Creative Collaboration: Conversations with Veronica & Jillian

Pause to Launch

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 4 Sep 2024 08:30:00 +0000

In today's episode, Jillian and Veronica take a retrospective look at their podcasting journey, which began with a simple coffee chat nearly two years ago. With 40 episodes under their belt, they're now pausing to focus on new ventures.

Jillian is busy building and testing the One Handshake Network—a dynamic and inclusive community where individuals from diverse backgrounds converge to forge meaningful connections, cultivate professional growth, and create opportunities for and with each other.

Meanwhile, Veronica is gearing up to launch her Marketing Accelerator Program tailored for solopreneurs and small business owners, alongside organizing the BASE conference in Amsterdam—an event set to unite, collaborate, and spur growth within the community.

This episode also offers insights into their approach to learning through experimentation, which not only benefits their clients but also shapes their own growth as business leaders. Join them as they celebrate their achievements, unveil future plans, and maintain a positive, upbeat outlook amidst life's challenges.

Mentioned in This Episode:

https://jillianvorce.com/one-handshake

https://baseconference.amsterdam

https://spinideas.nl/online-networking-with-a-spin

https://spinideas.nl/marketing-accelerator-program

About Veronica Guguian:

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce:

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Freestyling Business Culture

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 08:30:00 +0000

In this freestyle podcast episode, Veronica and Jillian dive into leadership, self-care, and multiculturalism in business. They candidly discuss the realities of navigating diverse environments, offering practical insights on effective communication, empathy, and the value of asking foundational questions to foster understanding and unity.

Whether you're curious about building a successful business amidst cultural differences or simply seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode promises valuable perspectives and strategies from two experienced entrepreneurs committed to exploring and embracing diversity in all its forms.

About Veronica Guguian:

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce:

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

The SPIN Marketing Accelerator

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 7 Aug 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Veronica introduced her new Marketing Accelerator program designed to assist small businesses and solopreneurs without a dedicated marketing department.

She walked us through the program's framework, which includes small cohorts, a blend of theory and practical implementation, personalized one-on-one sessions, and structured weekly meetings complete with homework. Participants can expect to gain clear insights into marketing strategies, partnerships, budgeting, and defining team roles. The program is set to begin in September and October 2024, with enthusiasm highlighted for its interactive and creative elements, designed to tailor closely to each participant's needs.

Mentioned in This Episode

https://spinideas.nl/marketing-accelerator-program

About Veronica Guguian:

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce:

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Who to Follow and Why

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:30:00 +0000

This discussion centers on favorite sources of inspiration, including people, companies, and nonprofits that significantly impact personal and professional growth. Jillian highlighted one influential person, a company known for sustainable investment practices, and a nonprofit that promotes holistic business impact. Veronica shared insights about two innovative companies and two individuals renowned for their unique networking approaches. The episode underscores the importance of building meaningful connections and learning from diverse sources.

Mentioned in the Episode

Veronica’s

Triodos Bank https://www.triodos.nl/
Julia Jelinska - IJburg Business Community; https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliajelinska/
Marcel Wijermars, No More Networking https://nomorenetworking.com/
Mindstone AI Meetup Amsterdam https://www.meetup.com/mindstone-amsterdam-ai-meetup/

Jillian’s

About Veronica Guguian

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Mid-Year Business Check-In

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 3 Jul 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss strategies for reviewing and adjusting business goals mid-year. Veronica emphasizes the importance of assessing progress on initial goals, such as she’s doing with her new Marketing Accelerator program, and making adjustments based on market feedback and company interests.

They both highlight the necessity of measuring productivity and profitability, considering both qualitative and quantitative metrics to understand what efforts have been effective. The conversation also touches on sustainable business growth, with a focus on ensuring that business activities are manageable and resources are used efficiently.

Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Content Tools + Platforms

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Jillian and Veronica discuss various tools and strategies for effective content creation and management. They highlight the importance of understanding content goals before choosing tools, blending AI with human creativity, and using platforms like Google Drive, Canva, Notion, and Ubersuggest.

They emphasize the benefits of collaboration and co-creation, including using editors and incorporating multiple perspectives. They also explore project management tools, content distribution platforms, and the idea of repurposing content across different media to maintain creativity and reach wider audiences. Integrating team members into the content creation process is highlighted as a way to empower teams, alleviate bottlenecks, and produce diverse content.

Special Offer - Veronica & Jillian are teaming up to offer live brainstorming sessions for listeners of this podcast. Here is the link to apply: https://bit.ly/CCP-brainstorm

Mentioned in Episode

About Veronica Guguian

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Freestyle: Small Changes, Big Impact

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 5 Jun 2024 08:30:00 +0000

The episode adopts a spontaneous coffee chat style. Jillian Vorce and Veronica Guguian dive into the importance of sustainability in business, focusing on the challenges small businesses face and the societal impacts of environmental issues.

They discuss global trends, CSRD’s double materiality, market fluctuations, and the need for inclusive strategies that empower everyone to contribute to a sustainable future. Jillian and Veronica emphasize the growth of B Corps, the importance of leadership, and individual behavior changes for sustainability.

Practical tips are shared, such as reducing carbon emissions in emails and using reusable items. Tune in to discover how small changes can make a big impact and get inspired to integrate eco-friendly practices into your daily routine and business operations.

**Special Offer - Veronica & Jillian are teaming up to offer live brainstorming sessions for listeners of this podcast. Here is the link you'd like to apply: https://bit.ly/CCP-brainstorm

Mentioned in the episode:

https://www.eventbrite.fr/e/how-to-define-impactful-sustainable-goals-tickets-911280252767

About Veronica Guguian

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Content Strategy + Repurposing

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 22 May 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce dive into the intricacies of content strategy, emphasizing the importance of aligning content with company values and goals.

They explore key performance indicators (KPIs), topic selection, and the art of repurposing content across different formats like podcasts, videos, and events to amplify the company's voice effectively.

The duo underscores the significance of measuring content success to inform future creations, centering their approach around audience needs for meaningful communication.

Consistency and authenticity emerge as central themes, with Veronica and Jillian advocating for genuine engagement over superficiality in content creation. They share practical insights on generating topics tailored to client requirements, as well as clever strategies for repurposing content to cater to diverse audience preferences.

Partnerships and collaborations are highlighted as valuable for bringing varied perspectives into content creation, with clear editing boundaries ensuring efficient collaboration.

Special Offer - Veronica & Jillian are teaming up to offer live brainstorming sessions for listeners of this podcast. Listen until the end of this episode for more details. Here is the link you'd like to apply: https://bit.ly/CCP-brainstorm

Mentioned in Episode

Example of audio version of a blog post https://bsquared.media/combining-abm-strategy-with-social-listening/

About Veronica Guguian

Website: https://spinideas.nl/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better
Website: https://jillianvorce.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

Music Composed by BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Concrete Ways to Market Your Business

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 8 May 2024 08:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Jillian and Veronica explore effective strategies for marketing oneself and one's company. They stress the importance of consistency in marketing efforts, which are aligned with overarching business goals. Their discussion centers around leveraging personal and company presence on social media, with Veronica advocating for delegating company social media to focus on directing branding efforts. Jillian emphasizes the power of personal branding in attracting attention and promoting the company.

They also address the challenge of balancing personal and company marketing, especially when expanding the team or outsourcing sales. Strategic planning and prioritization are highlighted as essential for achieving marketing objectives and fostering company growth. The hosts share their experiences with online networking and conferences, underscoring their significance in marketing endeavors.

Lastly, they announce a new initiative for live brainstorming sessions with listeners, aiming to enhance collaboration in marketing efforts. Overall, the episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for effective marketing success.

