Show cover of Making Conversations Count: Honest, relatable conversations with business leaders

Making Conversations Count: Honest, relatable conversations with business leaders

Conversations are behind the biggest business results. Conversations help form the best business relationships. Everything starts with conversations. Telemarketing trainer and all round telephone marketing expert Wendy Harris is “Making Conversations Count” each week on her award-nominated podcast (2022 British Podcast Awards 'Bullseye' nominee!) Wendy’s helping you benefit from honest, relatable conversations with business leaders and entrepreneurs. The idea behind the "Making Conversations Count" podcast is that when they share their conversations that became the turning point for them, it’ll help and inspire YOU! Wendy has passion for everything to do with conversations and understands the value of sharing these podcast conversations, with a goal of encouraging YOU to build your own valuable relationships. Listen now, and one of these conversations could just change your life. Your host, Wendy Harris is founder of WAG Associates, who has become an expert in her field of opening conversations in business and is the best selling author of "Making Conversations Count", available at Amazon! Google “Making Conversations Count” to learn more about this podcast, and about what Wendy does to teach people the art of conversations with her business WAG Associates. Feel free to reach out on all the social media platforms via https://linktr.ee/wagassociates

Tracks

Making Conversations about features and benefits Count - for better sales success
Offering the right messaging to our would-be customers In this episode, host Wendy Harris is joined by long time networking pal Jane Pallister. Jane will be sharing her expertise and experiences in sales and marketing and will take us on a journey through her 23 years of business experience, from her early days in radio to her successful career as a sales consultant. "Having that knowledge of the other person, the potential customer, means we can start matching our products and services with their needs. Because everything you do there's one of two things it either provides a gain or solves the pain. That's what we're selling, really..." - Jane Pallister, Making Conversations Count - August 2023  Building relationships and achieving success With her expertise in curriculum development and her involvement with esteemed universities and business schools, Jane has crafted a blueprint for success. She shares her experiences in creating a core growth action plan for the renowned Help to Grow management program, which earned the approval of Rishi Sunak.  We'll delve into the importance of making conversations about features and benefits count in business and how structures and frameworks can facilitate those crucial discussions about products and services. Jane will discuss her own creation, the FABTECA theory, which provides a clear understanding of the differences between features, advantages, and benefits. As we know, Wendy has her own framework -  "the four R formula" for achieving results. But it's not just about sales and marketing. Jane's work extends beyond the business world. During the ongoing pandemic, she has dedicated herself to helping businesses navigate these challenging times. We'll hear about her experiences, the impact she made on others, and how she managed to stay afloat when the funding for her programs disappeared. So, whether you're a business owner looking to improve your sales techniques, an aspiring entrepreneur seeking guidance, or simply someone interested in the power of conversations, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Get ready to learn, be inspired, and make your conversations count with Jane Pallister and the story of FABTECA on "Making Conversations Count"! The power of structures Explore the significance of structures in facilitating meaningful conversations about products and services. Learn how these frameworks provide reassurance, build customer confidence, and ultimately lead to successful sales. Jane has honed her skills over her 23 years in business and sales, and she presents compelling insights on the value and criticality of structures, particularly in her domain of FABTECA.  Enjoying sales excellence We're going to learn how Jane's rich experience in sales began even before her 23 years in business. Explore her insights into the art of conversation, the significance of active listening, and the power of identifying customers' needs before presenting features and benefits. Discover how she incorporates the FABTECA theory in her own business operations, which provides valuable clarity around the distinction between features and benefits. Prepare to be inspired and motivated by Jane's journey towards sales excellence. Timestamped summary of topics 00:01:48 FABTECA explained 00:09:30 Suitcase example 00:14:06 Under promise, over deliver to build loyalty 00:16:21 Model for productive conversations 00:19:27 Jane's 20-year radio career 00:31:14 Proudly helped businesses during the Pandemic 00:33:37 Selling that pen, flight bag and features   What Is Making Conversations Count? "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from Growth Communication Coach & Trainer Wendy Harris who has been picking up the phone for 35+ years. In old money she would be called a Telemarketing Consultant. In these modern times people prefer Social Selling Trainer. In the Making Conversations Count podcast, Wendy shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/podcast-episodes/
34:30 8/24/23
Making Conversations about targeting your ideal clients Count (using niche marketing)
