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Colour Psychology

Posted By Sally Inkster, Brand Specialist, 16 April 2024
I read an article the other day all about colour, which I found interesting, but slightly against what I believe. The article was saying that you had to choose the colours of your website and business cards to address what your clients want and not around your favourite colours. I agree with this to a point but...

Let's see if I can explain

Colour is so many things to so many people, it can evoke feelings, memories and even treat our physical or mental health.

Colours are vitamins, they spark in us something and that same colour to someone else it will spark something in them!

But every colour, like everything else has a positive and a negative.

Each colour has its own meanings...

RED - choose for occasions when you want to be recognized , or to catch some ones eye. To project authority without being threatening use red as an accent or in moderation'
Positive - Up-beat, confident, assertive, exciting.
Negative - Aggressive, domineering, bossy, threatening, danger.

PINK - Can be used to soften an austere business look.
Positive - Feminine, gentle, accessible, not-threatening.
Negative - Pathetic, unimportant, safe, under-confident.

BROWN - To get people to open-up and communicate more freely, the least threatening colour than others - perhaps that's why it's chosen by monks?
Positive - Earthy, homely.
Negative - Safe, boring, unsophisticated.

YELLOW - To cheer yourself up, particularly on a dreary day.
Positive - Cheerful, hopeful, active, uninhibited.
Negative - Impulsive, tiresome, whirlwind, volatile.

BLUE - The deepest blues project the most authority - think police. IF you want to look like you're in charge a navy or deep blue suit will do the trick.
Positive - Peaceful, trustworthy, constant, orderly.
Negative - 'Holier than thou'.

GREEN - When over-stressed and overtired green produces restorative results. (my tip of the day is to choose a grass green handbag for yourself or a present. Look outside - grass makes everything and anything look better!)
Positive - self- reliant, tenacious, nurturing, dependable.
Negative - boring, stubborn, risk averse, predictable.

ORANGE - Wear in measured doses in a business environment ( have to say it's my fav!)
Positive - vitality, fun, enthusiasm, sociability, uninhibited.
Negative - Superficial, common, faddist, giddy.

VIOLET - In business situations where you need to project confidence and individuality.
Positive: Imaginative, sensitive, intuitive, unusual, unselfish,
Negative - weird, impractical, immature, superior.

GREY - In business, greys are the safest option for suits. Less authoritarian than navy or black.
Positive - Respectable, neutral, balanced.
Negative - non-committal, deceptive, uncertain, safe.

BLACK - a sign of respect and to keep people at a distance.
Positive - formal, sophisticated, mysterious, strong.
Negative - mournful, aloof, negative, lifeless.

WHITE - a strong associations with traditional medicine so impeccable standards of care and hygiene.
Positive - pure, clean, fresh, futuristic.
Negative - clinical, colourless, cold, neutral.

Now we know the above, it makes super sense to choose a colour that will attract your clients, or does it?

You have lots of different clients (maybe only one avatar and you could choose his/her colour but...)

There is only one you and you are unique.

During your personal brand journey you should learn exactly which colours are 'You'

Take this as a great start and then you look at your colours and decide which one of those is suitable for your clients, or gives out the desired message.

Above there is only 11 colours not much to choose from and the probability is, that every healer will choose violet! But this is where your colours come in, it's the shade or tone of that colour that must be very much YOU!

If you plaster your website in let us say a generic green and the same with your business cards and your social media posts, alongside pictures of you and those colours do not suit you - believe me, you will not look as good as you should and I would go as far as to say you will look, older, unhealthier and just not you.

If you're struggling then this is one of the subjects I cover in great detail along with hundreds of others in my VIP Brand Accelerate Programme

https://www.sallyinkster.com/vip

Love and Laughter

Sally Inkster

Tags:  Colour  Personal Brand  Psychology 

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Boutique Weddings Kent

Posted By Anita Lewis, Event Manager and Coordinator, 07 April 2024

If you are looking for somewhere new or unique for your wedding then Boutique Weddings Kent can help!