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- Website: https://jillianvorce.com

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Marketing Goals vs Business Goals

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Veronica and Jillian discussed aligning marketing goals with business goals, emphasizing the clarity needed in defining these objectives. They explored examples from their businesses, such as launching a marketing accelerator and re-entering public speaking, to illustrate this alignment.

Veronica stressed the importance of setting measurable Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to effectively track progress. Jillian shared plans for a new podcast focused on certified B Corps to achieve specific business objectives and audience needs, emphasizing balancing marketing efforts with broader business strategies.

Both speakers announced collaborative opportunities for listeners, highlighting the value of interactive engagement in supporting individual growth and overall business success.

*Special Offer: Veronica & Jillian are teaming up to offer live brainstorming sessions for listeners of this podcast. Listen until the end of this episode for more details. Here is the link you'd like to apply: https://bit.ly/CCP-brainstorm

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Wait list for SPIN Ideas Marketing Accelerator Program: https://preview.mailerlite.io/preview/240840/sites/118317940482245929/K2KIJO
Jillian - new B Corp podcast: https://thejilliangroup.com/b-corp-podcast/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce (she/hers)

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- Website: https://jillianvorce.com

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Productive by Design

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Veronica and Jillian's discussion aimed at maximizing productivity through a balance of scheduling, accountability, and prioritization. They emphasized prioritizing tasks that add value while distinguishing between busyness and actual productivity.

Veronica shared insights on optimizing creativity by allowing time for rest and inspiration, while Jillian highlighted data-driven decision-making for improved productivity analysis using tools like Toggl.

Both speakers stressed the importance of strategic padding between meetings to avoid burnout and group physical meetings efficiently, enhancing time effectiveness. They recommended leveraging automation tools for meeting preparation and follow-ups, and setting aside buffer times.

Practical tips include utilizing technology for reminders, structuring meeting agendas, and aligning daily schedules with energy levels for effective workflow streamlining.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Toggl for time tracking + insights: https://bit.ly/43p3t0p

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- Website: https://jillianvorce.com

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Embracing Alternatives with Small & Micro Businesses

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 27 Mar 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Today Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce dig into the vital topic of micro companies and SMEs versus unicorns. Veronica passionately advocates for recognizing the pivotal role small businesses play in driving employment and revenue in the economy.

Together, they question society's emphasis on celebrating unicorns over smaller enterprises and explore the imbalance in resources and admiration. Veronica unveils a research project to spotlight overlooked companies and invites listeners to nominate them. They discuss exit strategies, the need for alternatives to giants like Amazon, and propose collaborative initiatives to support small businesses. Tune in to shift the conversation towards empowering smaller impactful companies.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Sales & Marketing: Effective Collaboration-Revisited

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Veronica and Jillian dive back into the realm of sales and marketing, exploring fresh perspectives and strategies. From online networking buzz to dissecting the nuances between sales and marketing, they navigate the evolving landscape of digital engagement.

Drawing on analogies and real-world experiences, they explore the symbiotic relationship between these essential business functions. Delving into the concept of leads, they redefine them as relationship opportunities, stressing the significance of personal connections and tailored approaches. From nurturing existing leads to empowering teams for growth, Veronica and Jillian offer actionable insights for businesses navigating the digital transformation era.

*Veronica & Jillian are teaming up to offer live brainstorming sessions for listeners of this podcast. Listen until the end of this episode for more details. Here is the link you'd like to apply.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Offer for listeners: Collaborative Brainstorm Sessions - Application here: https://bit.ly/CCP-brainstorm
Episode 6, Sales & Miscues, Miscues + Opportunities: https://bit.ly/3SZ68dR
Jillian’s previous podcast recording - walking through a transparent blended marketing & sales approach https://www.theagentsofchange.com/jillian-vorce

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Strategic Partnerships: What, Who, & How

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

In this conversation, Veronica and Jillian discuss strategic partnerships. They address the importance of alignment in values, creativity in thinking about partnerships, and the benefits of expanding business through partner channels.

They provide examples of successful partnerships and offer tips on how to approach strategic partnerships and share resources for further guidance.

Jillian offers her perspective of strategic partners being one of the 10 vital business relationships, otherwise known as stakeholder relationships. She provides the framework she uses and resources to help others.

Veronica shares examples of work she did with a start-up community in Africa and elaborated on the importance of aligning values, having clear communication and following up at the end of the initiative.

Overall, they emphasize the significance of strategic partnerships in growing sustainable businesses.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Veronica’s resources https://spinideas.nl/resources
Jillian’s workshops: https://thejilliangroup.com/strategic-partner-workshop
Lisa Nichols + Seth Godin - https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7153900239161061377/
https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/movement/collaborations-partnerships

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Optimizing Work Environments for Impact

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Join Veronica and Jillian as they navigate the diverse landscape of work environments, offering personal insights and valuable strategies for thriving in any setting.

Discussing work environments, they emphasize the crucial roles adaptability and open-mindedness play in professional success. They share insights on optimizing workspaces and reveal their go-to tools for maximum productivity and creativity.

From the comforts of home offices to the buzz of co-working spaces and cafes, they explore the pros and cons of various work settings, stressing the importance of flexibility in choosing the right environment for each task. As they reflect on their evolving preferences, they underline the significance of self-awareness in proactively creating the environments they need at this stage of their lives and businesses.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

From Passion Project to Business Generator

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 7 Feb 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Today Jillian and Veronica explore how ONS connects a diverse array of entrepreneurs, CEOs, professionals, and agencies, fostering invaluable connections and sparking collaborations that transcend the virtual realm.

As the discussion unfolds, listeners gain insights into the genesis of ONS as a non-profit-like endeavor, dedicated to community service. However, Veronica reveals the exciting future plans for ONS, including its integration into Spin Ideas' omnichannel marketing approach and the launch of a game-changing marketing accelerator.

ONS emerges not only as a community builder but also as a potent generator of business opportunities, podcast interviews, and strategic partnerships. Discover the transformative power of ONS and how it has become an integral part of Spin Ideas' vision. For those eager to be part of this innovative movement, information on upcoming events and registration details can be found on the Spin Ideas website.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Event Strategies: To Attend or Not to Attend

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Today's conversation between Jillian Vorce and Veronica Guguian is all about finding events, and prioritizing event attendance. They discuss categories of events they are interested in such as sustainability, ethical growth, leadership conferences, innovation conferences, marketing conferences, women in tech events, TEDx talks. They also share sources for finding events such as LinkedIn groups and following organizations or accelerators that host regular events. Additionally, they mention the importance of networking at events and making connections with others. The speakers emphasize the value of attending different types of events to gain new perspectives and inspiration rather than just focusing on client acquisition. Lastly,Jillian offers tips on how to prepare for an event and maximize the opportunities it presents.

Jillian Vorce and Veronica Guguian discuss the importance of pre, during, and post-event activities. They mention strategies such as using hashtags, joining communities, connecting on LinkedIn, and sending follow-up messages to build relationships with attendees. They also emphasize the need for a post-mortem evaluation of events and suggest writing a recap or blog post about the event to share takeaways. Additionally, they highlight the value of including personal details in follow-ups to make them more memorable.

Veronica and Jillian share pragmatic tips on discovering events through platforms like LinkedIn groups and organizations that host regular gatherings.

Jillian's suggestion of post-mortem evaluations and sharing takeaways through recaps or blog posts adds a thoughtful touch to the discussion, making it a practical guide for those seeking to enhance their event experiences and navigate professional networking more effectively.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Just Because You Can

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Today, Veronica and Jillian discussed the importance of self-care for maintaining productivity and inspiration. Veronica shared her strategy of taking time off when she feels their energy diminishing and scheduling bulk or concentrated work to enhance productivity. Both agreed that their societal cultures often encourage working hard, but at the cost of enjoying the fruits of their labor.

