Backspace Marketing’s Shopify SEO Tips for Beginners

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

For new Shopify store owners stepping into the e-commerce world, search engine optimization (SEO) is often overlooked but is crucial to success. Many entrepreneurs find themselves lost amidst technical jargon and algorithms. However, the team at Backspace Marketing aims to simplify the process by sharing essential Shopify SEO tips for beginners. With a deep understanding of SEO for Shopify stores, Backspace Marketing has empowered numerous brands to achieve sustainable growth, making them a trusted resource for any new store owner looking to improve their online visibility.

Mastering the Basics of Shopify SEO

SEO is vital for any online store, especially those new to e-commerce. It’s the foundation upon which a website is built, determining how easily potential customers can find your store through search engines. For Shopify store owners, understanding SEO basics can significantly drive organic traffic and increase sales.

Paul Fitzgerald, CEO of Backspace Marketing, explains, “Starting with the right SEO practices can set new Shopify stores on a path to success. Our tips are tailored to help beginners understand the fundamentals and achieve sustainable growth.” Whether launching a store from scratch or looking to optimize an existing one, these SEO strategies provide a roadmap for enhancing your store’s performance and visibility.

Keyword Research: The First Step

Effective SEO begins with keyword research. This process involves identifying the words and phrases your potential customers use when searching for products or services similar to what your store offers. It’s not just about picking random words but focusing on those with high relevance and search volume. Using simple, relevant keywords that match the customer’s intent is crucial for beginners.

Backspace Marketing emphasizes starting small. Store owners should focus on long-tail keywords—specific phrases that potential customers are more likely to use when they’re closer to purchasing. For instance, instead of targeting a generic term like “shoes,” consider optimizing for “women’s running shoes with arch support.” This way, you’re more likely to attract qualified leads actively searching for your product.

Optimizing Product Pages for SEO

Your product pages are the heart of your Shopify store. Ensuring they are optimized for SEO can drastically improve your store’s search rankings. Regarding product titles and descriptions, it’s important to integrate relevant keywords naturally. Additionally, high-quality product images should include optimized alt text, which not only improves accessibility but also contributes to SEO efforts.

Product descriptions should be unique, avoiding the common mistake of copying manufacturer descriptions. Google favors original content, so take the time to craft engaging, keyword-rich descriptions that speak directly to your target audience. Additionally, ensure your URLs are clean and descriptive, avoiding unnecessary characters and numbers. Instead, opt for URLs like “/womens-running-shoes-arch-support” to enhance search engine readability.

Prioritizing Site Speed and Mobile Optimization

One crucial yet often overlooked factor in SEO is site speed. A slow-loading site can lead to higher bounce rates, meaning potential customers leave before your page fully loads. This affects the user experience and your store’s search ranking. To improve site speed, compress images, minimize code, and use Shopify apps that help streamline loading times.

Moreover, with mobile shopping continuing to rise, ensuring your Shopify store is mobile-friendly is essential. Google’s algorithm prioritizes mobile-first indexing, meaning mobile-friendly websites rank higher in search results. Test your store’s performance on various devices to ensure a seamless shopping experience, regardless of the platform.

Crafting a Content Strategy to Drive Traffic

In addition to optimizing product pages, developing a content strategy can help you attract and retain organic traffic. Blogging is a powerful tool for any Shopify store owner. By creating valuable, informative content that aligns with your product offerings, you can establish yourself as an authority in your niche. Content like how-to guides, product reviews, and industry insights can draw customers to your store and encourage them to purchase.

Backspace Marketing advises Shopify store owners to post regularly and use internal linking strategies to guide visitors from blog posts to product pages. This boosts SEO and improves the overall user experience by keeping visitors engaged with your store.

Leveraging SEO Apps for Shopify

For beginners, tackling SEO can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, Shopify offers a range of SEO apps to streamline the process. Tools like SEO Manager and Plug-in SEO guide your store’s optimization. These apps can help with everything from meta tag optimization to monitoring your store’s SEO performance. Backspace Marketing highlights the importance of utilizing these tools to ensure your store stays optimized without the need for extensive technical knowledge.

