by Karen Petrauskas | Oct 25, 2024
Celebrating Women’s Small Business Month: a journey from VA to business owner
In light of Women’s Small Business Month, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on my journey as a small business owner and share some of the experiences, lessons, and joys that have shaped KJP Creative into what it is today.
Humble beginnings
My entrepreneurial path officially started in 2016, but behind the scenes, the journey began years earlier in 2011. At the time, I was working online as a Virtual Assistant (VA), a role I loved because of its variety. I enjoyed helping business owners achieve their marketing goals, all through the power of online channels. The thrill of working with global clients across a range of industries kept every day fresh and exciting – no two days were ever the same.
Before officially launching KJP Creative, I had a *normal* employed job alongside my VA work. However, when I was made redundant, it turned out to be just the spark I needed. I realised it was time to give my business 100% of my focus, and that’s when KJP Creative was truly born.
Discovering my passion
What drew me to this journey was the realisation that I could combine my passions; writing, graphic design/creativity, and marketing – into one business that aligned perfectly with my personal goals. Not only could I direct my focus to what I loved, but I could also choose the clients I wanted to work with. This allowed me to offer value and expertise in industries ranging from small local businesses to large charities, each providing unique opportunities to learn and grow.
One of the greatest joys has been learning about different sectors and being able to support small businesses, while always feeling that I was making a difference. Knowing I could offer something valuable to business owners and help them thrive online was incredibly rewarding.
The flexibility of entrepreneurship
Beyond the work itself, one of the biggest advantages of starting my business was the flexibility it provided. At the time, my children were young, and being present for school pick-ups, appointments, and milestone moments was incredibly important to me. Being my own boss meant I didn’t have to miss out on any of that. I could be involved in their lives and still focus on building the business.
Additionally, as a family, we’ve always been actively involved in our local church. The freedom to manage my own schedule meant I could balance business with meaningful commitments to our community. This flexibility was, and still is, a huge deciding factor in my decision to work for myself.
The ups and downs of growing a business
Of course, the road hasn’t always been smooth.
Finding clients in the beginning was tough, as it is for many entrepreneurs. But I’ve found that word of mouth has been a powerful tool. By maintaining strong relationships with clients, many of whom have stayed with me for years, I’ve been fortunate to receive countless recommendations that have kept the business thriving.
Another challenge that every small business faces is pricing.
When starting out, you want to remain affordable while ensuring that your business costs are covered and that you’re paying yourself fairly. There’s so much competition in the marketing industry, but I’ve learned that there are enough clients for everyone. It’s about finding the right fit, not competing with others. I’m now at a point where I love to support fellow business owners rather than viewing them as competitors.
One of the biggest leaps in growing KJP Creative was deciding to bring on a team.
Letting go of certain tasks can be difficult, especially when you’ve built something from the ground up. But finding the right team members who share your vision is essential. It allows you to delegate while still ensuring that the heart of your business remains intact.
The joy of running my own business
Even with the occasional thought of whether a 9-5 job would be easier or less stressful (everyone goes through this, right!), the benefits of running KJP Creative far outweigh any doubts. The freedom to steer my company in the direction I’m passionate about and to help clients in meaningful ways is something I wouldn’t trade.
I love being my own boss, and I love the flexibility and empowerment that come with it. Most importantly, I love the work I do every day – helping businesses of all shapes and sizes raise their online profile and create a positive and recognisable reputation.
Helping businesses succeed
My ultimate goal with KJP Creative is to help business owners develop a strong online presence.
I work closely with each client to create a marketing strategy that’s aligned with their vision and goals. By taking actionable steps, we aim to achieve positive, measurable results that not only grow their business but help them become a trusted name in their industry.
As we celebrate Women’s Small Business Month, I’m proud of what KJP Creative has accomplished, and I’m excited about what’s to come. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, I believe that with the right strategy and support, your business can flourish.
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If you’re ready to take your marketing efforts to the next level, I’d love to help you along the way. Get in touch to see how we can work together to make your online presence something to be proud of.
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You can also check out My Church PA, which is part of the KJP Creative family
by Karen Petrauskas | Oct 10, 2024
Is your business ready for black Friday and Christmas?
With black Friday just around the corner and Christmas not far behind, it’s time to ask yourself: Is your marketing strategy ready for the busiest season of the year?
For many small businesses, this time of year can feel overwhelming, but whether you realise it or not, it’s an important opportunity. Over the coming months, social media feeds will be flooded with businesses and brands all trying to capture the attention of their ideal customers. The competition is fierce, and the online space will be oversaturated.
So, how can your business stand out during this crowded season? Let’s dive into some strategies to help you get prepared!