They emphasized the importance of efficiency, setting specific goals, and avoiding energy-depleting activities. They also discussed the correlation between what brings happiness and energy in personal life and business, suggesting a shift in language usage in business towards focusing on energy. Jillian shared her method for scheduling calls and meetings, emphasizing the importance of setting aside non-negotiable time for family.

Jillian shared their personal struggle with feeling unsuccessful if their business did not reach a 7-figure annual revenue, and how challenging that belief has impacted their perspective. Both agreed on the significance of honesty and self-acceptance in the process of personal and professional growth.

Self-Care and Boundaries

Jillian and Veronica had a discussion about self-care, touching upon the concept of doing things just because they can, not necessarily because they should. They emphasized the importance of setting boundaries and making conscious decisions about what to commit to.

Jillian Vorce and Veronica Guguian discuss how to prioritize self-care. They talk about scheduling, setting boundaries, being honest with oneself, celebrating wins, and reevaluating goals. They emphasize the importance of taking care of one's energy levels and focusing on activities that bring happiness. The conversation highlights the need to avoid overworking and finding a balance between work and personal life.

Jillian Vorce:

Update the calendar system to include availability for different types of meetings (e.g., 15-minute intervals, 30-90 minute working meetings).
Consolidate the number of evenings available for scheduling to prioritize personal/family time from 6-8pm.
Reflect on the importance of revenue and income in relation to personal values and aspirations.
Set clear boundaries and prioritize activities that bring energy and happiness.
Revisit and celebrate achievements and wins, rather than constantly moving on to the next goal.
Schedule time for self-care activities and prioritize them on the calendar.

Veronica Guguian:

Reflect on how to define and prioritize free projects based on whether they bring energy or deplete it.
Develop a system or procedure to determine if a free project is worth pursuing.

Both

Consider the importance of honesty, reflection, and action in self-care practices.
Set clear boundaries and allocate time for self-care activities.
Revisit the language and mindset around success, shifting the focus from money to energy and happiness.
Work on defining a vision for the collaboration project with Jillian and plan a meeting outside of their houses to discuss it.

Mentioned in Episode:

https://youtu.be/6_N_uvq41Pg?si=WKofvi-71MB6vTRG&t=40 ("the jar of life" video)

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Personal vs. Company Branding

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 09:30:00 +0000

Welcome listeners to episode 22 of their creative collaboration conversations. In this episode Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss personal versus company branding, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and reflecting one's personality in both personal and business life. They highlight the need for feedback and listening in order to adapt and create successful brands. The conversation also touches on defining brand, congruence between actions and messaging, and connecting personal branding with company branding.

Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of aligning your company's goals with your approach to branding and growth. She believes that personal branding is essential for both small and large companies, as people do business with those they know, like, and trust.

Jillian Vorce agrees and adds that demonstrating your brand values through all facets of your business can help build authenticity. They discuss the balance between personal and company branding, using examples like Andy from Orbit Media who effectively builds his personal brand alongside the company brand.

Veronica mentions that while the focus may shift over time, personal and company branding cannot be separated completely. It is an ongoing process that requires a combination of art and science.

Jillian Vorce discusses the importance of team collaboration and personal branding within businesses. She emphasizes the need to involve employees or team members in promoting the company and suggests that business owners should not let their ego hinder growth. Veronica Guguian agrees, stating that founders must be willing to share the spotlight and embrace different perspectives for sustainable growth.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Client Selection: Mindset + Approaches

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce talk about the shift from a scarcity to an abundance mindset, which they believe leads to increased confidence and job satisfaction. They also touch upon the concept of the "ring test," the importance of client selection, the benefits of having a diverse client base, the importance of understanding clients' needs and offering value-based services, the significance of creativity and flexibility in business strategy, and the need for consistency and perseverance in business.

Toward the end, they highlight the value of creativity in generating revenue through different avenues, such as partnerships and events. The conversation concludes with a discussion on mindset, consistency, and luck in business.

They also discuss the challenges of client selection, including the decision to be a value-based organization and the consideration of value-based pricing. Jillian suggests using smaller projects as a way to filter prospective clients before committing to long-term relationships. Veronica adds that discussions focused on quality and needs tend to lead to successful partnerships, while those centered around cost often do not result in client acquisition.

Jillian Vorce discusses the benefits of having 100% referral business and the importance of being proactive in seeking out clients that align with one's values. Veronica Guguian agrees and emphasizes that referrals usually come from people who know your work and share similar values.

Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss the importance of price anchoring in sales conversations. They emphasize the need for experience and instinct in knowing when to bring up pricing. They also highlight the value of creativity in generating revenue through different avenues, such as partnerships and events. The conversation concludes with a discussion on mindset, consistency, and luck in business.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Ep 4: Creativity as a Business Strategy: https://bit.ly/3sH6Jqc

Ep 9: Business Finance: Pricing For Client Retention: https://bit.ly/47vZAIm

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Setting Goals for the New Year

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 3 Jan 2024 09:00:00 +0000

Today Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals based on capacity and aligning with clients' needs. She also talks about the importance of slowing down and integrating personal and professional life as an entrepreneur.

Jillian shares her goals for 2024, including learning Dutch, relaunching her newsletter, launching a new podcast, starting a new workshop series, and returning to the public speaking stage after a 10-year hiatus. She also plans to onboard two new partners, acquire six new clients.

Jillian Vorce discusses her methods for structured and unstructured time management. She sets aside specific times to organize her calendar and gather relevant articles, while also using unstructured time like exercising to generate new ideas. Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of building relationships in business development and suggests setting concrete goals for connecting with new people. They consider dedicating an episode to networking tactics if there is interest from listeners.

They also discuss the need to structure business growth effectively and ask for feedback when clients decline offers.

Both hosts emphasize the value of goal-setting and encourage listeners to set their own goals in a systematic manner.

The episode concludes with discussions about future podcast episodes and their aim to reach 1000 downloads.

Jillian Vorce and Veronica Guguian discuss their objectives, with Jillian suggesting a goal of 1000. They both agree on this number and feel motivated to work towards it. The conversation ends with friendly goodbyes and plans for the next meeting on Tuesday.

Both agreed on the importance of breaking down large goals into smaller, achievable tasks to prevent burnout. They discussed their approaches to time management and scheduling.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Episode 12, Networking Tactics: https://bit.ly/3uAaPAZ

SPINIdeas.nl - link to SMART goals framework:

https://www.subscribepage.com/spin-ideas-setting-up-goals-worksheet?ref=spinideas.nl

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Year in Review: Beyond Revenue

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:00:00 +0000

Today Veronica and Jillian talk about conducting year-end reviews, emphasizing the importance of analyzing, improving, and letting go of things to make space for new opportunities.

They share tips on using frameworks and developing a regular cadence for reviews. Veronica mentions breaking down plans into smaller pieces while Jillian emphasizes the need to identify key performance indicators (KPIs). Their approaches to strategy implementation influence how they approach the review process.

Veronica Guguian discusses the importance of reviewing what worked and what didn't work in a business strategy. She emphasizes the need to focus on both positive and negative aspects for growth.

Jillian Vorce shares her perspective, highlighting the value of constructive criticism and looking at accomplishments rather than unmet goals.

They discuss their personal experiences with reinventing their businesses and taking a step back to evaluate their desires and directions for the future.

They emphasize the importance of reviewing the year, analyzing, improving, and making space for new things.

Veronica encourages taking into account external factors when reviewing performance, such as economic and social environments. Both speakers reflect on their year in review and share insights about their current positions in business transformation.