Building Long-Term Success with Backspace Marketing

Starting a new Shopify store comes with challenges, but store owners can lay the foundation for long-term success by implementing strong SEO practices from the beginning. The tips shared by Backspace Marketing are designed to help new e-commerce entrepreneurs navigate SEO with confidence, from keyword research to site optimization and content creation.

Backspace Marketing has built a reputation for scaling brands through a tailored SEO and digital marketing approach. Founded in 2004, the agency specializes in helping e-commerce startups achieve rapid growth by leveraging data-driven strategies and innovative digital marketing solutions. The team’s expertise spans SEO, social media management, paid ads, and more, making them a go-to partner for businesses looking to enhance their online presence and drive revenue growth.

For new Shopify store owners seeking a trusted partner, Backspace Marketing provides expert guidance to ensure a strong start. With its emphasis on customized strategies, data-backed decisions, and collaborative partnerships, Backspace Marketing continues to lead the way in helping brands achieve sustainable success.

For more information on optimizing your Shopify store, visit Backspace Marketing’s Shopify SEO services, explore custom SEO solutions, or check out their blog for additional resources.

Contact:

Paul Fitzgerald (CEO)

demo@backspacemarketing.com

Phone: +1 (866) 607-7888

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backspacemarketing

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/backspacemarketing/

Website: https://backspacemarketing.com/

Published by: Annie P.

Shirley Buck’s Path to Personal Growth and Transformation

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

By: Nic Abelian

Shirley Buck’s journey from overcoming personal trauma to helping others has inspired many individuals to explore new ways of improving their lives. As the founder of Red Leaf Alternative Healing LLC, Shirley has turned her personal experiences into a powerful mission: guiding others through the process of releasing emotional baggage, shifting their mindset, and working toward the lives they envision. Her work integrates mindset coaching and holistic wellness practices to support individuals seeking emotional balance and personal growth.

A Journey Rooted in Resilience

Shirley Buck’s path to becoming a mindset coach was born out of her own experiences with trauma and personal challenges. These deeply personal experiences shaped her understanding of adversity, equipping her with the ability to empathize with her clients on a meaningful level. Rather than allowing her struggles to define her, Shirley chose to rise above them, developing a strong foundation for helping others on their journeys.

This transformative journey is chronicled in her international bestselling book, Sweet Freedom Whispered in My Ear. Through her writing, Shirley shares her personal story of overcoming hardship and offers a message of hope to others who may be facing similar challenges. The book illustrates how, even in difficult moments, there is potential for transformation and growth.

Shirley’s personal story is not just one of overcoming adversity but also one of empowerment. She believes that individuals can take steps toward releasing the hold of past trauma and work toward the life they desire. This belief serves as the foundation for her coaching work at Red Leaf Alternative Healing LLC.

The Power of Mindset Transformation

At the heart of Shirley’s practice is the belief that positive change begins with shifting one’s mindset. Many people who have experienced trauma or emotional setbacks find themselves stuck in negative thought patterns, reinforcing feelings of fear, guilt, or unworthiness. Shirley’s coaching focuses on helping clients recognize and shift these limiting beliefs, empowering them to take control of their thoughts and actions.

Through her 90-day program, Shirley guides clients through a structured process of mindset shifts and personal growth practices. This program is designed to help individuals confront their emotional challenges and adopt new, empowering perspectives about themselves and their future. Results may vary depending on individual commitment and circumstances.

The program offers tools for self-reflection, exploring emotions, and personal development, helping individuals build resilience to navigate life’s challenges. Many participants complete the program feeling more empowered, but it’s important to note that outcomes vary from person to person based on their unique experiences.

Shirley’s coaching emphasizes self-awareness and mindfulness as essential tools for personal transformation. By encouraging clients to remain present and attuned to their emotions, she helps them develop healthier habits and perspectives. This process of self-discovery supports clients in exploring their potential for personal growth.

Wellness Practices as a Path to Balance

In addition to mindset coaching, Shirley incorporates wellness practices into her work to help clients achieve a greater sense of emotional and mental well-being. These practices focus on promoting relaxation, balance, and self-awareness, offering individuals tools to support their personal growth journey.