#1 Stand out by being different
With so many businesses competing for attention, your marketing needs to stand out. It’s not just about posting more frequently or using flashy graphics; it’s about being unique and authentic. Customers are drawn to businesses that offer real value and connect with their needs. Instead of following every trend, focus on providing solutions to your audience’s pain points.
What makes your business different? Why should a customer choose you over a competitor? Your authenticity and the value you bring to the table will help you cut through the noise. When customers feel they can trust you, they’re much more likely to engage, especially during a season when everyone’s trying to sell them something.
It’s Never Too Early to Promote Christmas with Social Media
#2 Consider taking a step back
For some businesses, the intense competition and rising costs of paid advertising during black Friday and Christmas might not make sense. If your product or service doesn’t have a strong connection to this season, it might be better to sit it out. During the holiday period, paid Ads can get expensive – cost-per-leads (CPL) tends to skyrocket as every business is competing for the same audience.
Instead of spending a lot on ads that may not convert, use this time to prepare for the next important season in your business. Review your marketing strategies, refine your messaging, and get ready to launch strong when the time is right. Sometimes, laying low and preparing behind the scenes can set you up for greater success when the rush has passed.
#3 Go all-in if this is your prime selling season
If this is the season for your business, then it’s time to give it everything you’ve got. Black Friday and the lead-up to Christmas can be a prime opportunity to boost sales and engage new customers. But this requires a solid, well-thought-out marketing strategy.
Not a natural copywriter? Hire a freelancer to craft engaging copy that will resonate with your audience.
Struggling with eye-catching graphics? Consider hiring a contractor for a few months to help create the visuals that will grab attention.
The key here is to identify what may be holding you back from standing out, and find the resources to help you overcome those obstacles.
#4 How can a small business stand out in a big pond?
For small businesses, it can feel daunting to compete with bigger brands that have larger budgets and more resources. But here’s the good news: small businesses can often connect with customers on a personal level in ways that larger companies can’t.
Focus on providing value and delivering on your promises. What pain points are your customers facing, and how can you solve them? Whether it’s offering personalised recommendations, creating helpful content, or just being transparent and trustworthy, this is how you build a loyal customer base. Word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly powerful – encourage your customers to spread the word about your business to their friends and family.
#5 Don’t wait – start now!
If you haven’t yet started your Christmas marketing, don’t panic, but do get moving now. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to get noticed. Rushed marketing leads to weak messages that don’t resonate with your audience. Take the time to plan your approach – create a clear plan of action, set realistic goals, and execute it well.
The key to success during this time is preparation. The more organised and strategic you are, the better your chances of standing out amidst the holiday noise.
When do you start marketing for Christmas campaigns?
Need help with your marketing strategy?
Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure where to start or how to make your marketing stand out? That’s where we come in. The KJP Creative team is here to help you craft a strategy that will get you noticed during the busiest time of year. Whether you need help with social media, copywriting, or graphic design, we’ve got the expertise to guide you.
If you want to make the most of black Friday and Christmas, reach out today, and let’s work together to achieve your marketing goals!
Speak soon!
by Karen Petrauskas | Sep 30, 2024
Social media checklist – why it’s important to always check your work.
When it comes to social media, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of wanting to post and stay active. But before you hit “post,” taking a few extra moments to check your work can make all the difference. Social media is one of your most visible tools, and ensuring your content is polished, purposeful, and professional is key to engaging your audience and building trust.
Here’s a checklist to keep in mind before your next post goes live:
# 1. Typos and Grammar
First impressions count, and a simple typo can hurt the credibility of your brand. While you don’t need to be a grammar expert, it’s important to run through your post and catch basic mistakes. Tools like Grammarly can help ensure that what you’ve written is clear and error-free. Not only does this show professionalism, but it also ensures that your message isn’t lost or misunderstood.
# 2. Clear Call to Action
It’s easy to post content and assume your audience will know what to do next, but that’s rarely the case. A clear call to action (CTA) guides your audience to take the next step, whether it’s visiting your website, signing up for a newsletter, or commenting on your post. Make sure each post has a purpose and that your audience knows exactly what you want them to do next.
# 3. Quality Visuals
Social media is a highly visual space, and your images or videos need to grab attention quickly. Blurry or low-quality visuals won’t do your content justice and could cause people to scroll right past your post. Ensure your visuals are clear, professional, and aligned with your brand. Tools like Canva make it easy to create stunning graphics even if you don’t have a design background.
