Marketing Advice for Service Businesses

How to Use LinkedIn Engagement to Grow Business | ft. Allison Ditmer | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 23:22:21 GMT

Justin sits down with Allison Ditmer to talk about one of the most overlooked parts of LinkedIn growth. Not your posts. Your comments.

They break apart how thoughtful, intentional commenting can drive visibility, build your brand, and open the door to more opportunities. Say bye to dropping generic replies and try joining conversations in a way that adds value and makes people want to learn more about you.

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Allison Ditmer is a LinkedIn content strategist, creator, and coach who helps founders and small business owners turn LinkedIn into a strong client funnel for their business. Through her LinkedIn Transformation Package, she helps clients learn how to engage, optimize their profiles, and create a content strategy that builds their personal brand without relying on ads or paid tools.

Connect with Allison Ditmer:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonditmer/

Paid Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/allisonditmer/1-on-1-clarity-call

Free Newsletter Sign Up: https://allison-ditmer.kit.com/280ec9ba07

Website: allisonditmer.com

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Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Justin Vajko runs Dialog Video Marketing, a video agency for busy entrepreneurs who want to be visible online.

To learn more: https://www.dialogwith.us

A Huge Problem with (Most) Content Marketing Plans

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 11:30:04 GMT

They don’t include video.

(Like at all)

I hear this all the time: “Okay, Justin. Let’s be real. Is video actually THAT important?”

Yes, it is.

The whole point of content marketing is that it helps your buyers remember you.

A lot of buyers don’t buy instantly. They buy when the time is right for them.

Successful businesses are in front of their customers 24/7 so that they’re top of mind whenever the buyer says: “Okay, it’s finally time to level up.”

I don't know about you, but I consume a lot of written content, and I can never remember where it came from.

That’s not the case with video.

Our brains are biologically wired to associate a moving picture of a human being’s face with an idea.

You’re exponentially less likely to forget who taught you information than where you read it.

So if your goal with content marketing as a founder is to be remembered, you have to have video in the mix.

And if you need help with that, that’s what I’m here for :)

Behind the scenes on a remote video shoot

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Your clients (and prospective clients) want to hear your stories.

But a lot of people struggle to share their stories in an authentic and engaging way.

That's where I come in.

1) I'll ask you a question.
2) You'll answer it
3) Together, we'll turn it into a story

That's all it takes.

Peter Bray and I made a great video sharing one of his big wins in just 30 minutes.

(check it out)

I can do the same for you.

My Instagram Origins

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 11:30:02 GMT

Now you probably know me as the LinkedIn video guy, but I actually started on Instagram.

Fall 2022: I had a founder approach me wanting to do video.

I’d just come across Riverside, which is a great platform that lets you do remote video recordings with high-quality footage and audio.

So we booked a session for 30 minutes, asked him a bunch of questions about what he did, and recorded it all.

BTW, this guy was a broker.

And he was actually the #1 broker in LA.

And even though the video on his webcam wasn’t that great, when his team posted the video to his Instagram profile, he went from 100 views on average to 1,000-5,000 views per video that included him.

That was the moment that made me realize.

Hey, there’s a viable business here.

People want to hear from founders, not companies.

And that was the start of Dialog Video Marketing.

How to Use AI Without Losing Your Voice | ft. Joe McKay | Content Lessons with Justin

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 01:25:05 GMT

Justin sits down with Joe McKay , founder of Great Chat, to talk about what’s really happening in content marketing as AI becomes more common.

Justin and Joe break down the tension between speed and substance, and why more content does not always mean better results. Joe shares his perspective on what actually works right now... Staying authentic, focusing on outcomes, and building real human connection through your content.

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Joe McKay is the Founder of Great Chat, an 'AI Vegan' LinkedIn Content Agency.

Great Chat helps Founders & executives tell their story on LinkedIn, proudly GenAI free.

Connect with Joe McKay:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmckay89/

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Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Justin Vajko runs Dialog Video Marketing, a video agency for busy entrepreneurs who want to be visible online. To learn more: https://www.dialogwith.us

90% of People are Missing This

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:30:01 GMT

Here’s what 90% of people are missing when it comes to their LinkedIn profile.