For many, emotional challenges can leave a lasting impact on their overall well-being, and Shirley’s wellness practices are designed to support clients in exploring ways to gain insight into personal challenges and restore balance. While these practices provide a holistic approach to wellness, they are intended to complement, not replace, other personal development efforts.

The combination of mindset work and wellness practices offers clients a well-rounded approach to personal development. This integrated approach helps individuals work toward greater emotional balance, but experiences vary based on each individual’s unique journey.

Empowering Others to Take Charge of Their Journey

Shirley’s approach is deeply compassionate and client-focused. She recognizes that each person’s journey is unique and tailors her coaching to meet the specific needs of each client. Her ability to blend personal experience with professional expertise fosters a deep sense of trust and openness with her clients.

Through Red Leaf Alternative Healing LLC, Shirley offers more than just services—she provides a supportive community for individuals seeking to explore their own emotional healing and rediscover their sense of self-worth. She empowers her clients to take an active role in their personal development, guiding them toward a future filled with possibility and purpose.

Her online presence allows her to reach individuals beyond Coastal Virginia, offering virtual coaching and online wellness courses that are accessible from anywhere in the world. While these services provide tools for growth, individual results will vary based on commitment and circumstances.

A Life Transformed Through Personal Growth

Shirley Buck’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and empowerment. At Red Leaf Alternative Healing LLC, Shirley supports individuals in exploring ways to address the impact of emotional challenges and work toward personal growth. By combining mindset coaching with wellness practices, she offers a well-rounded approach to helping individuals explore the underlying factors contributing to their emotional well-being.

As she continues to guide others on their paths to personal growth, Shirley remains committed to her mission of empowering individuals to reclaim their lives and work toward long-term emotional balance. Through her compassionate coaching, innovative programs, and personal story of transformation, she has become a powerful force for inspiration and hope in the lives of those she serves.

For more information about Shirley Buck and the services offered by Red Leaf Alternative Healing LLC, visit www.shirleybuck.com or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice or replace professional medical expertise or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, please consult with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional.

Published By: Aize Perez

Advanced SEO Analytics and Reporting Now Available by Sean Raynon

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

Shopify is a powerful platform for e-commerce businesses, but success hinges on more than just an attractive storefront. To truly thrive in a competitive market, businesses need to optimize their Shopify stores for search engines. Search engine optimization (SEO) is key to driving organic traffic, improving visibility, and ultimately increasing conversions. Yet, many Shopify users struggle with effective SEO implementation. Understanding how to leverage Shopify SEO can set businesses apart and unlock growth potential.

Leading SEO expert Sean Raynon, founder of the successful SEO agency Sean Raynon, offers specialized SEO strategies designed to help Shopify businesses scale and enhance their online presence. With over two decades of experience in digital marketing and a proven track record, Raynon’s services are built to address common SEO challenges and deliver measurable results. His agency focuses on tailoring strategies to meet the unique requirements of platforms like Shopify, ensuring that businesses not only attract traffic but also convert that traffic into revenue.

The Challenges of Shopify SEO

Although Shopify provides a solid foundation for online businesses, there are several inherent SEO challenges that users often face. Understanding and addressing these challenges is the first step toward success.

1. Duplicate Content Issues

Shopify’s default settings often result in duplicate content, particularly for product pages. This happens when multiple URLs point to the same content, which can confuse search engines and dilute ranking potential. For example, a single product may have different URLs based on tags or categories, creating duplicate pages.

2. Limited Control Over Site Structure

Shopify has a fixed structure for certain elements, such as collections, product pages, and blog URLs. This rigid structure may limit the ability to fully optimize certain aspects of the site for SEO. Shopify users may struggle to implement best practices for URL structure, which can affect overall ranking.

3. Lack of Comprehensive Customization

Shopify users with limited coding knowledge may find it challenging to implement advanced SEO techniques. While the platform offers various apps to aid in SEO, they are often insufficient for businesses that require complex, tailored solutions to improve search engine rankings and enhance user experience.