Boutique Weddings Kent can host and manage your day so that you can step back from the preparation and focus on you and your guests.

We have partnered with some beautiful new locations.
The 12th Century Refectory at Dover College 
The Pines Gardens and Caylx, St Margaret’s Bay 
Chartham Vineyard 
Woodchurch Vineyard 
Bekesbourne Farm

We can also manage your day if you wish to use your own location, perhaps a family house or garden.

A Boutique Weddings Kent day is all about quality and enjoyment.
We are committed to using locally sourced produce and suppliers.

Please do contact me for a chat or more information 
Anita x

team@boutiqueweddingskent.co.uk 
Www.boutiqueweddingskent.co.uk 

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Can you help with my Market Research?

Posted By Clare Sutton, Life Coach, 05 April 2024
🙋‍♀️ Are you at the point of a big personal or professional step and feel super excited – but at the same time worry what others might think or if you can pull it off?

Then I’d love to interview you in the last round of market research for my coaching business!

I have already learned SO much from my first round (THANK YOU all of you who participated) and now I’d specifically love to talk to you who want to make changes in your life BUT:

- Compare yourself against others, concerned you don’t have what it takes 
- Keep procrastinating or avoiding taking the next step
- Lack the mental energy to get started

Does this sound like you? Comment or send me a Message!

It’s a 30 min call, for my eyes and ears only, and I promise it will awaken a lot of insights in you as well. 💡

(If this isn’t you, you can also help by sharing this post to spread the word 😊)

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Does this sound like you?

Posted By Clare Sutton, Life Coach, 19 March 2024
I’m looking for you… 

…who’s tired of being your own worst critic, who always puts other people’s needs ahead of your own, and who’s trapped in a spiral of perfectionism and busyness - wondering if that fun and carefree person is still in there somewhere.

If that’s you, you probably resonate with some or all of these statements:

* You find yourself automatically saying 'yes' to everything, only to end up drowning in resentment and exhaustion 

* You're everyone's cheerleader, always there to pick them up when they fall. But when you slip up? It's weeks of mental reruns, beating yourself up over every little detail 
* You’re really trying your best each day, but it never feels like enough. So when you do rest, you feel guilty and it’s hard to fully relax. 
* You catch yourself daydreaming about a life where you wake up excited every morning, feeling lighter, more joyful and relaxed, but 'I've got so much on my plate right now' and 'I don't even know where to start' holds you back. 

If thIs is you, I’d love to interview you for my market research!

It’s a 30 min call, for my eyes and ears only, and I promise it will awaken a lot of insights in you as well.

Just pop me a message and I’ll send you the details. :) 

 Attached Thumbnails:

Tags:  #mindset #beatburnout #worklifebalance 

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World Sleep Day 2024 (but what if you can't?)

Posted By Jessie Way, Hypnotherapist, 15 March 2024

It is commonly known that getting enough sleep is a vital part of maintaining or improving our health, both physical and mental.  However, there can be so many barriers to sleep in the forms of insomnia and other sleep disorders, and they are extremely challenging for those who are suffering the sleep problem, along with anyone who shares a bedroom with them.

What I intend to do is to offer some brief insight into insomnia and how hypnotherapy can help.  I won't discuss sleep disorders here as I refer those on, but I can deal with sleep-talking should anyone (adult) be struggling with that.

Regarding insomnia, statistics show that 30% of adults complain of insomnia and for 30% of these adults it is a chronic problem.

There are three kinds of insomnia and there are different experiences that insomniacs have.  Alongside these, there are a wealth of different causes.

Insomnia that is temporary and fleeting, such as in response to jet lag, bereavement, stress is called transient.

That which is related to other disorders such as depression or pain or the menopause, is called secondary.

Primary insomnia is the kind that has no known origin and is not directly related to other medical problems.

How it shows up could be that the person struggles to fall asleep, or they're waking far too early, or they're falling asleep but then waking in the night and finding it difficult to return to sleep.  Hypnotherapy is useful for all of these bed-time challenges.

