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 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
Monday Jul 20, 2020
Monday Jul 20, 2020
Your Instagram Comments Section is Getting a MAJOR Upgrade - Episode 156
Instagram is rolling out yet another new feature that allows you to—drumroll please—PIN your favorite Instagram comments to the top of your thread! Do you want to put a superfan’s comment in the spotlight? Or move negative comments further down your feed? Now you can! In this Wingnut Social Monday Marketing Minisode, Darla and Natalie share how to pin Instagram comments—and why a designer would want to.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:36] WHY are they doing a podcast at 5 am?
[1:36] You can now PIN your Instagram comments
[4:58] Instagram is implementing anti-bullying measures
[6:25] The commenter will get notified of the pin
[6:45] How do you actually pin the comment?
[7:03] What does this mean for designers?
[9:07] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Instagram
WHY the Instagram comments feature is all the rage
If you have a post on Instagram that’s performing well and a superfan posts an excited and cheery comment, you want to promote it. Now, you can! To do so, you simply swipe left on the comment and click the pin icon and voilà! It will pin the Instagram comment to the top of the thread.
It will be the first comment people see and serve to create excitement and buzz around the post. PLUS the commenter will get notified that you were so enthralled by their comment that you boosted it to the top of your thread. YouTube has embraced the pinned comments feature since 2016, so it was about time Instagram stepped up to the plate.
This can even be a GREAT marketing tool for designers. How? Listen to the minisode to find out!
Clean up your Instagram comments
Even better—you’re allowed to pin up to THREE comments to the top of your thread. Why is this so important? It allows you to push negative comments—that you may not want to delete—further down and out of sight. So users can still see how you handle negative comments from a customer service point of view, but all of the focus and emphasis is on the positive comments.
Natalie shares that Facebook and Instagram took 1.5 million pieces of content off the platform in the 4th quarter of 2019 and the 1st quarter of 2020 because of bullying and harassment violations. Instagram is going to add more anti-bullying measures to protect their users and encourage a positive environment. Pinning Instagram comments to the top of your thread means YOU have the power to control the environment of your account.
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 15, 2020
Wednesday Jul 15, 2020
There is a severe and noted underrepresentation of Black artists and designers in the design industry. Issues of cultural misappropriation are coupled with a lack of historical and cultural awareness—and it needs to change. Malene Barnett sought to bring about change when she founded the Black Artists + Designers Guild (BADG) in 2018, with a mission to “Build a more equitable and inclusive creative culture by advancing a community of independent Black artists, makers, and designers in creative industries.”
Malene Barnett is an artist based in Brooklyn, NY. She founded the Black Artist + Designer’s Guild to combat a lack of representation of Black talent and culture in the design industry. It is a global platform seeking to represent a curated collection of independent Black artists, makers, and designers at the top of their game.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:25] Natalie’s TikTok themed dreams
[3:30] Malene Barnett’s background in art + design
[5:50] Bringing issues of inequality to the forefront
[9:05] Had Malene seen improvement with the movement?
[10:55] The biggest challenge was getting support and people behind it
[12:27] What is the selection process like for designers who want to join?
[15:14] What does demolishing and rebuilding look like in education?
[16:34] Credit must be given to the originators
[18:20] Steps to take to support change (+ design reform)
[21:40] Cultural misappropriation in the design world
[24:06] What the mission and vision of the Black Artists + Design Guild
[26:53] What up Wingnut! Round
[29:02] How to connect with Malene Barnett
[32:26] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Malene Barnett
Black Artists + Designers Guild
BADG on Instagram
Malene’s Design Website
Malene on Instagram
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Twitter
Resources & People Mentioned
BOOK: I’m Not Done Yet by Dr. Cynthia Barnett
BOOK: White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo
BOOK: Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad
What’s New What’s Next
Fabricut
Made Goods
Vaughan Lighting
De Le Cuona
Elle Decor
House Beautiful
Luxe Magazine
Business of Home
Architectural Digest
The biggest challenges the movement faces
When Malene founded BADG the support she garnished was very minimal. People would say, “Oh, that’s a nice gesture” but weren’t truly supporting her vision. ButMalene didn’t ask anybody for anything. She points out that most Black-owned businesses don’t have access to loans or family members who can invest in them. They’ve always relied on their community to support them. That’s why there needs to be more support from the design industry.