Jillian Vorce discusses her accomplishments and experiences in the past year. She landed her first Dutch client and onboarded two new team members from the Netherlands. Jillian had over 125 meetings, reconnecting with old contacts and building new relationships. She also earned a certificate from MIT in sustainability for industry. Jillian launched a podcast with over 160 downloads and relaunched her business website. She published more blogs and social media posts than ever before, focusing on quantifiable results. Veronica Guguian reflects on their achievements as well, including launching Spin Ideas France and a Chrome extension for LinkedIn networking. Both emphasize the importance of celebrating successes and documenting them to understand growth opportunities.

Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss the importance of trusting your instincts and building relationships. They also highlight the benefits of volunteering to gain new experiences and connections, particularly when transitioning careers or moving to a new location.

Both Veronica and Jillian reflect on what they have learned about themselves throughout the year, with Veronica emphasizing the need to check in with oneself and align actions with personal desires. They conclude by expressing gratitude for their conversation and wish listeners a happy New Year.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Dorien Morin-Van Dam’s LinkedIn post - structure + guidance for goal setting https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7130233531854655488?updateEntityUrn=urn%3Ali%3Afs_updateV2%3A%28urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A7130233531854655488%2CFEED_DETAIL%2CEMPTY%2CDEFAULT%2Cfalse%29
Ep 16: Falling In and Out of Love with Your Business: https://bit.ly/481uat6
https://tedx.amsterdam/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Working ON Your Business

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Today Veronica and Jillian Vorce discuss the topic of working ON your business instead of in it. They emphasize the importance of dedicating time to evaluate and strategize for their businesses. The conversation also touches on challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the need to adapt to changes in the business environment. Quarterly business reviews are suggested as a way to stay on track with objectives throughout the year.
Jillian Vorce emphasizes the importance of collecting data to assess productivity levels, prospects, and opportunities. She suggests reallocating resources quarterly and highlights the need for capacity management during unexpected acquisition opportunities. It is recommended to conduct an annual analysis of goals and measurements to determine if objectives are being met. Veronica Guguian emphasizes the need for clarity in measuring success, such as determining client capacity, processes in place, availability, and resources.

They discuss the importance of analyzing sales cycles and conversion rates to be proactive in business decision-making. Both speakers stress the significance of analyzing numbers and setting clear goals aligned with values to make informed decisions about opportunities presented. The transcript also touches on delegation, time management, energy optimization by focusing on tasks that give energy rather than drain it out. Leveraging data is essential for making better decisions in business growth strategies.

Jillian Vorce discusses the importance of allocating time and managing profit in client engagements. She emphasizes the need to understand how much time is required for each task and how it aligns with personal goals. Veronica Guguian shares her own experience of prioritizing tasks, creating a to-do list, and valuing time. They both discuss the significance of being strict with time management and creating non-negotiable blocks on calendars. Different tools like digital apps or pen-and-paper methods are mentioned as helpful ways to track and manage tasks effectively. The speakers also highlight the importance of consistency, decisiveness, and avoiding procrastination in order to be productive.

Jillian Vorce discusses the importance of structuring time and using separate calendar links for different types of meetings. She also emphasizes the benefits of shorter, more productive meetings. Veronica Guguian adds that accountability partners and mastermind groups can be helpful in staying focused on business goals. They both agree that having mentors or advisors who are ahead in their careers is valuable for learning and growth. They also mention the importance of giving back to others by mentoring those who are just starting out. Additionally, they discuss the need for honest feedback from both cheerleaders and critics to continue improving. Getting a coach or consultant can provide guidance when feeling lost or lacking passion in business. Finally, they highlight the significance of small tweaks and taking action to work on one's business rather than just in it.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Business Development Strategies

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Today, Veronica and Jillian emphasize the need for proactive, creative, and patient approaches when building relationships. Veronica mentions her SPIN methodology regarding understanding the audience and planning tactics to approach them effectively.

Veronica Guguian discusses the importance of mindset in business development and emphasizes the need to switch from a negative mentality to a positive one. She suggests being curious, attending events, and engaging with people without expecting immediate business outcomes.

Veronica also emphasizes the significance of follow-up and offers practical tips for maintaining contact, such as using calendars or LinkedIn. Jillian Vorce agrees with Veronica's approach and adds that building relationships through genuine conversations is vital in business development.

Both speakers stress the value of adding value to others rather than simply selling products or services. They highlight the importance of making connections between individuals without expecting anything in return but still following up on those introductions later if necessary. Additionally, they discuss how rejection can lead closer to success by filtering out incompatible clients and mention that circumstances may change over time, making previously rejected prospects potential future customers.

Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of focusing on the undecided segment of potential clients and building relationships with them. She also highlights the value of gathering feedback to improve services and increase conversion rates.

Jillian Vorce discusses the significance of raising one's profile through different mediums like content creation, networking, speaking engagements, etc. She advises leveraging both online and offline strategies for maximum impact. The transcript also touches upon the concept of outreach, suggesting that personalized and well-researched approaches are more effective than cold emails. Consistency is emphasized as a key factor in long-term success, while neglecting business development can lead to feast or famine cycles.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

1. https://nomorenetworking.com

2. https://www.duplessy.org

3. https://creativecollaborationpodcast.com/episodes/sales-marketing-miscues-opportunities

4. https://creativecollaborationpodcast.com/episodes/networking-tactics

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Falling In and Out of Love with Your Business

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 6 Dec 2023 09:30:00 +0000

On today's episode Veronica and Jillian discuss the concept of falling in and out of love with one's business, the importance of variety and stimulation in work, and the need for diversity and creativity to stay engaged. They acknowledge the challenges of maintaining enthusiasm and the importance of delegation and outsourcing tasks. They also emphasize the value of masterminds, mentors, and coaches, and regularly assess and restructure business activities.

Veronica and Jillian discuss the importance of delegation and trusting one's abilities in business. She acknowledges her struggle with delegating tasks that take longer than usual, but recognized the value of this for her company. She refers to her marketing methodology, which involves self-reflection for entrepreneurs to understand what they want to do and what they don't want to do in their business.

Jillian reflects on her own business journey, identifying her love for strategizing and collaborating with clients. She expresses her desire to do more of this, as she is now welcoming new client engagements after working with her previous roster of clients for the past 10 years.

They agree that entrepreneurship is a lifestyle and adaptability is key to coping with changing feelings about one's business. Also,that a combination of changing perspective, delegation, and implementation could help them fall back in love with their businesses.

The two also discuss the challenges of growing a business, acknowledging the pressure to scale or expand but emphasizing that growth doesn't necessarily mean adding more people.

Towards the end, they talk about their shared values and working styles, and the possibility of organizing a retreat for entrepreneurs to work on their businesses.

Entrepreneurship and Love: A Discussion

Veronica and Jillian discussed the concept of falling in and out of love with one's business, acknowledging that it's a natural part of entrepreneurship. Veronica credited Julia Perkins from wise minds for bringing up this topic. Jillian, who had recently felt unfulfilled with her business, related the relationship with one's business to a romantic relationship. Veronica emphasized the importance of variety and stimulation in work to avoid monotony and boredom, and the need for diversity and creativity to stay engaged. They agreed that entrepreneurship is a lifestyle and adaptability is key to coping with changing feelings about one's business.

Maintaining Enthusiasm and Delegating Tasks

Veronica and Jillian discussed the challenges of maintaining enthusiasm for their business activities and how to effectively delegate tasks. Veronica acknowledged the importance of working with coaches and accountability groups to help her stay on track and maintain perspective. Jillian emphasized the value of external viewpoints to provide a different perspective and challenge normal assumptions. Both agreed on the need to regularly assess and restructure their business activities, with the end of the year providing a perfect opportunity for this.