Usually using behavioural approaches which address unwanted habits and behaviours, and cognitive approaches which take on unwanted thoughts and beliefs, hypnotherapy for relieving insomnia is extremely rewarding.  The process is interesting and relaxing.  Having ensured there are no medical or psychiatric reasons for the insomnia that need a referral to a G.P., and that it is safe to conduct hypnotherapy, and having learned all I can about the client's challenges then a relaxing and rewarding hypnotherapy session follows, working on relieving any stress or anxiety, particularly that that is related directly to the sleep problems, followed by reframing any unwanted behaviours and thoughts while in the hypnotic state.
When the session ends and the client is fully alert, they find themselves already feeling a lot calmer and at peace, and eager to experience an improved bedtime.

However, as a well-qualified hypnotherapist, I have been trained and choose to deliver not only hypnotherapy, but also to offer good lifestyle advice about many, if not all, of the conditions I work with.  

In relation to sleep, it can be interesting to learn what different people consider to good sleep hygiene, versus what actually is.

Where insomnia is involved, some very simple life style advice is to ensure where possible that: 

~ there is good air circulation in your sleeping area  

~ you're using natural fibres in your bedding if you're prone to over-heating

~ you're seriously reducing or better still completely eliminating screens from your 

~ sleeping area 

~ strenuous exercise activity (except for sex which is excellent for sleep) isn't occurring right before bedtime

~ only very small and healthy snacks are eaten rather than large meals right before bed, ~DO NOT try to force yourself to fall asleep!  The law of reversed effect will take hold and you will not be able to do it!  Far better to employ one or two of a variety of relaxing and sleep-inducing techniques, than to do this!  If all else is failing, get up and do something tedious (not reading or TV or podcast) until tired enough to go back to bed.

My wish for you is that you sleep well tonight, and if an adult you know is really struggling with sleep, maybe you'll consider connecting them with me. 

Sweet Dreams! 

 

*Image Canva April 2024

Tags:  hypnosis  hypnotherapy  insomnia  sleep 

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Meet Anni Summers: Specialist Gut Health Dietitian

Posted By Anni Summers, Registered Dietitian and Gut Health Specialist, 06 March 2024

Discover Personalised Gut Health Care

Hello and a warm welcome to Anni Summers RD. I’m thrilled to have this opportunity to share a bit about me and the passion that drives me as a specialist Gut Health Dietitian.

My Journey to Becoming a Gut Health Dietitian

A Lifelong Interest in Food

I have been interested in food and cooking since I was a young child when, at 4 years old, I got up early one morning and decided to “bake a cake”. After mixing together flour and sugar and putting it in the oven, my Mum woke just in time to intervene before I had the chance to turn on the oven! As a teenager, I enjoyed experimenting in the kitchen, and often made dinner for my parents, introducing them to “new” cuisines, such as Thai and Japanese. Many of my present-day social activities are culinary orientated, such as dining out (I love seeking out unique and unusual dining experiences in London) and hosting dinner parties for friends. And, of course, Mum and Dad still come round once a week for dinner.

From Passion to Profession: Embracing Dietetics

In 2007, my passion for nutrition and the interplay between food, health and disease grew, stemming from a close family member being diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, as well as my own diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (finally, I could make sense of the abdominal pain, bloating and wind I’d been experiencing since my early teens!). This personal connection to gastrointestinal health led me to a career switch and, in 2011, I began training to be a Registered Dietitian.

My Experience as a Gut Health Dietitian

Excelling in Nutrition and Dietetics

Jump to 2016, I had successfully earned my first-class degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, graduating top of my year. I had gained experience and worked in world-class London hospitals such as University College London Hospital (UCLH). I was brimming with enthusiasm. My desire to make a difference spurring me on to embark on a journey to help others through diet therapy, particularly those struggling with gut-related issues.

Professional Growth: Building Expertise in Gastroenterology

I worked within the NHS, where I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge and gain invaluable experience. Hard work and determination soon saw me becoming a Gastroenterology Specialist Dietitian, working alongside a fantastic team of Gastroenterologists, Colorectal Surgeons and Specialist Nurses as well as my fellow Dietitians. During my time in the NHS, I strived to always put my patients first, instilling confidence and being their advocate when they needed me to. I was well liked and trusted by colleagues for my considered opinions and advice.

