing strategies. He is also the producer and host of the MarTech podcast.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:53] Twizzlers + Tequila
[2:19] All about Benjamin Shapiro
[6:29] How Benjamin got into marketing
[13:59] The ROI Benjamin sees from networking
[16:45] Should the approach be different for designers?
[18:07] How important are LinkedIn connections?
[19:04] Mixmax: the email software Benjamin embraces
[21:23] How to adopt this strategy to your own business
[22:42] GDPR/Privacy Policy implications
[27:02] How to stay in front of your prospect
[28:46] What up Wingnut! Round
[35:03] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Benjamin Shapiro
The MarTech Podcast
Benjamin’s Website
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Twitter
Resources & People Mentioned
MixMax
CCPA
GDPR
BOOK: Born to Run
BOOK: Built to Sell
Leverage your network by being relationship-focused
When you market a new product or service, most people think they have to start by marketing to people they don’t know. Instead, Benjamin emphasizes that you need to be relationship-focused and start with the people you know. You can skip steps by working with the people you’ve already built trust and credibility with.
For example, when Benjamin launched a website he started an email campaign. He broke his professional network into three segments:
The people ahead of him in his career
The people he considered his peers
The people already in the consulting space
He notes that the way you reach out to each of those groups is going to be different. So Benjamin formed a personalized formulaic email to start conversations with each category.
The moral of the story? The same way you think about targeting your customers is the same way you should target the people within your network. Take the credibility you’ve developed and leverage that. You can shift the focus to just your products and services and not have to worry about selling yourself.
Why Benjamin is an avid fan of email marketing
You have to think about: Who do you already have credibility with? What is the lowest-friction way to get in front of them?
How many people you need to connect with and convert depends on what your relationships are like, what your products are, what your price point is, etc. So how does Benjamin prefer to connect with his network? Email. Benjamin believes that a one-to-one email is the most personal and has the highest conversion rate.
When Benjamin emails somebody, he often sees an 85% open-rate and 25% meetings scheduled. The conversion rates for having email conversations with people you already know is astronomically higher than marketing to them through other means.
Benjamin prefers to use the MixMax platform (over services such as ConstantContact or Mailchimp). Why? MixMax allows you to create an email template that allows for different variables to be filled out by you (name, time period, project). Instead of writing a whole email, it’s filling in a few words.
What’s the best approach for a new or seasoned designer to take to leverage their network? How can you adapt this strategy to fit your business? Listen to the whole episode to find out!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Aug 31, 2020
Monday Aug 31, 2020
Did you know that you CAN get to the end of your Instagram feed? Darla and Natalie have never scrolled to the end of their 48-hour Insta-recaps, but if you do, something new awaits: suggested posts.
This new phenomenon replaces the notice that you’d normally get that says “You’re all caught up!” So why did Instagram give their feed an update? How does it impact YOU? Find out in this week’s Wingnut Social Monday Marketing Minisode.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:41] Hydrate hydrate hydrate
[1:41] Instagram feed: suggested posts
[3:23] The 48-hour marker
[4:08] Suggesting new content
[6:21] What posts will be suggested?
[6:49] You cannot escape
[7:32] Who will this impact?
[8:42] Keep your content varied
[10:58] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
TikTok
Instagram
Instagram’s before & after
The reigning theory is that Instagram originally implemented the “end of the feed” messages to help users improve their digital well-being and limit screen time. But their newest biggest competitor—*cough* TikTok *cough*—already uses a continuous feed and it’s part of what’s made them SO successful. So Instagram is implementing this new strategy to compete.
Instagram will now suggest new posts—based on what you already engage with—that will allow you to expand your horizons. They could be ads, photos, or videos—but they will NOT suggest IGTV teasers or Reels content.
How Instagram’s suggested posts feed feature can impact YOU
What stands out to Natalie? You cannot hide these posts. You cannot escape. But you’ll only see suggested posts if you’ve exhausted the content posted by everyone you follow. So if you follow thousands of people, you’ll likely never see the end of that yellow-brick road.
However, this will impact new users with relatively small feeds. It’s a great way to increase your discoverability. This allows Instagram to increase its ad space as well. So the chances of your ad showing up in someone’s feed is pretty good. If you’re boosting a post and targeting people—here comes Darla Powell Interiors!
So what content should you post? Will it positively impact analytics and increase your followers? Listen to this minisode for all the deets!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Aug 26, 2020
Wednesday Aug 26, 2020
Why should you add webinars to your portfolio? Is the ROI worth the time and investment that you put into it? Darla is a huge fan of webinars—and so is today’s guest, Genevieve Trousdale. She launched a webinar series earlier this year and has seen nothing but positive results from her effort. To hear WHY it’s such a good move for your business, listen to this episode now!
