How Creative Collaboration Can Transform Your Irish Business and Unlock Success

Welcome to my blog, dear readers! I'm Eric, an American-born independent creative collaborator, website designer, and special projects lead living in Ireland and serving clients worldwide. Today, I want to explore a topic that is close to my heart and has the potential to transform your Irish business – creative collaboration.

Ireland has a rich history of innovation and entrepreneurship, and in today's fast-paced digital world, the key to standing out lies in creative thinking and collaboration. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting your entrepreneurial journey in the Emerald Isle, the principles of creative collaboration can propel your business to new heights.

WHY CREATIVE COLLABORATION MATTERS:

In a world where competition is fierce, creative collaboration sets your business apart. It's about bringing together diverse talents, ideas, and perspectives to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Here's why it matters:

1. Fresh Perspectives: Creative collaboration invites fresh ideas and innovative solutions. When different minds come together, they challenge the status quo and open up new possibilities.

2. Problem Solving: Irish business owners often face unique challenges. Collaborating with experts like me allows you to tap into specialized knowledge and experience, making problem-solving more efficient.

3. Enhanced Design and Customer Experience: As a website designer, I understand the importance of user-centric design and customer experience. Collaborative efforts ensure that your website and branding resonate with your target audience.

4. Efficiency and Productivity: Special projects often require a multidisciplinary approach. Collaboration streamlines processes, reduces bottlenecks, and increases productivity.

MY ROLE AS YOUR CREATIVE COLLABORATOR:

As your creative collaborator, I bring a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set to the table. My professional services encompass:

- Creative Direction: Guiding your project with a strategic and creative vision.
- Project Management: Ensuring your projects run smoothly and meet deadlines.
- Design: Crafting visually appealing and user-friendly websites and branding.
- Process Automation: Optimizing your workflows for efficiency.
- Coaching: Providing leadership and professional coaching to unlock your team's potential.

I'm here to help you navigate the intricacies of the Irish market, develop meaningful connections with your audience, and drive your business forward.

STAY TUNED FOR MORE:

In the coming weeks, I'll delve deeper into the world of creative collaboration and share practical tips, case studies, and success stories from Ireland-based businesses. We'll explore topics like website design, branding, project management, and more, all with the aim of helping you thrive in the competitive Irish business landscape.

If you're ready to unlock the potential of creative collaboration in your Irish business or have specific questions, feel free to reach out. I'm here to empower you on your journey to success. You're welcomed to my calendar at any time.

Thank you for joining me on this exciting adventure of creativity and collaboration. Stay tuned for more insights and inspiration!

Warmly,

Eric

by Eric Michael

scrabble chips forming shift happens word near white feather

Navigating Career Transitions: How Coaching Services Can Guide Your Journey

Are you at a crossroads in your career, contemplating a major change, or looking to advance to the next level? Career transitions can be both exciting and daunting, but with the guidance of professional coaching services, you can navigate these shifts with confidence and clarity.

Career transitions come in many forms, from changing industries or roles to seeking promotions or launching a new venture. Whatever the transition, it often involves uncertainty, self-doubt, and the need to acquire new skills. This is where coaching can make a significant difference.

Professional coaching services are well-equipped to assist individuals in managing career transitions effectively. Here's how coaching can guide your journey:

  1. Clarifying Your Career Vision: Coaches help you define your long-term career goals and vision. They work with you to identify your passions, strengths, and values, ensuring that your next career move aligns with your personal aspirations.
  2. Crafting a Transition Strategy: Transitioning to a new career or role requires a well-thought-out plan. Coaches assist you in creating a strategic roadmap that outlines the steps, resources, and timelines needed for a successful transition.
  3. Skill Enhancement: If your transition involves acquiring new skills or competencies, coaches can provide targeted coaching and resources to expedite your learning curve.
  4. Building Confidence: Career transitions often come with self-doubt. Coaches provide the encouragement and support needed to boost your confidence and overcome imposter syndrome.
  5. Networking and Job Search: Coaches can offer guidance on effective networking, job searching, and interview techniques to help you secure the right opportunity.
  6. Managing Stress and Resilience: Transition periods can be stressful. Coaches help you build resilience and cope with the challenges that may arise during your career journey.