Actionable Strategies to Improve Shopify SEO

To overcome these challenges, businesses must adopt actionable strategies that align with search engine algorithms and enhance user experience. Sean Raynon’s agency has identified several key areas for improving Shopify SEO performance.

1. Optimize for Mobile

Search engines like Google prioritize mobile-first indexing, which means they assess the mobile version of your site when determining rankings. Since most e-commerce traffic comes from mobile devices, businesses must ensure that their Shopify store is fully optimized for mobile users. This includes fast loading times, responsive design, and easy navigation.

2. Improve Site Speed

Site speed is critical not only for user experience but also for SEO rankings. Shopify store owners should focus on minimizing image sizes, leveraging browser caching, and reducing unnecessary scripts. These actions can significantly enhance page load times and, in turn, improve SEO performance.

3. Optimize Product Pages

Every product page should be treated as a landing page, fully optimized for relevant keywords and designed to convert visitors into buyers. Effective product page optimization includes:

Unique product descriptions that avoid duplicate content issues.
Keyword optimization for title tags, meta descriptions, and headers.
The inclusion of high-quality images with descriptive alt text.
Encouraging user reviews to build credibility and trust.

4. Leverage Internal Linking

Internal links are essential for helping search engines understand the structure of your website and for guiding users to relevant content. Properly optimized internal links improve site navigation, enhance user experience, and distribute link equity across your site, boosting SEO rankings. When linking pages, it’s important to use relevant anchor text, like the expert services offered by Sean Raynon, to improve page authority.

5. Use Structured Data (Schema Markup)

Implementing structured data on your Shopify site helps search engines better understand your content and can lead to enhanced search results, such as rich snippets. This not only improves visibility but also increases click-through rates (CTR). Common types of schema for Shopify stores include product markup, reviews, and breadcrumb lists.

Local SEO for Shopify Stores

Local SEO plays a critical role for businesses that serve specific geographic regions. Shopify store owners looking to increase visibility within local markets should prioritize Local SEO strategies. Sean Raynon’s SEO agency offers a comprehensive approach to Local SEO that includes optimizing Google My Business profiles, managing citations, and soliciting positive reviews. For businesses with physical locations, optimizing for local keywords and ensuring that your business is listed accurately across local directories is essential for dominating geographically targeted search results.

“Local SEO is critical for businesses targeting regional customers,” says Raynon. “Our tailored strategies ensure that businesses not only attract local traffic but also convert that traffic into actual sales.”

SEO-Optimized Press Release Writing

One often overlooked SEO strategy is leveraging press releases to build authority and drive traffic. Press releases, when optimized for search engines, can improve your Shopify store’s visibility and credibility. Sean Raynon’s expertise in crafting SEO-optimized press releases ensures that businesses reach a broader audience while improving search rankings.

“A well-written press release isn’t just a marketing tool; it’s a powerful way to boost long-term SEO,” says Raynon. His agency focuses on press release distribution that aligns with broader SEO goals, helping businesses maintain a competitive edge in the market.

The Importance of Tailored, Data-Driven SEO

No two businesses are the same, and neither are their SEO needs. The most effective Shopify SEO strategies are those that are data-driven and tailored to the unique needs of the business. Sean Raynon emphasizes the importance of using data analytics to continuously optimize and adjust SEO strategies, ensuring long-term success.

His agency provides regular reporting and insights, allowing businesses to track performance and make informed decisions based on data. This level of customization ensures that each Shopify store sees sustained growth and improved conversion rates.

“Data is the backbone of any successful SEO campaign,” Raynon explains. “Without tracking and analyzing metrics, you can’t make the necessary adjustments to drive growth.”

Ready to Grow Your Shopify Store?

If your Shopify store is struggling with SEO, Sean Raynon and his agency provide the expertise and data-driven strategies needed to improve search rankings and drive sustainable growth. Whether it’s improving local visibility, optimizing product pages, or crafting SEO-optimized press releases, Sean Raynon’s SEO agency delivers customized solutions that help businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive online marketplace.

