RVA Small Business Network

As business owners, we often overlook one of the simplest, yet most impactful, strategies for growing revenue—asking for more business. No matter your industry, whether landscaping or beyond, here are three steps to maximize opportunities with your existing clients: 1???Spot the Gaps Take a closer look at your services. What additional value could you provide? For example, if you’re mowing lawns, could you also offer fertilizer treatments, routine maintenance, or edging services? 2???Initiate the Conversation Don’t shy away from asking clients if they’re interested in more services. You’re already engaged with them—why not explore ways to deepen that relationship? 3???Keep It Simple We often get caught up in complex strategies and miss easy wins. Sales isn’t just a job title; it’s a mindset. Every team member should embrace the opportunity to contribute to growth. Asking for business may seem basic, but it’s a skill many overlook. #CustomerEngagement #BusinessGrowth #SalesStrategy #GrowBusinessPodcast #RVASmallBusinessNetwork

In the hustle of networking and acquiring new clients, we often overlook the goldmine right in front of us—our current customers. Here’s why focusing on your existing clientele can significantly boost sales: 1?? Trust Factor: Your current clients already trust you. This foundation makes upselling or cross-selling easier. 2?? Easier Conversations: Build on established relationships rather than starting from scratch with new prospects. 3?? Tailored Opportunities: Create tailored solutions to meet their evolving needs, making it effortless for them to say yes. It's about creating an environment where your clients feel empowered to do more business with you. #SalesStrategy #ClientRelationships #RevenueGrowth #GrowBusinessPodcast #RVASmallBusinessNetwork

In the latest episode of the?Grow Business Podcast, Cory Mosley, CSP? and Lon Graham dive deep into under-appreciated sales strategies to grow revenue with your?current clients! ?? Learn how leveraging existing relationships, asking for more business, creating referral rewards, and bundling services can supercharge your sales without chasing new customers. Tune in for actionable tips that can make a big impact on your bottom line! #BusinessGrowth #SalesStrategy #ClientRelationships #RevenueGrowth #Entrepreneurship #GrowBusinessPodcast #RVASmallBusinessNetwork

In today’s digital age, transparency feels like it should be the norm. Yet, a recent poll shows a startling reality: 98% of people across demographics trust businesses less than they did a decade ago. We’re in the middle of a trust crisis. How can businesses turn the tide and rebuild trust? 1?? Humanize Your Brand Show the people behind the business. Share stories about your employees, their passions, and your company’s mission. Values matter, and people want to connect with what drives your brand. 2?? Build Genuine Connections Authentic, relatable stories create bonds. They help customers see your brand as an ally—not just another faceless corporation. 3?? Lead with Positivity In a world flooded with negativity, highlighting uplifting stories can cut through the noise and foster a sense of hope and community. Trust isn’t built on transactions—it’s rooted in meaningful relationships. #TrustInBusiness #BrandStorytelling #CustomerRelationships #MeetTheExperts #RVASmallBusinessNetwork

In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication is essential for businesses of all sizes. Yet, many companies still cling to the notion of tightly controlling their messaging. Let’s talk about why that approach is holding you back: ?? Control is an Illusion Trying to control every message is like holding sand—it slips away the tighter you squeeze. ?? Empower Your Team Micromanaging every piece of content stifles creativity. Instead, equip your employees with clear guidelines and trust them to share authentic stories that align with your values. ?? Focus on Authenticity Customers are more discerning than ever. They connect with real, heartfelt stories—not polished sales pitches. Encourage your team to share their experiences: why they love working at your company or how they’ve helped customers overcome challenges. When employees share your story, it builds trust and resonates in a way no scripted ad ever could. The takeaway: Loosen the grip and let your company’s authentic voice shine through! #AuthenticCommunication #EmployeeEmpowerment #Storytelling #BusinessGrowth #MeetTheExperts #RVASmallBusinessNetwork ? Shawna Suckow, CSP | Joan Bowling, DTM

