Foster Web Marketing Podcast

Google Webmaster's blog: https://webmasters.googleblog.com/2020/05/evaluating-page-experience.html?m=1 In a year where everything is constantly changing, Google is giving us a heads up. It’s unusual for the tech company to offer advance notice of upcoming algorithm changes. This time, however, they’re letting us know what they’ll be looking for and when the changes will go into effect. Jamie Kelly, director of marketing services at FWM, said, “They’ve given us the study guide before the exam, and let us know exactly what we need to do beforehand.” Jamie and Tom talked about Google’s core web vitals update, which won’t happen until 2021, and how it focuses on the more technical side of web development. Jamie said the new update will focus on user experience and three factors relating to it: page load speed, page interactivity, and page stability. What can you do now to make sure you’re ready when the changes roll out? Find out what Jamie suggests you do to make sure your website doesn’t take a hit in organic r

As the worldwide pandemic continues, many people are planning for their futures and making sure their affairs are in order. Estate planning has become a focal point. Since in-person events are limited, many are turning to the internet for help and information. Scott Alperin, an estate planning attorney in Virginia, said, “Having a web presence is a great thing because it gets traffic in the door.” Scott and Tom talked about the benefits of website leads, as well as the importance of speaking with potential clients to explain that not every estate plan is one size fits all. Scott said, “Many people say there’s more to this than I originally thought when I first called.” How are you using your marketing to open windows for potential clients? Find out why Scott believes casting a broad net with your marketing allows you to capture leads from more sources.

When you’re researching a business or a product, what’s one of the first things you do? If you’re like most people, you probably go online and read the reviews. There are so many benefits to asking clients to write a review of your business online. John Spare, digital marketing strategist at FWM, said, “Review generation is super important, and it’s not as difficult as some people might think.” John and Tom talked about how critical Google reviews are and how our Reputation Management Tool provides a painless way to gather and manage them. John said to focus on being in the Local Pack on Google, not ranking on page one. Are you taking full advantage of your Google My Business profile? Find out John’s top tips for asking for reviews and getting more exposure on Google.

Every business owner has a different way of managing their marketing. For some, Google rankings are a top priority, while others choose to focus on other things. Community marketing should matter to everyone. Kevin McManus, a personal injury lawyer and councilman from Kansas City, Missouri, said, “It’s a much more rewarding way to get cases, and the cases are usually better.” Kevin and Tom also talked about time management and delegating tasks to your staff. Kevin said people want to know who they’re working with, so it’s essential to embed trust clues in your marketing to let potential clients know they can rely on you. Are you connecting with people on a personal level? Find out how Kevin’s marketing and government job have brought substantial cases to his firm.

Anything worth doing is worth doing right. It may take longer than you expected, but when you’re launching a project to help your clients, every second counts. The DSS Training Center is ready to launch, and we’re excited to unveil it! Molly McCormick, director of marketing at FWM, said, “The Training Center is meant to be a useful tool for our clients. The goal is to have information for everyone based on how they learn.” Molly and Tom discussed the features of the Training Center as well as how to access and navigate it. DSS is continually evolving, so the Training Center will be updated regularly with interactive sessions and discussions. Are you getting the most out of DSS? Find out how you can use the Training Center to enhance your marketing.

Technology makes shooting videos easier than ever. Social media and some website videos can be recorded on a smartphone. It’s the fastest and easiest way to get updated information out to your audience. Jim Folliard, owner of Gearshift Studios, said, “Video is like food. You can’t just have the same food on the plate year after year.” Jim and Tom talked about the evolution of videography and how important it is in marketing. Jim said video production is about storytelling and making your subjects feel comfortable. How are you using video to market your firm? Find out Jim’s tips on how to make your shoots successful.