They aren’t using their featured section correctly.

Most people throw up their most popular posts.

(maybe a glowing customer testimonial or two)

But you HAVE to be more direct than that.

Your featured section is prime real estate for succinct CTAs.

Things like…

→ Booking a call
→ Signing up for your newsletter
→ Taking a course you made

Of course, some people accidentally make their CTAs too long.

Pro tip: When you make a featured section image, don’t put anything in the description.

All you need to do is upload a graphic and a title.

Then, it’ll send people directly to your link.

If you write a description, it’ll make a pop-up appear, and then people will have to click on ANOTHER button to get to your link.

You lose a surprising amount of customers with that added friction.

Don’t ask me why LinkedIn does it like that, I have 0 clue.

Luckily, from years of being on the platform, I’ve learned that workaround, and I hope it helps you like it’s helped me.

Video Coaching (It Works)

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 11:30:01 GMT

“I really appreciate the coaching in the call. As if we were on the set of an actual movie, and you’re like, ‘Let’s take it again. Try this.’ It’s awesome.”

Chris nailed exactly WHY my method works.

I’m your…

→ coach
→ director
→ editor

…and friend…

All in one.

And all you have to do is show up, be yourself, and wing it in our conversation.

It’s my job to guide our talk so that together we make a video where you sound great.

Thanks to Chris for a hilarious testimonial.

Being a leader means being a glue stick

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 12:30:37 GMT

Being a leader feels a lot like being a glue stick.

(stay with me, this analogy is going to make sense)

When you start building a team, you’ll hit gaps in communication immediately.

“Oh, I thought you meant x, y, z…”

“Sorry, didn’t catch that last part…”

It’s a shift that can feel messy, but it’s part of the growth process.

As a leader, you’ve got to be the glue that holds those communication gaps together.

One thing my team does to smooth out communication issues is having weekly team meetings and using Slack to keep everyone on the same page

Eventually, you’ll want to delegate that “glue” job.

You’ll want to find someone with an operations mindset, a detail-oriented approach, and a high sense of responsibility.

That’s who I have in my business.

She's not naturally detail-oriented, but her sense of responsibility is her superpower.

(It’s actually her second top strength according to StrengthsFinder.)

Sidebar: StrengthsFinder is a game-changer when you start building a small team of like 3-4 people. It helps you identify where your collective strengths lie and where each individual shines.

Instead of trying to shore up weaknesses, you can leverage strengths to solve problems and move forward faster.

At EOD, leadership isn’t about doing it all yourself. It’s about solving problems your team will encounter and removing barriers so that everyone works together smoothly as one organization.

"I'm just not comfortable on video."

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 12:30:16 GMT

I hear this all the time: “Justin, I’m just not comfortable on video. I know I need to do it, but I don’t want to.”

My biggest tip for getting over that fear: Just do the reps.

Practice recording yourself WITHOUT the expectation of posting it after.

Just hit record and start talking.

Exposure therapy works for a reason. The more you do something, the more your body learns it's not actually dangerous.

You might even look at the video afterward and think: “Hey, that wasn’t so bad. Maybe I can post this.”

And when you do, you’ll realize it’s not as scary as you think.

When it comes to video, the fear is in your head. It’s not actually that bad.

But if you still don’t feel confident, try watching other people’s videos.

You’ll start to realize it’s not so hard.

And if you’re STILL feeling nervous, maybe you need a Content Buddy™.

(if you don’t know what that is, shoot me a message)

How to Navigate Book Publishing from Idea to Launch | ft. Lee Densmer | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:04:15 GMT

Justin sits down with returning guest, Lee Densmer , to talk about the real journey behind writing and launching her book "Content Simplified". They dig into the challenges of going from idea to publication, the relationships that helped along the way, and how writing a book can become much more than a personal milestone.

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Lee Densmer is a content marketing consultant and owns Globia, an agency that offers content strategy, editorial planning, and content development. Her basic ethos is 'simplify to be strategic' after consistently seeing overly complicated programs that return little to no ROI.