Contact Sean Raynon

For businesses ready to take their Shopify SEO to the next level, contact Sean Raynon at the links below:

Website: Sean Raynon
LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
Instagram: Instagram

Email: iam@seanraynon.com

Published by: Khy Talara

Heel Slippage Solution: Introducing The Heel Sling™

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

Heel slippage is an all-too-common problem affecting countless individuals, particularly those with narrow or thin heels. Whether it’s high heels, sneakers, boots, or flats, shoes that slip off your feet can cause irritation and even lead to severe foot problems like blisters, corns, bunions, and other issues. For people tired of constantly adjusting their shoes or dealing with foot pain from ill-fitting footwear, The Heel Sling™ is here to provide a lasting solution.

Understanding Heel Slippage

Heel slippage happens when the back of your shoe fails to grip your heel properly, leading to your foot slipping in and out with each step. This constant motion can result in:

Blisters: The repetitive friction can easily cause blisters, which can be painful and slow to heal.
Injury: Slipping shoes can cause instability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains and other foot injuries.
General Discomfort: It can be frustrating to wear shoes that don’t fit well, making it uncomfortable to walk or stand for long periods.

Heel slippage is particularly common among those with narrow or thin heels and Achilles tendons. Finding shoes that fit snugly is a challenge, and while many turn to inserts or pads, these temporary solutions need frequent replacement and don’t always solve the issue.

What is The Heel Sling™?

Heel Slippage Solution: Introducing The Heel Sling™

Photo Courtesy: The Heel Sling™

The Heel Sling™ is a doctor-recommended solution specifically designed to address heel slippage effectively. Unlike traditional inserts or heel pads, The Heel Sling™ offers a secure, long-lasting solution made to stay in place while providing comfort. Crafted from a soft faux leather backing and stretchable polyurethane straps, it provides a comfortable, customized fit for any shoe. Its materials make it both soft against the skin and durable, offering a unique blend of comfort and longevity.

With The Heel Sling™, you don’t have to worry about frequent replacements. It’s a one-time investment that offers enduring relief from the frustration of heel slippage.

How The Heel Sling™ Works

Photo Courtesy: The Heel Sling™

The Heel Sling™ is designed to fit comfortably in various shoe types, including high heels, sneakers, boots, and more. Its soft backing rests against your heel, while the stretchable polyurethane straps secure it in place, ensuring a snug fit. This design allows for flexibility and comfort, adapting to your heel shape without causing pressure or discomfort.

Because The Heel Sling™ does use adhesives, it stays in place without damaging your shoes, making it ideal for high-quality or sensitive footwear. The stretchable material also allows it to adjust to different shoe sizes and shapes, making it versatile enough for any shoe in your wardrobe.

Why The Heel Sling™ Stands Out

Photo Courtesy: The Heel Sling™

Durability: Unlike traditional inserts, which can lose their grip and cushioning over time, The Heel Sling™ maintains its effectiveness. It’s crafted to last, offering a cost-effective, long-term solution for heel slippage.
Comfort: With its soft faux leather and stretchable straps, The Heel Sling™ provides a gentle yet firm grip. It doesn’t irritate your skin, allowing you to wear it comfortably for hours.
Doctor-Endorsed: The Heel Sling™ is recommended by medical professionals like Dr. Chris Coetzee, an orthopedic specialist and team physician for the Minnesota Vikings, and Dr. Tiffany Moon, a renowned Dallas anesthesiologist. They both recognize the importance of a secure shoe fit for maintaining overall foot health.
Versatility: Whether you’re wearing high heels, boots, or athletic shoes, The Heel Sling™ can be used with virtually any type of footwear. It’s designed to accommodate various shoe styles and sizes, making it a practical addition to any shoe collection.

Benefits of The Heel Sling™

Secure Fit: Prevents heel slippage with a custom, snug fit for any shoe.
Comfortable: Made from soft, stretchable materials that provide long-lasting comfort.
Versatile: Works with all types of shoes, including high heels, sneakers, boots, and flats.
Durable: Offers lasting effectiveness without the need for frequent replacements.
Suitable for All Ages: The Heel Sling™ also has a children’s line, with sizes ranging from 11 Toddler to Kids Size 4.