Personal Insight: Living with IBS

Having lived with IBS for nearly 30 years, the first 10 of which I spent not knowing what was causing my daily symptoms of pain and bloating, I understand what it’s like to feel confused, frustrated and hopeless. If you’re suffering with IBS, IBD, diverticular disease, food intolerances, gut motility issues, or any other digestive complaint or condition, it can be a real challenge to stay on top of things.

Providing Specialist Dietetic Gut Health Services

The Need for Specialised Care: A UK-Wide Problem

10‐20% of the UK population is thought to suffer with IBS (NICE, 2017), yet research indicates that 50% of NHS Trusts do not have dedicated dietetic IBS clinics (BMJ Front Line Gastroenterology Journal, 2021). There are thought to be 500,000 people diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis in the UK, however around 60% of those do not have access to specialist dietetic care within the NHS (IBD UK, 2020).

My Commitment: Enhancing Gut Wellness through Private Practice

While working within the NHS allowed me to support a significant number of individuals, I realised that there was simply not enough time or resources to enable me to fully support my patients in their journey.

In 2021, I made the decision to transition to private practice and set up in Bishop’s Stortford as a specialist Gut Health Dietitian to allow me to take a more customised approach to managing digestive disorders through diet. I now have the privilege of working closely alongside individuals experiencing gut issues to help guide them towards better understanding of their symptoms and conditions using evidence-based nutrition for gut health, empowering them to choose how to manage their diet and health.

My Approach: Personalised Support for Each Client

As a Specialist Gut Health Dietitian, I work to support each client with online 1-2-1 sessions to not only achieve their desired outcomes but also experience improvement in their overall well-being. This involves a commitment to understanding the intricacies of each individual’s unique lifestyle and challenges. Working as a gut specialist dietitian is so incredibly rewarding. It’s so inspiring to see my clients move forward, find relief, and take control of their health and nutrition.

Working together with Anni Summers RD: Your Journey to Gut Health

Here at Anni Summers RD, we believe in a personalised approach to your well-being. It’s not just about addressing challenges but about embarking on a journey together, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way. I look forward to being a part of your path to a healthier, happier you! Ready to Improve Your Gut Health? If you’re interested in finding out how I can help you, book a FREE Discovery Call with me.

Tags:  dietitian  gut health  health 

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PERSONAL STYLIST TIPS: THE ROLE OF MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING IN PERSONAL STYLE

Posted By Stefania Bartolomei, 05 March 2024

Beyond just enhancing our features, makeup and hairstyling have the ability to sculpt, accentuate, and illuminate our unique features.

Something many of my clients find the most transformative from my colour clinics is understanding the ways in which they can use their hairstyles and make up to transform their confidence. We’ve all been there – gone to a hairdressing appointment and left feeling on top of the world (or in some cases ready to run and hide!). Understanding your face shape and colourings means you can play with the hairstyles that would accentuate your features in the best possible way, and the colours you may want to try out.

Face Shape and Colour Analysis

Imagine your face as a blank canvas, understanding your face shape is similar to knowing the contours of your canvas – it lays the foundation for creating harmonious makeup and hairstyles. From heart-shaped to oval, each face shape offers its own set of opportunities to play up your best features.

Our colour clinics take this concept a step further, helping you discover the hues that complement your unique skin tone, eye colour, and hair shade. By mastering these fundamental principles, you'll be able to play with makeup looks that enhance your natural beauty and hairstyles that frame your face beautifully.

The Art of Makeup

Makeup is more than just a cosmetic; it's a form of self-expression. Whether you prefer a natural, barely-there look or a bold, statement-making style, the key lies in understanding how to play with the colours available and with confidence.

From the perfect nude lipstick to a mesmerising eyeshadow palette, each product becomes a tool in your artistic arsenal, helping you play with makeup in new ways.