With the recent movement brought to the forefront, Malene is seeing large companies reach out to develop long-term partnerships. It’s a step in the right direction. But there still needs to be significant improvement. Malene emphasizes that systems need to be demolished. This awareness of social justice and equality isn’t new. The uproars have happened over time. Malene notes that it’s a constant battle: “We’ve always been fighting for the right to just be and be human.”
There’s a lot of work that has to be done. Malene shares how the design industry is one of the least transparent industries—keep listening to hear why.
Design education needs to be demolished and rebuilt
Malene firmly believes that the whole design education system needs to be rebuilt. She points out that if you go to school for design, you’re usually being taught from the European perspective. Students are being fed the lie that modern design is European—but it isn’t. Modern design is of African descent.
Malene uses Picasso as an example. He is credited with being one of the most influential artists of the 20th century—but much of his work isn’t truly his. He spent time in West Africa studying Yoruba sculptures. He was given the credit for the movement, but the basis of his art was Yoruba art.
“We need to rewrite this narrative and give the credit to the originators of creativity and design and start leading with the indigenous voices—with the Black voices—and then talk about how these principles have been influenced in a particular person's practice versus the other way around.”
Designers must educate themselves on Black culture and design. Malene points out that designers are using Kuba cloth from the Congo and Mud Cloth from Mali in their design as decorative items. This is cultural misappropriation. If Malene were to use it in her design, she’d be labeled as being “too ethnic”. “Ethnic” in and of itself is the wrong word to use. Malene points out that it has been used as a label for anything that’s non-white—and she refuses to accept that.
Malene emphasizes that “This industry has been using black culture so much when it comes to design but yet not giving the credit to the people, to the community, to the culture—and all of that has to change.”
Combating racism and underrepresentation begins with personal change
Malene asks, “How uncomfortable do you want to get? How much are you willing to give up?” She notes that supporting the movement is about going deeper and starting with working on yourself. It will require asking difficult questions and a willingness to be uncomfortable.
Decolonize yourself, read books and articles, attend events—learn about your industry. Take a good hard look at difficult topics such as redlining, the division of neighborhoods, and the homeownership disparity. Then you branch out and educate your friends and your family.
What steps can you take to support BADG and Black Lives Matter? How can the design industry push for the necessary change and reform? Where can you learn more? Listen to this episode for more information and an eye-opening design education you've probably never gotten.
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 13, 2020
Monday Jul 13, 2020
Instagram has stepped up to the challenge and has started rolling out its new feature—Instagram Reels. So where has it been rolled out? How will it function? Can it truly compete with THE fastest growing social media app in existence? What does it mean for designers? Darla and Natalie share all the twists and turns in the Instagram vs. TikTok saga in this Monday Marketing Minisode. Don’t miss it!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:35] Breaking News: India bans TikTok
[2:17] Instagram launches Instagram Reels
[4:20] Instagram Reels will have the same features
[5:20] Why is this rollout so important?
[6:49] How do you use Reels on Instagram?
[9:46] What does this mean for designers?
[11:47] Darla still LOVES TikTok...
[12:44] Mydoma studios upcoming seminar
[15:35] The infamous Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
Instagram Reels
Mydoma 19H Blueprint
Why now is THE perfect time for Instagram to launch Reels
According to Forbes, Apple caught the TikTok app spying on millions of iPhone users. Because of this (among other alleged security flaws), it was JUST announced that India has banned the use of TikTok. Despite it all, TikTok remains one of the most popular platforms. It generated the most downloads of an app ever in one quarter. But the potential security issues have many experts questioning the safety of using the app.
This is why the launch of Instagram’s Reels feature is perfectly timed. They wanted a piece of the TikTok market—now they just might get it. They’ve already started rolling out the feature in places where TikTok never gained traction: Brazil, Germany, France, and—the real kicker—India. Because of the worldwide familiarity with Instagram and a growing sense of distrust of TikTok, this new feature may gain traction quickly.
Darla and Natalie don’t know when Instagram Reels will be available in the US but you can bet Wingnut Social followers will be among the first to find out!
Will Instagram Reels have similar functionality to TikTok?
Instagram Reels allow you to create engaging video content—similar to TikTok—on your stories. The Reels will be a new mode in the Stories camera menu (the icon looks like a small video). Users can record 15-second clips, choose from a huge library of music, or even record their own voice-overs or soundtracks. You get to control the length of the video, choose a thumbnail for it, and use different effects and AR filters.