Building successful business relationships: the importance of shared values and identifying your niche In this episode, host Wendy Harris is joined by her guest and friend, Jenny Procter of Bondfield Marketing. They discuss the challenges of navigating jargon in the sales and marketing industry, emphasising the importance of leading with shared values and prioritising people in business interactions and the significance of targeting ideal clients and the value of in-person connections.  Listen in to learn more about making conversations count and effectively targeting your ideal clients. "But this comes back to, doesn't it, people valuing what we do, that they are not the best at it themselves, but appreciate that it needs to be done." - Wendy Harris, Making Conversations Count - July 2023  Attracting attention of ideal clients Drawing the attention of ideal clients is essential for any business to succeed, and this can be done by finding a niche and connecting with them on shared values. In this episode of Making Conversations Count podcast, Wendy Harris and Jenny Procter discuss the importance of researching a potential client's sector, creating an attractive profile and being brave when marketing oneself. They provide valuable insight into how to make the most of unique skills and abilities to create successful marketing campaigns, and emphasise that finding a niche is a process that can take time and may change over the years. This podcast episode is an invaluable resource for any business looking to effectively target and attract ideal customers! Timestamped summary of topics (00:00:00) Targeting ideal clients (00:05:35) Finding a niche (00:10:42) Finding shared values (00:15:57) Finding clients (00:21:18) More on niching down (00:26:07) Marketing for introverts   What Is Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from telemarketing and communication trainer Wendy Harris. In it, she shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
28:16 7/27/23
Making Conversations about your business numbers Count! Setting Targets for Profit...
How to Use Your Business Numbers to Achieve Success "Do you know your numbers? Do you know what a customer costs? Do you know what it costs to get a customer? Do you know what you make from a customer? What's the end cost? How much new business do you want or need? How much capacity have you got? If you know how much money you need to make and how much it will cost you, you'll also need to know how much time you're going to need to dedicate to that." - Wendy Harris, Making Conversations Count - June 2023    If you're feeling overwhelmed and uncertain when it comes to understanding your business numbers, constantly second-guessing your financial decisions and lacking confidence in setting realistic targets, then you are not alone! Many small business owners struggle with these challenges, often resulting in missed opportunities and poor financial performance. Instead of achieving the desired result of informed financial decisions and setting realistic targets, they may be experiencing financial stress, making uninformed decisions, and missing out on growth potential. But fear not, there are practical steps and strategies that can empower small business owners to conquer their financial management challenges and achieve success. You'll learn...   Grasp the key to overwhelming success by truly understanding your business metrics. Decode the hidden technique of calculating customer acquisition costs and profits for a thriving business. Get acquainted with the art of setting financial and time-related targets which manifest into reality. Learn innovative techniques to research and attract potential customers all whilst improving your bottom line. Become proficient in testing and measuring a variety of customer conversion strategies to boost your outreach.   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from telemarketing and communication trainer Wendy Harris. In it, she shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
13:29 6/29/23
The 5 P's formula to master the art of entrepreneurship
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed and bogged down by the complexities of running your business? "You shouldn't be there to have to prop up your business every minute of the day. The business should be designed and structured so that it's propping up you most of the time." - Pete Mohr, Making Conversations Count - May 2023  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you Are you an entrepreneur who wants to maximise profits and gain more freedom in your business? Imagine streamlining your operations to achieve greater efficiency and success. Discover the key to unlocking increased profits and freedom in your business, as Pete Mohr shares his proven solution for simplifying your operations and accelerating your growth. Get ready to transform your business with streamlined processes, increased profitability, and newfound freedom. You'll learn...   How to unify your personal and professional objectives for better entrepreneurial outcomes How to master the 5 p's framework  Simplifying your entrepreneurial journey with cross-training and delegation   Pete's links: Pete's website   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from telemarketing and communication trainer Wendy Harris. In it, she shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
39:31 5/26/23
Sustainability secrets with Ian Williams: saving the planet one bite at a time
If you're feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of progress despite your organisation's persistent efforts to embrace sustainable transformations, then you're not alone! "How do you eat the elephant? One bite at a time. You need to take steps in the right direction consistently over time." - Ian Williams, Making Conversations Count - April 2023  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you   When Ian Williams first encountered the need for sustainability, little did he know that his journey would lead him to become a tireless advocate for change, inspiring people to join together in the fight for a brighter future. But what will come of this unexpected twist in his story? With the mainstream narrative starting to acknowledge, accept and adopt the fact that we have to do something about the environment, one individual is attempting to find solutions to have a positive impact. But the challenge of drawing down greenhouse gases to reduce emissions presents a complex issue that may be far more difficult than we anticipate. Can we make the change in time? There's only one way to find out. # Listen, as Ian C Williams gives us the answers.... You'll learn... The significance of personal growth in shaping cultural transformation The crucial role each person plays in mitigating environmental impacts The benefits of businesses that focus on employee well-being and personal development Ian’s conversation that counted   Ian's links: Ian's email Ian's website   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from telemarketing and communication trainer Wendy Harris. In it, she shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
49:41 4/20/23
Depression and progression: why the conversation matters!