Genevieve is the owner of Circa Genevieve, an interior design company that embraces southern tradition and french style. Each webinar Genevieve has hosted is a teaser for the launch of Circaphiles which is a members-only platform for professional designers to share resources set to launch October 2020.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:55] Webinars are extremely fruitful
[5:45] COVID catapulted webinars to the forefront
[8:50] How to make client-facing webinars work
[10:39] Set aside time to practice and prepare
[14:03] How did she market her webinars
[15:25] Genevieve shares all about Circaphiles
[18:18] The ROI from webinars
[22:26] What up Wingnut! Round
[25:03] How to connect with Genevieve
[25:48] Webinars are the way of the future
[28:13] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Genevieve Trousdale
Circaphiles
Circa Genevieve
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Instagram
Resources & People Mentioned
RESA Webinar on Sept. 2nd
BOOK: Thrive by Arianna Huffington
Webinars can be a game-changer
When the Coronavirus led to quarantines across the US, it led to sourcing challenges for designers. Vendors struggled because designers couldn’t see their product(s). So Genevieve launched a 1-hour webinar series geared toward sourcing during COVID-19.
Over the course of 8–10 episodes suppliers in lighting, fabric, hardware, paint, and other specialties could connect with designers. Suppliers could put together lookbooks or PowerPoint presentations to showcase their work and explain product costs.
Providing webinars for the design community positioned Genevieve as a source of strength and trust in the industry. It gave everyone a feeling of comfort when they were scrambling to find their way. Genevieve was overwhelmed and humbled by the response from the design community.
While Genevieve was laying a foundation for a larger venture, there are plenty of opportunities for designers to position themselves as an expert in the field or hone in on one niche of the industry. Webinars can be one advantageous way to bridge the gap.
So how much time should you set aside to create a webinar? How did Genevieve market them? Listen to find out!
How webinars promoted Genevieve’s new venture: Circaphiles
Genevieve’s webinars allowed her to build a more connected network and she realized they’d be a wonderful segue into the launch of her newest venture—Circaphiles. She reached far more people with her webinars than she could have flying around the world. She also points out that a webinar is an efficient way to provide value for your customers.
Genevieve has amassed a large network of resources—and unconsciously been creating Circaphiles—over the 15+ years of her career. So what is Circaphiles? It will be a platform for professional designers to share resources. It is an invitation-only network for designers and design students to access a directory of resources on a global scale. You’ll be able to chat with design peers around the world and collaborate on projects.
The site will be packed with how-to guides, webinars, master-classes, and downloadable workflow templates. It’s giving the emerging designer a leg up. It helps you understand the practical day-to-day logistics of running a design business. Genevieve notes that it’s more important than ever for the community to lean into each other. Learn all about it in this episode!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Aug 24, 2020
Monday Aug 24, 2020
Facebook is launching partner monetization for events in 20+ countries around the globe. What does that mean? Facebook will allow businesses and creators to charge on Facebook for access to live events. Boom.
But what does that mean for designers? What hoops do you have to jump through? Does Facebook get a cut of the income? Darla and Natalie answer these questions—and much, much more—in this week’s Monday Marketing Minisode. Don’t miss it.
Bonus Features: How to treat Gingervitis.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:37] PSA: How to treat Gingervitis
[2:00] Why you should hand Facebook tax information
[2:42] What the event setup process looks like
[4:02] Facebook partner monetization policies
[5:11] But wait—there’s a catch (thanks to Apple)
[6:23] Why designers should take advantage
[7:40] How to find out if you’re eligible for monetization
[9:29] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Facebook Partner Monetization Policy
Check Monetization Eligibility
The Eligible Countries Worldwide
Facebook Partner Monetization: 100% of the proceeds go to YOU
Facebook is now offering a paid online events option as their way of providing small business owners another way to bring in income during the Coronavirus Pandemic. But there’s just ONE catch…
While Facebook is allowing small business owners to keep 100% of the money they make, Apple isn’t giving up their cut. There will be a 30% Apple Store tax if an attendee signs up through an app purchased in the Apple Store or on IOS platforms.
The only way to avoid paying that tax is for attendees to sign up via the web or on an Android device. Darla predicts that the 100% of proceeds going to small businesses will only last through the Coronavirus pandemic—so take advantage of it now.
WHY designers should give it a try
Other than getting to keep 100%* of the profit, what are the benefits? Page owners can create an online event, set the price, promote the event, collect the payment, AND host the event—all on Facebook. You can also promote your paid online event through event ads or boosting on your FB page.
Through the testing phase, small businesses are hosting: expert talks, trivia events, podcasts, cooking classes, meet and greets, and even fitness classes. Designers can throw up their own mini webinar—and keep 100% of the revenue. It’s a great opportunity to broaden your reach and diversify your income stream!
How do you find out if you’re eligible? How do you set it up? What hoops do you have to jump through? Listen to find out!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Aug 19, 2020
Wednesday Aug 19, 2020
How do you sell effectively during a pandemic? How do you remain sensitive—but also keep your business afloat? How do you sell effectively in any differing market conditions? If you want to become EPIC at sales, Laura Wright shares some actionable tips and strategies to improve your effectiveness in this episode of Wingnut Social.