I love helping my clients walk away from a colour clinic with me with a fresh face of make up that they love, in the colours that make them shine. They can have a go-to look for every day, and then more glamourous options understanding the lipsticks, eyeshadows, blushes and bronzers that will make them glow.

 

Framing your Face with your Hairstyle

It is important to understand your face shape if you want to have hairstyles that will accentuate your look. You’ll also want to think about your lifestyle when choosing a hairstyle that suits you best. You may want to go all out with a layer-filled look, but if you only have 5 minutes every morning, then this may not be the best option.

As general tips, those with heart-shaped faces may gravitate towards hairstyles that add volume around the jawline, balancing out the broader forehead. Meanwhile, individuals with oval faces have the flexibility to experiment with various lengths and textures, embracing versatility in their hair journey.

As a personal stylist, I believe in the transformative power of makeup and hairstyles. Beyond just providing a service, it's about fostering a collaborative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. By incorporating face shape and colour analysis into my consultations, I ensure that every client receives a bespoke experience tailored to their unique features and personality.

By embracing the principles of face shape and colour analysis, you can unlock the full potential of your beauty and express yourself with confidence. Remember, the most beautiful thing you can wear is your smile – but a killer lipstick and fabulous hairstyle certainly don't hurt!

If you’d like to boost your confidence by understanding the colours and styles that help make you glow, click here to find out more about my Colour and Style Clinic. 

 Attached Thumbnails:

Tags:  hairstyling  makeup ideas  makeup tips  personal style  personal styling tips  personal stylist 

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LinkedIn vs. Other Social Media Platforms: Why LinkedIn is a Goldmine for Coaches and Service-Based Businesses...

Posted By Elaine Walsh-McGrath, Managing Director, 01 March 2024

How many platforms are you using for your business right now?

Depending on what stage you are at in your business you might be on everything! This should really only be the case in one of these situations:

  1. You have the revenue to outsource some of the tasks for content creation

  2. You are reasonably adept at content and know how to use AI to help you to create a multi-platform presence for your business.

If you can't tick either of these boxes then I suggest that you do two things:

  1. Choose an algorithm based platform that you enjoy to use (Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn/Tiktok)

  2. Focus the rest of your time on a evergreen platform. Choose which way you prefer to communicate (Blog/Podcast/YouTube)

But what are the pros and cons of each platform when you are searching for clients?

LinkedIn:

Pros:

1. Professional Network: LinkedIn is more commercial it's specifically designed for professional networking, making it an ideal platform for coaches and service-based businesses targeting corporate clients.

2. Advanced Targeting Options: LinkedIn offers advanced targeting options for advertising, allowing businesses to reach their ideal clients based on job title, industry, company size, and more.

3. Content Sharing Opportunities: The platform provides various opportunities to share valuable content, such as articles, posts, and videos, helping businesses showcase their expertise and attract potential clients.

Cons:

1. High Competition: Due to its professional nature, LinkedIn often has high competition, making it challenging for businesses to stand out among other professionals and service providers.

2. Limited Organic Reach: Organic reach on LinkedIn can be limited compared to other platforms, requiring businesses to invest in advertising or engage consistently to gain visibility. (This can be overcome by focusing on your personal profile)

3. Formal Atmosphere: LinkedIn's formal atmosphere may not be suitable for all types of businesses or coaching niches, especially those targeting a more casual or creative audience. (Although this is evolving.)

Facebook:

Pros:

1. Large User Base: Facebook has a massive user base, offering businesses access to a diverse audience of potential clients across different demographics and interests.

2. Robust Advertising Tools: Facebook provides powerful advertising tools with detailed targeting options, allowing businesses to reach specific audiences based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and more.

3. Community Building: Facebook Groups offer opportunities for businesses to build communities around their brand, foster engagement, and establish themselves as industry leaders.

Cons:

1. Declining Organic Reach: Facebook's algorithm changes have led to declining organic reach for business pages, requiring businesses to rely more on paid advertising to reach their audience.