Connect with Lee Densmer:

http://www.globiacontent.com/

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Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Justin Vajko runs Dialog Video Marketing, a video agency for busy entrepreneurs who want to be visible online. To learn more: https://www.dialogwith.us

How to Lead with Pain Points in B2B Marketing | ft. Patrick Cumming | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:57:19 GMT

Justin sits down with Patrick Cumming to unpack a simple truth most marketers overlook. If you do not understand your audience, your content will not land.

They talk about the gap between what businesses want to say and what customers actually need to hear. The conversation gets practical as they cover how to do real audience research, how to sharpen your messaging, and how to balance creativity with results that actually move the business forward.

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Patrick Cumming has generated $100M+ pipeline (& counting) for B2B Tech and SaaS companies through content marketing, paid search, and paid social demand generation and GTM strategies. Right now, he is leading marketing @ KlientBoost to add $250K MRR using the exact same strategies, principles, & processes he rolls out for clients.

Connect with Patrick Cumming:

https://www.klientboost.com

https://www.linkedin.com/company/klientboost/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-james-cumming/

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Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Justin Vajko runs Dialog Video Marketing, a video agency for busy entrepreneurs who want to be visible online. To learn more: https://www.dialogwith.us

Chris Dubois Behind-the-Scenes

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:30:02 GMT

I’ve got a system that makes video creation easy.

You say: “Hey Justin, I’m ready to try out the whole ‘thought leader’ thing. I’d like a video (or a few), but I don’t know where to start.”

That’s all it takes.

Before you know it, you’ll get an email with our first session with a list of questions I might throw your way.

You’ll glance over it. Maybe spend a minute thinking about what you’d say.

But inside your brain, the real work is happening.

The list is just a psychological kick, so your brain starts subconsciously preparing an answer.

(you’re doing work without even realizing it)

Then, when we have a video call, I’ll throw you a random question, and you’ll have an answer you didn’t even realize was forming this whole time.

We’ll have a fun, engaging talk about business.

A few days later, you’ll get a punchy, authentic edited video you can instantly post to your social media.

Made a great video with Chris Dubois. Check it out on his page.

Make another great video with me. Just shoot me a message.

Don't treat LinkedIn like any other social media platform

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 12:30:06 GMT

The #1 mistake people make is that they treat LinkedIn like any other social media platform.

They think: “Hey, I’ll just post this video and bam… there will be demand for what I do.”

But it’s not like TikTok or YouTube.

You can’t just post and ghost.

LinkedIn prioritizes presence on the platform.

That means it rewards you for spending time and engaging with your network.

If you take time to engage in…

→ commenting/sharing/liking/etc
→ responding to DMs
→ making connections
→ attending live events

…LinkedIn will reward you with more reach.

So don’t expect big results from a one-and-done post.

Show up, be present, and you’ll start to see the results you want.

You probably aren't thinking enough

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:30:02 GMT

If there’s 1 thing you probably weren’t doing enough of in 2025, it’s thinking.

As a founder, we have so many things we need to DO, we often don’t have time to just THINK.

We get tied up:
→ making sales calls
→ answering emails
→ leading meetings

And we actually spend a shockingly small amount of time just thinking about our business, and especially our content.

When I first started getting serious about creating consistent content for LinkedIn, I committed to dedicating half a day every Thursday to just thinking.

I’d put the phone away, turn the notifications off, and go over everything that happened that week.

→ I’d go over client conversations.
→ I’d synthesize the research I’d done.
→ I’d ask myself questions about what I want to do better, where I want the business to go.
→ I’d let all the knowledge I gained just bounce around my head and come up with more ideas.

Eventually, I realized half a day wasn’t enough.

I started dedicating the whole day (aka 1/5th of the entire workweek) to content creation.

Because I knew creating content was the key to getting results and growing my business.

Now, I’m not saying that everyone needs to start blocking off an entire workday to make content.

But I am saying that you won’t find success on LinkedIn if you don’t post consistently.

And you can’t post consistently if you don’t give yourself time to think deeply about your business.