Laura Wright is a master coach and the founder of EPIC At Sales. She helps her clients increase close rates—and their incomes. She has made a name for herself as the go-to ‘Sales Ninja’ for women in service-based businesses. Laura is also the author of No Woman Down: 51 Laws to Create Your EPIC Income Riseto teach women how to master the art of selling.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[3:22] Laura Wright’s background in the industry
[4:15] Why Laura is qualified to talk on sales
[6:36] Why nothing should change in your sales process
[9:22] Learn to be like toilet paper
[14:00] How to make your close rate 90% or higher
[18:12] It’s time to properly price your services
[21:13] How do you close a sale with love?
[22:40] How to pursue leads you haven’t closed
[25:46] Laura’s book: No Woman Down
[28:15] People will pay what you charge
[29:26] What up Wingnut! Round
[32:03] How to connect with Laura
[25:23] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Laura Wright
Laura’s Coaching Website
Laura’s book: No Woman Down
Connect on LinkedIn
Resources & People Mentioned
BOOK: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
BOOK: Leveraging the Universe by Mike Dooley
BOOK: You2 by Price Pritchett
Sell effectively by making your business like toilet paper
Laura has done next to nothing different with her business since the Coronavirus pandemic hit. Her business has been thriving. Her client’s businesses are thriving. While everyone else felt the ripple of the pandemic and started pivoting, she maintained and stayed strong. She notes that “When you understand your core values, you don’t actually change with the wind.” The only thing she did differently? She gave extra love and support to her clients.
How do you build a business model where you don’t have to pivot when the economy shifts? Laura says you need to learn to be like toilet paper. Yes, that’s right—toilet paper. Why? The moment the Coronavirus became widespread and quarantines were mandated, everyone ran out and bought toilet paper. You need to describe your services so that they’re so clear. People need to know where to find you and understand what your purpose is. You need to make yourself a critical service—just like toilet paper. When you effectively do that, people can’t help but purchase your work in good AND bad times.
How do you explain and portray your services as a critical need? How do you show up so that people can see you, find you, and understand how to work with you? There is always a way to adapt to sell services virtually in every industry. How can you repurpose and repackage your knowledge so that consumers can use it? The ladies discuss how interior designers can do this in detail—so keep listening.
Make your close rate 90%—or higher
Darla was once told that she should raise her rates because her close rate was 55%. That she should shoot for a higher rate at a lower close %. But Laura recommends the opposite. In fact, her close rate is pretty close to 100%. How? Simple: Don’t look for sales calls that won’t close. You want to get fewer calls at a HIGH close rate—like 90%. How do you make that happen? Laura shares the TWO things she recommends:
Know your ideal client. When you know your ideal client, it becomes a gut feeling and split-second realization that they will either buy or pass.
Prepare and pre-qualify. By the time you speak to someone, they should be ready to buy.
So you need to begin to ask yourself some questions: How are you pre-qualifying and preparing your customers to be ready to purchase before a consultation or sales call? What do you need to know about a buyer to pre-qualify them before you talk to them? What do you need to tell them to prepare them to be qualified to buy?
Laura walks through some examples, shares how she would implement pricing, and talks about how to help a buyer understand the value proposition. Better follow along!
Close a sale with LOVE
Laura likes to say “You need to close a sall with love.” What in the world does that mean? Laura believes in creating a win-win-win scenario. Working with someone should feel amazing. If you sell something to someone and you know a couple doesn’t agree on the sale, but you push it anyways—it’s going to hurt their marriage. That’s not selling with love. That is conversion and persuasion.
Laura emphasizes the necessity that the other party should benefit as much as you do and together, everyone wins. You’re helping people feel fully empowered with self-expression. You’re helping people feel lifted up by their environment. When they feel fantastic, they’re going to go into the world and do good things. You’re selling the feeling people get from the service.
Listen to the rest of the episode to hear how Laura follows-up with potential leads and shares about her new book. Don’t miss this one!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Aug 17, 2020
Monday Aug 17, 2020
It’s official, after a test-run in a few countries, Instagram Reels is officially available in 50 regions—including the US. They fast-tracked their launch because of the increased pressure Trump has placed on the sale of TikTok.
So what will come of Instagram Reels? Will they compete with TikTok, or be another Facebook flop? Only time will tell...but until then, check out this Wingnut Social Monday Marketing Minisode for all the deets on Instagram Reels!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:13] Instagram Reels has launched everywhere!
[2:33] A TikTok alternative or Facebook flop?
[3:16] What do Reels have that TikTok doesn’t?
[5:00] What does this mean for designers?
[5:35] The only downsides to Instagram Reels
[6:21] TikTok NEEDS to sell—so who’s buying?
[6:36] Instagram Reels Recap
[10:13] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Wingnut Social Episode 163
Instagram
TikTok
The benefit of Instagram Reels for Designers
The first advantage from the designer side is that you’re already used to using Instagram, so it will likely be an easier transition—or very little transition at all. Darla and Natalie outlined how to access and use Instagram Reels in episode 163, so check that out for all the technical details.