# 4. Relevant Hashtags
Hashtags are a great way to increase your reach and get your content in front of the right people. But it’s not about using as many hashtags as possible – it’s about using the *right* hashtags. Spend a little time researching what your target audience is searching for and make sure your hashtags align with your brand and message. Tools like Tags Finder can help you discover trending and relevant hashtags in your industry.
# 5. Timing is Everything
Posting at the right time can significantly impact how many people engage with your content. Each platform has peak times when your audience is most active. Use insights from your social media platforms to determine when your followers are online, and schedule your posts accordingly. If you’re unsure where to start, mornings and early afternoons on weekdays tend to be popular times for engagement, but it’s always best to test what works for your specific audience.
# 6. Consistency is Key
While it’s important to focus on quality, don’t forget about consistency. Posting regularly helps you stay top of mind with your audience and build relationships over time. Develop a content calendar to plan your posts ahead of time, ensuring you’re consistently showing up for your audience without scrambling to come up with content last minute.
# 7. Engage with Your Audience
Posting content is only half of the social media equation – engagement is the other. Don’t just post and walk away. Make time to respond to comments, reply to messages, and interact with your audience. This two-way conversation builds relationships, shows you’re attentive, and helps create a loyal community.
# 8. Track Your Performance
You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Keep an eye on your social media analytics to see which posts are performing well and which aren’t getting the traction you’d hoped for. This insight will help you refine your content strategy over time, focusing on what resonates most with your audience.
# 9. Use Stories to Your Advantage
Stories are a powerful tool for engaging your audience in a more casual, behind-the-scenes way. These quick, temporary posts can boost visibility and offer a more authentic glimpse into your business. Use stories to share updates, promote content, and connect with your audience on a more personal level.
# 10. Stay Authentic
In a crowded social media landscape, authenticity stands out. Your audience can tell when something feels forced or overly polished. Don’t be afraid to show the human side of your business. Share your wins, but also your challenges. Authenticity builds trust and makes your brand relatable.
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Social media doesn’t have to be overwhelming, but it does require a bit of strategy and attention to detail. By taking the time to check your content for typos, focus on quality visuals, engage with your audience, and stay consistent, you’ll set yourself up for success. Don’t fall into the trap of rushing just to stay active – intentional, thoughtful posts will always have a greater impact than content that feels hurried or forced.
If you’re struggling with social media or unsure where to start, we’re here to help! At KJP Creative, we specialise in helping small business owners craft tailored social media strategies that work. Drop us a message, and let’s chat about how we can support your marketing journey.
And in the meantime, why not download our FREE social media checklist to ensure you’re on track with your social media channels, and don’t forget the basics…
by Karen Petrauskas | Aug 31, 2024
Understanding the social media rules can be a minefield, but *please* stop following the social media myths and do what’s best for YOU.
If you’re like many small business owners, social media can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming. You might be questioning whether you’re doing enough – or perhaps even too much – to see meaningful results. It’s easy to get lost in the common misconceptions about what social media marketing is “supposed” to look like.
Let’s clear up some of the biggest myths that may be holding your business back.
Social media myths DEBUNKED!
Myth #1: You Need to Be on Every Social Media Platform
❌ False!
It’s easy to feel like you’re missing out if you’re not on every social media platform. However, you don’t need to be everywhere. Trying to manage Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and all the latest platforms is a fast track to burnout – and won’t lead to consistent results.
Instead, focus on the platforms where your target audience is most active. If your customers are on Instagram, invest your time there. If they’re professionals on LinkedIn, prioritize that platform. The key is to meet your audience where they already are, rather than spreading yourself too thin across multiple channels.
Myth #2: More Followers = More Success
❌ False!
While it’s exciting to watch your follower count rise, more followers don’t necessarily translate to business success. A large, disengaged audience won’t add much value. What truly matters is building a loyal, engaged community – people who interact with your content, share it, and eventually become customers.
Engagement is where the real impact happens. It’s far better to have 500 dedicated followers who love what you do and actively engage with your posts than 5,000 followers who simply scroll past without a second thought.
Focus on creating meaningful connections rather than chasing numbers.
Myth 3: Posting More Often is Always Better
❌ False!
Posting frequently can be helpful, but only if your content delivers real value. Quality will always outweigh quantity. Many small business owners feel pressure to post daily to stay visible, but a thoughtful, impactful post once or twice a week is often more effective than daily content that feels rushed or unpolished.
With social media being so crowded, people scroll fast. Only content that truly connects with them will make them stop and engage. Before you post, ask yourself: Is this valuable to my audience? Does it solve a problem or offer inspiration? If not, it’s better to hold off until you have something meaningful to share.
Blog Post: How To Overcome Social Media Overwhelm
Why This Matters to You
As a small business owner, your time is valuable. With so many responsibilities on your plate, social media can easily feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s crucial to focus on what works best for your business and your audience.