Why people want to buy

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 12:30:02 GMT

“I wanted to work with you because your pitch just makes sense.”

“I bought in because my friend was a client and they saw 10x growth.”

“You’ve got a nice smile. You seem nice.”

There are a lot of reasons people want to buy.

(and the reasons aren’t always consistent)

It can be hard to throw in a bunch of contradicting messages and come out with one consistent statement.

But everyone needs at least 1 pitch to hammer home.

→ Figure out what everyone NEEDS to hear
→ Figure out what everyone WANTS to hear
→ Come up with 1 strong message and be consistent about it

Then…
→ Look at the outliers. Maybe you’re addressing pain points you hadn’t even considered.
→ Tailor specific messages for specific people.

Most people’s marketing fails when they..

1) Only have 1 message
2) Have a million different messages

You need to have both to be heard over the noise.

Stacy Eleczko and I have a great podcast diving into the mysteries of buyer motivation and how you can fix your messaging.

Listen to it here: https://loom.ly/188SoxA

And hey, if you’re in the business and want to record an episode, message me.

How to scale your business

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:30:09 GMT

Every task you hold on to is a roadblock to scaling your business.

(it’s what held me back for years)

I’m a graphic designer by trade. I used to love doing the design work for my business. It was my thing.

But eventually, I realized I needed to let go.

I had a designer, but I was still acting like that was my main priority.

Once I stopped, I started giving her more work and coaching her to get to my level.

That’s the only way I was able to truly scale my business.

Every time you choose to do something in your business that someone else could do, you’re

taking time away from solving the bigger problems.

(and the ones you might not even realize need solving yet)

So yeah, here’s my advice for founders who want to scale their business in 2026…

1) Let go of the small stuff.
2) Scale your team by upgrading their skills and giving them more work.
3) Focus on what really matters from a founder's perspective.

You can’t scale your business if you’re stuck doing everything yourself.

Don't chase the highest production levels

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 12:30:12 GMT

I was talking to someone this week who was obsessed with having the highest production value.

And I told them: “We can do that, but it'll cost twice as much as what we’re doing now.”

Here’s the thing: Our agency is optimized around getting it done and getting it out there.

Because in B2B marketing, the real value is consistency.

I’d rather give you 3 brand-new polished videos every week than 1 flashy video that has a million sound effects and can stream in 4k.

I’ve been in the marketing game for years.

And the worst-kept secret is that big-budget production quality doesn’t have a high ROI.

Sure, it has its place from time to time, but when we’re talking about 60-second shorts…

…you don’t need all the bells and whistles.

What gets results is low (or rather, non-distracting) quality that is consistent.

That’s what we’ve built our agency around.

Kim Cram Behind-the-Scenes

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 12:30:02 GMT

Most founders think scaling revenue is just about the math.

That’s where they go wrong.

If you want to find out how they go wrong, you’ll have to check out the new video I made with Kim Cram.

She sat down with me for just 30 minutes.

In 30 minutes, we made something we’re both proud of.

It’s a short video she can post directly to her socials.

More importantly, it positions her as a thought leader.

She addresses a key concern her current audience needs to hear, and her prospective clients will want to hear.

If you want the same results in 30 minutes, just send me a message.

I’d be happy to help :)

How to get 0 buys

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:30:04 GMT

If you don’t have trust, you won’t get business.

I see this all the time: people focusing on the marketing strats, the social media numbers, the fancy closing tactics… but overlooking the one thing that actually gets the sale in B2B.

Trust.

You’re not buying a $50,000 service from someone you don’t trust.

And neither is anyone else.

Whether you’re a corporation/founder/someone working in an org, trust has to be built before the trigger to buy is pulled.

Now, the old way was all about rubbing elbows in the right places.
→ Go to conferences.
→ Build rapport through face-to-face meetings.

And hey, that still works in some ways and always will.

But in 2026, there’s a whole 3rd space that organizations, founders, and sales teams are overlooking.

LinkedIn.

Instead of following the old corporate playbook with faceless press reports and text that makes people’s eyes glaze over, try embracing thought leadership in digital spaces like LinkedIn.