Reels allow you to record and edit a 15-second multi-clip video with music (audio provided OR your very own). You can also speed up and slow down parts of a video. If you have a public account other people can use your audio for their reel and if it’s original, it will be attributed to you. If your account is private, it will only be shared to your feed.
The only thing that distinguishes Instagram Reels from TikTok? The AR filters that are available. It’s Instagrams way of trying to reel you in and discover original content meant to entertain and inspire others. Your Reels can also be found on the explore page.
What are the only downsides of using Instagram Reels? Listen to find out!
Instagram Reels: A viable alternative to TikTok—or just a copycat?
Trump has been adamantly stating that TikTok will be banned unless they’re bought out by a US-based company. TikTok NEEDS to sell—so who’s buying? He gave contenders until September 15th to make their move or he’s pulling the plug. Microsoft and Twitter have both been rumored to be interested in the purchase.
But it would be a HUGE purchase: TikTok is valued at $50 billion. So based on the fact that Instagram is a platform you know, like, and trust—perhaps TikTok will fizzle out? On the flip-side, will Instagram Reels really compete? It’s basically a copycat of TikTok—so will it catch on? Or go down in flames?
Darla still LOVES TikTok and thinks someone will buy them out. But if you were resistant to learning yet another social media platform, Instagram Reels is the way to go. Either way, the TikTok clock is ticking down. September 15th will come quickly—and you can bet Darla and Natalie will report what happens right here!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Aug 12, 2020
Wednesday Aug 12, 2020
Are you a designer struggling to cling to a healthy mindset, unable to balance your work and home life? Do you find yourself always focusing on the negative instead of the positive things in life? You’re not alone in your struggles. Desi Creswell has been there—but has found a way out of the muck. If you’re ready to create the life you envision and NOT be overwhelmed with day-to-day operations, projects, and clients—listen to this episode of Wingnut Social.
Desi Creswell is a certified life and business coach who helps interior designers stop feeling overwhelmed. Her goal is to help them achieve next-level success with more freedom and fulfillment. She is also an award-winning interior designer. Her passion is to help designers build thriving businesses that enrich their lives as a whole.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[3:32] International Window Coverings Expo 2020
[4:47] All about Desi Creswell
[7:26] Desi’s shift from designer to coaching
[10:00] It’s time to develop a work-life vision
[11:54] Give yourself grace—because it’s a process
[13:02] Do you actually have the resources to delegate?
[15:31] How to embrace a healthy mindset
[17:48] Desi’s system: The 4 C’s (Dan Sullivan)
[20:05] Carry a healthy mindset into social media
[23:02] Can you maintain a sense of privacy and self?
[25:07] Desi shares a personal development example
[27:49] You have the right to be YOU
[30:49] What up Wingnut! Round
[33:38] Connect with Desi + FREE daily planner!
[35:00] Only dead people can’t…
[39:27] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Desi Creswell
Desi’s Website
FREE Daily Planner
Follow on Instagram
Connect on LinkedIn
The Life Coach School
Resources & People Mentioned
IWCE Expo!
Curio Electro
BOOK: The Answer to How is Yes
BOOK: Daring Greatly
BOOK: Self-Compassion
BOOK: The 4 C’s Formula
Develop a work-life vision
Desi started her career in commercial interior design and transitioned into residential design. She then made the transition to her own design firm to be more in control of her schedule and start a family. She was completely overwhelmed. It wasn’t until she hired her first coach that she could blend being an entrepreneur and a Mom. As she began to see results, she realized someone needed to provide that help to the design industry—and she wanted to be that person.
Desi now works with clients to develop a work-life vision and cultivate a healthy mindset. She asks you to think: How do business and life overlap and intertwine? How do they support each other? Once you have that vision in place, you can use it as a filter for making decisions.
But what’s your practical limit? How much time can you give to your business? What expectations are you placing on yourself? What are the priorities in your life? What are the priorities in your business? Are the things that you’re doing to contribute to those priorities, or taking them away? Desi notes that you must delegate, delete, or automate different parts of your business.
Do you take change one day at a time or give yourself a timeline? What if you aren’t in a position TO delegate? How do you learn to say no? Keep listening to hear Desi’s thoughts!
The difference between a negative mindset and a healthy mindset
We all have inherent negative mindsets—to a certain percent. You’re never going to feel happy all of the time. Desi notes that you can expect that half of your thoughts will be negative. But you have to learn to see the story that you’re telling yourself about yourself. Do you constantly find yourself saying:
“I’m never going to get it done.”
“I’m never going to have enough time.”
“I’m always behind.”
We all have certain narratives that are on repeat. We have 60,000 thoughts a day. They’re often running in the background and we don’t know they’re even there. So how do we shift those thoughts from a negative frame of mind to a healthy mindset?
Desi points out that the first step is to create awareness. Once you have awareness, you can begin to catch those negative thoughts. Our thoughts create a feeling that drives action and produces results. Ask yourself: What are the beliefs I want to adopt that would produce a better result?