Cities throughout the United States are usually known for something. It could be for a landmark, a famous person, or a historical event.   There are some towns, though, that are famous for completely different reasons. Walter Reaves, a Waco, Texas criminal defense attorney, said, “Waco seems to attract a lot of crazy criminal stuff.” Walter and Tom discussed some of the wackiness that goes on in the Texas city. Walter said the TV show “Fixer Upper,” starring   Chip and Joanna Gaines, has brought more positive press lately. What makes your city unique? Find out about some of the criminal cases that have put Waco on the map.

Designing a website isn’t just about making it look pretty. There are many parts to fine-tune to ensure it runs smoothly and converts successfully. You need to make it easy for your visitors to find information and get to know you. Gretchen Upright, chief business development officer at FWM, says, “A confused mind doesn’t buy.” Gretchen and Tom talked about consistent branding, the use of white space, and how content drives design. Gretchen suggests constantly evaluating your site for what’s working and what’s not. Is your website as effective as it can be? Find out what other tips Gretchen has for building and redesigning your website. 

You don’t have to choose whether to be a good business owner or a good doctor. Doing both isn’t just possible; it’s necessary for success. It all really comes down to the type of leader you are. Tyson Franklin, a former podiatrist who now works as a business mentor and podcaster, says, “Crappy businesses lack leadership.” Tyson talked to Tom about how making your firm positive, fun, and inviting can make all the difference. Tyson says, “It doesn’t cost a lot to stand out.” What are you doing to differentiate your business? Find out how Tyson helps health professionals take a step back and transform their practices.

Marketing isn’t about doing just one thing. To have a truly successful strategy, you must learn how to balance a variety of systems and keep them running smoothly. It’s critical to have a plan and find ways to repurpose and reuse content. Simone DeLoach, marketing director at DeLoach, Hofstra & Cavonis in Florida, said, “It’s not just about getting the client. You have to keep the client.” Simone talked to Tom about all the things the firm does to stay connected to current and former clients. Simone suggests spreading out your branding and using digital marketing to its fullest. Are your strategies working for you? Find out how Simone helps establish the firm as an authority so clients turn to them, no matter what type of legal issue they’re facing.

Regularly adding content is the most important thing you can do for your website. It may be challenging, but it’s definitely worth the time you put into it. Writing may not be your strong suit, but you don’t have to go it alone. Trent Semler, senior digital marketing strategist at FWM, says, “The more bait that you lay, the more that you’ll catch.” Trent talked to Tom about a variety of content generation tools he uses to help his clients come up with ideas for their websites. Trent suggests looking at everything, figuring out what’s in demand, and what will get you the most traffic. Are you struggling to keep your content fresh? Find out how these tools work and how they can boost your SEO.

As a business owner, you have to manage a variety of issues on a daily basis. However, if you hire the right people, they’ll do most of the work for you. You need to give them the freedom to come up with their own solutions and not be afraid to share them with you. Dr. David Weiman, a psychologist and leadership consultant from Pennsylvania, uses the GROW model to encourage alternative solutions thinking. Dave talked to Tom about how using this method leads to faster, more efficient organizations. Dave tries to make an impact at the highest level he can by coaching executives. Does your team feel empowered to give you their suggestions? Find out how the GROW model works and how it can help your practice.

Nobody said marketing is easy. But there are tools that can help you along the way. Email marketing is a critical piece of a successful business strategy. Toby Crandall, chief technology officer at Foster Web Marketing, said, “An email reputation is a lot like your credit score.” Toby and Tom talked about exciting new upgrades to the email dashboard in DSS that will dramatically improve delivery for clients. Toby said other systems look at addresses after an email is sent, but FWM looks at them upfront before they can actually hurt your reputation. Are your emails being read and getting to the right people? Find out how these DSS changes will improve your email score and open rates.

It’s easy to let negativity weigh you down and sidetrack your plans. But there are silver linings everywhere if you take the time to look for them. Now is the time to stay connected and reach out to people who think like you. Rem Jackson, owner of Top Practices, says, “You can’t be prosperous if you’re not happy.” Rem talked to Tom about his new podcast and how prosperity is a function of marketing, management, and mindset. Rem says, “You can’t do this on your own. I don’t care who you are.” Who do you rely on to help you through tough situations? Find out why Rem believes it’s important to surround yourself with people who support you, lift you up, and push you.