Start with a model that prioritizes being a human first: real opinions, real leadership, real trust.

That’s how you get the sale in B2B now.

The LinkedIn metrics that actually matter

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:31:36 GMT

“Justin, what LinkedIn metrics actually matter?”

(hint: it’s not what you think)

1) Shares

(pretend I got David Attenborough to voice this section)

Shares are the most elusive creatures in the vast and tangled ecosystem of LinkedIn. They are a rare and cautious species, seldom seen, and never given lightly.

Quick, observe closely: when an individual chooses to share your content, they are not hitting an icon thoughtlessly.

They are performing a delicate ritual.

In the jungles of LinkedIn, reputation is everything. Credibility as a professional is won and lost at a moment’s notice, and a share puts that credibility on the line.

A share signals: “This content is good. It reflects me. It represents my judgment.”

If a share wanders to your network, appreciate it. It is not easily captured.

2) Quality Comments

When I say “quality comments”, I don’t mean a thumbs-up emoji or a “great job”.

(although those are nice to get)

A quality comment is when someone takes the time to engage with your content and leaves a thoughtful response.

Quality comments are key because…

a) they enhance your content
b) they show others you have a real audience that cares about what you have to say
c) they leave the door open for a conversation to start (between others or yourself)

3) Everything else

The other metrics can be thrown into this group: views, likes, etc.

Just because these numbers are grouped together doesn’t mean they aren’t important, though.

I’d say you should put 20% importance on these metrics because the vast majority of ideal fit clients in the B2B world don’t engage.

So your top clients probably won’t ever share your content or drop a comment.

But they will watch, sometimes they’ll like, and most importantly, they’ll buy.

It can be discouraging to look at your engagement and feel like, “Wow, my numbers are pretty low.”

But then one day you’ll hop into a sales call and hear, “Hey, I’ve been watching your stuff for a year. I really love what you have to say.”

So just because shares and quality comments are important doesn’t mean they’re the only metrics that matter.

Play the long game and don’t get caught up in the numbers early on.

Katie Turner Behind-the-Scenes

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 13:30:02 GMT

The #1 thing every marketing department chases is a good story.

And if you’ve spent any amount of time in business, I can guarantee you’ve got a lot of good stories.

Within 30 minutes, I can help you tell a great story to your audience.

I'll kick you a question.

You'll start talking.

Together, we'll turn it into a story that will hook your audience.

All it takes is 30 minutes, then we’ll send you a video with everything you need to post to your socials.

(Check out how incredible Katie’s turned out)

Just shoot me a message.

How many times you should post

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:30:05 GMT

I get asked this all the time: “Justin, how much should I be posting?”

As someone who’s been consistently posting for YEARS, there’s no easy number I can give you.

(because there was no right answer for me either)

It all comes down to how much volume you can sustain.

I’m not successful because I hit “publish” 3x a week at 7:30 AM EST for a decade.

(which is great because if you know anything about having kids, you know that’s not going to happen)

I’ve found success because at each stage of my life, I’ve done what I could sustainably do instead of setting unrealistic standards for myself.

I know so many founders who used to be EVERYWHERE online a year ago, who don’t post at all today.

They just couldn’t keep up with their own pace.

Low volume + sustainable > high volume + burnout

And hey, I’ve got a system that can help you do that :)

(contact me)

But for those of you who want a number…

…prioritize posting once a week.

"I don't have time to do 1 million different takes."

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 13:30:04 GMT

1 complaint I hear all the time about doing video is: It just takes too freaking long. I don't have time to do 1 million takes.

Makes sense, I don't either.

That's why I use the Content Buddy System™.

I find a person, say, “Hey, would you be open to just talking with me about the XYZ topic that I'm doing? I can help you make some video content with it.”

Get them on a call, ask them a few questions.

Bam. That’s it.

That short and simple system solves all writer’s block. It solves all marketing problems.

People get scared because they start thinking: “What do I even write about? How do I even say this?”

It’s a normal feeling, but you don’t realize you’re putting yourself in a mental cage.

