Hey everyone - Conrad here ^_^. I'm excited to share Well Aware’s 2nd Awareness Newsletter with you!
We've decided to post our Awareness Newsletter and implement a process to publish it within the first 7 days of each new month moving forward.
In this newsletter, I want to show you how Well Aware has managed some of its Time, Relationships, Actions, Commitments, and Knowledge within July 2024.
Time:
Across July 2024, Well Aware had invested 1,073.22 hours on our clients and internal projects/operations.
Here's a glimpse of how many hours Well Aware worked for our clients and internal projects:
We believe each hour reflects our commitment to excellence and making a meaningful impact. We value every moment, ensuring our efforts contribute to the success and satisfaction of our partnerships. Thank you for our time ^_^
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Relationships:
Meet Our Guests on the Well Aware Podcast 1 to 7!
We're excited to introduce the remarkable individuals who joined us for the first seven episodes of the Well Aware Podcast. Each guest shared their unique knowledge and perspectives, making every episode packed with valuable insights.
Episode 1: Strategies for Thriving Teams in Escape Room Experience with Jayson Mamaclay
Podcast Episode Date: May 30, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I sit down with Jayson Mamaclay from Think Quick Events to discuss how escape room-style engagements can enhance team dynamics. Jayson shares how his company pivoted during the pandemic to offer both digital and physical escape room experiences, designed to boost team communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills in an engaging and interactive way. We dive into the origins of escape rooms, their transition to digital platforms during COVID-19, and how these activities promote better understanding among team members. We also explore the importance of effective time management, communication, and collaboration within these challenges, and how these lessons can be applied to improve workplace dynamics and team collaboration.
Episode 2: Supporting Workers' Rights: Understanding Unionization's Impact with Jalen Alexander
Podcast Episode Date: June 6, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I speak with Jalen Alexander, the union president at MDRC, about the journey of forming a union at their workplace. Jalen opens up about the challenges and successes of the process, including improvements in pay and job security for all employees. We also discuss the significance of unions in the U.S. and their role in addressing economic inequality. I share my own experiences managing virtual assistants and provide a balanced perspective on unions. This episode highlights how listening to workers and supporting their needs can enhance the overall workplace environment.
Episode 3: The Connection Between Marketing and Operations with Amanda Catarzi-Hengst
Podcast Episode Date: June 13, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I’m excited to introduce Amanda Catarzi-Hengst, Fractional CMO & Content Writer of Inkery Co. to explore the nuances of marketing strategy and operations. Amanda and I dive into why a solid marketing strategy is crucial, the communication and execution challenges CEOs and business owners face, and the subtle differences between marketing and sales. Amanda offers valuable advice on overcoming ego and mindset barriers, the importance of clear communication, and the often-ignored basics of effective marketing. We also discuss the advantages of founder-based marketing, using an executive team for brand building, and the essential role of third-party advisors. Tune in for practical tips on improving marketing operations, refining strategies, and aligning your marketing efforts with your business goals.
Episode 4: The Anti-CRM Approach with Reuben Swartz
Podcast Episode Date: June 20, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I introduce Reuben Swartz, creator of the 'anti-CRM' tool Mimiran, designed specifically for solopreneur consultants. Reuben explains how traditional CRMs, built for enterprise sales teams, often burden small business consultants. Instead, Mimiran focuses on facilitating meaningful, recurring conversations that nurture client relationships without the typical sales approach. Reuben shares insights on strategically positioning yourself in the market using Mimiran's unique features, such as mission and positioning templates, automated task management, and tailored lead magnets. This episode offers a deep dive into optimizing relationship management for independent consultants, emphasizing a personalized and authentic approach to client interactions.
Episode 5: The Anti-CRM Approach with Rob Matzkin
Podcast Episode Date: June 27, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I sit down with Rob Matzkin, a successful entrepreneur and founder of Bond Summit. We discuss the critical role of trust in business relationships, from hiring decisions to client engagements. Rob draws from his 20-year career across various industries to highlight how trust can significantly impact the growth and efficiency of a business. We also delve into operational strategies centered around trust, including the importance of contracts and proper systems to ensure accountability. Tune in to learn how to cultivate a trusting and thriving business environment.