2. Informal Environment: Facebook's casual and social nature may not be suitable for all businesses, especially those targeting a more professional or formal audience.

3. Privacy Concerns: Facebook has faced various privacy concerns and controversies, which may deter some users from engaging with businesses on the platform.

Instagram:

Pros:

1. Visual Content Focus: Instagram's emphasis on visual content makes it ideal for showcasing products, services, and brand aesthetics, allowing businesses to engage with their audience through compelling imagery and videos.

2. Engagement Opportunities: Instagram offers various engagement features such as likes, comments, and direct messages, enabling businesses to interact directly with potential clients and build relationships.

3. Hashtag Reach: Strategic use of hashtags on Instagram can significantly increase reach and visibility, helping businesses attract new followers and potential clients interested in their niche.

Cons:

1. Limited Linking Options: Instagram has limited linking options, particularly in posts (excluding the bio and stories for accounts with over 10k followers), which can make it challenging to drive traffic directly to external websites or landing pages.

2. Highly Competitive Environment: Instagram's popularity has led to high competition among businesses, making it challenging to stand out in crowded feeds and gain followers.

3. Algorithm Changes: Instagram's algorithm changes can impact the visibility of posts and affect businesses' ability to reach their target audience, requiring them to adapt their strategies frequently.

Each platform has its strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of platform should align with the target audience, business goals, and content strategy of the coach or service-based business.

TikTok:

Pros:

  1. Viral Potential: TikTok's algorithm is known for its ability to quickly boost content to a wide audience, making it possible for businesses to achieve viral success and gain significant exposure.

  2. Creativity and Authenticity: TikTok thrives on creative and authentic content, allowing businesses to showcase their personality, expertise, and unique offerings in engaging and entertaining ways.

  3. Younger Audience: TikTok predominantly attracts a younger audience, making it an ideal platform for businesses targeting Gen Z and millennials or those offering products and services tailored to this demographic.

Cons:

  1. Short-Form Content Limitation: TikTok's focus on short-form videos (up to 3 minutes as of my last update) may not suit all types of content or businesses, particularly those requiring more in-depth explanations or demonstrations.

  2. Limited Linking Opportunities: Similar to Instagram, TikTok has limited linking options within posts, restricting the ability to drive traffic directly to external websites or landing pages.

  3. Algorithm Uncertainty: While TikTok's algorithm can boost content virality, it can also be unpredictable, making it challenging for businesses to consistently reach and engage their target audience without a deep understanding of the platform's trends and dynamics.

I didn't mention X ... well ... I'm there but I only use it when I'm complaining! But maybe that's just me!

If you're here on LinkedIn then let's assume that is going to be your algorithmic based platform.

How can you get LinkedIn to work when you're getting advice like...

"You should create talking head videos with lots of free advice and occasional trending audio." Does that even work on LinkedIn? (Sometimes)

Post three times a week? Or a day? Avoid Mondays and the weekend... Is that true? (No)

Do LinkedIn polls work? No one votes for mine. (They are really useful if you know how.)

If you've been looking at LinkedIn and saying to yourself professionals are there, corporates are there. "I need to show up there."

(Which is why you're here, reading this article!)

So... You need to focus on getting the following right:

  • What content works on LinkedIn to position me as an expert in my field?

  • How to position my expertise in my About Section so that my credibility shines through?

  • What to say in a private message so that I don't sound like the people who message me and drive me mad?

  • How to build a network of new connections? I've changed industries.

  • How to get the right people to pay attention?

  • What actions to take to create the opportunity of a Discovery Call with my ideal client?

I know that the majority of the advice available is not for you. It talks about how to get a new role or a promotion, but not clients.

You know that your clients are there. You know that your offer can make a huge impact. It's so frustrating.

Truth of the matter is that LinkedIn is a goldmine for lead generation, networking, and crafting a strong professional personal brand. When you know how to use it.

Growing your personal brand in front of a corporate audience:

In my experience of working with clients across different social media platforms to grow their business, LinkedIn is easier when it comes to working with corporate businesses.