You SAY that you don’t know how to talk about something.

But guess what, if someone’s in front of you asking a question, you’re going to answer that question.

And even better, the content people actually want from you (the content you need to create) is content that answers people’s questions.

That’s the magic of the Content Buddy System™.

Our clients hire us because they know we’re going to ask them questions, record the convo, turn their answers into clips, write the post, and publish.

And they don’t have to do multiple takes. They just have to talk.

Terri Maxwell Behind-the-Scenes

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 13:30:04 GMT

“Did you want to talk about anything specifically? Otherwise, I will throw a question your way.”

This is how the Content Buddy System™ works.

I throw you a question. Or you come to me with some business insight to get off your chest.

(sort of like founder therapy)

Then I’ll throw you a few follow-ups, give you a hook (the words you say in the first few seconds of the video),

Badabing, badaboom, you've got a video that. Our editors will chop it up so it’s ready for social media.

You’ll get an email with everything you need to post.

It’s quick, painless, and perfect for a founder’s busy schedule.

P.S. if you've ever asked, "So what's the psychology of a client-getting video?"

How to Build Trust on LinkedIn Without the Cringe | ft. Angie Jones | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:07:06 GMT

Justin sits down with Angie Jones to break down what “anti-cringe” content really means and why trust matters more than visibility on LinkedIn.

They dig into how to create content that actually resonates, how to pull real stories instead of forcing them, and why storytelling is still one of the most powerful tools for personal branding. Angie also shares practical frameworks for creating emotionally engaging content and explains how AI can support your process without stripping away your voice.

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Angie Jones is a messaging and thought leadership strategist who helps humble leaders grow their personal brands through authentic, audience-first content.

Connect with Angie Jones:

https://www.suiteghost.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-jones-iowa

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Anti-cringe content focuses on building trust rather than just gaining visibility

High ticket service providers need to establish trust with their audience

Using AI in content creation requires a strong knowledge base

Storytelling is essential for creating authentic and relatable content

Frameworks like 'first, last, best, worst' help in mining stories

Emotional memories enhance engagement in content

Accountability is crucial for consistent content creation

AI can assist but should not replace human intuition in storytelling

Collaboration with others can enhance content quality

Trust is more valuable than visibility in building a brand

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Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Understand Buyer Motivation | ft. Stacy Eleczko | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 23:35:40 GMT

Justin sits down with Stacy Eleczko to unpack what really drives buying decisions and why so much marketing misses the mark. They talk about the power of client interviews, how to uncover real buyer motivation, and the hidden cost of messaging that doesn’t quite connect.

You’ll hear why relying solely on referrals can stall growth, how emotion plays a bigger role in buying than most people realize, and what it takes to communicate clearly when your audience has complex needs.

If your message feels off or your content isn’t converting the way it should, this conversation will help you realign your marketing with what buyers actually care about.

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Stacy Eleczko ( E-less-ko ) is a positioning & brand messaging strategist and copywriter for B2B brands ready to grow beyond referrals and into messaging that actually scales. Her clients are founders and small teams who’ve built a solid reputation through great work and word of mouth but now find themselves stuck trying to explain what they do in a way that resonates with people who don’t already know them. Stacy helps them clarify their positioning, shape their message, and write website and sales copy that takes them out of the comparison pool. With a background in education and a strong grasp of buyer psychology, she’s known for making complex ideas simple, and making them stick. Her process combines voice of customer research, strategic insights, and real collaboration. The result? Messaging that’s clear, grounded in empathy and connection, and designed to built trust. Stacy partners with impact-driven businesses across industries like sustainability, coaching, leadership, and tech. And while most of her work happens behind the scenes, she’s also stepping onto more stages–speaking about ethical marketing, inclusive messaging, and how to turn buyer psychology into copy that sells. Whether she’s guiding a founder through a pivot or helping a team refresh their brand, her focus is the same: get the foundation right, so the marketing actually works.