You can save it as a draft, send it to friends, and share and add it to your Instagram profile. Instagram is even adding a brand new discovery section on Instagram Explore: ‘Top Reels’, where the best-performing public Reels have the chance to go viral. Natalie points out that Instagram doesn’t do anything halfway, so they fully expect that this new feature will compete with TikTok.
So what does this mean for designers? Will it save you from having to learn another social media platform? Will Darla still be using TikTok? Tune in to this Monday Marketing Minisode 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 Jul 08, 2020
Wednesday Jul 08, 2020
Have you thought about diving into the world of product design? Do you have brilliant design ideas floating around in your head that you want brought to life? Or perhaps you’re searching for particular pieces that can’t be found in the market. Tyler Hill’s journey into product design started because he couldn’t find the sconces he envisioned—so he designed them himself. Listen to this episode to hear his unique story!
Tyler is the co-founder of Mitchell Hill, an interior design firm—and art gallery—based in Charleston, SC. His travels, life experiences, and numerous educational endeavors have contributed to his keen eye for interior design. Tyler is particularly talented in lighting and furniture design which allows Mitchell Hill to deliver an exceptionally customized experience for their clients.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[3:34] Tyler Hill’s background in design
[4:47] Tyler’s process: how he got into product design
[9:04] How did he find a manufacturer?
[11:03] How to get over a creative block
[12:53] Margins and pricing for custom lighting
[16:45] From product design to licensing
[18:03] How important is networking?
[19:25] Mock-ups for the non-techie designer
[21:26] How to get into product design
[23:00] All about Tyler’s upcoming collection: Transparent
[26:01] What up Wingnut Round!
[28:02] Where to connect with Tyler
[31:04] Can’t-miss Blooper Reel!
Connect with Tyler Hill
Mitchell Hill Interiors
Connect on LinkedIn
Tyler on Instagram
Mitchell Hill on Instagram
Resources & People Mentioned
Darla and Natalie Were Guests on this Podcast!
BOOK: The Ride of a Lifetime
Architectural Digest
House Beautiful
Adobe Illustrator
SketchUp
Avrett Lighting
Grafton Furniture
Tyler’s product design process
When Tyler was in the market for a sconce for his home, he couldn’t find anything that fit his vision for the space. So he decided to sketch a design, and then he sketched some more—and realized he loved doing it. So he started to build a portfolio and began to show it to clients. Everyone wants their home individualized and unique, so he began creating pieces for his interior design clients. He found a local manufacturer to produce his lighting and he eventually expanded into chandeliers, flush mounts, etc.
As far as the creative process goes, Tyler notes that he will often wake up in the middle of the night feeling inspired. Or he’ll pull inspiration from Pinterest or Instagram images. He may take a walk or take inspirational photos while traveling. The bottom line is that you can find inspiration everywhere. Once Tyler has an idea, he typically starts with a simple hand sketch. Once he’s done the drawings he imports it into his software program (SketchUp) and does realistic renderings in Adobe Illustrator.
Keep listening to hear how Tyler found a manufacturer to produce his designs, how he prices his lighting—and even how to overcome creative blocks.
How to get into product design and licensing
According to Tyler, if someone wants to get into licensing, the best thing you can do is get some pieces made and photographed. As you start building a portfolio of design work, you also need to start building your credibility in the media. Why? Because networking and visibility is a big piece of the pie. You need to become an influencer. Even doing panels at markets will begin to build relationships with other designers.
He emphasizes that you need to get yourself out there and tell your story—that’s what people want to hear. They want to see where you’re coming from, what’s going through your head as you’re designing, where you’re getting your inspiration, and where you’re heading next.
Above all else, if you’re passionate about product design you must be patient. Landing a deal requires focus, perseverance, and confidence in yourself that you can make it happen. Tyler also dishes the details of his upcoming collection, ‘Transparent’, in this episode—don’t miss it!
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 06, 2020
Monday Jul 06, 2020
Do promoted pins really get you the best bang for your buck? Or are you throwing money down the drain? In this Wingnut Social remix, Shana Heinricy—Wingnut Social’s Director of Social Media—talks about boosting Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest posts. She shares TWO great strategies to promote your content and what to budget for it. Listen again—you’ll see this topic in a whole new light.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:38] Why you NEED to boost your posts
[2:41] Boosting a post? The algorithm applies.
[3:22] Promoted pins: strategy #1
[4:40] Promoted pins: strategy #2
[5:11] Targeting your audience 101
[8:40] What applies to Pinterest?
