Holly Berkley shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Holly, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
People assume that to be a successful digital marketer, it’s all about making a social media post go “viral”. But in reality, for most businesses, the goal is not to be the most popular person on social media. The goal is ultimately to increase sales. I’ve seen so many “influencer” accounts with massive followings, that don’t convert to any sales.
My business offers a way to reach the right audiences who are most likely to convert to a lead or sale. And all that is tracked on the backend – not something you see by simply looking at the number of social media followers or likes.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a professional Digital Marketing Consultant helping all size businesses increase online sales, strengthen their overall brand, and dramatically boost web site traffic through proven online marketing concepts.
I’m the author of eight Internet Marketing books including, The Social Media Advantage. My first book, Low Budget Online Marketing for Small Business is now in its 3rd edition, and has been translated into multiple languages and sold worldwide.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
Early in my career, I got laid off from a big digital marketing agency due to an acquisition.
It was in that moment, that I realized working for someone else does not equal job security. In fact, no matter how hard you work, you have less control when someone else is in charge of your paycheck and career growth. That’s when I decided to start my own digital marketing company. Yes, there are ups and downs, but there is a mix of freedom and security that only comes with entrepreneurship that I would never trade.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Growing a business while being a new mom was tough. I had two boys less than two years apart. At the same time, I was in the process of expanding my web design company, gaining a new business partner and expanding to a second office. Balancing two babies and a growing company proved too much and I ended up selling that company and taking a “break”. But I didn’t give up. Less than a year later, I built another company – the digital marketing company I have today. But this time, I’ve kept things simple. I work from home and only accept a handful of the “right” clients each year.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
I’ve been in digital marketing for 20+ years and seen many fads come and go. And although things move quickly in this industry, I think it’s important to not jump on each trend too fast. Instead, really think about your client’s overall business objective. Be thoughtful and strategic. You can waste a lot of time and budget jumping into new fads too quickly. Take time to build longer term campaigns that produce real results.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop staying “yes” to social and business obligations that don’t light up my heart. I’ve recently gotten much better at saying “no” to things. Saying no has become one of the healthiest choices I’ve made—it’s essential for living with peace and purpose.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.berkweb.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollyberkley/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyberkley/
Image Credits
Photos by Amy Millard