Business owners know it takes inventiveness and flexibility to find success. Some highs and lows are expected, but a pandemic can throw everything off. But it’s offering a welcomed chance to really analyze what’s working and what’s not. Ed Littlejohn, lawyer and owner of Littlejohn Law in Ohio, says, “It’s the small businesses, we are what makes America great. And, we’re going to bring America out of this.”  Ed talked to Tom about how he’s helping other local businesses with their marketing efforts. Ed has shifted his focus to becoming a better business owner. What changes are you making to adapt and overcome this crisis? Find out how Ed is managing his growth, while still keeping his service top-notch.

Most people have dreams and a vision of what they want for their businesses and their lives. However, things don’t always go as planned. Sometimes we get wrapped up in helping others, and we put ourselves and our plans on hold. Danny Izquierdo, lawyer and owner of Izquierdo Law in Florida, went through some rough years and says, “I wasn’t thriving. I was just surviving.”  Danny talked to Tom about his struggles and how he’s changed his way of thinking, as well as his marketing. Danny says, “I don’t think you’re ever ready for anything in life. You just have to take a step, then another one.” What are you doing to make your dreams a reality? Find out how Danny’s using a positive mindset and creative marketing to achieve his goals.

Community-oriented marketing campaigns take time to plan, develop, and launch. Many different groups have a hand in making them successful. When a pandemic hits, should you keep moving forward with the project? Wes Gralapp, a lawyer with NBA Law Firm in Louisiana, says it was an easy decision to continue because “We’re on the side of the people when we do what we do.” Wes talked to Tom about how the firm’s distracting driving campaign helped them become part of many local families’ homes. Wes says, “Change is inevitable, positives come from negatives.” How will your business change going forward? Find out what Wes thinks practicing law will look like in the future.

Night shift ER doctors often see patients suffering from a variety of traumas. Many won’t admit it, but these conditions are usually related to alcohol and drug abuse. Depression, anxiety, and loneliness often spur use disorders and lead to poor coping methods. Dr. Christopher Sendi, an addiction specialist in Virginia, says, “Boredom and unstructured time are the kiss of death when it comes to addiction.” Christopher talked to Tom about how addiction starts at a young age and hijacks your decision-making skills. Christopher works with his patients to retrain their brains and gives them the tools to live a healthier lifestyle. What methods do you use to get through life? Find out how Christopher helps his patients turn their lives around.

Many businesses have drastically changed how they do things. Employees are working from home, relying on technology to conduct meetings and appointments. In a world that is anything but ordinary, some are still delivering an in-office experience via video. Van Smith, attorney and owner of Smith Strong in Virginia, believes the entire process has to be authentic and as close to business as usual as possible. Van talked to Tom about how he and his team are trying to maintain normalcy and balance in their offices.  Van says, “Invest in quality, authentic relationships with people you trust, admire, and respect. Life is too short not to do that.” How are you coping through this crisis? Find out how Van’s structure and strategies have kept his business on track.

Doctors and lawyers get extensive educations before they start practicing. But, how to run a business isn’t something they’re usually taught. Many have mentors or coaches to show them the way, keep them focused, and hold them accountable. Dr. Peter Wishnie, podiatrist and owner of Family Foot & Ankle Specialists in New Jersey, says, “Most of us know what we need to do, but sometimes we need to be reminded.” Peter and Tom talked about how a positive mindset brings clarity and how visualizing your goals helps you achieve them.  Peter suggests making a list of the things you’re good at and passionate about, so you can focus on doing them first. What items would make it on your list? Find out about Peter’s new book and how he helps others learn to manage their practices effectively. Purchase Dr. Wishnie's Book: https://amzn.to/2xKDYfy