Are you being realistic in your expected results? Are you headed for depression or progression? "I just want to let you know, most likely you will never accomplish what we have in the podcast industry, because we are the 1% of the 1% of the 1% of the 1% of the 1%. " - Kevin Palmieri, Making Conversations Count - March 2023  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you   Let's talk about applying 'next level' thinking to figure out how we can escape depression and enjoy progression!  In this podcast episode, Wendy talks to Kevin Palmieri about his work with Next Level University, a self-improvement platform that he co-founded with his friend Alan. Kevin shares his journey to becoming hyperconscious and how he and Alan reconnected after a falling out in high school. He also talks about leaving his miserable job, partnering with Alan, and starting the Hyperconscious Podcast. After 450 episodes, they rebranded to Next Level University. You'll learn... Wendy's plans for this podcast  How Kevin's podcast came about  The journey from depression to progression Kevin’s conversation that counted Kevin's links: Kevin Palmieri Instagram Kevin's LinkedIn (although he isn't into LinkedIn!)   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from telemarketing and communication trainer Wendy Harris. In it, she shares how to use conversation to build relationships in business.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
45:27 3/23/23
How's your LinkedIn page management? LinkedIn company pages guru shares secrets!
LinkedIn is a team sport. Do you have the right players on your team? "You go further and faster, the more you work together. And so that's the thing that companies especially need to focus on is, the more people you can get involved - and I don't mean - just go and dump everyone in the deep end and say, you know, we did two hours of training, you're on your own now. Good luck!" - Michelle J Raymond, Making Conversations Count - February 2023  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you   Let's talk about the benefits of maintaining LinkedIn page management of your company page LinkedIn is an essential tool for businesses. We know this. Duh!  I mean, it's the B2B social media platform. It's been providing an invaluable platform to reach a vast network of potential customers and partners for coming up to 20 years now.  But most people only ever think about LinkedIn as that place you set up as an online CV. It's been much more than that for quite some time now. And by taking the time to create a LinkedIn company page and effectively manage it, businesses can gain an advantage in the competition for attention, leading to significant growth. A LinkedIn company page can be used to showcase a business’s mission, values and successes, as well as providing real-time updates on products, services and offers. But more than that, it can be used to leverage all the juicy organic reach that LinkedIn still offers via the external benefits of SEO. Not to mention the relationships with customers and partners. In this episode we're joined by LinkedIn company pages expert Michelle J Raymond who talks us through why we need to get on top of our LinkedIn page management! You'll learn... Where to start with LinkedIn How to set up LinkedIn for success Why you NEED a company page Don’t be scared to repurpose your content on the page Michelle’s conversation that counted Michelle's LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/michelle-raymond-goodtradingco Michelle's GoodTrading website: https://goodtradingco.com.au/ Michelle's brand website: https://michellejraymond.com/   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
53:37 2/16/23
Stay still with your money!