You don’t have to be everywhere. What you need is a tailored strategy that zeroes in on the platforms where your customers are most active and prioritises quality over quantity. By taking a strategic approach, social media becomes more manageable and far more effective in driving results.
Let’s Build a Strategy That Works for You
Don’t let these social media myths hold you back! If you’re struggling to figure out where to focus or how to create an effective strategy, we’re here to help. Our team specialise in helping small businesses just like yours grow their online presence without the overwhelm.
Simply get in touch to schedule a quick chat. We can help you create a plan that will save you time, reduce stress, and actually bring in results.
Look forward to hearing from you soon!
And in the meantime, why not download our FREE Social Media checklist which will help you keep on top of the social media channels of choice.
by Karen Petrauskas | Jul 31, 2024
The Relationship Between Organic Facebook Activity and Paid Ads: Why Both Matter – let’s dive in.
Are you feeling frustrated by your Facebook ad campaigns? Spending money but not seeing the returns?
Understanding the powerful relationship between organic Facebook activity and paid ads can transform your results. We’re going to highlight why maintaining an active presence on your Facebook page is crucial for your advertising success.
The Power of Organic Presence
Organic Facebook activity refers to the non-paid interactions and content on your page. This includes posts, comments, likes, and shares that occur naturally without any advertising budget.
Here’s why it’s essential:
Building Trust and Credibility: When potential customers see a lively, engaged page, it builds trust. They are more likely to believe in your brand if they see real interactions and regular updates.
Creating Community: Organic posts foster a sense of community and loyalty among followers. This loyal base can amplify your reach by sharing your content and advocating for your brand.
Humanising Your Brand: Organic content allows you to show the human side of your business. Behind-the-scenes looks, team introductions, and customer stories make your brand relatable and trustworthy. There are so many AI or automated systems that people actually like to know it’s a human they are engaging with.
The Impact of Paid Ads
Paid ads are a powerful tool to expand your reach and drive targeted traffic to your page or website. However, throwing money at ads without a strategic plan can lead to disappointing results. And we see that with clients who come to us unfortunately.
Here’s why paid ads matter:
Increased Visibility: Paid ads ensure that your content reaches a larger, more targeted audience. This can be especially useful for new product launches or special promotions.
Precise Targeting: Facebook’s ad targeting allows you to reach specific demographics, interests, and behaviours. This precision helps you connect with potential customers who are more likely to convert.
Scalable Results: With the right strategy, you can scale your ad campaigns to reach a wider audience and achieve consistent growth.
The Symbiotic Relationship
The magic happens when you combine organic Facebook activity with paid ads. Here’s why this partnership is crucial:
Enhanced Credibility: Imagine a potential customer clicking on your ad and landing on your Facebook page, only to find it inactive or sparsely populated. Not a good look, right? A vibrant, active page reassures visitors that your business is legitimate and trustworthy.
Organic Engagement Boosts Ads: Facebook’s algorithm favours pages with high organic engagement. If your organic posts are getting good interaction, your ads are more likely to be shown to a wider audience.
Cost-Effective Advertising: High organic engagement can lower your cost per click (CPC) on ads. Engaged followers are more likely to interact with your ads, improving their performance and reducing costs.
Integrated Customer Journey: Organic posts and ads work together to create a seamless customer journey. Organic content can nurture leads generated from ads, while ads can drive new visitors to your page, creating a continuous cycle of engagement and conversion.
Why Maintain a Strong Organic Presence?
Maintaining an active presence on your Facebook page isn’t just about looking good; it’s about being strategic.
Here’s why due diligence in organic activity is essential:
First Impressions Matter: New visitors often check your page before deciding to follow or purchase. A well-maintained page with regular updates and interactions makes a positive first impression.
Proof of Activity: Regular posts show that your business is active and thriving. This reassures potential customers that you’re attentive and engaged.
Content Variety: Organic content allows you to experiment and see what resonates with your audience. Insights from organic posts can inform your ad strategy, ensuring you promote content that truly connects.
Conclusion
The relationship between organic Facebook activity and paid ads is a powerful partnership that can significantly enhance your social media marketing efforts.
By maintaining a strong organic presence, you build trust, foster community, and provide a credible backdrop for your ads. When done right, this combination leads to better ad performance, lower costs, and higher conversion rates.
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Ready to take your Facebook marketing to the next level? Get ready to focus on building a robust organic presence while strategically leveraging paid ads.
Need help crafting a winning strategy? Get in touch with KJP Creative, and let’s make your Facebook efforts truly shine!