Children’s Line: The Heel Sling™ CHILD

Heel slippage doesn’t just affect adults. Children also experience shoe slippage, which can lead to similar discomfort and foot issues. The Heel Sling™ CHILD is designed specifically for young ones, with sizes available from 11 Toddler to Kids Size 4. Whether it’s for school shoes, play sneakers, or dress shoes, the children’s version offers the same comfort and durability, allowing kids to enjoy their activities without worry.

A Practical and Stylish Solution for Every Foot

Whether you’re an athlete struggling with heel slippage in sneakers or someone who loves to wear high heels but finds them uncomfortable, The Heel Sling™ offers an effective solution. Its unique design ensures that you can enjoy your favorite shoes without the worry of slippage or discomfort.

The Heel Sling™ isn’t just another foot accessory; it’s a commitment to comfort and foot health. By focusing on the needs of individuals with narrow or thin heels and prioritizing durability, The Heel Sling™ redefines what it means to have a perfect fit in any shoe.

Where to Buy

The Heel Sling™ is available at www.theheelsling.com, on Amazon, and at select The Good Feet Stores™. With The Heel Sling™, you can say goodbye to the annoyance of heel slippage and hello to comfort, regardless of your footwear choice.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your foot health.

Published By: Aize Perez

Dr. Kesa’s Guide to Selecting a Medical Weight Loss Clinic

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

By: Darby Lasky

As the demand for effective weight management solutions increases, choosing the right medical weight loss clinic is crucial for those seeking safe and sustainable results.

With the rising prevalence of obesity and related health conditions, more individuals are turning to medical weight loss clinics for professional guidance. However, the selection process can be overwhelming due to the numerous options available. Medical Spa will highlight the critical factors to consider when choosing a weight loss clinic.

Lisa Melloh shared, “Dr. Kesa and his staff are excellent!”

The distinction between medical facilities and franchises can be important when embarking on a weight loss journey. Medical facilities are often staffed by licensed healthcare professionals focusing on individualized patient care and overall well-being. Franchises, on the other hand, may have a broader focus, and it’s important to assess their approach carefully. While some franchises may offer helpful programs, they might emphasize standardized treatments, such as weight loss medications or supplements, which may not always include comprehensive health evaluations. Ensuring the expertise and approach of the clinic align with personal health goals can greatly impact the weight loss journey’s success.

Board certification in obesity medicine is a marker of credibility and expertise. Prospective patients should verify their provider’s credentials, including how long they have been practicing and the feedback from previous patients. Reviews often provide insights into a clinic’s success rate and patient satisfaction, revealing whether the clinic has a history of positive outcomes.

A one-size-fits-all approach rarely works in weight management. Effective clinics offer personalized treatment plans that address the underlying causes of weight gain, such as hormonal imbalances, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Addressing these root causes, rather than merely prescribing medication, can lead to more sustainable weight loss and improved overall health.

Weight loss medications, like GLP-1 receptor agonists, necessitate rigorous monitoring to ensure patient safety. Regular blood tests to check liver and kidney function are crucial, as any fluctuations in health indicators can pose significant risks. A reputable clinic will have established protocols to safeguard patient health throughout their weight loss journey.

Achieving the right pace in weight loss is essential. Losing weight too quickly can lead to muscle loss and nutritional deficiencies, and losing weight too slowly might discourage patients. Regular check-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan help ensure a balanced and healthy rate of weight loss.

One example of such a clinic is the MD Wellness Center and Med Spa, which prides itself on meeting these high standards. With over 600 positive reviews, the clinic has established a reputation for exceptional care in Indianapolis and surrounding areas over the past decade.

Selecting the right medical weight loss clinic requires a thoughtful evaluation of several key factors, including the clinic’s credentials, its approach to personalized treatment, and the protocols it follows to ensure patient safety. Researching these aspects enables individuals to make informed decisions that align with their health goals. By choosing a clinic that meets these standards, patients can embark on a weight loss journey that helps them achieve their desired results and supports their long-term health and overall well-being, ensuring a safe and effective path to sustainable weight management.

Published by: Annie P.