Are you willing to stay S.T.I.L.L. and get focused on your money "So setting your sights is important, right? And again, most people are just reactionary. They are not asking those questions of themselves. Cuz that means you have to like, turn off the TV and sit with it, right? " - Brandon Neely, Making Conversations Count - January 2023  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you   Getting S.T.I.L.L. and clear with what you want to do with your money! Ahh, financial planning! The process of creating a strategy to manage one's financial resources in order to achieve specific financial goals. It can be a minefield if you don't get the right advice. We've already had one financial expert on here giving some advice, but given the time of year, and amidst a recession, we figured we'd give you a fresher refresher. Budgeting, saving, investing, insuring, and planning for retirement. Just some of the headache inducing financial considerations we need to be making to secure our futures. And that's before we even touch on investment management, and moving around our various securities and assets, stocks, bonds, and real estate. So that's why we need to take the lead on getting the best financial advice. And for this episode, that's coming from Brandon Neely. You'll learn... The STILL method Robert Downey Junior’s Rolex All the wealth in the world Brandon’s conversation that counted   Brandon's Link Wealth Wisdom website: https://www.wealthwisdomfp.com/   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
38:11 1/19/23
Master your mindset, go for GOLD and enjoy the rewards of being a writer
We're seriously on brand with this one. It's all about carrying on the conversation... "It can be a bit of a challenge because your whole sense of identity is being challenged, but what you're opening yourself up to is a whole world of possibility that you would otherwise just not have any awareness of... " - Rob Begg, Carrying on the Conversation - December 2022  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you   Mastering the mindset, going for GOLD and revisiting the cuddle monster. Sorry... what? We didn't just want this episode to be a standard episode. It is the festive season after all (at the time of writing) After another action packed year in 2022, we decided it was definitely about time we revisited some of our most impactful previous guests and find out what's happened with them since we chatted on the show. We catch up with Steve Judge, Mandy Ward, and Rob Begg. Wendy chats through with Steve and Mandy what came next for them, following the conversation that counted. And producer Neal spoke with Rob Begg to find out more about the work Wendy did with him after he blew her away with his insight during the episode. What you'll learn from this episode of carrying on the conversation - the special Christmas episode You'll learn... Going for the Golden vision - with support from the Golden Gang! Making the difference with some impactful books Mastering the mindset! Listen to the full episodes with the guests here: https://makingconversationscount.com/steve-judge/ https://makingconversationscount.com/mandy-ward/ https://makingconversationscount.com/rob-begg/     What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
28:27 12/29/22
The business rules game (and how to win it!)
Do you know the business rules game? "There's three parts of every business and if you fail in any one of the three, you're going to be out of business. One of them is the fulfillment part. You have to deliver, produce whatever it is you're selling. And your ability to do that will dictate whether you stay in business. So that's why one of the eight unbreakable rules is your business plan. What is it going to take to attract customers, sell the customers and then provide what it is you have agreed to? And then what is the service end on the back end? Is there a warranty, customer service, et cetera? You got to cover all of it. Thing is just that's great and that's important, but that just gets the ball rolling. Now we got to play the game." - Sean Castrina, Making Conversations Count - December 2022  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you Here's a written to be read transcript The business rules game The business rules game has been depicted in popular culture for many years, but still nobody knows how to play it. In this episode, Wendy talks with a man who absolutely plays the game and knows all of the business rules. So well in fact, that he's written a book about it. In this conversation, Wendy talks to Sean Castrina, author of "The Eight Unbreakable Rules for Business Startup Success" and host of Ten Minute Entrepreneur. What you'll learn from this episode about the business rules game You'll learn... Business is solving a problem Being too afraid to sell Leading from the front Play the game first and enjoy the rewards later Sean’s conversation that counted   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
31:26 12/8/22
Have you started getting your outbound done right yet?
Carrying On The Conversation about outbound sales calls done correctly  that Wendy had with John Barrows Are you struggling to get your outbound sales calls done correctly? We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with John Barrows all about getting your outbound calls done. And done right? In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
09:40 11/24/22
Sales calls or just having a cool conversations? Outbound done the right way!
During your sales calls, are you giving it the hard sell? Stop! "I hear a lot of sales influencers kind of talking about, oh, just have a conversation and don't use tactic. You don't need to use a tactic. I wish that, Wendy, I could call you and you would just pick up the phone because you figured, oh, who's going to call me today?" John Barrows, Making Conversations Count - November 2022  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you Here's a written to be read transcript Sales calls get a bad rap from people that largely don't understand them. Or how to make them. As a telemarketing trainer, Wendy has made more than a million during her career. And she makes them the right way. In this conversation, Wendy talks to John Barrows, a man who boasts quite the record, having worked with the likes of Jack Welsh (yes THAT Jack Welsh) and Jay Baitler (Staples) You'll learn... ‘Enjoying’ the sales calls process Having ‘cool’ conversations No scripts please! Resist equity in place of comp Values based selling John’s conversation that counted (with cameo’s from GE’s Jack Welsh and Staples’ Jay Baitler)   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
47:40 11/17/22
How are your live chat conversations going?
