January 2026
Introducing "Inside the Business" Podcast: A New Platform for Business Owners
I’m happy to announce the launch of "Inside the Business" a podcast series exploring the journeys of business owners across various sectors.
I chat with a variety of business owners and aim to inspire budding entrepreneurs with real-life insights from those who are currently navigating the business world.
The first episode, featuring psychologist Justin, is available on YouTube or Spotify.
Listeners can expect candid conversations about the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of starting and running a business from those who are actually doing it.
I love speaking with different business owners about their beginnings and motivations. Their stories are always the most intriguing part of the business!
Future episodes will feature a diverse lineup, including a business coach and a yoga practitioner.
If you’d like to chat with me and share your story, email me at lucy@mktlab.co.uk.
Simple Marketing Tactics for Immediate Impact in Your Business
Here are some simple tactics to create a quick impact for your business. Maybe you've been in business for a while or, you're just getting started, either way there are plenty of solutions to get you set up and running without needing a large budget.
1. Leverage Free Social Media Channels
Make use of platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn to engage with your audience. Regularly post stories and updates with customer testimonials and behind-the-scenes content to build trust and visibility. You don’t need to spend a fortune on paid advertising. Personal stories resonate deeply, offering honest insights into your business and the unique value you provide.
2. Use Free Plans on Email Marketing Platforms and CRMs
Many email platforms offer free plans, such as MailChimp, Mailerlite and HubSpot.
Ensure your messages are concise, visually appealing, and consistently add value for the reader. This approach strengthens customer relationships and encourages ongoing engagement. Craft personalised emails for your existing customers, offering exclusive deals or updates.
3. Simplify and Optimise Your Website
Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate. Use clear calls-to-action to guide visitors toward desired actions, such as completing a form or responding to a special offer.
Simplicity often trumps complexity; most small businesses benefit from having an About or Story page, a Contact page, a Services page, and social proof like a Testimonials page.
This streamlined approach helps visitors find what they need quickly and efficiently.
Time Management Tips for Busy Business Owners
Having run my business for almost 2.5 years, I’ve learned a lot about being organised!
One key lesson is the importance of planning to protect time and maintain a balanced life.
Here are some strategies that work for me, I hope they help you too!
Prioritise Tasks
Use tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to differentiate between urgent and important tasks, focusing on high-impact activities that align with your business goals.
Schedule regular tasks, such as newsletters, directly into your calendar.
AI tools can assist by automatically adding items to your calendar, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.
Set Boundaries
Define clear work and personal time boundaries.
Time-blocking techniques can help maintain focus during work hours.
Whether you prefer an 8am-4pm or 9am-5pm schedule, sticking to it can create a routine. For after-hours client calls, a polite voicemail can manage expectations, allowing you to return calls promptly the next morning.
Automate Routine Tasks
Adopt automation tools for tasks like email responses and social media posting, freeing up valuable time for strategic planning.
The latest AI solutions can significantly reduce the time spent on routine activities, providing more time for critical business functions.
Delegate Where Possible
Identify tasks that can be delegated to team members or outsourced, allowing you to focus on growth-related activities such as sales outreach, networking, and attending in-person events.
Delegating what you can will enhance your productivity and drive business growth.
Need Marketing Support?
If you're looking for expert guidance in your marketing efforts, I offer consultancy services tailored to the needs of each business I work with.
Whether it's crafting 'go-to-market' strategies, developing comprehensive marketing plans, or enhancing digital communications, I can help elevate your business.
I also provide business diagnostics to identify and overcome roadblocks, drawing on extensive experience across sectors such as Education, Higher Education, Charities and the Arts, Technology, Ed-Tech, and SaaS.
Explore recent case studies at: www.mktlab.co.uk/case-studies