REALIZING YOUR CAREER GOALS:

Whether you're looking to pivot into a new field, take on a leadership role, or start your entrepreneurial venture, professional coaching services are a valuable resource. They provide a structured and personalized approach to ensure you make informed decisions and stay on track toward achieving your career goals.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT COACH:

Selecting the right coach for your career transition is crucial. Look for coaches with experience in your industry or field of interest, as well as a coaching style that resonates with your needs. An initial consultation with potential coaches can help you gauge their compatibility with your goals.

In conclusion, career transitions can be transformative moments in your professional life. Embrace them with confidence and let professional coaching services guide you along the way. Stay tuned for more insights on career development and coaching strategies. If you have any questions or specific topics you'd like us to cover, please feel free to reach out. Your success is our priority, and coaching can be the catalyst for your career advancement.

by Eric Michael

The Impact of Professional Coaching on Personal Growth

Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life, unsure of your next steps, or struggling to achieve your goals? If so, you're not alone. Many individuals encounter challenges and roadblocks on their journey to personal growth and success. The good news is that professional coaching services can provide the guidance and support you need to unlock your full potential.

Professional coaching is a dynamic and transformative process that involves a trained coach working closely with individuals to help them set and achieve their goals. Whether you're seeking to advance in your career, improve your leadership skills, or enhance your overall well-being, coaching can be a powerful tool to facilitate personal growth.

One of the key strengths of professional coaching is its personalized approach. Coaches recognize that each individual has unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations. They tailor their guidance and strategies to align with your specific needs, making the coaching experience highly effective and impactful.

BENEFITS OF PROFESSIONAL COACHING:

  1. Clarity and Direction: Coaches help you clarify your goals and define a clear path to achieve them. They assist in identifying your strengths and areas for improvement.
  2. Accountability: A coach serves as a reliable source of accountability, helping you stay on track and committed to your goals. They provide encouragement and motivation throughout your journey.
  3. Skill Enhancement: Coaching can focus on specific skills such as leadership, communication, time management, or emotional intelligence, enhancing your abilities in these areas.
  4. Confidence Boost: As you make progress and achieve your goals, your self-confidence naturally grows. Coaching supports you in building the self-assurance needed to tackle new challenges.
  5. Overcoming Obstacles: Coaches are skilled at helping you navigate and overcome obstacles that may be holding you back. They provide strategies for managing setbacks and setbacks positively.

GETTING STARTED:

If you're intrigued by the potential of professional coaching to transform your life, the first step is to find the right coach for you. Consider factors such as their expertise, coaching style, and compatibility with your goals. The coaching relationship is built on trust and collaboration, so it's essential to choose a coach you feel comfortable with.

In conclusion, professional coaching is a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal growth and development. It offers a supportive and structured framework to help you unlock your potential, overcome challenges, and achieve your dreams. Stay tuned for more articles on coaching, where we'll delve deeper into specific coaching areas and strategies. If you have any questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to reach out.

Remember, your journey to personal growth begins with the decision to invest in yourself. Embrace the power of coaching and watch as you unleash your full potential.

by Eric Michael

an iPad rests on a sofa showing the first slide of the Managed Digital presentation with an Apple Pencil next to it

Managed Digital: New Plans, Inclusions, Dashboard, & More

NEW YEAR, NEW MANAGED DIGITAL OFFERINGS!

It's the most wonderful time of the year and we're excited to be sharing some of the recent changes and advancements made to our coveted Managed Digital subscription offerings. Suprise: We're lowering the cost of our most popular option and introducing all-new, 'liter' options (for clients who need a little less) and 'pro' options (for those who need a little more). Plus, an all-new user dashboard to streamline account management, communication, and the like.

Let's dig in with a guided tour:

Here is a quick run down of what has changed:

→ We've listened and learned that one size doesn't fit all, so we're introducing Managed Digital Lite a new [lighter] base rate offering coming in at just $69 USD P/MO.