Carrying On The Conversation about getting attention  that Wendy had with Lux Narayan Are you struggling to keep up with the chat in your live streams? We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with Lux Narayan all about getting on top of the conversations in a live stream! In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
07:41 10/30/22
How are you structuring your live chat? Are you using a name, place, animal or thing?
Are you giving your live chat the correct structure? "So our plan is we change these live streams from a current scenario where 95% of the people are ignored to one where 95% of the people will be included. Where if someone has an answer to how are you feeling today? That answer is not going to be lost among 998 other people chatting the same thing." Lux Narayan, Making Conversations Count - October 2022  In an area with expensive internet? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you Here's a written to be read transcript Live chat. What a nightmare it can be. And if the pandemic has taught us anything, it's that the preferred way of doing any kind of presentation or talk is now online in the live chat forum. This week's guest is attempting to turn the live chat experience on its head, making it less awkward, less clunky, and way more fun! Lux Narayan is the head honcho at the AI telecoms company Unmetric. And as he explains to Wendy, his vision for the future of live chat is to bring us all closer together through conversation. How very on brand....   You'll learn... Obituaries and the whole subject of legacy How Name, Place, Animal, Thing happened What do you do? Better questions to ask in networking How Lux is revolutionising live chat and YouTube   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
45:30 10/27/22
How's the attention getting...errrr...going?
Carrying On The Conversation about getting attention  that Wendy had with John Follis So what's your platform? What's your content poison? 10 seconds? 20 seconds?... We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with John Follis all about getting attention for your brand! In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
07:30 10/9/22
Lower bandwidth: Are you getting attention for your content? Want a real member of the "Mad Men" to give you some pointers?
Is your stuff getting attention that it deserves? "What it does is it forces businesses to realize that people's attention span is very short. They probably are not going to listen or watch to a 30 minutes podcast, but they will listen to and watch a 30 second video." John Follis, Making Conversations Count - October 2022  Psst! Click if you want to read a transcript version of the episode Is your stuff getting the attention that you know it deserves? When you post a video, does it get views? When you publish a podcast episode, do people listen to it? When you type out your thoughts, do people read them? This is the subject of this week's conversation. We're privileged to have a real, honest-to-biscuits, bona-fide member of the "Mad Men". John Follis joins our Wendywoo to chat through podcasting, explainer videos, Tik Tok and Instagram. And not just the online social stuff. The real life social stuff too!...   You'll learn... John's experience with leveraging his podcast as a discovery tool before social was a thing (01m30s) Success is about timing (08m30s) Whatever platform or medium you use, you've got to get the messaging right (14m29s) The algorithms are constantly changing (20m11s) John's conversation that counted (23m30s)   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
44:50 10/6/22
103: Are you getting attention for your content? Want a real member of the "Mad Men" to give you some pointers?
Is your stuff getting attention that it deserves? "What it does is it forces businesses to realize that people's attention span is very short. They probably are not going to listen or watch to a 30 minutes podcast, but they will listen to and watch a 30 second video." John Follis, Making Conversations Count - October 2022  Psst! Click if you want to read a transcript of the episode! Is your stuff getting the attention that you know it deserves? When you post a video, does it get views? When you publish a podcast episode, do people listen to it? When you type out your thoughts in a blog, do people read them? This is the subject of this week's conversation. We're privileged to have a real, honest-to-biscuits, bona-fide member of the "Mad Men". John Follis joins our Wendywoo to chat through podcasting, explainer videos, Tik Tok and Instagram. And not just the online social stuff. The real life social stuff too!...   You'll learn... John's experience with leveraging his podcast as a discovery tool before social was a thing (01m30s) Success is about timing (08m30s) Whatever platform or medium you use, you've got to get the messaging right (14m29s) The algorithms are constantly changing (20m11s) John's conversation that counted (23m30s)   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
44:57 10/6/22
How's the family business going? You created one yet?
