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The Agency Accelerator

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Oct 10, 2024 • 13min

The Game-Changing Power of AI Coaching – Hosted by a Surprise Guest

Are you struggling to keep up with the rapid evolution of AI and wondering how it can truly benefit your agency? In today's business landscape, where time is limited and maintaining a competitive edge is critical, understanding the game-changing potential of AI is more relevant than ever. For agency owners, juggling client relationships, strategising growth, and improving efficiency remains a daunting task that AI can remarkably simplify and enhance. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you'll discover how to: 1. Save invaluable time by accessing instant, tailored advice from an AI coach anytime you need it, avoiding the delays of traditional coaching. 2. Manage your budget more effectively with cost-efficient AI coaching that offers ongoing, customised support without the hefty fees. 3. Seamlessly integrate AI into your daily workflow, making smarter, faster decisions to propel your agency forward. Discover the future of coaching today and see how AI can revolutionise your agency — tune in now! Timestamps: [00:00] Welcome and Introduction [01:34] Why should you pay attention to AI right now? [02:24] How does AI coaching save you time? [03:39] How does AI coaching compare in cost to traditional coaching? [04:51] What makes 'Ask Rob Anything' different from other AI tools? [05:28] How can AI coaching fit seamlessly into your existing workflow? [06:30] How can you use voice or video to connect with AI coaching? [07:26] Is the impact of AI coaching a futuristic concept, or is it happening now? [08:13] What can we expect from the future of AI coaching? [09:33] How will AI coaching become a core part of agency operations? [10:04] Who was today's surprise host? [11:34] How did you perceive the AI-hosted episode and what's coming next? Quotations “AI coaching is no longer just a futuristic dream; it's a current reality that can revolutionise how agency owners make decisions, streamline workflows, and grow their businesses."  "Imagine having a business mentor available 24/7, providing you with bespoke advice instantly, without the hefty price tag of traditional coaching. That's the game-changing power of AI."  Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Try your AI Digital Coach, AskRobAnything, for freeAttend my free on-demand workshop ‘Harness AI to Unlock 7 Key Growth Areas - Escape The Agency Owner's Trap - Free Yourself from the Daily Grind & Scale Your Agency’ The Self-Running Agency - AI edition
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Oct 3, 2024 • 17min

Why Most Agencies Don’t Have a Coach – And How AI is Changing That

Are you constantly juggling client projects, feeling stuck on the client service hamster wheel, while your agency’s growth seems just out of reach? In today’s fiercely competitive landscape, where time and resources are scarce, having access to effective coaching can dramatically ease the burdens of decision-making and sustained growth. Yet, many agency owners struggle with the costs and time commitments required to work with a traditional coach, making it difficult to achieve their full potential. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you’ll discover how to: 1. Leverage AI-powered coaching to overcome the common barriers of cost and time, making top-tier guidance both accessible and affordable. 2. Enhance your decision-making process and avoid costly mistakes with real-time, on-demand advice from an AI coach. 3. Free up crucial time and resources, allowing you to focus on growing a profitable, sustainable, and enjoyable agency. Unlock the potential of AI coaching to transform your agency’s growth journey; press play and find out how! Questions Answered in this Episode Q: Why are so few marketing agencies currently working with a coach, and what are the main barriers hindering them? Q: In what ways can a coach save time and effort for agency owners who often feel overwhelmed? Q: How is AI transforming the coaching landscape, and how does it make coaching more accessible and affordable? Q: What makes AI coaching different from using general AI platforms like ChatGPT, and how tailored is the guidance it offers? Q: Could you explain how on-demand AI coaching works and how it can support agency owners at any time of day? Quotations  "AI is democratising coaching. It's not about replacing human coaches but complementing them, providing high-quality insights whenever you need it." – Rob Da Costa "Imagine having access to personalised, expert advice 24/7, at a fraction of the cost. That's what AI coaching offers to agency owners." – Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Try, your AI Digital Coach, AskRobAnything, for freeAttend my free on-demand workshop ‘Harness AI to Unlock 7 Key Growth Areas - Escape The Agency Owner's Trap - Free Yourself from the Daily Grind & Scale Your Agency’ The Self-Running Agency - AI edition
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Sep 26, 2024 • 39min