Empowering Women Through CNSUF™: Harrison-Chevalier’s Innovative Training for Leadership Success

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

Harrison-Chevalier, Inc. (H-C, Inc.), under the leadership of Derrick Chevalier, is broadening the accessibility of its Comprehensive Negotiating Strategies Universal Framework (CNSUF™) through keynotes, podcasts, and on-demand consulting. This distinctive approach to negotiation training is especially powerful for women, who often negotiate daily without formal training. CNSUF™ offers women essential tools to enhance their self-confidence, assert their authority, and successfully navigate male-dominated fields and sectors.

CNSUF™ builds on foundational negotiation models like Karrass Effective Negotiating Strategies, the Harvard Program on Negotiation, and Chris Voss’s principles from Never Split the Difference. However, the CNSUF™ methodology goes beyond these models, emphasizing adaptability, strategic foresight, and thorough preparation. This approach is particularly beneficial for women who may not traditionally seek formal negotiation training but who engage in critical negotiations regularly. By integrating CNSUF™, women can not only level the playing field but also capitalize on opportunities to advance professionally and personally.

In contrast to conventional “win-win” frameworks, CNSUF™ focuses on flexibility, empowering negotiators to adjust their strategies as circumstances evolve. This dynamic approach is essential for women who face unique challenges in negotiation settings. According to Chevalier, CNSUF™ enables professionals to protect and cultivate their financial interests over time, encouraging a strategic mindset that goes beyond immediate gains to consider long-term impacts. For women aspiring to grow as leaders, this methodology provides a powerful way to amplify their influence and resilience in diverse settings.

Harrison-Chevalier, Inc. has effectively demonstrated CNSUF™’s adaptability across various industries, including finance and manufacturing, showing its relevance for women navigating traditionally male-dominated fields. Through tailored strategies, CNSUF™ equips negotiators with skills to address specific challenges and pursue favorable terms. The flexibility of this framework is advantageous for women entrepreneurs and professionals seeking to secure a competitive edge and promote stability and growth within their businesses.

A key component of CNSUF™ is its focus on preparation and strategy. Chevalier advocates for thorough research and anticipatory thinking to equip negotiators for success. By conducting in-depth analysis and anticipating counterarguments, CNSUF™ users can approach negotiations with a position of strength, better prepared to assert their needs and goals. This focus on strategic preparation is crucial for women who may encounter biases or need to navigate complex dynamics in traditionally male-centric environments.

Beyond training, Harrison-Chevalier, Inc. leverages thought leadership to expand CNSUF™ ‘s influence. Through their unique Retained Consulting Agreements, and proprietary On-Demand Consulting, H-C, offers immediate support, assistance, and detailed strategies to address virtually any question, conflict, or challange. And it all begins with a no cost, no obligation consultation available by simply scheduling a call from their website.

In the current globalized market, CNSUF™ is recognized as an adaptable and strategic alternative to traditional negotiation techniques. As more businesses and individuals seek to navigate complex negotiation challenges, CNSUF™ has become a valuable resource for women aiming to amplify their impact in leadership roles. While outcomes vary based on individual circumstances, the framework’s adaptability allows it to address the specific needs of women, enabling them to make informed decisions and pursue success in their respective fields.

Through its commitment to promoting CNSUF™, Harrison-Chevalier, Inc. continues to support individuals and organizations in strategic negotiation practices. The versatility of the CNSUF™ framework provides negotiators with a robust set of tools, empowering women to enhance their leadership presence, negotiate confidently, and pursue long-term professional and personal growth.

For more information, visit Harrison-Chevalier, Inc.

Published by: Khy Talara

Building My Own Table: How I Self-Funded My Way to Success in the Tech World

Women's Journal Staff on October 18, 2024

By: Tonya Turrell

Forget about claiming a seat at the table. I wanted more than just a seat. I wanted a table that I built—one where I could choose who sits, what we’re creating, and which voices get amplified. So, I did just that: I built my own table.

When I launched The Launchpad in 2020, I wasn’t just starting a business—I was setting out to bring a long-time dream to life. After more than 25 years in tech marketing, I kept seeing the same problem: businesses wasting time, energy, and money trying to find the right tech solutions. My big idea was a “match.com” for tech—a marketplace platform where companies could easily find the tech partners they needed without the chaos, and without unwanted sales spam.