Episode 6: The Importance of Market Economics in Startup Growth with Dan Nelson
Podcast Episode Date: August 1, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I interview Dan Nelson , Recovering Accountant of Startup Economics 101. We talk about our shared experiences in the Startup Leadership Program and dive into the complexities of financial management and market economics for startups. Dan shares his journey from a traditional accounting background to becoming a consultant and educator for other founders. We emphasize the importance of understanding key financial metrics, using modern tools like QuickBooks, and focusing on high-impact operational metrics. Dan also discusses the resources available through his initiative, Startup Economics 101, which aims to empower entrepreneurs with practical financial knowledge and tools.
Episode 7: Living the Business Dream with Ral West
Podcast Episode Date: August 8, 2024
Description: In this episode of the Well Aware Podcast, I have the pleasure of interviewing Ral West, founder of Ral West Livin’ The Dream and the creator of a course for entrepreneurs - “Overcome Overwhelm: Create a Smooth Running Business with Less Stress.” She is a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich background in the tourism industry and various other ventures. Ral shares her journey from growing up in a family deeply rooted in Alaska tourism to founding her own businesses and the valuable lessons she learned along the way, including selling her company to Alaska Airlines. She highlights the importance of having strong systems in place, the value of continuous learning, and the need to leverage external resources to achieve business success without getting bogged down by daily operations. We also dive into Ral's latest venture—a course designed to help entrepreneurs effectively balance their business and personal lives.
That’s all for major relationship awareness at this time! ^_^
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Actions:
With this section, I will walk you through my approach using color codes in Google Calendar to manage different types of time blocks. I’ll explain how I assign specific colors to represent activities like internal business tasks, client meetings, service calls, and personal development. I’ll also discuss the importance of maintaining color consistency and why I recommend sticking to a single calendar to avoid complications with scheduling tools. Plus, I’ll show you how I use a 'null' system to track canceled or missed events, ensuring an accurate historical record of all activities.
Watch the Operation Teardown No. 2: Boosting Productivity: The Ultimate Google Calendar Color System:
Using a color-coding system in Google Calendar helps you easily see how you spend your time. It organizes your schedule and makes it simple to spot different activities, improving your time management and reducing stress.
This approach has been very effective for me, and I think it could be great for you too. Give it a try and adjust it to fit your needs.
For more details, check out my latest blog, Mastering Your Calendar: A Guide to Using Color Coding in Google Calendar.
That’s all for Action Awareness this month ^_^
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Commitments:
Well Aware is excited to welcome our newest clients who joined us in July 2024, along with the Virtual Assistants assigned to support them. Our commitments are our top priority.
Meet Our New Partners and Their Well Aware Providers:
Partner 1: Mark Buchl
Mark is the founder of Mile High Tide Consulting, brings over six years of experience in delivering sales strategies, systems, workshops, and onsite support for PACE organizations. He specializes in sales engagement, transforming teams to achieve outstanding revenue results. Mark is passionate about integrating personal and professional development into his work, fostering a productive and exciting team environment.
Virtual Assistant/s Assigned to Mark Buchl:
Cherrie Egnisaban helps clients manage their day-to-day bookkeeping operations as a bookkeeping administration virtual assistant. Cherrie is the bookkeeping lead and human resources lead for Well Aware. Cherrie has been the savior of my having to keep my own books for Well Aware. Her background along with training through Well Aware’s U.S. based bookkeeping consultant have made her the go-to for both Well Aware and its clients that are in need of financial administration services - fun fact: That bookkeeping consultant is one of those clients! Cherrie and I have also sustained internal and client HR projects as well - I am beyond grateful to have such amazing support - thank you, Cherrie.