Desi also notes that you have to keep Dan Sullivan’s 4 C’s in your mind:
Courage: You have to have the courage to do something different.
Commitment: You need the commitment to be willing to do it no matter what.
Capability: You develop the capability and from there you develop confidence.
Confidence: You don’t need to have the confidence to take action—just the courage to get started. Confidence does not have to be because of an external circumstance.
How do you continually embrace a confident and healthy mindset and carry it over to social media? How do you maintain a sense of privacy and/or self? Listen to the whole episode to benefit from Desi’s wealth of knowledge on building a healthy mindset!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Aug 10, 2020
Monday Aug 10, 2020
YouTube will now allow shorter videos to be eligible for mid-roll ads! As of July 2020, YouTube will automatically add mid-roll ads to videos 8 minutes or longer. Before this change, YouTube only allowed mid-roll ads on 10-minute videos. Why are they making the shift?
There’s some speculation that they’re doing so because advertising rates on YouTube have dropped by nearly 50% since February—even though viewership increased during COVID-19 lockdowns. YouTube is likely trying to increase ads to boost their lost revenue. Learn more about what the change means for you in this Monday Marketing Minisode!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:52] Natalie had the BEST time of her life
[2:05] YouTube Mid-Roll Ads explained
[4:01] Generate revenue with YouTube videos
[5:26] Why YouTube is making the shift
[6:53] Newsworthy mentions
[8:06] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
YouTube
YouTube mid-roll ads explained
When you upload a video that is 8 minutes or longer, you have the option of manually placing the mid-roll ads or having YouTube automatically place them. But if you aren’t happy with where they’re dropped, you have the freedom to move them around. Don’t want ads on your videos? No problem. You always have the option to turn off mid-roll ads if you feel it won’t be appropriate in your video content. You can set it so that any video 8 minutes or longer get an ad OR turn midroll ads off and on for each individual video.
Even better, YouTube is essentially paying YOU to run those ads. You simply need at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours on your channel to monetize your videos. Thanks to YouTube’s update, you can exercise monetization options even if your YouTube video is shorter than 10 minutes. So if you have the required subscribers and watch hours—cha-ching.
Why the change of heart?
As mentioned earlier, YouTube has seen decreasing numbers of ads on their platform as businesses have scaled back on their marketing dollars. Secondly—as more platforms like Instagram and TikTok are starting to add monetization options—YouTube may be trying to ensure that their creators stay on their platform.
Previously, to generate revenue, creators were forced to produce longer videos—whether or not they had enough content to support it. By reducing the timeframe to 8 minutes, content creators are under less pressure to stretch out their content. This makes it easier for designers to meet the minimum mid-roll ad requirements and grow their audience.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Aug 05, 2020
Wednesday Aug 05, 2020
Your PR approach is more important now than ever. With the impact of the Coronavirus, the Black Lives Matter movement, and the upcoming elections—the world is in turmoil. Designers MUST pivot and take a moment to craft their PR approach to be sensitive to the world around them. In this episode of Wingnut Social, Courtney Pisarik joins Darla and Natalie to talk shop about her firm's PR approach mid-pandemic.
Courtney Pisarik is the founder and owner of Ink PR, which is a boutique public relations firm specializing in communications for interior designers and other home professionals. After a storied career in lifestyle and entertainment, she made the shift from the lifestyle industry to focus solely on interior design. She’s never been more focused, successful, and happy. Listen to hear her story!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[2:38] Miami is the #1 COVID hot spot
[3:59] Courtney Pisarik of INK PR Group
[6:04] What made Courtney focus on design professionals?
[7:56] The PR world has expanded exponentially
[10:51] How the economic crisis is impacting the PR world
[13:43] Adapting to the changes the business has implemented
[14:51] How have pitches must pivot to accommodate the current reality
[17:29] Interior Designers: How to pivot your approach on a DIY level
[21:03] Virtual events and webinars: will they stick around?
[27:53] What up Wingnut! Round
[31:17] Supply is so limited right now
[35:44] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Courtney Pisarik
Follow on Twitter
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Instagram
The Comm Collective on LinkedIn
The Comm Collective Website
Resources & People Mentioned
Ink Public Relations & Marketing
Ink PR Group on Instagram
High Point Market
Genevieve Trousdale
Timothy Corrigan
BOOK: Hotel Pastis
How to pivot your PR approach on a DIY level
Everyone is in the process of adapting. Courtney points out that her firm learned quickly that they had to pivot and pitch things that were relative to the news cycle. She emphasizes that you have to stay in touch with what’s happening in the world around you. Above all, she notes that you need to remember the power of human connection: “We’ve all learned our currency and our value is in our relationships with our friends and our media.” They are the #1 priority for Courtney and her team.
With that in mind, how do you pivot your PR approach? How do you connect with editors and magazines on a different level to get your work out there? Courtney recommends taking the time to do some basic research. What does the magazine cover? What is their aesthetic? Learn about the editor—where do they live? Do they love dogs? Do they drink coffee? Take a minute to be a human being. How would you interact with them if you were introduced in person? Find a way to cultivate that connection.