Carrying On The Conversation about creating business opportunities  that Wendy had with Jonathan and Renee Have you held a lounge meeting with the kids and brainstormed some business opportunities yet? We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with Jonathan and Renee and that you've had some inspiration for a new business venture? In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
07:07 10/2/22
102: How to start creating business opportunities using your family
Thinking of starting a business? Why not drag the family in on it! "He (our son) pivoted out of our business pretty early on, I mean, still helps us, but he quickly found out that he could climb the ranks as far as making money."   Jonathan and Renee Harris, Making Conversations Count - September 2022    Sometimes life throws you lemons. But imagine how much easier life could be if you had an entire squad of family members on staff to help you squeeze them?! If you've always thought about starting your own business but don't have the first idea how to go about it - this is the episode for you. By the time you've finished listening, you'll be treating your own family like you're Simon Cowell, and they're auditioning.   You'll learn... Who are Jonathan and Renee and what is “Parent their Passion”? (01m20s) Family struggles and avoiding the move (05m29s) Working the marketplace (08m30s) Nurturing children to win in business (18m28s) How do they choose (what to do)? (31m00s)     What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
44:23 9/29/22
(Lower bandwidth) How to start creating business opportunities using your family
Thinking of starting a business? Why not drag the family in on it! "He (our son) pivoted out of our business pretty early on, I mean, still helps us, but he quickly found out that he could climb the ranks as far as making money."   Jonathan and Renee Harris, Making Conversations Count - September 2022    Sometimes life throws you lemons. But imagine how much easier life could be if you had an entire squad of family members on staff to help you squeeze them?! If you've always thought about starting your own business but don't have the first idea how to go about it - this is the episode for you. By the time you've finished listening, you'll be treating your own family like you're Simon Cowell, and they're auditioning.   You'll learn... Who are Jonathan and Renee and what is “Parent their Passion”? (01m20s) Family struggles and avoiding the move (05m29s) Working the marketplace (08m30s) Nurturing children to win in business (18m28s) How do they choose (what to do)? (31m00s)     What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
44:17 9/29/22
Making Conversations Count - celebrating 100+ episodes fresh introduction for new listeners
We've been Making Conversations Count for more than 100 episodes Have you gone back and listened to all the actionable 'how to's? We're celebrating more than 100 episodes of this award-nominated podcast. In case you didn't know, the podcast is all about having real honest conversations with business leaders and entrepreneurs. And it's also celebrating the art of effective communication. As a highly experienced telemarketing trainer and outbound sales training coach, Wendy Harris is here for you each week so you can learn the art of effective communication, and leverage the one you've already listened to. After all, what better way to start a potentially mutually beneficial conversation than with an opening line of "hey, I heard you on Wendy's podcast..." Who will you be carrying on the conversation with next? "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
01:28 9/27/22
Identified your wealth management solutions yet? Did you catch episode 101?
Carrying On The Conversation about wealth management solutions that Wendy had with Larry Sprung By now, we're hoping you've done your sums and sorted out a meeting with a financial advisor? We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with Larry Sprung (wealth management expert) and that you've realised it might be time to get planning for that unknown future? In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
05:45 9/25/22
Lower bandwidth version - Wealth management solutions? More like family solutions!
Know someone who needs to get their financial affairs in order? Share this with them.   "And the reality is there is no adviser, there's no investment professional out there that has this magic bullet or magic formula that's going to get you significantly greater returns than everybody else over a long period of time."   Larry Sprung, Making Conversations Count - September 2022    When it comes to loved ones, they should be treated like family by all   Just because you're handling money matters, it doesn't mean your family and loved ones shouldn't still be treated with dignity and consideration even by those not in your immediate family.   This episode is another 'how to' around what you need to think about and what you can expect when it comes to arranging your estate.    You'll learn... Who is Larry Sprung and what is Mitlin Financial? A family tree is literally health and wealth (6m50s) Actions speak louder than words (11m09s) Advice for listeners who want to be proactive (18m59s) General wealth management advice (32m28s) Wendy's takeaway       What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
46:58 9/22/22
101: Wealth management solutions? More like family solutions!