In today’s rapidly changing landscape—especially post-COVID and with AI re-shaping our communications—how do you differentiate yourself as an entrepreneur or business? The answer lies in storytelling. Here’s why: 1?? Authenticity Over Sales Pitches: People crave genuine connections. A relatable story beats corporate jargon every time.? 2?? Embrace Human Connection: Share real experiences, not just polished presentations. Your audience will appreciate the vulnerability. 3?? Dare to Be Different: Stand out by breaking conventions. Use photos that reflect your true self instead of the standard professional headshot. Trust is key; by being more human, you create a space where prospects think of you first when they need your solutions. #Storytelling #Entrepreneurship #Authenticity #TrustBuilding #MeetTheExperts #RVASmallBusinessNetwork ? Shawna Suckow, CSP | Joan Bowling, DTM

In this episode of Meet The Experts, ? Shawna Suckow, CSP, Founder of Buyer Insider, shares her game-changing insights on breaking through the marketing "blandscape." Her advice? Skip the generic campaigns and embrace authentic stories—straight from your employees and customers. What you’ll gain: ?Strategies to build trust in a skeptical world. ?Tips for empowering employees as brand advocates. ?The power of a “marketing mosaic” to showcase your brand’s essence. #Storytelling #BrandBuilding #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth?#ThoughtLeadership #HumanizeYourBrand?

For many years, Ampcus Inc. thrived on organic growth, building a strong foundation one customer at a time. In the last seven years, however, Ann has embraced the value of inorganic growth through strategic acquisitions. Here’s why this shift has been a game-changer: 1?? Geographical Expansion: As customers grew from local to national and global markets, Ampcus wanted to grow with them. Expanding their geographical footprint through acquisitions allowed them to provide seamless support wherever their clients operate. 2?? Entering New Industries: Ann identified emerging industries undergoing transformation where Ampcus lacked a strong presence. By acquiring businesses in these sectors, they expanded their expertise and offered customers more diverse solutions. 3?? 24/7 Support: To meet the demand for scalability and round-the-clock service, Ampcus developed delivery centers nationally and globally. This ensures they can support clients anytime, anywhere. Acquisitions have enabled Ampcus to fill critical gaps, leverage new expertise, and position the company to better serve its growing client base. #BusinessGrowth #Acquisitions #Strategy #Entrepreneurship #IntentionalityWithDominique #RVASmallBusinessNetwork #SupplierDiversity

In today’s digital landscape, media is more than just a tool for sharing information—it’s a powerful way to build credibility and expand your reach. Here’s how it can make a difference: 1?? Boosts Credibility Engaging with media positions you as an expert in your field, helping you stand out as a trusted thought leader. 2?? Expands Your Audience Media connects you with people far beyond your immediate network. I’ve had clients discover my consulting services through recorded talks—long after the event itself. Media’s value extends beyond immediate results. It helps foster meaningful connections and builds a lasting reputation that drives long-term growth. #Media #ProfessionalGrowth #Networking #ThoughtLeadership #GrowBusinessPodcast #RVASmallBusinessNetwork

When considering a franchise, many seek the promise of success and predictability. But how do you evaluate a franchisor to ensure you're making the right choice? Here are the essential factors to consider: 1?? Feedback from Franchisees: Honest insights from current franchisees provide a clear picture of what’s working and what’s not. Their experiences can highlight both frustrations and successes. 2?? Fair Franchising Standards: Look for franchisors who adhere to established standards, like the AAFD Fair Franchising guidelines. This third-party evaluation helps ensure transparency and fairness in contracts. 3?? Reputation: Similar to the Better Business Bureau, a franchisor’s AAFD Seal signifies a commitment to ethical practices and supportive relationships with franchisees. By focusing on these criteria, you can better navigate the franchising landscape and make informed decisions that lead to mutual success. #Franchising #BusinessSuccess #Entrepreneurship #FranchiseEvaluation #MeetTheAssociation #RVASmallBusinessNetwork