She points out that you can even review their social media channels and see what they’re passionate about. Take the time to read their previous writing or articles and reference them in your communication. It will change the conversation. At the end of the day, we are all human beings and want to be appreciated and recognized for what we do. PR teams are really salespeople. Courtney points out that they’re trying to sell the messaging and the imagery that we have. The fact of the matter is that you need to know your product and know your buyer.
It’s time to include webinars and virtual events in your PR approach
How else do you need to pivot your PR approach? Do webinars and virtual events have a place when it comes to PR? Courtney agrees with Darla and Natale—virtual events are here to stay. Courtney's firm is constantly producing programming for clients and brands and attending webinars herself. She’s doing Instagram takeovers, setting up panels, and even has some webinars in the works leading up to High Point.
Courtney is working with a designer—Genevieve Trousdale—who will be launching an online portal resource for interior designers. They’ll be invited to share their resources to connect on a granular level and work as a team. Her firm has focused almost completely on webinars leading up to the launch.
They've also been hosting a webinar series called “Save our Suppliers”. The goal was to connect designers desperate to shop with brands looking to get in front of designers. Makes get on the webinar and share their new products and when they can get it out. This was a great way to break down some doors during the pandemic.
On top of everything already on Courtney’s plate, she’s also co-formed another webinar called ‘The Comm Collective’ with programming every week. They come together to discuss issues happening in the industry and take turns producing their own programs. They’ve invited editors from House Beautiful and Good Housekeeping to moderate the conversations.
The long and short of it? Video, webinars, and all things virtual isn’t going anywhere. It’s here to stay. To hear all of Courtney’s ideas and recommendations for tailoring your PR approach, listen to the whole episode!
The Comm Collective hosts a webinar every Thursday at 4pm est and anyone is invited to join!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor
Article Modern Furniture
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Aug 03, 2020
Monday Aug 03, 2020
Facebook created Messenger Rooms in April as an answer to Zoom who had more than quadrupled their users during the Coronavirus pandemic. The FREE Messenger Rooms have done so well that they’ve dug into Zoom’s market share—and even lowered their stock price.
Now, Facebook is implementing a NEW feature into Messenger Rooms: The ability to go Live. This gives designers diverse alternatives and makes it more possible for large audiences (up to 50 people) to tune in and watch group video calls in real-time.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:16] NEW: Facebook Messenger Room Livestream
[2:23] How do you go Live from Messenger Rooms?
[2:57] How is this different from a normal Live?
[5:16] What this feature means for designers
[6:22] What Facebook has up its sleeves
[8:38] Darla’s solo Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Facebook Portal
Facebook Messenger Rooms
WhatsApp
Instagram
Going Live in Messenger Rooms
You can create a room from Facebook or Messenger Web and invite anyone to join—even if they don’t have a Facebook account. Viewers can join from their computer, phone, or tablet. You can broadcast that you’re going live to a profile, page, or group.
You have control over where the room is shared, who can see it, and who can join. You can even add or remove participants from the room or as Darla put it—“Be your own bouncer.” How is this different from a normal Live? Can Facebook access the audio or video? Listen to find out!
What the Live feature in FB Messenger Rooms means for designers
If you can go Live with groups up to 50 in messenger rooms—for free—hello! That means designers can create webinars, host events with multiple guests or panels, share presentations, or launch courses right through Messenger Rooms. You can control who’s invited and who can see the Live.
It can be a way to create a weekly or monthly VIP group for followers. They can participate, ask questions, and interact with you “face-to-face.” It’s great for networking. It can help you gain traction before moving on to paid platforms or before announcing a paid webinar.
Facebook is building a serious connective infrastructure to help YOU build your empire. Give it a go, invite some people, see how it works out. What else does Facebook have up its sleeves? Find out by listening to the whole Monday Marketing Minisode!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Jul 29, 2020
Wednesday Jul 29, 2020
How do you resonate with your audience during times of crisis? How do you create meaningful and progressive changes in the content you provide? Where is the future of design heading? In this episode of Wingnut Social, the Editor-in-Chief of Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine—Pamela Jaccarino—joins Darla and Natalie to talk about how to communicate with your audience, ways the magazine has pivoted in response to recent times, and the future of the design industry.
Pamela Jaccarino is the founding Editor-in-Chief of Luxe Interiors + Design Magazine, the largest residential architecture and design brand in the country. She’s been in the position for 15 years and has been instrumental in the growth of the brand. She continues to champion its fresh vision and evolution. Don’t miss this educational and evocative episode!
“If you want to be successful at anything that you do—no matter what it is—it’s always a challenge. There's always a mountain or a hill in front of you if you’re out for excellence.” — Pamela Jaccarino
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[5:21] Today’s guest is the Editor-in-Chief of Luxe
[6:10] Speaking to their audience during trying times
[9:25] How Luxe made some pivots in 2020
[14:25] The types of projects Luxe looks for in their pieces
[19:07] Luxe Connects—a B2B resource
[22:39] Has the Coronavirus impacted advertising?