Masterminds, Mentors, and Marketing Methods
Jillian shared her experiences with masterminds, mentors, and coaches and how they helped her in her business journey. She emphasized the importance of being purposeful and deliberate about identifying the things she loves doing in her business. Veronica, in turn, discussed her marketing methodology, which involves self-reflection for entrepreneurs to understand what they want to do and what they don't want to do in their business. Both agreed on the need to delegate and outsource tasks and focus on activities that bring the highest value. Veronica also mentioned that she is gradually moving away from tasks she doesn't enjoy, which she sees as a sign of growth and progress in her business.

Delegation and Trust

Veronica and Jillian discussed the importance of delegation and trusting one's abilities in business. Veronica acknowledged her struggle with delegating tasks that take longer than usual, but recognized the value of this for her company. Jillian praised Veronica for her progress in trusting herself and her abilities. They both emphasized the importance of focusing on tasks that bring joy and value to the business, and delegating or outsourcing tasks that don't. Towards the end, Jillian reflected on her own business journey, identifying her love for strategizing and collaborating with clients. She expressed her desire to do more of these tasks and less of the maintenance and nurturing aspects of her business.

Shared Values and Working Styles

Veronica and Jillian had a discussion about their shared values and working styles. Veronica emphasized the importance of not sharing too many ideas and being selective with clients, while Jillian expressed her preference for a more collaborative approach. They also talked about the value of sharing ideas and perspectives, and the possibility of organizing a retreat for entrepreneurs to work on their businesses. Towards the end of the meeting, they agreed on the importance of taking action and not letting good intentions go unexecuted. They also expressed interest in creating a product or service that facilitates structured exercises and massive action for entrepreneurs.

Retreat Concept and Collaboration Discussion

Jillian and Veronica had a discussion about an ideal retreat concept and potential collaboration. They both shared their ideas, with Jillian suggesting a business and marketing-focused retreat, and Veronica proposing the concept of falling in and out of love with their businesses.

They agreed that a combination of changing perspective, delegation, and implementation could help them fall back in love with their businesses.
The two also discussed the challenges of growing a business, acknowledging the pressure to scale or expand but emphasizing that growth doesn't necessarily mean adding more people.

They emphasized the importance of refining services and offering them to a select group of clients. The idea of collaborating on a business venture was left open-ended, with Jillian considering creating a 1.0-version of the retreat concept if they can't find an existing one that suits them.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Veronica credits Julie Perkins from Wyseminds for suggesting this topic https://wyseminds.com/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Women in Business: Let's Get Real

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 19:37:36 +0000

During this episode Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss the following subjects:

Women's Challenges in Male-Dominated Environments

Veronica and Jillian discussed the challenges women face in male-dominated environments, including questioning the need to change oneself to fit in. They also talked about the responsibility of men in changing their behavior, the importance of professionalism and intent as a young female entrepreneur, and the societal pressure on women to balance their professional and personal lives.

Gender Roles in the Workplace

Veronica and Jillian had a candid discussion about gender roles in the workplace. Veronica expressed her struggle with asserting herself without losing her femininity and the importance of being taken seriously in a male-dominated environment. They also touched upon how societal expectations and upbringing can influence one's approach to life and work. Veronica shared her personal experiences where she felt she was treated differently due to her gender, such as being asked to work more while her less productive colleagues were not held accountable. The conversation ended with Veronica reflecting on how her upbringing by a strong mother influenced her mentality and approach to work.

Unconscious Biases and Women's Representation

Jillian and Veronica discussed their experiences with male colleagues' unconscious biases and the need for education and open conversations to address them. They also highlighted the slow but progressing cultural change and touched on gender roles in business and technology. The pair also discussed the underrepresentation of women in media and events and emphasized the importance of female representation, while Veronica shared her experience of diverse panel organization. Jillian introduced a global organization named Innovation. Women, which provides a Speakers bureau for women. Both agreed on the importance of collective effort to bring about a change in the representation of women in media and events.

Working with Women

Jillian shared her experience of working primarily with older male colleagues and how it's been a recent adjustment for her to work with women her age. She also shared a story about a client who recommended her to another executive, leading to a significant business opportunity. Jillian also mentioned a situation where she was expected to take notes in a meeting, which she challenged, leading to a change in the dynamics of the meeting.

Women's Experiences in Male-Dominated Environments

Veronica and Jillian had a conversation about their experiences as women in male-dominated environments. Jillian shared an experience where she felt undervalued in a meeting when a male colleague took notes despite her significant contributions. Veronica praised Jillian for challenging gender roles. Jillian also discussed a call she received from a male acquaintance seeking her input for a project and her uncertainty about revealing her pregnancy to a colleague due to potential professional repercussions. She mentioned that the colleague is now aware of her son, born the day after their conversation.

Women's Challenges and Responsibilities

Jillian and Veronica had a candid conversation about the challenges and responsibilities of being a woman, focusing on pregnancy and motherhood. They criticized the stereotype that women are solely responsible for childcare and encouraged men to share this burden. They also discussed the societal pressure on women to balance their professional and personal lives, suggesting that business deals should be expected to take longer when a woman is pregnant. The conversation ended with Veronica emphasizing the importance of fathers taking on a more active role in childcare. They also discussed the glass ceiling, assertiveness, and the treatment of women in the workplace.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

https://innovationwomen.com

Wall Street Journal article:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/dont-ask-me-to-do-office-housework-11570959002

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

2023 Marketing Trends Revisited

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Todays' episode starts with Veronica emphasizing the importance of human touch in personalization, while Jillian suggests focusing on specific groups of customers and adding value to them based on their needs. They discuss the use of snail mail for a more personalized touch but caution against insincere gestures like automated birthday cards from companies.

Veronica Guguian discusses the importance of internal sustainability efforts and how it is often overlooked in favor of big corporate initiatives. She emphasizes that only a small percentage of companies genuinely prioritize sustainability based on their values, while others simply comply with legislation out of fear. Veronica believes that education and a shift in mentality are needed for sustainable practices to become more widespread. Jillian Vorce agrees and suggests that there is an opportunity for organizations to showcase the benefits and profitability of sustainable business processes. They also touch on the significance of creativity as a core value in business, highlighting its role in problem-solving and differentiation. Both speakers share personal experiences related to their cultural backgrounds that have influenced their perspectives on creativity.

Jillian Vorce discusses the emergence of AI and its impact, highlighting concerns about e-waste and water consumption. Veronica Guguian emphasizes the need for proper education on using AI effectively. They also discuss the importance of aligning marketing and sales teams, debunking the misconception that they are interchangeable roles. They mention the trend of using social media for customer service and recommend resources on customer care. The transcript also touches on prioritizing social responsibility, short videos (segs), and SEO trends.

Veronica Guguian asks for feedback on implementing trends in business and wants to know how people utilize predictions made by big companies. She encourages listeners to share their opinions through comments, email, or direct messages. Veronica is curious about when people look at these trends and whether they integrate them into their strategies. Jillian Vorce adds that they will reconvene on Friday for a meeting after Veronica takes a break.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

https://www2.deloitte.com/xe/en/insights/topics/marketing-and-sales-operations/global-marketing-trends.html
https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/marketing-trends
https://earth.org/the-green-dilemma-can-ai-fulfil-its-potential-without-harming-the-environment
https://bsquared.media/the-state-of-social-media-customer-care/

https://www.orbitmedia.com/blog/blogging-statistics/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Collaboration in Action: TJG 2.0

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

In this special episode of Creative Conversation: Conversations with Veronica and Jillian, Jillian Vorce has her turn in the "hot seat." She shares that her company, TJG, is transitioning from version 1.0 to version 2.0. She explains that she has decided to move on from one of her long-term clients.

She is now focused on building TJG 2.0 with a more deliberate approach, potentially targeting the US or European market and emphasizing sustainability practices. She also expresses her enjoyment of working with a team and wanting to rebuild it intentionally.

Jillian discusses her approach to working with clients, including long-term retainers and short-term projects. Veronica and Jillian discuss the importance of building relationships and trust with clients.