Task Responsibility: Bookkeeper
Clint Salvador is a joyful soul whose administrative prowess is vast. Clint is a virtual assistant for Well Aware. Clint and I were first introduced by Well Aware’s 1st-ever virtual assistant, Geilord Salazar. Clint has been an extremely vital assistant to Well Aware’s internal operations - without him, there would be much left to be done with no time to accomplish it. That being said, Clint’s latest efforts have been toward data entry and graphics for clients, alongside virtual assistance management for other clients. Grateful for and proud of all his support to date. Thank you, Clint!
Task Responsibility: Executive Assistant
Partner 2: Brenda Luper
Brenda is the owner of Reality Break Escapes, where she brings her expertise in event and project management to create engaging experiences. A passionate Escape Room enthusiast, Brenda opened Bellevue's first escape room in 2018 and has since expanded to a second location with event spaces and a dedicated team of game masters.
Virtual Assistant Assigned to Brenda Luper:
Veronica Apostol has seven years of work experience in sales, outsourcing, fitness, management, administrative support, and human resources. Veronica is a virtual assistant of Well Aware. Veronica has proved to be a meticulously detailed assistant, who’s initiative and resourcefulness highlight just how incredibly effective she is. Thank you for being a part of our team, Veronica.
Task Responsibility: Date Entry Specialist
Partner 3: Lucas Woody
Lucas is a Performance Coach at NextBetter who specializes in enhancing individual and organizational performance through a holistic well-being approach. He offers one-on-one coaching, group programs, workshops, and community events that address physical, emotional, intellectual, and social health. Thank you, Lucas.
Virtual Assistant/s Assigned to Lucas Woody:
Lavinia Jungco is an incredibly detailed, responsive, and mindful virtual assistant. She is our in-house expert VA in Content Creation Management. Lavinia and I connected through Onlinejobs.ph when, at the time, we sought need for a larger team. Lavinia has proven to be exceptional in her supporting Well Aware’s clients - from basic data entry, to thoughtful outreach for guesting on podcasts. and more. Lavinia does an incredible job of documenting all that she performs. For that, she inspires me to carry Well Aware’s philosophy further. Thank you, Lavinia.
Task Responsibility: Content Creation Manager./
Zarah Jane Apostol is first and foremost, a mother who looks out for her family. Zarah is a virtual assistant of Well Aware. Zarah and I were connected through my efforts in interviewing candidates during our early 2023 team expansion. We had initially agreed to test out our working relationship over a month’s time - she failed to disappoint. Zarah’s skills as I’ve come to know them have been honed around LinkedIn, namely managing outreach messages on behalf of several profiles, all with accuracy. Zarah has come to perform additional miscellaneous tasks for Well Aware’s clients. I’m grateful to have her on our team. Thank you, Zarah.
Task Responsibility: Social Media Engagement Specialist
Jan-Michael Pardillo is a Graphic Artist and Certified Virtual Assistant with 10 years of experience. His expertise spans logo design, t-shirt design, packaging and labeling design, social media banners, website development via WordPress, and SEO. As a valuable team member of Well Aware, Jan-Michael consistently delivers high-quality design solutions and virtual assistance. Jan-Michael's dedication and skill make him an indispensable asset to the team.
Task Responsibility: Graphic Designer
Thank you for trusting Well Aware. We hope that partnering with us helps you regain the freedom to grow your business through our time and operations management services.
We also want to extend our gratitude to our Virtual Assistants for their support in onboarding our new partners and clients in July. ^_^.
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Knowledge:
In this final section, I'm excited to share insights from Jared Fuller's book, Nearbound and the Rise of the Who Economy.
Jared explores how the global economy is shifting from traditional sales to a partner-focused model called "nearbound," which values building trusted relationships over direct transactions. With 75% of the economy running through partnerships, Fuller predicts a "Decade of the Ecosystem" where companies build networks of trusted partners to better serve customers. Customers now prefer products that integrate seamlessly into their existing systems, leading companies to rethink their distribution strategies. We’re excited to integrate these insights into our approach and will keep you updated on our progress.
That’s all for Knowledge Awareness this month ^_^.
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Thank you for being a part of our journey.
We appreciate your support and look forward to sharing more updates with you next month!
Best,
Conrad Ruiz
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