→ Our original offering is now called Managed Digital Plus and we've sliced the price tag from $166 USD P/MO to $129 USD P/MO.*

→ Lite and Plus plans now include annual premium theme and Super Forms licensing and, for Managed Digital Pro subscribers, access to the CentoriSEO dashboard.

→ Plus and Pro subscribers can save 20% by bundling pre-paid monthly maintenance time into their recurring monthly subscription.

→ All subscribers still benefit from a 10% discount on all forthcoming web design and development time throughout our collaborative time together.

→ And lastly (but definitely not least), a new Managed Digital tab has been added to the My Account Dashboard to empower account management, streamline communication, and more.

* If you're a legacy subscriber you'll see inclusions and pricing changes reflected on your next bill or invoice.

by Eric Michael

New Year, New Rules

"New year, new rules to better govern and support our collaborative partnerships."

Our Master Service Agreement was recently updated to better outline the ways in which we commit to and serve our clients as well as support some of the new studio services (like subscription offerings via the website). These changes went into effect for new clients on October 1, 2023 and are officially applied to all client relationships on January 1, 2024.

Here is what has changed since the last edition:

  • The ‘Definition & Structure of the Relationship’ has been revised to more clearly reflect the ‘at will’ nature of our work together.
  • The ‘Terms of Ownership & Licensing’ has been revised to more clearly outline ownership of both uncompensated deliverables, specifically: In the event that any such material or deliverable is considered not to be a “work made for hire,” Eric Michael hereby retains all ownership—whether represented or not by an official registered patent, copyright, trade secret, and other proprietary rights and documentation and retains the right to pursue, secure, or execute such documents as required, in order to assist in obtaining and protecting such rights. (Or, in other words, if you didn't pay for it you don't own it.)This section also confirms:“Unless otherwise agreed to in writing and as necessary in the performance of this Agreement, Eric Michael shall have no rights to license, sell, or use final (compensated) “work for hire”, deliverables, or materials developed under this agreement or any portion thereof.” (Or, in other words, if you paid for it you own it and are responsible for it.)
  • The ’Terms of Billing & Payment’ has been revised to more clearly outline and define the billable rates for Standard ($150), On-Demand ($225), and Rushed ($300) delivery windows as well Admin, Communication, and Project Management time ($100). There are no changes or increases to any of the hourly rates. However, while coaching, training, and productivity session fees are clearly outlined on the respective websites and online booking platforms, this revised Agreement states this time (if not self-served) will be billed at the rate of $225 per hour. The ‘Pausing a Project’ portion of this section has been revised to reflect a rate increase. The new monthly fee to pause a project (at a client’s request) is a flat rate of $999 USD per month.Revisions to ‘Subscriptions & Recurring Invoices’ better explain the responsibilities of The Client when working in self-served environments.Also, a ‘Procurement Fees’ section has been added to the Agreement as well. This clarifies all third-party purchases (branded merchandise, software subscriptions, and everything else that is not manufactured or provided by EM&A exclusively) will no longer be marked up in the traditional way but rather inherit a 30% procurement fee for the clarity, ease, and assurance of The Client. (You can expect some significant savings. Third-party fees were previously marked up at 100-300% based on classification.)

    Clients are strongly encouraged to keep a card on file to ensure continuity and reliability.

  • Timeframes outlined in the ‘Terms of Confidentiality & Non-Disclosure’ and ‘Terms of Non-Solicitation’ are now the same: five (5) years.
  • And various spelling and grammatical revisions to ensure accuracy and correctness throughout the document.

If you have any questions about the items outlined here or detailed in the formal agreement (linked above), please don’t hesitate to reach out. (P.S. You can review the most recent Changelog documentation online.)

One more thing…

There is something I really need to do better with. Moving forward, invoices and payment requests will more closely reflect the earlier outlined fee structure.

Historically, I have rarely billed at the On-Demand ($225) (^30%) or Rushed ($300) (^100%) hourly rates, however, it has become more and more clear, over the past year, late and last-minute requests have been surging and having a widespread negative impacting on the quality of my work and life.

