I remember the first time I ran a workshop. I didn't sleep the night before. I spent all day imagining all of the scenarios where I could be made to look like a fool. I even began to wonder how damaging it would really be for my business if I cancelled completely.
Then when I sat across from this room full of expectant faces, I began to speak, and all of the preparation and years of experience came together to lead me to a standing ovation at the end of my 2-hour workshop/rant.
For weeks afterwards, I received long-winded and sometimes emotional emails about how I had changed the lives of the same people who only the week before I had imagined would laugh at me as I stumbled over my words - crashing and burning.
Since then, I have continued running workshops. In fact, only the other day I was part of a workshop at Kensington Collective, where attendees such as Daily Blooms got in contact to express their gratitude. Expressing that I was the first digital marketer that had 'truly resonated' with them.
So, why do I think running workshops are important for your business?
1. It is great for networking
A workshop is an amazing way to give your brand a face. Your brand has a story, and people invest in stories. Make those connections, gather those email addresses and grow from the like-minded individuals around you.
2. It gives you a chance to show off your skills
You can send emails. You can cold call. You can even turn up to a potential client's office crying 'Hire me! I'm great!' But nothing sells to a client like a workshop (aka. Pitch) in a room full of people whispering, 'Oh wow! I never thought of it like that. Genius!'
3. It's a confidence boost
Sorry, I really had to throw this one in, but it is true! Being a small business owner, you often forget why you got into this, and that is because you are bloody good at it! Blowing the minds of a room full of eager business owners is the exact thing you need to remind you that you know your shit.
4. It forces you to do your research
This especially applies to anyone in the digital marketing industry. If you're standing in front of a room full of people who, let's face it, are more likely to judge you than listen, you need to really know what you're talking about. This means you need to stay up to date with all of the latest trends and changes in your industry. This could be seen as daunting, but it's really something you should be doing anyway, and this way you can really feel like your research has a purpose.
The reasons for running workshops are endless. If you are a people person, who can work a room, you need to organise a workshop TODAY.