Jillian expresses frustration with companies focused solely on making more money and highlights the need for leadership evolution. Veronica encourages Jillian to focus on what services would make her happy and utilize collaboration in her work. Both agree on maximizing resources and reducing waste in business processes, such as improving meeting efficiency.

Jillian Vorce discusses her hesitation to be perceived as a traditional marketing agency due to the need for more control over the sales process and client expectations. She highlights the need for a more integrated approach between sales and marketing, emphasizing the importance of business strategy and management consulting.

Veronica Guguian suggests that Jillian should focus on what brings her joy and redefine her identity regarding the services offered. They discuss targeting medium-sized to larger enterprises and finding a niche within that market segment. Jillian expresses concerns about companies' willingness to hire for management consulting rather than just marketing, but Veronica encourages her to identify her target audience and their specific needs.

Jillian Vorce discusses the opportunity to help companies improve their deliverables and reduce waste. Veronica Guguian advises Jillian to consider both the US and European markets, focusing on clients that want to enter each respective market. They discuss finding what makes Jillian unique and clarifying her message. Veronica emphasizes defining values when determining a target audience rather than just company size or financial resources.

Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss making changes in their careers. They talk about the importance of clarity and owning what they want. They also discuss finding ways to keep valuable team members while transitioning to a new business focus. Veronica advises Jillian to educate herself and others to grow her business. The conversation ends with Jillian expressing excitement and apprehension about the changes she is making but acknowledging that she has everything she needs to succeed.

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Networking Tactics

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 8 Nov 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Jillian and Veronica discuss their views on networking and how it can be beneficial for business. Jillian emphasized that she doesn't network for her own gain, but rather to connect with interesting individuals and facilitate introductions. She also emphasized the importance of having a plan and being aware of one's purpose and posture in any situation. Veronica agreed, mentioning that she had gained clients through casual conversations unrelated to business. They ended the conversation with Veronica launching a challenge related to attitudes in networking.

Veronica shared her strategies for meeting new people, such as attending sessions and engaging in conversations, and emphasized that networking effectiveness can depend on personality. They discuss the traits of effective networking, emphasizing the importance of being present, asking questions, and actively listening, and that networking's real value comes from after the event, such as following up with potential connections.

Jillian Vorce discusses a tactic she used to network effectively by hosting curated coffees or lunches, bringing together a selective mix of people to create value and allow each person to shine. She emphasizes the importance of creating an environment for others to shine and positioning them in front of everyone else. Jillian also highlights the significance of follow-up after networking events, suggesting sending LinkedIn messages and using tools like Calendly for scheduling calls. Veronica Guguian adds that it's crucial to focus on what you do after networking, as that determines its effectiveness. She recommends inviting connections to personal events and making notes for different actions, while also considering automation solutions when appropriate.

Veronica emphasizes the shift towards inspiration and networking in events and how the pandemic changed her approach. She also mentioned her plans for a quarterly face-to-face series. Jillian highlighted the importance of strategic planning at events, such as using apps for connections and immediately following up with new connections. She also shared her experience with hosting events, suggesting starting small can be effective and curating mixes of people for business lunches or coffees. Both agreed on the benefits of networking in a group setting and emphasized the importance of allowing each person to shine. They concluded that effective networking events should be simple and not overwhelming, with smaller, more intimate events being ideal for meaningful connections.

Jillian Vorce challenges the misconception that extroverts make better networkers, emphasizing the value of listening and asking questions. They both agree that networking is not just about attending events but also following up afterward to build relationships. Veronica shares her approach of attending events for inspiration rather than solely seeking clients. Jillian suggests tactics such as planning ahead, utilizing social media connections, and hosting one's own events for effective networking strategies.

Veronica shared her strategy of using LinkedIn and personal notes to connect and follow up with new contacts.Jillian emphasized the importance of personal touches like snail mail and event invitations, and highlighted the role of 'posture' and body language in networking. She shared her experience of attending an event and striking a conversation with John, which led to three speaking engagements and a meaningful personal relationship. She attributed her success to her observation skills and understanding her purpose in networking situations.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

https://calendly.com/

https://youcanbook.me/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Collaboration in Action: ONS 2.0

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 1 Nov 2023 09:30:00 +0000

Welcome to episode 11 of Creative Conversation: Conversations with Veronica and Jillian.

In this episode, Veronica Guguian shares her journey of growing ONS from 16 participants to around 50, and the challenges she faced in facilitating conversations and maintaining timeframes. She also explains her idea of bringing experts on board to provide tips while she handles the technical side during ONS sessions. The ONS started as a way for people to connect during networking events that were no longer possible due to closures.

They talk about the importance of experimentation and how it can translate into different formats like video or audio podcasting.

Veronica Guguian discusses her experience with networking and the need for three people in a room to avoid conflict. She mentions that the number of attendees at her events has decreased from 50 to around 20-25, but she wants to keep it online because many participants are from outside the Netherlands. Veronica plans to introduce more targeted networking by better-qualifying attendees based on their needs, such as finding new clients or investors.

Jillian Vorce suggests conducting surveys and gathering feedback from attendees to assess the value they receive and understand why some people don't return. Veronica agrees that surveying could be improved and expresses her desire for anonymous feedback.

They discuss the importance of data collection regarding attendee retention, purpose, and business development outcomes.

Jillian Vorce discusses the challenges of closing deals and the unpredictable nature of business relationships.

Veronica Guguian realizes that her online networking service needs to be integrated into her marketing strategy and determine its purpose within her overall goals. They discuss how to position the service, engage the target audience, and make it more targeted. Jillian suggests using ONS as an opportunity to develop team talent and build rapport with clients. However, they also acknowledge the difficulties of managing expectations and finding a balance between personal brand and business identity.

Jillian Vorce offered her experience as a presenter, saying she felt awkward because she didn't feel like she could add value to the format.

Veronica Guguian acknowledged this and suggested that Jillian should explain her ideas in an article. They discussed the importance of building relationships and gathering input from regular attendees. They also talked about the challenges of generating business from networking events and the need for follow-up conversations. Veronica acknowledged that change is necessary to improve their networking format, while Jillian praised Veronica's openness to new ideas. They mentioned introducing each other to helpful contacts and teased upcoming episodes where they would discuss other topics.

Jillian Vorce asks about plans and specifically mentions surveying and the structure/format. Veronica Guguian suggests ending the episode and thanks listeners. Jillian suggests a name for the episode, "Collaboration in Action," which Veronica loves. They discuss numbering and end the conversation with goodbyes.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

https://spinideas.nl/online-networking-with-a-spin/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Experimentation Culture: Willingness to Play

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Jillian Vorce asks Veronica Guguian about her perspective on experimentation and how she incorporates it into her work. Veronica explains that experimentation is like playing, but there are different approaches when experimenting with one's own business versus working for a client. She gives examples of projects she has experimented with, such as the space conference and online networking during the pandemic. Veronica emphasizes the importance of celebrating successes and learning from failures in experimentation. Jillian also shares examples of other companies, like Booking.com and Impactiv8, that have successfully used experimentation to grow their businesses.

Both Jillian and Veronica agree that having a flexible mindset and willingness to try new things is crucial for successful experimentation.

Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of asking yourself different scenarios and coming up with solutions to overcome fear and negative thoughts. She believes in understanding both sides of a situation before making informed decisions.

Jillian Vorce discusses the need for a culture of experimentation and curiosity, even in smaller businesses. She suggests using tools like A/B testing to improve customer experience and streamline internal processes. Both speakers highlight the resistance to change due to fear or comfort in existing practices.