Here's what I focus on:

Step One - Create a Profile that speaks to your client (rather than being a list of achievements)

Step Two - Make sure your Content Speaks to the needs and wants of your client and is not a list of your services

Step Three - Leverage your existing network, and act like you would in real life when reaching out to prospective clients.

Step Four - Create a next step. Is that a consult call?

In LinkedIn to Leads, my Group Program I walk a small group of businesses through each of these steps over a 14 week period.

So that you can use LinkedIn to attract your ideal clients by leveraging your network and building the right connections for your business.

Find out more here:

https://www.elainewalshmcgrath.com/LinkedIn-to-Leads-Group-Coaching-Program

If you have any questions reach out to me:

hello@elainewalshmcgrath.com


Photo credit Albane McGuinness

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How to Leverage LinkedIn Recommendations for Credibility and Trust

Posted By Elaine Walsh-McGrath, Managing Director, 06 February 2024

Are you using LinkedIn Recommendations to deepen your professional relationships with your network?

Remember the key to success is to act like a human on social... Do you share referrals and references in every day business life? Yes? Well then...

When you work with a new or existing client are you asking them for testimonials, or LinkedIn Recommendations? Do you share recommendations when you work with a supplier? Are you saving them and sharing them?

If not then let’s dig into how you can use LinkedIn Recommendations to build credibility and trust with your followers.

Introduction: Importance of credibility and trust on LinkedIn

Before diving into the details, let's first understand why credibility and trust are crucial on LinkedIn. As a coach or service-based business, establishing yourself as a credible and trustworthy professional is essential to attract clients and build a strong network.

LinkedIn recommendations play a vital role in achieving this. They serve as testimonials from colleagues, clients, and other professionals who have worked with you. Recommendations provide social proof of your skills, expertise, and the positive impact you have made on others.

1. What are LinkedIn recommendations and why do they matter?

LinkedIn recommendations endorse and highlight your skills, qualities, and achievements. They appear on your LinkedIn profile and serve as testimonials from clients who have had a positive experience working with you.

These recommendations matter because they provide valuable insights into your professional character and abilities. They give potential clients and connections a glimpse of what it's like to work with you, building trust and credibility from the perspective of others.

2. How to ask for recommendations (it’s easy!)

Asking for recommendations is easier than you think! Here are some tips to help you get going:

  1. Identify the right people: Reach out to people who have first-hand experience working with you and can vouch for your skills and expertise.
  2. Personalise your request: Craft a personalised message explaining why you value their opinion and how their recommendation can benefit both of you.
  3. Provide guidance: Offer specific suggestions on what you would like them to highlight in their recommendation. I LOVE when people give me an idea of what they need it to say. It saves me time that I don’t have!
  4. Follow up politely: If you don't receive a response, send a gentle reminder after a reasonable amount of time has passed.

3. How to write a great recommendation for others

Writing a stand out recommendation for others can be a powerful way to strengthen your professional relationships and showcase your willingness to support others. Who doesn’t like getting a glowing review?! Right?

Here are some tips to help you write an effective recommendation:

  1. Start with a strong opening: Begin by mentioning how you know the person and briefly highlight their key strengths and accomplishments.
  2. Provide specific examples: Share specific instances or projects where the person excelled and showcase the positive impact they made.
  3. Be yourself: Don’t use overly formal language if that’s not you! And it doesn’t match the person you worked with.
  4. Highlight their unique qualities: Emphasise the qualities that make the person stand out and explain why they are a valuable asset.
  5. Keep it concise and authentic: Be genuine in your praise and keep the recommendation concise, focusing on the most significant contributions and skills.
  6. End with a strong closing: Conclude the recommendation by expressing your confidence in the person's abilities and your willingness to recommend them to others.

4. How to showcase recommendations on your LinkedIn profile

Once you have received recommendations, it's important to showcase them effectively on your LinkedIn profile to make the most of them. Here's how:

  1. Create a post that highlights the recommendation and thank the person who took the time to write it. Make sure to tag them in the post.
  2. Make sure to screenshot the recommendations and use them on your website, in emails, and use them as social proof when you are talking about your services on social media.
  3. Showcase relevant recommendations: If you have received recommendations specific to certain industries or services, make sure to highlight them in relevant sections of your profile.

