Building a Great Team and More Helpful Insights with Jason Swenk Host of The Smart Agency Master Class Podcast

Oct 31, 2019

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Jason Swenk runs a unique consultancy helping marketing agency owners grow their agencies faster. He is the resource he wish he had when he started his agency. Jason currently hosts two podcasts: The Smart Agency Master Class Podcast sharing strategies and stories from real agency owners and SwenkToday which is a weekly show that documents how you can grow your digital agency. Early on Jason decided to quit his day job and launch a digital marketing agency that grew to a multi-million dollar operation, 100 staff, and they worked with brands from AT&T, Hitachi, and Lotus Cars. After 12 years of growth, he sold the agency in 2012.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

[2:55] Jeremy introduces his guest, Jason Swenk.
[4:50] Why did Jason start his podcast?
[7:20] The best foot-in-the-door offers from Jason’s career.
[15:30] Customer success stories.
[19:15] Helping clients shift their mindset when it comes to marketing costs.
[22:20] How setting prices too low can hurt you.
[26:00] Tools that Jason has found helpful.
[29:15] What Jason looks for when he hires team members.
[35:45] How Jason got involved in car racing.
[39:30] Jason explains how he keeps his staff motivated.
[41:15] Delegate outcomes rather than tasks.
[44:30] Success is what you make it.
[46:00] Jason talks about his onboarding process.
[48:00] Why your personal brand matters.
[52:15] Horror stories from working with clients.
[54:15] Tips from Jason’s exit from his agency.

In this episode…

What does it take to build a business that can stand the test of time and regularly deliver impressive results? Is there a magic formula that you need to learn before your business really starts to build some momentum? On this episode of Inspired Insider, you’ll hear from business leader and innovator, Jason Swenk. In his conversation with Jeremy, Jason opens up about his journey with podcasting, how he keeps his team motivated, the value of your personal brand, challenges he has faced along the way, and much more. Make sure you have pen and paper ready - you are going to need it!

Have you ever been in a situation where you had to manage the expectations of your customers or clients? How do you ensure that both your team and your customers are on the same page? According to Jason Swenk, it all comes down that magic word - communication. You could have the best products or services in the world, but it doesn’t mean anything if you fail to communicate what you need from your clients and what they can expect from you and your business. Don’t fall for the same trap that many business leaders find themselves in; make sure to learn the best communication methods available.

Did you know that setting the lowest price in your market could be hurting your business? It’s true! While you might think it is a good idea to become the “Walmart” of your industry - remember, there is always a price to pay. Sure, it’s great that Walmart keeps their prices low, but at what cost? When was the last time you purchased a high-quality product from Walmart? If you want to set your prices low - make sure you understand that some customers will pass you by to go with a more expensive option. What can you learn from Jason’s story?

Don’t you hate it when you find yourself surrounded by a dysfunctional team environment? As a leader, what should you do? Is there a way to avoid toxic hires and keep your team healthy? Jason Swenk is such a strong believer in hiring the right people that he has developed a rigorous screening process that has served him well over the years. While some leaders will find Jason’s vetting process too involved and nuanced - the truth is, he’s had some impressive results. Consider learning from and implementing some of Jason’s standards into your hiring practices; what do you have to lose?

What is your definition of success? Do you want to drive all the nicest cars, or is traveling to exotic destinations more your style? Maybe for you, success is about spending more time with your family. Whatever your view of success, it is going to be different for each leader - everyone has to determine the big “Why” that motivates their drive. Remember, leaders, aren’t the only ones who need to define what success looks like! Jason Swenk has some helpful insights regarding the topic of success. Make sure to check out the link to Jason’s website, where you can learn more about his mindset and the podcast he hosts!

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