But here’s the twist: I didn’t have big investors backing this vision. I maxed out my credit cards, tapped into personal savings, and even used my retirement to fund our early work. And, along the way, we built our marketing agency services, pouring every bit of profit into designing and developing TechnologyMatch.com. Late nights and sacrifices? Oh yes, we had plenty. I believed in this marketplace, and I was all in.

Building from Scratch—and With Some Help from Faithful Friends

By late 2023, TechnologyMatch.com was gaining traction, and dear friends saw what we were building and stepped in to help. They believed in our vision and invested $1.4 million in our first seed round. It was the fuel we needed to take things to the next level, and I’m beyond grateful for their trust and support. Their belief in what we were building meant the world.

But this journey has always been about more than just me. I’ve been fortunate to work with an incredible team, our core Launchpad family, who’ve poured their hearts into this project. They’ve hustled tirelessly, delivering top-notch marketing and lead generation services to our clients so we could reinvest those profits into the platform. These aren’t just employees—they’re partners, and they’ve contributed more sweat equity than I can describe. We’ve reserved a bucket of equity to share with those who’ve stuck by us through thick and thin. When we exit, they’ll see a direct reward for everything they’ve helped build.

Breaking the Cycle—And Building My Own Table

Here’s a hard truth: women aren’t often invited to sit at the table in tech. Female founders receive only about 2% of venture capital funding, and minority women? Even less. Growing up, I was taught that talking about money wasn’t “polite.” Meanwhile, I saw my male peers talk about investments, business deals, and growth strategies like it was second nature. So when I decided to launch this platform, I wasn’t waiting for permission or an invitation. I was going to build this business my way, using the resources I had, and the expertise of the people around me who believed in what we were creating.

Instead of following the traditional path, I bootstrapped TechnologyMatch.com with our profits. We used every bit of income from our marketing services business and reinvested it. Rather than just claiming a seat at the table, I was building my own table. Now, we’re not just sitting at it—we’re growing it, expanding it, and making space for others to join.

Lessons Learned from Going All In

Self-funding taught me the value of betting on myself, my team, and my vision. If you’re sitting on an idea that won’t let you sleep, here’s what I’d say to anyone thinking about bringing it to life:

Use What You Have: I leveraged my experience in tech marketing to generate revenue and build a foundation, which we reinvested back into building TechnologyMatch.com. You might be surprised by how much you already have at your fingertips.
Stay Laser-Focused on Your Vision: Keep your goals in sight, even when things get rough. There were times I questioned everything, but my vision kept me moving forward. It’s what gave meaning to every dollar spent and every hour invested.
Find Your People: I’ve been incredibly lucky to have a team that believes in our vision. These folks didn’t just work for a paycheck—they worked with purpose, with heart. And I want to share our success with them, because they’ve been the backbone of this journey.
Be Willing to Bet on Yourself: Yes, it’s scary, but if you don’t invest in your own dreams, who will? I put my personal finances on the line and, looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. Trust that you’re worth betting on.

Why Women Are Good Business

Women-led businesses are often overlooked by investors, but here’s the reality: diverse teams are profitable teams. Women founders drive results, yet we’re constantly underestimated. Last year, our company made the Inc. 5000 list, ranking #123 of Fastest Growing Private Companies. We’ve proven that betting on a woman-led business isn’t just a smart move—it’s a winning move.

But I don’t just want to succeed for myself. I want to prove that when women lead, we can change the game. My hope is that by sharing my story, I can inspire other women to pursue their dreams, to fund their own visions, and to build their own tables. Because when we break the cycle, we’re not just claiming seats—we’re creating a future where more women can sit with us.

The Big Takeaway: Build Your Own Table

To every woman with a big dream, I say this: don’t wait for someone to hand you a seat. Build the table you want to sit at. Invest in yourself. Believe in your vision. There is nothing more powerful than a woman who trusts in her own potential.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth every sacrifice. When you create something with heart and purpose, you’re building a legacy that goes beyond you. And in the end, that’s what matters most.

Published by: Nelly Chavez