Veronica Guguian emphasizes that she is a consultant and marketeer, not a coach. However, sometimes she finds it necessary to guide clients through their challenges and help them understand what needs to change. She believes that rediscovering the initial passion for one's business is crucial for growth and success. Veronica encourages businesses to reassess their values, mission, communication strategies, target audience, services offered, and overall approach to doing business.

Jillian Vorce adds that change can be difficult because of fear and complacency but stresses the importance of clarity to prioritize and effectively communicate with stakeholders.

Both Veronica and Jillian agree on the significance of providing clarity as consultants by helping clients simplify their approaches and clean up any clutter hindering progress. They conclude by encouraging listeners to share their current experiments in the comments or private messages.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

1) https://support.google.com/optimize/answer/11417589?hl=en

2) https://www.crazyegg.com/

3) https://www.clickfunnels.com/

4) https://lp.leadpages.com/

5) https://www.optimizely.com/

6) https://www.mailerlite.com/

7) Booking.com example: https://hbr.org/2020/03/building-a-culture-of-experimentation

8) Impactiv* example:

https://thejilliangroup.com/change-management-impacts-sustainable-growth/#impactiv8

9) https://baseconference.amsterdam

10) https://jamesaltucher.com/

11) https://seths.blog/about/

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Business Finance: Pricing For Client Retention

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 12:00:10 +0000

In this episode, Veronica and Jillian discusse different pricing structures such as project fees and hourly rates, considering factors like team members' experience and overall costs when calculating retainers.

Veronica shares her experience with pricing in the market and emphasizes the value of a service when determining prices.

Jillian talks about different website pricing examples she encountered in the past and how it made her think about pricing based on results, experience, training, or overall value delivered to clients. She started using a retainer model early on in her business to avoid the hassle of changing orders and providing clients with a fixed line item in their budget. She believed it was more efficient and allowed for front-loading work. This approach helped her maintain clients for about three years on average.

Veronica Guguian has a similar approach, offering a fixed price per month for marketing strategy services, and later adding implementation services based on client needs. She discusses the importance of allocating budget and considering involvement in a project when determining revenue. She explores the differences between freelancers and companies, emphasizing the need for building relationships with clients.

Jillian Vorce shares her experience of not charging by the hour and highlights the value of relationships in her work.

They also discuss marketing's role in presenting oneself and helping businesses structurally, ultimately leading to more valuable advice. Both Veronica and Jillian agree on the significance of customization and consider hiring themselves for their own teams' work while focusing on client deliverables.

They finalize by mentioning receiving positive feedback on their podcast launch and discussing future topics suggested by listeners.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

How to Sell Your Services on Retainer https://www.theagentsofchange.com/jillian-vorce
Pay What You Want model

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Ai for the Non-Techie Business Owner

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:30:00 +0000

In this episode, Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of incorporating technology into businesses and discussing how to use it effectively. Jillian Vorce agrees, highlighting the need for business owners to be open-minded and educated about technology rather than resistant.

Jillian shares her perspective on starting with where you're at and not waiting for perfection when it comes to AI. They both encourage listeners to explore AI and provide resources for further learning. Overall, they highlight the potential power of AI in streamlining workflows and focusing on higher value tasks as human beings.

Veronica Guguian discusses the use of AI in marketing, highlighting the importance of using it as a tool and adapting content to align with brand identity. Jillian Vorce agrees that AI can replace certain functions performed by marketers but emphasizes the need for human perspective and editing to ensure content is aligned with company values.

Jillian Vorce discusses three AI tools in this part of the transcript. The first tool is Fireflies, which allows her to be present in conversations by automatically taking notes and transcribing meetings. The second tool is Dex CRM, which uses AI to generate custom text for conversation starters on LinkedIn and other platforms. The third tool is Chat GPT, which Jillian uses for various purposes such as show notes, blog topic outlines, and social media posts. She also mentions Andy Crestodina's article about using Google Analytics Four with AI for targeted content creation and recommends two AI experts: Christopher Penn from TrustInsights and Kim Reynolds. Veronica Guguian expresses interest in exploring these tools further to incorporate AI into their business strategy.

The conversation ends with plans for future podcast episodes on growing a team and pricing structure. They schedule another meeting for next week to discuss further details and topics.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Fireflies (for Zoom, google meet, etc - the recap is my favorite feature. Also works for transcriptions, to organize "to dos" discussed during the meeting and more
dexcrm - CRM Ai built-in to help with conversation starters (LinkedIn, etc)
ChatGPT - Helpful for podcast show notes, blog topic outlines and ideas
DALL-E2 and Midjourney for image creation
Magai - brings together ChatGPT + image creation - you can create & edit images, create folders - for client, personal, etc.
Andy Crestodina of Orbit Media: GA4 + Ai
Christopher Penn of TrustInsights.ai
FREE ebook: AI Tools Guide for Business Owners and Paid Media Professionals by Kim Reynolds

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Tools and Strategies to Grow and Manage Your Team - Part 1

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 4 Oct 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Today, Jillian Vorce discusses how she built client teams. She emphasizes the importance of having a diverse team that includes the client’s target audience as well as outside perspectives. Veronica Guguian agrees and acknowledges the challenges of pricing and finding backups for contractors. They both stress the need to pay everyone, including themselves, and discuss the difference between being a freelancer and running a business. Jillian explains how she negotiated rates with contractors based on guaranteed business opportunities. They also talk about the value of experience in understanding clients' needs and building personalized teams for each project.

Jillian Vorce discusses her approach to client relationships, explaining that she values finding the best solution for the client rather than maximizing profits. She also emphasizes the importance of building a core team and bringing in additional skills as needed. Jillian and Veronica Guguian discuss their approaches to learning and development within their companies, using internal projects as opportunities for growth. They touch on the topic of tools and mention some they have used or are currently testing. The conversation also explores personal preferences when it comes to digital tools versus traditional methods like pen and paper.

Jillian discusses the inefficiency of traditional note-taking and the benefits of working online with digital tools. She mentions using Teamwork for project management but is currently considering other options. Jillian also talks about using Airtable for content and workflow management. Veronica Guguian agrees on the importance of digital tools for efficiency but emphasizes the need for human connection and shared values within a team.

Finally, they both discuss the importance of saying goodbye to clients or team members when values no longer align. Additionally, Jillian highlights her practice of offering professional development opportunities to her contractors and freelancers as a way to expand their skills and benefit her business.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Sales & Marketing: Miscues + Opportunities

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:30:00 +0000

Today Veronica Guguian emphasizes the importance of both marketing and sales, as they are interconnected and necessary for success. She believes that good marketing helps attract clients, while focusing solely on clients without a proper marketing strategy can lead to inefficiency. Jillian Vorce agrees, noting that confusion often arises when clients expect social media posts or lead volume to directly result in sales.

They discuss the significance of understanding MQLs (marketing qualified leads) and SQLs (sales qualified leads) to identify areas for improvement in the sales process. They both stress the need for effective collaboration between the marketing and sales departments, highlighting that blaming one department over another is counterproductive.

They also mention how conventional organizational structures with silos create competition instead of synergy. Additionally, they discuss utilizing marketing strategies to provide service not just to customers but also within the company itself, such as supporting salespeople with relevant content and addressing objections upfront.

Jillian Vorce emphasizes the importance of proactively creating positive impressions and demonstrating your brand to make yourself memorable. She believes that even if someone has a good experience with a competitor, reaching out and offering help can still leave a lasting impression. Veronica Guguian agrees with this approach and mentions how she introduces clients to other companies, including her competitors, if they can't work together.

To close, Jillian and Veronica posed questions for the listeners, asking them to share their perspectives on the relationship between sales and marketing, how they perceive the collaboration between these two functions, and whether their own companies have siloed or collaborative approaches. The action item is to encourage listeners to provide their insights and experiences on these topics.