10 Proven Strategies to Turbocharge New Business Development

Are you struggling to consistently generate quality leads and find the time to nurture new business while juggling client demands? In today’s competitive landscape, continuously attracting and converting leads is crucial for long-term agency success. Many small agencies face the daunting challenge of juggling client work with the necessary effort to grow their business, often missing out on key opportunities due to lack of time or strategic direction. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you’ll discover how to: 1. Develop a robust, strategic approach to new business that integrates seamlessly with your agency's day-to-day operations, ensuring no opportunities are missed. 2. Create valuable, targeted content that resonates with your ideal clients and consistently drives inbound inquiries, rather than relying solely on direct outreach. 3. Maintain a consistent marketing presence, even during busy periods, to avoid the feast-or-famine cycle and build long-term resilience in your agency. Listen now to learn how to balance client work with strategic business development and ensure your agency thrives. Key Questions We’ll Answer: Q: What are the biggest challenges smaller agencies face when it comes to effective business development? Q: How can agencies ensure they allocate sufficient internal resources to new business processes without compromising client work? Q: Can you elaborate on the strategic approach required for consistent business development and lead generation? Q: How can agencies maintain an ‘always on’ approach to marketing, especially during economically challenging times? Q: What advice would you offer to agencies that struggle with balancing client demands and their own business development efforts? Memorable Quotes: “Agencies that allocate time, love, and respect to new business processes see the biggest success. It’s not just about leads; it’s about strategic, consistent effort." Katie Street "Stopping marketing during busy periods is a recipe for disaster. Consistent effort in business development separates the thriving from the struggling." Rob Da Costa Don’t Miss Out—Subscribe and Stay Ahead! “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! And if you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps us reach more agency owners like you who are ready to scale their businesses! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Katie Street: Email, LinkedInRob Da Costa’s YouTube Channel Learn more about the Self-Running Agency Programme (AI-powered) 
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Sep 19, 2024 • 18min

8 Essential Rules Agency Owners Should Live By (Part 2)

There is a set of unspoken rules that every agency owner should live by. Yet many break them daily!  I’ve distilled them down to 8 rules and in the concluding part of our 2-part series, we focus on the critical aspects of valuing your time, selectively choosing clients, investing in the right systems, and finding joy in the journey. For agency owners who aim to not just survive but also thrive, mastering these rules can transform your business experience. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you’ll discover how to: Learn how to prioritise high-value tasks and delegate effectively to maximise your productivity.Understand the importance of confidently saying 'no' to clients who aren't a good fit, allowing you to focus on those who truly align with your agency's goals.Discover how to implement efficient systems and processes that streamline operations and support long-term growth.Realise the significance of enjoying the journey, ensuring sustained motivation and satisfaction in your entrepreneurial path. Transform your agency life from a constant grind to a fulfilled, purpose-driven endeavour—press play and dive into these essential rules now! Key Questions We’ll Answer: How can agency owners identify and prioritise high-value tasks over low-impact activities?What strategies can agency owners use to delegate tasks and empower their teams effectively?Why saying no to non-ideal fit clients is not commercial suicide!What steps should agency owners take to implement effective systems and processes to streamline their operations?What are the key benefits of focusing on and enjoying the journey rather than fixating solely on the destination in agency life? Memorable Quote: “Too many people forget to enjoy the journey because they are too focused on a destination they may never get to!.” - Rob Da Costa Don’t Miss Out—Subscribe and Stay Ahead! “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! And if you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps us reach more agency owners like you who are ready to scale their businesses! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Join The Self-Running Agency Group and implement these 8 golden rulesGet 24/7 coaching from your own agency expert mentor, AskRobAnythingAttend my free workshop ‘Harness AI to Unlock 7 Key Growth Areas - Escape The Agency Owner's Trap - Free Yourself from the Daily Grind & Scale Your Agency’
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Sep 12, 2024 • 23min

8 Essential Rules Agency Owners Should Live By (Part 1)

There is a set of unspoken rules that every agency owner should live by. Yet many break them daily!  I’ve distilled them down to 8 rules and over the next 2 episodes of the show I am going to unpack them. Today we are tackling the first 4. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you'll discover how to: Understand that you are not your agency, allowing it to thrive independently and giving you the freedom to focus on strategic growth.Align your goals with your client's success, fostering long-term relationships and ensuring consistent revenue.Embrace continuous learning to stay ahead of industry shifts and emerging trends, giving your agency a crucial competitive edge.Prioritise profitability over popularity, focusing on what truly drives the financial health of your agency rather than chasing vanity metrics. Key Questions We’ll Answer: What does the phrase "You are not your agency" mean, and why is it a foundational rule for agency owners?How can agency owners delegate effectively to ensure their business operates independently of them?Why is aligning your goals with your clients' goals crucial for long-term success?What steps can you take to ensure you are delivering success as your clients define it?How can agency owners foster a culture of continuous learning within their teams?What strategies can agencies implement to prioritise profitability over popularity?How can agency owners identify and focus on their most profitable services and clients? Memorable Quotes: “You are not your agency. Building a team that can operate independently of you is the key to a thriving and scalable business.” - Rob Da Costa “Popularity doesn't equal profitability. Focus on what truly drives revenue and long-term growth rather than getting distracted by vanity metrics.” - Rob Da Costa Don’t Miss Out—Subscribe and Stay Ahead! “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! And if you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps us reach more agency owners like you who are ready to scale their businesses! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Join The Self-Running Agency Group and implement these 8 golden rulesGet 24/7 coaching from your own agency expert mentor, AskRobAnythingAttend my free workshop ‘Harness AI to Unlock 7 Key Growth Areas - Escape The Agency Owner's Trap - Free Yourself from the Daily Grind & Scale Your Agency’
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Sep 5, 2024 • 13min