Connect with Stacy Eleczko:

www.stacyeleczko.com

www.linkedin.com/in/copybystacy

https://stacy-eleczko.kit.com/b1e93f3ce9

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Understanding buyer motivation is crucial for effective marketing

Client interviews provide insights that assumptions often miss

Misaligned messaging can lead to significant financial losses

Language used in marketing must resonate with the audience

Identifying instigating events can clarify buyer needs

Referrals can mask deeper marketing issues

Messaging should build trust with cold leads

Emotional connections drive purchasing decisions

Effective messaging requires understanding competitors and audience

Clear guidelines are essential for consistent messaging

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Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Turn Research Into High-Impact Content | ft. Erin Balsa | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 20:43:36 GMT

Justin sits down with Erin Balsa to break down why research reports can be one of the most powerful assets in your content strategy... if they’re done right.

They talk through what most brands get wrong, why methodology matters more than flashy headlines, and how transparent, credible research builds real trust. Erin also shares how to turn reports into thought leadership that drives ROI instead of gathering dust.

If you’re thinking about using research to stand out or you already are but want better results, this conversation will help you create content people actually believe in.

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Connect with Erin:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinbalsa/

www.hausofbold.com

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Research reports can elevate a brand's market presence

Sloppy methodology can damage a brand's credibility

Selective reporting undermines trust in research findings

Building a solid process is crucial for effective research

Transparency in data collection enhances credibility

Contradictory findings can be used to build trust

Engaging sales teams is essential for report success

Gating reports can limit audience reach

Thought leadership is established through credible research

Coining terms can help brands own conversations

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Use Infographics to Stand Out on LinkedIn | ft. Vince Pierri | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 22:41:41 GMT

Justin sits down with Vince Pierri to talk about an unexpected journey, from the pulpit to building a thriving business on LinkedIn through infographics.

Vince breaks down how visual storytelling helped him stand out, why quality beats quantity every time, and how he grew an audience of 28,000 in just 16 months. They also get into what it really takes to stay consistent with content, how video fits into the bigger picture, and what makes LinkedIn such a powerful platform for professionals.

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Vince Pierri is a public speaking coach and content strategist who helps leaders turn complex ideas into clear, memorable messages. He’s built a LinkedIn audience of 27,000+ through viral infographics that have reached millions, and he’s coached SaaS founders, consultants, and executives on how to craft signature talks that land clients and spark movements. (He also serves as lead pastor at The Bridge Church in Kentucky.)

Connect with Vince:

vince.pierri@thebridgenky.com

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Infographics can be a powerful tool for building a business on LinkedIn

High-quality content is essential for standing out on social media

Video content plays a crucial role in engaging potential client

Visual storytelling can enhance the impact of your message

Consistency and quality are key to success on LinkedIn

Understanding platform dynamics is crucial for effective content marketing

Insights on the future of content marketing.

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Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Find Your Marketing Sweet Spot | ft. Dana Herra | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:50:10 GMT

Justin sits down with Dana Herra to unpack what it really means to “market less and matter more.” If you’re a solopreneur or small business owner trying to do everything everywhere, this conversation shows you a smarter way forward.

Justin and Dana break down how focusing on fewer channels and leaning into your natural strengths creates stronger connections, better content, and far less burnout.

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My superpower? Uncovering the story.

Before I was a marketer, I was a journalist. A pretty good one. In 10 years, I won nearly two dozen awards. The newsroom taught me to listen carefully and ask the questions that get to the heart of a story. Today, I use those skills to interview you, drawing out your best ideas and unique point of view. The resulting content breathes with your authentic voice. And it’s strategically designed to build trust and influence with your target audience.

Superpower 2: Voice chameleon.

Ever read something and think, “Oh, there’s no way they wrote that."

Maybe you could believe the poster had that idea, but the words are all wrong. It doesn’t sound like them. Yeah, those aren’t my clients. I’m brand voice certified. I have an actual, scientific process for breaking down your voice into its distinct elements so I can recreate it in your content. While we’re talking about your ideas, I’m also soaking up your voice.

Connect with Dana here:

https://danaherra.com/

https://linkedin.com/in/danaherra

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Don't do things you hate; it shows in your work.

Focus on fewer channels for more effective marketing.