[9:20] How to budget for boosted posts
Resources & People Mentioned
Facebook Ads Manager
Follow Shana on Twitter
Connect on LinkedIn
Budgeting for your Pinterest pins
Wasting your time and money on follow/unfollow tactics or even buying followers will result in a whole lot of spam. What should you do instead? You can take the same money you’d spend on those services and use it on promoted pins. You’re not buying a set amount of impressions. You’re adding a budget—and depending on your post performance—they’re going to show it to a certain number of people. But these would be people that want to follow you and are interested in what you’re doing. It will get you better results—for the same amount of money.
So how much money does Shana recommend spending? She points out that you can do really well if you implement a $300 monthly budget for promoted pins. But even $20 or $50 should bring you some progress. You should see account growth, more followers, and increased engagement on promoted pins AND other content. It is one of THE best tactics to grow your audience.
Promoted Pins on Pinterest: What’s the big deal?
Just like boosting posts on Instagram or Facebook, promoting pins on Pinterest is all about increasing engagement. Pinterest is typically focused on evergreen content surrounding life’s moments. So think about things like weddings, moving into college, someone’s first child, or being an empty-nester. Create your content to target those life events and, of course, relate them back to interior design.
Another type of post that does really well on Pinterest? Infographics. Shana recommends putting together infographics full of useful information and trying to focus on promoting those pins. Lastly, you want to promote pins that are already performing well for you. The bottom line? Promoted pins can be a game-changer when done right. Listen to this minisode for all the details!
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
![How to Master your Money Mindset [And STOP Struggling] with Nancy Levin](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/ep-logo/pbblog3132020/ws_160_square-min_300x300.png){kind=logo}
Wednesday Jul 01, 2020
Wednesday Jul 01, 2020
Do you struggle with ‘money mindset’ issues? Do you find it difficult to charge what your time is worth? Do you feel like you’re over-priced? If you’re an over-giver, overachiever, or a type-A personality, you have likely spent your life determining your sense of value and worth by what you do for other people, what you achieve, and what you produce.
But you must learn to recognize that your value and worth is inherent in who you are—not what you do. In this episode of Wingnut Social, Darla and Natalie chat with Nancy Levin about how to overcome negative money mindsets and transform your outlook on your self-worth to embrace the success you deserve.
Nancy Levin is a master coach and best-selling author of multiple books, including Darla’s recent read: Worthy: Boost Your Self-Worth to Grow Your Net Worth and her newest book: Setting Boundaries Will Set You Free. Nancy was the Event Director at Hay House Inc. for 10+ years and now runs Levin Live Coach Academy. This episode is packed full of insight and powerful thoughts on mastering your money mindset.
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[1:26] Natalie’s relationship with the Peloton bike
[4:36] Nancy Levin’s background and expertise in mindset
[8:08] Why do we always put others ahead of ourselves?
[9:39] Signs that you have a money mindset problem
[13:12] Fine-tune processes, get clarity, and stand in your self-worth
[15:28] How do you begin to start setting up boundaries?
[22:36] Setting boundaries will bring you freedom
[24:26] Exercises and/or resources that Nancy offers
[25:37] Advice: how a designer should value their services
[28:23] Do issues of worth impact men in the same way?
[30:11] What up Wingnut! Round
[32:07] It’s time to create some boundaries
[41:19] Blooper Reel!
Connect with Nancy Levin
BOOK: Worthy: Boost Your Self-Worth to Grow Your Net Worth
BOOK: Setting Boundaries Will Set You Free
Follow on Twitter
Connect on LinkedIn
Follow on Facebook
Nancy’s Website
Levin Life Coach Academy
Resources & People Mentioned
BOOK: The Dark Side of the Light Chasers
Signs that YOU have a money mindset problem
Nancy points out that the first key to recognizing you have a money mindset problem, is to recognize when resentment is rising within you. Often, it starts creeping in when you say ‘yes’ when you should’ve said ‘no’. One easy way to learn to say no is by building some space in between the request coming in and your knee-jerk ‘yes’. You must also recognize what mindset is motivating that immediate ‘yes’ response:
“I don’t want someone to be angry.”
“I don’t want them to be mad or disappointed.”
“I feel obligated.”
“I want to show up as the hero.”
“I want to be loved or liked.”