7 Critical Reasons Marketing Agencies Fail Without A Strong 2nd Tier Of Leaders (And How to Fix It)

Are You Drowning in Daily Tasks Instead of Steering Your Agency Toward Growth? Do you find yourself constantly putting out fires, feeling overwhelmed despite having a team? If so, you're not alone. In today’s fast-paced business environment, having a strong second tier of leadership isn't just helpful—it's essential. Without it, you risk burnout and stunted growth for your agency. In this episode of *The Agency Accelerator* podcast, we're diving deep into why building a competent second tier of leadership is crucial for your agency's success—and how to do it effectively.  Here’s What You’ll Learn: - Effective Delegation: How to build a solid leadership team that takes the weight off your shoulders, so you can focus on what truly matters. - Boosting Team Morale: Learn how empowering your leaders can lead to a more positive and productive work environment. - Strategic Growth: Discover how freeing yourself from daily operations allows you to concentrate on innovation and sustainable scaling. It’s time to stop spinning your wheels and start steering your agency toward long-term success. So grab your favourite cup of coffee, and let’s jump in! Key Questions We’ll Answer: - How can you identify potential leaders within your team who can step up and support your vision? - What common mistakes do agency owners make when they don't have a strong second tier of leadership? - Why does micromanagement harm both your agency's performance and your well-being? - What practical steps can you take to shift from being a 'doer' to becoming a visionary leader? - How can investing in leadership development now save you from bigger problems down the road? Memorable Quotes: “Without a strong second tier of leadership, you're left trying to steer the ship, manage the crew, and keep an eye on the horizon—all at once. It's overwhelming, and eventually, something will slip through the cracks.” - Rob Da Costa “Building a strong second tier of leadership isn't just about solving today's problems. It's about setting your agency up for long-term success.” - Rob Da Costa Don’t Miss Out—Subscribe and Stay Ahead! “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! And if you found this episode valuable, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps us reach more agency owners like you who are ready to scale their businesses! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Learn more about the Self-Running Agency Group Coaching ProgramRead our blog on building a strong leadership team in your agency
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Aug 29, 2024 • 36min

The End Of Agency Commoditisation - A Conversation With Mikael Dia

Mikael Dia, founder of Funnelytics, shares his insights on how agencies can stand out in a crowded market. He emphasizes the shift from tactical execution to strategic thinking, advocating for data-driven decision-making that produces tangible results. The discussion includes using Funnelytics for visualizing customer journeys, enhancing client relationships, and exploring how AI is transforming agency workflows. Mikael also reflects on the importance of prioritizing client outcomes to maintain a competitive edge.
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Aug 15, 2024 • 22min

The Agency Owner's Dilemma: Balancing Dreams and Fears in an Ever Changing World

Do you ever feel torn between pursuing your vision for your agency and the weight of daily fears that hold you back? Balancing your ambitions with the practical realities of agency management can seem like an endless struggle. For agency owners, the tension between dreaming big and the fear of financial instability or losing clients often means you are constantly stuck in the here and now (on the client service hamster wheel of doom!) and have no time to breath let alone plan for the future! So in today’s podcast you'll discover how to: 1. Transform your dream of long-term autonomy for your agency into actionable steps that lead to a more self-sufficient business. 2. Tackle and overcome the financial fears that can cripple your agency, turning vulnerabilities into strengths. 3. Define success on your terms, ensuring both your agency's profitability and your personal fulfilment. Gain insights that will help you balance dreams and fears, and start steering your agency towards a thriving future. So grab a notebook, and let’s dive in. Questions Answered in this Episode Q: Why is having a big picture dream so important? Q: How do fears of financial instability impact the daily decision-making of agency owners? Q: In what ways can documenting processes assist in moving towards a self-running agency? Q: How can smaller agencies leverage their size as an advantage against larger competitors? Q: How can redefining success beyond revenue lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable agency life? Quotations “The tension between our ambitions and our anxieties is what drives us to innovate and push our agencies forward. Embrace it, don't fear it.” - Rob Da Costa “Running an agency means navigating hiccups, mistakes, and setbacks. But these imperfections are where the most valuable lessons will come from” - Rob Da Costa “To achieve true autonomy in your agency, you need to build a strong team culture where people feel empowered to make decisions and take ownership. It’s not about doing everything yourself, but about building a self-running agency.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Learn more about The Self-Running Agency, the AI EditionListen to last week’s episode (ep 229) on value pricing with Rory Spence from the Wow CompanyDownload a copy of my book, The Self-Running Agency (and you can get it for free!)
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Aug 8, 2024 • 33min

Unlock the Secret to 50% Margins: Pricing Strategies Every Agency Needs!