Know someone who needs to get their financial affairs in order? Share this with them.   "And the reality is there is no adviser, there's no investment professional out there that has this magic bullet or magic formula that's going to get you significantly greater returns than everybody else over a long period of time." Psst! Prefer to read than listen? Here's the transcript for you. Larry Sprung, Making Conversations Count - September 2022    When it comes to loved ones, they should be treated like family by all   Just because you're handling money matters, it doesn't mean your family and loved ones shouldn't still be treated with dignity and consideration even by those not in your immediate family.   This episode is another 'how to' around what you need to think about and what you can expect when it comes to arranging your estate.    You'll learn... Who is Larry Sprung and what is Mitlin Financial? A family tree is literally health and wealth (6m50s) Actions speak louder than words (11m09s) Advice for listeners who want to be proactive (18m59s) General wealth management advice (32m28s) Wendy's takeaway   What IS Making Conversations Count?   "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris.   Missed our previous episodes?   You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here:   https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   Listen to Making Conversations Count   On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here:   https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
47:05 9/22/22
Controversial! Wendy's favourite three guests so far! Is one of them yours?
Carrying On The Conversation about three things that make a business successful that Wendy had with... ummm everyone... Been thinking of starting a business? Wish yours was doing better?  You've got everything you need in the latest full episode of "Making Conversations Count" (episode 100) to get the best possible growth in your business. We celebrated episode 100 with a virtual 'masterclass', featuring insights from some of the world's biggest experts. And boy did they share. We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy shared useful conversations around the three fundamental areas of sales, marketing and strategy. If you haven't, go back and listen. If you did, in this bonus episode, Wendy reveals her all time favourite three guests so far. Will one of them also be your favourite? Will one of them be YOU? "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
06:23 9/18/22
100: Three things that make a business successful - an hour long masterclass
By the end of this episode, you'll know the three things you need in place for a successful business "There is so much to running a business that it affects us as individuals, that it affects the people that we work with and the people that we live with. And it's those topics that I love to explore because the whole point of the show is to bring stories, conversations and motivational inspiration for you, the listener, so that you are inspired to go and try these things out for yourself.." Wendy Harris, Making Conversations Count - (September 2022 ) Psst! Low on data? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you.   Time to ramp up your business with the three things you need to know to make a business successful.. Ok, that's a huge over simplification, and we know it. But we're all caught up in the haze of celebrations here... It's not every day your podcast hits its 100 episode milestone, and we intend to celebrate that fully. So, for the sake of argument, we're going to say that the three things that make a business successful are: Sales Marketing Strategy And boy have we covered those in depth on this podcast. Over the sixty minutes of this episode, you're getting a full masterclass on running a business from the world's finest entrepreneurs and experts in their fields. You're going to learn everything from how to make your website sell, through to attracting the kinds of customers who would buy from you in the first place. You're going to learn how to connect with those customers. You're going to learn how to manage your business once you have the customers buying from you. So, grab yourself a pen and notepad and get ready to make a lot of notes. If you want, you can always see the full transcripts of the episodes on the relevant pages on the website. Thank you so much for being with us on this podcast, and let me know your key takeaways in the usual places. Here's where you'll find all the episodes mentioned: https://makingconversationscount.com/all-episodes/ You can play them all from the app you're in by searching their name. You'll learn.... How to get through a lifetime's worth of business knowledge in just a year How to get someone to hand hold you while you trade Using collaboration to make more profits How to work on your business not in it How you can leverage networking for finding customers How to do great marketing on a terrible or non existent budget How to make your website stand out in a crowded market place The content you should be putting on that website The kinds of connections you need to be making to get people to want to come to your website How to get them wanting to buy your highest value offerings A poignant moment from the episode: "Most companies, and I used to work with Fortune 500 companies, so they have billion dollar budgets and they're basically creating content and sending it on every platform and seeing no results. They're just "oh, great. We can do Twitter. We can do Facebook and we can do LinkedIn and we can do Snap and we can do all these things. So let's just throw content out there and see what happens." That's not content marketing. Content marketing is about the idea that I want to actually build a direct relationship with an audience member."   What IS Making Conversations Count? "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/ Listen to Making Conversations Count On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen
67:55 9/15/22
Have you written the perfect book yet? Oh, you need to listen back to episode 99!
Carrying On The Conversation about the perfect book that Wendy had with Mike Capuzzi Get that Word doc started. You've got the perfect book to write We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with Mike Capuzzi (expert on shooks) and that you've planned your brilliant book? In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
04:38 9/11/22
099: Writing the perfect book so you can get All Shook Up and become an author!