There are typically two ways a client can lock in the Standard ($150) (or even a lesser) rate and save:

  1. Set up a regular and recurring retainer. Retainers are locked-in at the $150 per-hour rate (at least) and 50% of unused time rolls over for one calendar month. (Some retainers like Managed Digital Plus, for ongoing site maintenance, include an additional 20% discount on pre-paid service time.)
  2. Set up one-on-one check-ins in advance. Monthly or even quarterly check-ins allow us to voice needs and expectations and benchmark progress before urgency creeps in.

If you’re concerned about what this might mean for the work we do together and our mutual commitments, please get in touch.

by Eric Michael

How an Expert Shopify Coach Can Unlocking Success by Supercharging eCommerce

Shopify is where dreams of digital storefronts come to life.

Whether you're just starting your online business or looking to revamp an existing one, having an expert Shopify coach by your side can be the key to unlocking your store's full potential. In this blog post, we'll explore how an experienced coach can provide hands-on guidance and invaluable how-to tutorials to support shop owners every step of the way.

Setting the Foundation

Starting your Shopify journey on the right foot is crucial. An expert Shopify coach, like me, begins by guiding you through the account setup process. From choosing the right plan to configuring essential settings, you'll receive personalized assistance that aligns with your business goals. Eric's hands-on approach ensures that no detail is overlooked, helping you create a solid foundation for your online store.

Making Basic Changes

Once your Shopify store is up and running, you'll want to make periodic updates and tweaks. With my guidance, you'll gain the confidence to make these changes independently. From adjusting product prices to modifying shipping options, basic changes become a breeze with step-by-step tutorials tailored to your specific needs.

Mastering Products and Inventory

Your product catalog and inventory management are at the heart of your e-commerce success. My expertise comes into play as he teaches you how to add, edit, and organize your products efficiently. You'll also learn best practices for managing inventory, ensuring that your customers always have access to the products they desire.

Harnessing the Power of Email Marketing

Effective email marketing is a game-changer for e-commerce. My Shopify coaching includes a deep dive into creating and implementing email marketing campaigns that resonate with your target audience. You'll discover how to build subscriber lists, design eye-catching email templates, and craft compelling content that drives conversions.

Crafting the Perfect Look with Themes and Apps

Your store's appearance and functionality can make or break the customer experience. I'll guide you through theme selection, installation, and customization to ensure your store reflects your brand's unique identity. Additionally, he'll introduce you to essential apps that enhance your store's capabilities, from SEO optimization to customer reviews.

Maximizing Efficiency with Workflow Automation

Efficiency is the key to managing a successful e-commerce business. My expertise in process automation and workflow design helps you streamline your operations. Learn how to automate routine tasks, such as order processing and inventory updates, freeing up more time for strategic decision-making.

Building a Strong Brand and Customer Experience

Brand identity and customer experience are the cornerstones of e-commerce success. My coaching extends beyond the technical aspects, offering guidance on branding, consumer branding, and corporate branding. Discover how to create a consistent and memorable brand image that resonates with your target audience, leading to enhanced customer loyalty and trust.

Embracing Leadership and Professional Growth

Support goes beyond the technical aspects of Shopify, with me. As a coach, I'll always be committed to your personal and professional growth. Through leadership coaching, I'll help you develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape with confidence.

In the world of e-commerce, having an expert Shopify coach like me in your corner can make all the difference. From account setup to advanced strategies, hands-on guidance and how-to tutorials empower shop owners to build and grow successful online businesses. Remember, your journey is unique, and with the right coach, you'll not only achieve your goals but surpass them. So, take that first step towards e-commerce excellence and let me be your trusted partner along the way. Happy selling!

Interested? Or, want to learn more? Check out the Shopify Coaching page or throw some time on the calendar for us to connect.

by Eric Michael

Maximizing eCommerce Success with an Expert Shopify Coach

In the ever-evolving world of eCommerce, staying ahead of the competition requires a comprehensive strategy and a deep understanding of the digital landscape.