Are you struggling to set prices that reflect your agency's true value whilst at the same time, staying competitive? In today's challenging business climate, many agency owners face the tough task of balancing fair pricing with higher client expectations, all while ensuring profitability and sustaining growth.  Whether it's overcoming the legacy of outdated pricing models or navigating the intricacies of value-based pricing, getting this balance right is crucial for long-term success. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you’ll discover how to: 1. Use anchoring techniques in your pricing strategy to shift client focus from cost to value, helping you secure better deals. 2. Implement time tracking and gross profit margin measures to accurately assess team efficiency and overall agency performance. 3. Transition your agency to value-based pricing, offering multiple pricing options that enhance client perception and satisfaction. Take a step towards transforming your agency's pricing strategy for growth and profit! So grab a coffee and let’s get started. Questions Answered in this Episode Q: How does the concept of anchoring impact the way agencies set their pricing strategies? Q: Can you elaborate on the benefits of tracking gross profit margin as opposed to solely focusing on revenue? Q: Why is it essential for agencies to aim for a 45-50% gross profit margin, and how can they achieve this target? Q: What significance does having a clearly defined niche hold when transitioning to value-based pricing? Q: What are the advantages of offering three pricing options to clients, and why should the highest option anchor the price? Q: How should agencies approach the delicate task of discussing price increases with their existing clients? Q: Could you share insights on transitioning from time-based pricing to value-based pricing and its potential impact on agency growth and client relationships? Quotations “Stop obsessing over industry averages. Instead, aim for a 45-50% gross profit margin and watch your agency thrive.” - Rory Spence “Present three pricing options to your clients, let the highest price anchor their perception, and make the middle option irresistible.” - Rory Spence “When you focus on value-based pricing rather than selling time, you can transform not just your profits, but your client relationships too.” - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move towards a Self-Running Agency. Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Get in touch with Rory SpenceDownload the latest BenchPress reports by The Wow CompanyDownload a FREE value pricing guide
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Aug 1, 2024 • 15min

Why You Need to Start Planning for Succession NOW

What would happen to your agency if you had to step away for a month due to an unexpected circumstance? In the dynamic world of agency life, where the whirlwind of client deadlines and team management is the norm, it can be easy to neglect planning for the future stability of your business. For any agency owner who dreams of a sustainable, scalable business that continues to thrive with or without their constant presence, understanding succession planning is crucial. By tuning into this episode of The Agency Accelerator podcast, you’ll discover how to: 1. Document processes and clearly define roles to ensure continuity and consistency even when you’re not there. 2. Build and train a leadership team that can confidently handle day-to-day operations, allowing you to focus on strategic growth or personal time. 3. Develop a succession plan that maximises your agency's value and sets it up for long-term success, whether you're planning to sell, retire, or simply take a step back. Start building a self-running agency today! So grab a coffee and let’s get started. Questions answered in this episode Q: Why should agency owners start thinking about succession planning even if they are not planning to exit anytime soon? Q: How can succession planning contribute to building a sustainable and scalable agency that can thrive without the owner's constant involvement? Q: What are the four key scenarios where succession planning becomes crucial in an agency’s journey? Q: In what ways can documenting processes and developing a leadership pipeline help in the succession planning process? Q: How can setting clear goals and KPIs support the agency’s performance without direct involvement from the owner? Q: How does succession planning align with achieving the financial freedom, flexibility, and control that most agency owners desire? Quotations "Imagine your agency running smoothly while you take a month-long holiday. That's the magic of good succession planning." - Rob Da Costa "Succession planning isn't just a distant concern; it's the key to ensuring your agency thrives with or without you." - Rob Da Costa "The most valuable agencies are those that operate successfully without the owner's constant involvement. That’s what succession planning is all about." - Rob Da Costa Rate, Review, & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts “I enjoy listening to The Agency Accelerator Podcast. I always learn something from every episode.” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you to move towards a Self-Running Agency. How to leave a review on Apple Podcasts Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then, let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, subscribe to the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not subscribed, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Subscribe now! Useful links mentioned in this episode: Go back and listen to Episode 219 with Jodie Cook for insights on becoming a digital nomad and extricating yourself from your agency.Start taking the steps to building your own Self-Running Agency.

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