Imagine you're at a local networking event, your hand extended, ready to exchange business cards. But instead of a trade, you give your card away without expecting one in return.

Strange? Maybe. But according to my recent guest, this simple act of generosity could be the golden key to unlocking unprecedented business growth and genuine relationships. That's what we're delving into today on More Perfect Marketing; it's not about transaction, it's about transformation.

In the business world, we often get caught up in the numbers game—leads, conversions, and the bottom line. However, my conversation with Josh Elledge turned that notion on its head. He revealed that the most impactful leaders are those who approach each interaction with an open heart, ready to give without the immediate expectation of receiving. In a landscape brimming with overt sales pitches and insincere networking, Josh's approach refreshes like a cool breeze on a sweltering summer day.

We live in an era where connection is currency, but Josh emphasizes that it's the quality, not quantity, of these connections that truly matters. By creating relationships beyond mere transactions, we pave the way for collaborative growth and success. And let's be real, who doesn't want to be that person in someone else's corner—offering insights, connections, and even friendship?

Josh's strategy involves a discerning approach to relationships, choosing to invest time where it's most likely to flourish into partnerships that are more than just transactional. But don't be fooled, while it sounds altruistic, and it is, there's a strategic side to this method. By aligning ourselves with key people and offering value upfront, we lay the groundwork for a network that's more akin to a supportive community than a fickle fan base.

Josh Elledge is a U.S. Navy veteran and launched UpMyInfluence.com to help entrepreneurs grow their authority and influence. UpMyInfluence builds 7-figure B2B sales systems with zero paid ads.

He also started SavingsAngel.com which has grossed more than $6 million in sales with zero paid ads.

Josh is a keynote speaker, writes a syndicated newspaper column to 1.1 million readers, and regularly appears on more than 75 TV stations across the country. All told, Josh has appeared in the media more than 2000 times.

Links Mentioned:

Josh Elledge's Website: https://upmyinfluence.com/

"The Go-Giver" by Bob Burg: https://amzn.to/3U0LAlB

When you think of a burger chain, what usually comes to mind? Freshly grilled patties, mouth-watering cheese, and slick marketing tricks, maybe? But what if I told you that one wildly successful burger company chose to spend more on training their staff than on flashy advertising?

Today, we explore brand experience—where flipping burgers meets flipping the traditional marketing playbook on its head.

It’s an important topic for anyone in the marketing world, especially those in the business of pleasing customers and keeping them coming back for more. At the heart of this pivot from conventional advertisement to hands-on training is the idea that what people experience inside your store – or any touch point with your brand – is what they'll remember, talk about, and, most importantly, what will make them come back for seconds. I'm passionate about this because it represents a seismic shift in how we approach marketing: focusing on creating a culture that breathes your brand rather than simply shouting about it.

And for this discussion, I'm pleased to welcome Doug Reifschneider. Doug is a seasoned expert in marketing, working closely with clients to sharpen their insights, strategies, and execution. He offers his expertise in various roles including fractional, interim, and project-based, ensuring businesses have access to top-tier marketing leadership when they need it most. His methods are battle-tested across multi-unit businesses and franchises, and his insights come from a wealth of experience and deep-dives into what makes or breaks a customer's experience with a brand.

Links Mentioned:

https://chiefoutsiders.com

Have you ever heard a story so captivating it felt like you were living it? That’s the power of good marketing. In this episode, we explore why crafting a compelling story can make or break your brand.

Marketing is an art, blending creativity with strategy to connect with people on a level that goes beyond just features and benefits. I've come to realize it's not just what you sell that matters, it's the story you tell. When our stories align with our audience's values and experiences, magic happens. But, it's also more than just storytelling. It’s about creating a bond with consumers and often, introducing a common “villain” for your hero—your customer—to conquer.

Many brands still struggle to implement this approach effectively. They either overlook the importance of narrative in their marketing strategy or fail to create authentic stories that resonate with their audience. That's why I brought someone on board who knows how to tell a story that not only captivates but also converts.

Our guest is Danielle Harris, a marketing & messaging consultant who teaches coaches and service providers how to attract and sign dream clients by sharing their unique stories in their messaging. She has worked in marketing for over 10 years and believes that for most business owners, their story is their most underutilized asset.

Danielle is based in Metro Detroit where she was born and raised. Danielle is known for her love of chocolate and travel.

Links Mentioned:

drharrisconsulting.com/story