If any of those motivations resonate with you, you’re not alone. You have to build in the space to assess what’s true for you. If you can’t say no right off the bat, say “I will get back to you tomorrow”. A yes should only be about desire. It shouldn't be about all of the other factors. Nancy shares that it’s an illusion that we have control over anyone's emotions anyways. We are not responsible for someone’s response to our truth. Recognize that someone else’s urgency doesn’t have to be yours.
Overcome the struggle: adapt your money mindset by setting boundaries
Most women are never really taught that it’s okay to set boundaries. Because of this, Nancy believes that “We end up tolerating the intolerable and accepting the unacceptable.” Boundaries are the limits we set personally about we will or will not do—but we aren’t taught that it’s okay to stand by it. “Be seen and not heard” and staying small and invisible is what is ingrained into us. So how should you start setting boundaries?
Nancy notes that it starts with clarity. You must understand that you’re not here to serve everyone. When you’re clear on your ideal client and on the value of your own time and skills, that’s when someone else can value them and your money mindset begins to shift. Stand in your self-worth. KNOW what you offer. If you waiver, it leaves the door open for someone to devalue you.
Practically speaking, Nancy implores to be clear on dates, deadlines, and deliverables. Let your client know when and how you’ll communicate. Clearly outline and define what you do and how you do it. The biggest myth that Nancy busts around boundaries is that other people cross our boundaries. If boundaries are being crossed, you’re the one crossing it. It’s not up to anyone else to uphold your boundaries—it’s up to you.
So how do you ensure you don’t return to your old habits? What are some practical step-by-step exercises or resources you can use to grow and evolve? How do you continue to stand your ground and change your money mindset? Nancy answers these questions and so much more in this episode. If you’re ready to begin transforming your money mindset, be sure to listen.
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 Jun 29, 2020
Monday Jun 29, 2020
If you listened to last week's episode, you know that Darla is FIRED UP about TikTok (it may or may not have taken over her life). They talked about why you should jump on the TikTok bandwagon before it’s completely saturated. This episode has become part two of a TikTok miniseries—and for good reason. TikTok has spilled the beans on HOW their algorithm works.
TikTok is the only platform where you can have ZERO followers and get a million likes on a video that goes viral. Their company values transparency, so they’re opened up about how their algorithm works. That means designers can learn how to get ahead of the curve. So Darla and Natalie spill the algorithm secrets in this Wingnut Social minisode. Don’t miss it!
What You’ll Hear On This Episode of Wingnut Social
[0:35] TikTok SPILLS their algorithm Secrets
[3:48] What’s special about the TikTok platform?
[4:30] What will make your video more likely to be viewed?
[7:48] Recreate the latest trend to get a bump in views
[8:57] Understanding #ForYou + #ForYouPage + #FYP
[12:14] Why followers and likes don’t matter
[13:32] What does the algorithm mean for designers?
[14:38] Key takeaways for designers
[18:35] Blooper Reel!
Resources & People Mentioned
TikTok
What in the world are #ForYou + #ForYouPage + #FYP hashtags?
These hashtags are just another way for you to leverage TikTok’s discovery page AKA the “For You” page. Using various iterations of that hashtag can help you get discovered faster. It works synergistically for your enjoyment of the app by contributing to the curation of your page, i.e. the algorithm works in reverse. For example, if you use the hashtag #NoisyNeighbors, that hashtag will show up in the hashtag feed PLUS your #ForYou feed. What comments do you like? What videos do you like? What do you watch? They all influence what you see.
The Algorithm Explained: The KEY to a standout TikTok video
Just like any other platform, TikTok also takes into account the number of likes and views. TikTok doesn’t take into account the number of followers or the popularity of previous posts. Instead, their algorithm judges the standalone quality of each video. How long is the video? Did the viewer watch to the end? Did they watch your video again? It all matters.
So a unique way that you can trick the viewer into continually watching your video is by using loops. They trick the eye so that you aren’t sure where the video begins or ends—so the viewer watches it a couple of times (and it tricks the algorithm). But it can be tricky to master.
Another tip to increase the likelihood of being featured: make your content entertaining and engaging. The key to getting engagement is working with the algorithm to get on as many ‘for you page’ feeds as possible. You can also jump on the bandwagon with trending interests—but make sure you put your own spin on it.
BONUS TIP: If you spend two hours making videos, you can save them in your drafts and spread your videos out throughout the week. You should also post at least once a day to become a TikTok influencer.
Learn more about the TikTok algorithm and how to keep viewers engaged by listening to the whole 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