People & Resources Discussed in This Episode:

Mcdonalds & burger king collaboration

https://medium.com/worthix/a-day-without-a-whopper-mcdonalds-and-burger-king-come-together-for-a-good-cause-55e1e16a5d74

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Start Now Versus Waiting for Perfection

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Todays' episode starts with Veronica Guguian discussing the importance of not waiting for perfect conditions to start a business or launch a new product or service and advises to test ideas on a small scale before implementing them. She then shares her experience with developing a service called Marketing Buddy, which involved consulting and guiding clients in marketing implementation. Veronica tested the idea with peers, made adjustments based on their feedback, and started selling it within one month. She later merged the service into her existing offerings to provide better value to clients.

Jillian Vorce discusses the catch-22 concept of waiting for more experience before getting started and highlights the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome. She emphasizes the value of having a personal board of advisors and shares her own experience with seeking advice and feedback. Jillian also talks about her journey in scaling her brand and embracing sustainability through B Corps certification.

Veronica Guguian adds that it's important to have both cheerleaders and critics, as well as being resourceful in finding answers when faced with challenges. The conversation concludes with a discussion on collaboration opportunities and the need to stop making assumptions.

Veronica Guguian discusses the imposter syndrome and the importance of collaboration. She emphasizes that life is not perfect, and making mistakes can lead to learning and fun experiences. Jillian Vorce agrees, adding that adults are experiential learners.

They conclude the episode by encouraging listeners to take action and not strive for perfection in their business endeavours.

People & Resources Discussed in This Episode:

https://info.kpmg.us/news-perspectives/people-culture/kpmg-study-finds-most-female-executives-experience-imposter-syndrome.html

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Creativity As a Business Strategy

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 11:37:37 +0000

Today Veronica Guguian and Jillian Vorce discuss their perspectives on creativity in business. They emphasize the importance of adding a personal touch and finding what makes a company or individual unique.

They share examples of how creativity can lead to meaningful connections and business opportunities, such as Veronica's online networking events during the pandemic and Jillian's experience with providing value through personalized content creation. Both agree that embracing creativity can have great benefits in various aspects of life and business.

Veronica Guguian then emphasizes the importance of adapting ideas to fit one's own company identity and audience. Jillian Vorce highlights the value of collaborating with competitors as a creative approach.

They conclude the episode by encouraging embracing creativity in various aspects of business, such as content creation and ways of providing value.

People & Resources Mentioned in This Episode

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com/better

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits

- Music Composed by BeeLa Music

- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

Top 3 Lessons Learned as Business Owners

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Tue, 5 Sep 2023 11:28:45 +0000

Welcome to episode 3 of Creative Conversation: Conversations with Veronica and Jillian.

Veronica's Lessons Learned:

Surround Yourself with Curiosity:
- Veronica emphasizes the importance of being curious and surrounding oneself with curious people.
- She believes that curiosity leads to new opportunities, innovation, and adaptability.
- Veronica links this lesson to the power of networking and meeting new individuals.
Be Careful with Strategic Partnerships:
- Veronica stresses the significance of choosing strategic partnerships wisely.
- She shares personal experiences of entering partnerships without proper background checks or clear agreements.
- Veronica highlights the importance of conducting due diligence and setting strong agreements in partnerships.
Trust Your Gut Feeling and Say No:
- Veronica encourages entrepreneurs to listen to their instincts and not be afraid to say no.
- She shares her personal struggle with turning down clients or opportunities that didn't feel aligned.
- Veronica believes that forcing situations that don't feel right can hinder growth and success.

Jillian's Lessons Learned:

Have a Support System:
- Jillian emphasizes the need for a support system outside of one's business or family.
- She mentions the value of having a group of people who can provide candid feedback, celebrate wins, and offer encouragement.
- Jillian reflects on her experience of not having such a support system earlier and how it affected her.
Track Your Time and Prioritize:
- Jillian discusses the importance of keeping track of personal time and managing it effectively.
- She emphasizes the need to allocate time to revenue-generating activities and avoid getting lost in supporting tasks.
- Jillian acknowledges the challenge of finding the right balance between working in the business and on the business.
Work on Your Big Goals First, Daily:
- Jillian shares advice from a business coach about working on one's big goals first each day. This concept comes from Jim Collins, BHAG
- She recommends dedicating focused time to important projects before getting caught up in emails, social media, or other distractions.
- Jillian suggests that prioritizing big goals helps maintain alignment and fall in love with the business again.

People & Resource Mentions In This Episode:

BHAG via Jim Collins: https://www.jimcollins.com/concepts/bhag.html
Founder of WyseMinds, Julie Perkins: https://wyseminds.com/about-us/

About Veronica Guguian
- Website: https://spinideas.nl
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce
- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits
- Music Composed by BeeLa Music
- Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

The Power of Networking

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Tue, 5 Sep 2023 10:00:00 +0000

Welcome to episode 2 of Creative Conversation: Conversations with Veronica and Jillian.

Jillian had a lightbulb moment that led her to start her own business at the age of 22. She realized the importance of how she presented herself and actively listening in networking situations. By genuinely caring about people and building relationships, she was able to grow her network and create opportunities for herself.

Veronica Guguian relates to Jillian's approach of networking without an agenda and emphasizes the need to maintain relationships. Both speakers believe that being curious, actively listening, and finding common ground are key aspects of successful networking.

They also highlight the value of organic connections, both within and outside their industries. Veronica emphasizes the significance of connecting with people beyond just potential prospects or clients, including collaborators and former clients.

The conversation concludes with a discussion about being proactive in building relationships rather than waiting until a position of need arises. They consider engaging their audience in a panel or live stream to further explore different approaches to networking.

People & Resources Mentioned During This Episode

- This article by @ChrisBrogan which categorizes people's approaches to networking into three buckets.
- This company, GSES-System and it's founder, Kelly Ruigrok
- Jillian's TEDx, The Lens of Connectivity
- Amsterdam American Business Club

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits:
-Music Composed by: BeeLa Music
-Voiceover by Amanda Balagur

How We Got Started in Business

creativecollaborationpodcast@gmail.com (Jillian Vorce) — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 19:26:22 +0000

Today Veronica and Jillian started by sharing fun facts about themselves, highlighting their early ventures into entrepreneurship.

Jillian reveals that she started her first business at the young age of 22, which was an Internet marketing business during the early days of online shopping. She reminisces about educating consumers about the internet and online shopping when it was still a novel concept.

Veronica's fun fact showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and her involvement in the rapidly evolving world of e-commerce. She shares her experience of launching an e-commerce platform for French designer clothes. Veronica explains how she had to educate people about the safety and convenience of online shopping, particularly in Eastern Europe, where the adoption of technology was relatively slower. She also mentions the challenges and unexpected expenses she faced while running her business.

The conversation takes an interesting turn when Jillian mentions a successful businesswoman she met 20 years ago, who organized trunk shows for exclusive clothing lines. This prompts her to realize that she needs to follow up with this person and maintain business relationships—a valuable lesson in networking and nurturing connections.

The hosts then shift their focus to discussing helpful tools for business management. Jillian recommends an Ai tool called Fireflies, which transcribes and recaps meetings, making it easier to capture important details and action items. Veronica adds to the conversation by mentioning another similar tool called Otter.ai and expresses her preference for handwritten notes, which she finds more effective for memory retention.

They conclude the episode by briefly discussing data security and customer privacy, hinting at a future episode dedicated to the topic. They also tease a potential guest speaker, a lawyer specializing in data protection and privacy laws, who could provide valuable insights on the subject.

About Veronica Guguian

- Website: https://spinideas.nl/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-guguian

About Jillian Vorce

- Website: https://thejilliangroup.com

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillianvorce

Credits
Music Composed by: BeeLa Music
Voiceover by Amanda Balagur
Podcast post-production by Melina Dio