Do you feel that you have the perfect book inside you? Making Conversations about the perfect book Count! "Now, rather than just marketing one book to one kind of target reader, now they have three target readers and it gives them even more opportunity." Mike Capuzzi, Making Conversations Count - (September 2022) Psst! Low on data? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you. We're here to get you all shook up! Have you ever thought to yourself that you'd love to get cracking on writing the perfect book to showcase your knowledge and skills as an author? Haven't we all. I know our host Wendy Harris did, because she's already released hers. Here's the link to it on Amazon. But most of us probably abandon the idea when we realise how big a task it is to write our first book and become an author. Or is it? Maybe you need to listen to this episode so you can hear how guest Mike Capuzzi helps authors to get not just one, but three books out on the market. You'll learn.... Who is Mike Capuzzi and what’s his TV history? (1m15s) Wendy’s own experience writing a book (5m48s) All about the shooks (9m57s) Real world examples of shooks (12m34s) What do you want the book to do for you? (15m21s) Back to books with Brad Sugars (22m07s) Dog Joy (25m00s) Mikes’s conversation that counts (30m50s) A poignant moment from the episode: "I think in this day and age, with the fact that there are short tweets and short tik tok videos and all this stuff, which I really don't know a whole lot about, but my kids do same attention spans are shorter. You and I were talking earlier, it's amazing about multitasking. Can we do this, that and the other thing. So the power of giving someone we're talking a traditional paperback book, they jump on a plane and let's say New York City, and by the time they land in Chicago 2 hours later, they're done the book." Click here for the full transcript What IS Making Conversations Count? "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/ Listen to Making Conversations Count On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen  
40:42 9/8/22
How's it going, making a real human connection? Have you cut back on the social junk food yet?
Carrying On The Conversation about making a real human connection that Wendy had with Simone Heng Ditch that social junk food! We hope you managed to catch the most recent episode of "Making Conversations Count" in which Wendy spoke with Simone Heng (expert on human connection) and that you've done your challenges? In this bonus episode, Wendy and Neal discuss takeaways from the recent episode.  If you haven't yet heard it, drop everything, and click the episode link above to listen to it, before you listen to this bonus one! "Making Conversations Count" is an award-nominated podcast from WAG Associates' telemarketing trainer and telemarketing expert Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/   On your mobile device? Hear them in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen   Once you've listened, remember to leave us a review!  https://makingconversationscount.studio/Review-all-episodes You are following the show on socials, right? Only there will you see sneaky peaky teasers of the upcoming episodes, as well as updates and news on the show!  Here are the links just in case you need them: Twitter Facebook Pinterest YouTube Instagram
04:56 9/4/22
098: Making real human connection and avoiding the digital junk food version
What are you doing to make real human connection? Making Conversations about human connection Count! "Digital connection is the junk food version of real connection. So you must have boundaries within yourself that your digital following is not the same as your friends and family.." Simone Heng, Making Conversations Count - (September 2022) Psst! Low on data? Here's a lower bandwidth version for you. Avoid digital junk food and make REAL human connections! How much are you doing to proactively maintain the connections in your life? Are you hiding behind your device's screen all day, every day, or are you actually making appointments to take your conversations out into the real world. Doing so is far more important than you might think. For one thing, it helps you to avoid loneliness. Simone Heng is an expert in human connection and has written a book called The Secret Pandemic. She's also delivered a talk at Google. It's a book that's all about keeping real connections in the lonely era of an internet first community. Wendy and Simone discuss the importance of human connection in a very internet-centric 2022.   You'll learn.... Human connection with social beginnings Keeping your head down and staying safe Loneliness is always seeking the engagement Challenges of having a purpose Simone’s conversation that counts   A poignant moment from the episode: "In the book, I give this connection challenge to go through your most used messaging app in your phone, whatever that's WhatsApp. Maybe use SMS or Facebook and just go through the DMs and scroll back and think, who have I not heard from in the last six months to a year on this? And the names will pop up jog your memory. And the second source think about who tends to self isolate. So we all have friends who are introverts to extroverts on a spectrum and your introverts will tend to have made the pandemic an excuse to go deeper within themselves." Click here for the full transcript What IS Making Conversations Count? "Making Conversations Count" is a podcast from WAG Associates founder and telemarketing trainer Wendy Harris. Missed our previous episodes? You can catch up with any of the other guests we've been making conversations count with, here: https://makingconversationscount.com/episodes/ Listen to Making Conversations Count On your mobile device? Hear the conversations in your favourite platform (Apple or Spotify etc) here: https://makingconversationscount.studio/listen  
37:52 9/1/22