As an independent creative collaborator, coach, and special projects lead, I've had the privilege of working with clients worldwide, helping them harness the power of Shopify to fuel their online store's growth. In this blog post, we'll explore how an expert Shopify coach can be a game-changer for your business, offering guidance in eCommerce strategy consulting, marketing strategy, omnichannel marketing support, business planning and integration, customer profiling, and user experience and site map planning.

eCommerce Strategy Consulting: Building a Solid Foundation

One of the key areas where an expert Shopify coach can make a difference is in helping you craft a robust eCommerce strategy. This involves understanding your business goals, target audience, and market trends. Eric, as a professional with extensive experience in creative and strategic direction, can guide you through:

- Defining clear objectives and KPIs
- Identifying your unique value proposition
- Analyzing competitors and market trends
- Creating a roadmap for long-term success

Marketing Strategy: Reaching Your Ideal Customers

Effective marketing is the lifeblood of any online store. Eric's expertise in media relations and branding makes him a valuable asset in this area. He can help you:

- Develop a tailored marketing strategy
- Leverage social media and content marketing
- Optimize SEO to increase visibility
- Implement email marketing campaigns
- Explore influencer collaborations

Omnichannel Marketing Support: Connecting with Customers Everywhere

In today's digital landscape, consumers interact with brands through multiple channels. An expert Shopify coach like Eric can assist you in creating a seamless omnichannel experience, ensuring that your brand message is consistent across platforms. This includes integrating social media, email marketing, and your website into a cohesive strategy.

Business Planning and Integration: Streamlining Operations

Eric's background in project management and systems design can be invaluable when it comes to optimizing your business operations. He can help you:

- Implement efficient workflows
- Integrate essential tools and software
- Develop a business continuity plan
- Improve inventory management
- Enhance customer service processes

Customer Profiling: Understanding Your Audience

To create personalized experiences that resonate with your customers, it's crucial to understand their needs and preferences. Eric's skills in customer experience and coaching can assist you in:

- Creating detailed customer personas
- Conducting surveys and feedback analysis
- Tailoring your products and marketing to specific segments
- Building lasting customer relationships

User Experience and Site Map Planning: Enhancing Website Functionality

Your website is the heart of your online store. Eric's expertise in web development and design, including Shopify, can help you:

- Improve website navigation and usability
- Optimize loading speed for a seamless user experience
- Develop a responsive and visually appealing design
- Implement user-friendly site maps and intuitive product categorization

In the dynamic world of eCommerce, an expert Shopify coach like Eric plays a pivotal role in supporting the growth and success of your online store. With a holistic approach that covers eCommerce strategy consulting, marketing strategy, omnichannel marketing support, business planning, customer profiling, and user experience planning, Eric can empower you to not only thrive but also to create meaningful connections with your customers. Invest in your eCommerce future by partnering with a professional who understands your vision and can help you turn it into a reality. Your success story awaits.

Interested? Or, want to learn more? Check out the Shopify Coaching page or throw some time on the calendar for us to connect.

by Eric Michael

Unleash Your Shopify Store's Full Potential with Expert Coaching

In the ever-evolving world of e-commerce, running a successful online store can be a challenging endeavor. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, having a Shopify expert coach by your side can make a world of difference.

In this blog post, we'll delve into how an expert Shopify coach, like me, can support your online store's growth through various crucial aspects, including brand positioning and awareness, demand generation, building customer confidence, goal setting, long-term planning, and growth-focused training.

Brand Positioning and Awareness

As a creative collaborator with expertise in branding, I understand the significance of a strong brand presence. I can help you define your brand identity and positioning in the market. This involves crafting a compelling brand story, selecting the right visual elements, and creating a unique value proposition that resonates with your target audience. With my guidance, your Shopify store will stand out in a crowded marketplace, attracting the right customers.

Demand Generation and Building Customer Confidence

My skills in media relations and customer experience come into play when it's time to generate demand for your products or services. We'll lean on this as we develop effective marketing strategies, including content creation, social media campaigns, and email marketing. By building customer confidence through transparent communication and exceptional service, you'll not only attract new customers but also retain loyal ones.