Compliments build positive relationships

As with everything on social media. Remember to act like a human! Everyone loves a compliment. If you have genuine experience of working with someone who was a pleasure to work with then share it! 

LinkedIn recommendations are powerful tools that can significantly enhance your credibility and trustworthiness. By understanding how to ask for recommendations, write compelling recommendations for others, and showcase them effectively on your profile, you can establish yourself as a trusted professional in your industry. Start leveraging recommendations today and see the positive impact it can have on your LinkedIn presence.

Make sure to message me and let me know if you notice a difference in how you feel about LinkedIn recommendations if you start using them!

Let's connection on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/elainewalshmcgrath/

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Top legal tips for living together

Posted By Saika Alam, Family Law, 05 February 2024

Relationships can be so tricky to negotiate. This is especially true if you are looking for love the second time round. You will be older and wiser and perhaps left a little emotionally bruised from your past experiences.

When you find your perfect partner and want to take that important next step of moving in together it is important that you have that money conversation. It’s not romantic but it will give you both peace of mind and set out your ground rules.

Warning – the law does not protect cohabiting couples

Many couples think that when they are living together for a longish period of time, they acquire legal rights that will protect them if their relationship should break down. That’s just not the case. Couples who live together never get the same rights as married couples.  This is why it is so important to put things in writing.

Here are some top legal tips if you are ready to move on from just dating to that exciting first step of commitment that comes with cohabitation:

  1. Consider a cohabitation agreement

A cohabitation agreement will set out what should happen to your money and assets if you do end up going your separate ways at some point in the future. It will protect any future inheritance you might receive and it can make provision for any children that you might have together or children from past relationships.

  1. Put a trust deed in place

As an absolute minimum put a trust deed in place if you decide to buy a house or flat together.  This will set out what each of your shares are, what your future financial contributions will be and how your money will be divvied up when you sell the house.

  1. Know the difference between joint tenants and tenants in common

Swot up on the difference between joint tenants and tenants in common (nothing to do with tenants!!) Make sure that the solicitor or conveyancer that you appoint to deal with the purchase of your home knows how you want to hold that property jointly. A tenancy in common will define your shares in the property and set out any unequal financial contributions that you both made to buy the property.  The details of those contributions should be recorded on the property forms that you will both have to sign. If you hold the property as joint tenants your shares in your home will not be defined. In the event of your death before your partner, the property will pass automatically to your partner. If you have children of a previous relationship or marriage this may not be what you want.

  1. Give your property lawyer clear instructions

Give clear instructions to your property lawyer when buying your joint home. It’s really important that you tell your conveyancing solicitor if you and your partner made unequal financial contributions to the price of your property if you want your shares protected. Don’t assume that he or she will just know. Also keep a record of your financial contributions in case you need to produce that information at some point in the future.

  1. Make a Will

This is so important especially if you have children. You will need to set out in your Will who should inherit your share in your home. This is also important if you and your partner would like your children to inherit your shares in your jointly owned property but you want to ensure that your partner can continue to live in your shared home in the event of your death for a period of time or for as long as they like after you are gone.

  1. Sit back and enjoy!

And finally, when you have put your house in order (literally and metaphorically!) sit back and enjoy the love of your life. You will have worked hard to get to this point because relationships are hard work. They require negotiation and compromise. Well done you for taking the plunge and committing to sharing your home and your life. Cohabitation takes courage and conviction.

If you need any more advice and guidance on any of the above, do get in touch with Saika Alam. Saika is a well-respected family and divorce lawyer based in Mayfair, London. Known for her personal and pragmatic approach, Saika represents her clients on all aspects of their family relationships from cohabitation and marriage to separation and divorce and everything in between, whether that relates to financial matters or children’s issues.

For further information on the issues raised, please contact Saika Alam at sa@branchaustinmccormick.com.

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