[25:05] How to pitch a project to a magazine
[27:20] What up Wingnut round!
[31:13] Mercury...is in Retrograde
[34:05] Bubble-gum Blooper Reel!
Connect with Pamela Jaccarino
Follow on Instagram
Connect on LinkedIn
Resources & People Mentioned
Luxe Interiors + Design
DesignTV by Sandow
Curio Electro
BOOK: Anne of Green Gables
BOOK: American Dirt
Resonate with your audience during times of crisis
Luxe puts out 75 different publications across 14 regions in the country. It’s a big design machine. With the recent Black Lives Matter movement at the forefront of the world’s attention, Pamela points out that they felt it was important to listen and do better. She states that they’re “Ensuring that we have diverse voices through the pages of our magazine and in all of our platforms.”
There is not enough diversity in high-end regional design. But it’s something Luxe has committed to for the long haul—they want to strive for meaningful change. They have a plan in place to ensure the changes they make are sustainable. The publication already gives voice to so many artisans, designers, and architects. They want to dig deep and look further for diversity because it enriches everything. Pamela emphasizes that all leaders in design should be doing this.
It’s incredibly important to be sensitive and aware of what’s going on in the world—and how it impacts your audience. Listen to hear what types of projects Luxe looks for in their pieces and the different modes of communication they employ to resonate with their audience. Pamela also shares upcoming design trends and changes she sees happening in the industry.
Luxe Connects—a B2B resource
The great recession in 2008/2009 was an incredibly challenging time for everyone, including design professionals. Luxe has a lot of regional advertisers that partner with them and they wanted a way to communicate and facilitate conversations. They initiated the Luxe Connects program in 2008 and never looked back. They now host 50–60 Luxe Connects across the country.
They continued to host these virtually during the Coronavirus crisis. It not only facilitated necessary dialogue between businesses but gave Luxe a true birds-eye view of what is happening in the luxury residential design sector. Pamela believes we will see a post-COVID change in architecture and design to better reflect situations where families are working and living in their homes 24/7. There is a lot of movement happening in the design world.
Through these conversations with their partners, they’ve learned that businesses continue to feel the need to market and advertise, as well as stay connected and get their message out there. Designers’ pipelines are staying full. Overall, Luxe launched Connects because they desire to be a brand that’s there to serve their partner’s needs in any way that they can.
Want more information on Luxe Connects? Reach out and connect with a regional publisher!
Listen to the whole episode to hear Pamela share how to properly pitch a project to Luxe—or any magazine. Luxe continues to be a mover and shaker in the design industry. Listen to this episode for some unique insight from their editor-in-chief!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor
Article Modern Furniture
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Monday Jul 27, 2020
Monday Jul 27, 2020
Your Pinterest feed will NEVER be the same! Why? Because Pinterest has updated its algorithm to make room for new content—and creators. Pinterest has introduced a real-time ranking system for your home feed called controllable distribution.
They’ll be able to balance the types of content that will be shown in a pinner’s home feed. Why are they changing it? What will your Pinterest feed look like? Give this Monday Marketing Minisode a listen to find out! Plus, you’ll find out whether or not Darla can make it a week without talking about TikTok...
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:38] All about your Pinterest Feed
[1:57] Why are they changing it?
[2:44] The content will be based on a percentage
[4:42] What does this mean for designers?
[6:05] Blocking inappropriate content from your feed
[6:54] Today’s big Pinterest takeaway
[8:53] The ever-amusing blooper reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Pinterest
Bringing NEW content to your Pinterest Feed
Pinterest doesn’t want your feed to be stale. Secondly, they want to expose you to new content that you typically wouldn’t be exposed to. Part of the algorithm update is in response to the Black Lives Matter movement to give wonderful creators their fair share of visibility.
Now they’ll slide some things into your home page they think you might like. If Pinterest decides they want to add 4% more video content to your feed, the controlled distribution algorithm will automatically be able to achieve distribution while still respecting your content preference.
But the algorithm isn’t changing completely. It’s only applied after the traditional home feed ranking algorithm. So it’s an added layer to help expose you to new creators and new content. Pinterest used to rely on engagement data to drive it’s pin recommendations. But they must evolve. In the words of Neil Armstrong, “That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
What should designers include in their Pinterest content strategy?
Pinterest is trying to attract more creators to the platform. So designers need to keep more content flowing in the form of creating original pins—including video. They haven’t outright stated they’re prioritizing video, but it’s the under-the-table vibe Darla and Natalie are getting.
Video usually gets more engagement, likes, and comments, so it’s worth the investment.
Social media platforms have been making a TON of updates lately. But Darla and Natalie point out it’s their job to stay on top of algorithm changes—and keep their listeners in the loop. It is pretty good job security!