Goal and Achievement Setting

Setting clear, measurable goals is fundamental to any business's success. I, as a professional coach, can work with you to define your objectives and create a roadmap to achieve them. Whether it's increasing sales, expanding your product line, or entering new markets, having a structured plan in place will keep you on track and motivated.

Long-Term Planning

Success isn't just about short-term gains; it's about sustainable growth. My strategic direction and project management expertise enable us to craft a long-term plan for your Shopify store, together. This includes identifying potential challenges, exploring opportunities for expansion, and ensuring that your business is adaptable to changing market dynamics.

Growth-Focused Trainings

My extensive experience in coaching and leadership coaching means they can provide you and your team with customized training programs. Whether it's improving your digital marketing skills, optimizing your website, or enhancing your customer service, my growth-focused training sessions will empower you and your team to excel.

In the world of e-commerce, having a Shopify store is just the beginning. To truly thrive and grow, you need the guidance and expertise of an expert like me. From brand positioning to long-term planning and everything in between, my multifaceted skills and progressive values will propel your online store to new heights. Invest in expert coaching, and watch your Shopify store reach its full potential in the competitive online marketplace.

Interested in learning more? Check out the Shopify Coaching page or throw some time on the calendar for us to connect.

by Eric Michael

Unlocked: D2C Shopify Omnichannel Coaching

In the ever-evolving landscape of eCommerce, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to engage their customers.

The key to success often lies in the ability to reach potential buyers across various platforms seamlessly. Enter the expert Shopify Coach – a dynamic professional who understands the power of omni-channel marketing and integrations. In this blog post, we'll explore how an expert Shopify Coach can significantly boost eCommerce engagement by harnessing the potential of platforms like Amazon, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Etsy.

Understanding the Role of an Expert Shopify Coach

An expert Shopify Coach, like Eric, combines a deep understanding of eCommerce with a creative and strategic approach. With a wide array of skills, including design, branding, and customer experience, they are well-equipped to guide businesses towards eCommerce success.

The Omni-Channel Approach

Omni-channel marketing is all about providing a seamless and consistent shopping experience across multiple channels. This approach recognizes that customers today interact with brands through various touchpoints, both online and offline. An expert Shopify Coach helps businesses leverage this approach to its fullest potential.

Integrating Amazon: Expanding Reach

Amazon is a colossal marketplace, and integrating your Shopify store with it can dramatically increase your reach. An expert Shopify Coach can optimize product listings, manage inventory, and use Amazon's vast customer base to boost sales.

Facebook and Instagram: Social Commerce Powerhouses

With billions of active users, Facebook and Instagram are ideal platforms for eCommerce. An expert Shopify Coach can create compelling ad campaigns, integrate your store seamlessly, and leverage the power of social commerce to engage potential customers.

TikTok: Riding the Wave of Short-Form Video

TikTok's explosive growth has made it a prime platform for eCommerce. By creating engaging short-form videos and integrating your Shopify store, an expert Shopify Coach can tap into a younger, highly engaged audience.

Etsy: The Home of Artisanal eCommerce

For businesses in the handmade and vintage niche, Etsy is a goldmine. An expert Shopify Coach can help you set up shop on Etsy, manage listings, and create a cohesive brand experience.

Streamlining Operations with Integration

Integrating these platforms seamlessly with your Shopify store can be a complex task. An expert Shopify Coach can handle the technical aspects, ensuring your products, inventory, and orders sync effortlessly.

Leveraging Data for Growth

Data is the lifeblood of eCommerce success. An expert Shopify Coach can help you analyze customer behavior across platforms, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to drive growth.

Enhancing Customer Experience

A superior customer experience is at the core of eCommerce engagement. With their expertise in customer experience and branding, an expert Shopify Coach can help you create a memorable and delightful shopping journey.

In the competitive world of eCommerce, an expert Shopify Coach like Eric is your secret weapon for achieving remarkable engagement. By embracing omni-channel marketing and integrations across Amazon, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Etsy, businesses can expand their reach, streamline operations, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. It's time to take your eCommerce game to the next level with the guidance of a seasoned professional.

Interested? Or, want to learn more? Check out the Shopify Coaching page or throw some time on the calendar for us to connect.

by Eric Michael