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com
Wednesday Jul 22, 2020
Wednesday Jul 22, 2020
How do we negotiate the logistics of creating a virtual workplace? Can your design firm work remotely permanently? Are the cost savings worth it? Do you even want to go back to working in an office setting? If any of these questions are swirling around in your head, Chad James joins Darla and Natalie to dissect the topic. Don’t miss this episode of the Wingnut Social podcast!
Chad James has been in the design industry for 23+ years. He leads a talented team of trusted designers in creating a uniquely tailored experience to each client they serve—centered on a meticulous approach to quality and design. They work to create custom residential and commercial construction including boutique hotels, refined restaurants, and beautiful homes.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:33] Natalie’s Birthday present just happens to be...
[4:59] Chad James shares the pros and cons of going virtual
[7:01] Focus on creating some sense of normalcy
[9:04] Using Microsoft Teams to ease the transition
[15:34] Moving back into the office full-time
[16:56] The pros and cons of each option
[21:09] How to get a hold of samples in a virtual workplace
[23:32] Operating virtually and managing a team
[29:06] Should designers move to a virtual workplace?
[31:35] Something that surprised Chad when working virtually
[34:11] The importance of establishing personal connections with your team
[37:08] The What Up Wingnut Round!
[40:44] How to connect with the Chad James Group
[44:41] Can’t-miss blooper reel!
Connect with Chad James
Chad James Website
Chad James Group on Instagram
Chad James Group on Facebook
Resources & People Mentioned
Textbook: Professional Practice for Interior Designers
Microsoft Teams
How Microsoft Teams eased the transition into a Virtual Workplace
Nashville had a large influx of cases early on in the Coronavirus pandemic. This led Chad and his team to decide to shift to a virtual workplace. But how did they do it? How did they move their office home and make it a smooth transition? Chad notes that Microsoft Teams was the platform his team brought to the table. Chad was hesitant to use it—because he’s a loyal Apple guy—but they ended up loving it.
Plus, it opened up a new realm of possibility for his clients. He’s able to share drawings, proposals, and screenshots while still being able to see their reactions over video. Chad admits that he’s an old dog when it comes to technology and he doesn’t like to learn new tricks but Microsoft Teams is user-friendly and easy to maneuver.
Since his team has moved back to the office they’ve continued to use the platform for inner-office communication as well as client communication. What started as something that would ease the transition into a virtual workplace become a staple for their office.
Weigh the move to a virtual workplace carefully
Chad learned early on in his career that he needed separation of work and home life. Not only that, but he prefers to be in an office interacting with people and building on the relationships he’s formed. If you’re contemplating completely moving your team to a virtual workplace he notes that you have to decide what’s most important for your creativity and business mindset.
For his business, that means moving back into the workplace, while embracing a few of the things that made the virtual workplace manageable for them, such as Microsoft Teams. But you have to consider what’s best for the functionality of your team. Chad notes that the Chad James Group is “About the relationship and the feeling and the experience more than just the day-to-day design.”
Managing and operating a virtual workplace
Operating and managing a virtual workplace can be an easy shift—depending on how much you trust your team. Chad points out that he has a director of operations that is the glue that holds everything together. He knows Chad’s schedule better than he does. As a creative, Chad can get a bit overwhelmed if he looks too far into the future. Having a Director of Operations helped ground him in the day-to-day and take everything a moment at a time.
One of Chad’s biggest concerns, when they shifted to a virtual workplace, was the eventual transition back into the office. He didn’t want his team to develop poor habits while working from home. So from the very beginning, they had a morning Microsoft Teams call where he saw everyone dressed with hair and makeup done—showered and prepared as though they were going to the office.
One of Darla’s favorite phrases is “How you do anything is how you do everything.” and this is an example of that. Getting up and getting ready for the day puts you in a mind-space where you’re ready to actually work and not be lackadaisical and comfortable.
Create a place of transparency for your team
When Chad’s Dad passed away a few years ago, he realized he needed to be very purposeful with the remaining years of his life. He chose to be purposeful about his intentions and how his team, company, and clients saw him. When his team transitioned into a virtual workplace he knew it was important to continue to foster an environment where everyone talked openly and honestly about how they were dealing with their emotions.
He points out that as a business owner, there will always be things that you keep in your side pocket and deal out when it needs to be dealt. This time wasn’t just about business, but about each other. It’s so easy when you’re not working in an office to become detached and distant and to lose the human connection.
Chad points out that you don’t want to hear that someone on your team experienced a hurt or loss and you didn’t know about it. He emphasizes how important it is that you remain connected and talk through emotions with your team.
Connect With Darla & Wingnut Social
www.WingnutSocial.com
On Facebook
On Twitter: @WingnutSocial
On Instagram: @WingnutSocial
Darla’s Interior Design Website
Check out the Wingnut Social Media Lab Facebook Group!
1-877-WINGNUT (connect with us for your social media marketing needs)
Wingnut Social Podcast Sponsor
Article Modern Furniture
Subscribe to The Wingnut Social Podcast on iTunes, Google Podcasts, or TuneIn
Audio Production and Show notes byPODCAST FAST TRACKhttps://www.podcastfasttrack.com