Leverage personal strengths to maximize marketing impact.

Evaluate marketing channels based on audience and personal energy.

Experiment with different formats to find what works best.

Give marketing efforts time to gain traction before switching.

ROI isn't just financial; consider time and energy investment.

Avoid shiny object syndrome; stay focused on core strategies.

Use storytelling to grab attention and persuade effectively.

Marketing is about using strengths as leverage, like judo.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Follow the attention formula for better video views

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 03:20:57 GMT

Many founders don't realize there's a formula for good video content. But it's different based on the context of the video.

We're pretty used to skim reading on LinkedIn. Or even zooming through the occasional blog post to pick up the details as quickly as possible (like this one).

But you can't really "skim read" a video. I tried it earlier today on a video about podcasting best practices. It was boring. So I skipped ahead a lot. I got absolutely nothing out of it.

This is the reason it's really tough to get views on YouTube or LinkedIn -- folks doing business want the info *now*. We're not watching videos while sitting back and sipping a martini. We have a job to do. And we want to get it over with, ASAP.

But wait -- how are some thought leadership videos getting more views than others?

Honor the story.

You've heard it said that stories sell. And it's true. We love to pay attention to stories -- and paying attention is what we're going for here with thought leadership content.

The good news is that you don't have to give a TED talk to get your ideas known by the world. Good video content isn't about being on a stage or production quality (although those can help). The core of a good video comes from honoring the story formula that humans were wired for. I've seen poorly-lit videos with questionable sound get more views than polished ones -- because they knew to keep to the formula.

The bad news is that this formula isn't always the same based on the context of the video. There's some nuance. Let's talk about that.

There's a formula for good thought leadership video content.

And it's different based on the length of the video.

For a longer thought leadership video, you typically need these parts:

- Hook/Big idea

- Establish context

- Supporting points for your point of view, each one with a short hook introduction to keep attention going.

- Moral of the story / call to action (CTA)

Basically think of any good TED talk and you've got the idea:

- Hook: I used to think burnout was a sign of weakness. Until I burned out doing something I loved...

- Context: Five years ago, I was leading a high-performing team...

- Supporting points: We confuse activity with progress... Purpose is the antidote... We can design for meaning...

- CTA: So here’s my challenge to you...

But for a short video designed for visibility with buyers on LinkedIn, the structure changes:

- Hook

- 1 point

- Moral of the story / CTA

Like a cute little TED talk. But still impactful. Especially if you're recording with shortform in mind instead of chopping up longer clips and hoping you get something good from them.

For example, check out this shortform clip from Justin. See if you can notice the three story points listed above.

Why the formula changes (it's not what you think).

Here's the reason why the story structure changes in a long video versus a short video (and it has nothing to do with the length of the video):

On a website or YouTube, you know what the video entails BEFORE you click on it because of the title and thumbnail. You're ready to sit for a few minutes to learn something new. You might be watching the video while you eat breakfast or do the dishes.

But when you're on Linkedin or YouTube Shorts, there's no thumbnail. You're swiping. And the video auto-plays.

Which means short videos are completely dependent on a strong hook and quick point to get you to watch. (Yes, I know they can have thumbnails too but they're not discovered that way, they're 99% watched via someone swiping.)

Both need the hook to be successful.

Things like:

- Why 99% of [audience] will never achieve their goal.

- How I built [outcome] with [limitations].

- You’ve been lied to about [topic].

The problem is, most of us don't "talk" in hooks. So we forget this part and rely on charisma alone to get the video seen.

Which hurts views.

If hooks are tough for you (like they are for most of us), check out my free video training . There's a link to a Google Doc inside that has 97 and a half hook inspirations. These are the same ones I use for inspiration in my videos and posts.

How to Craft a Clear LinkedIn Profile for Success | ft. Sam Swirsky | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:25:02 GMT

Justin sits down with Sam Swirsky to talk about something every professional needs but few truly master: a clear, impactful LinkedIn profile.

We break down why clarity is the secret to standing out and opening doors—and how to make it happen. You’ll get simple, actionable tips for showcasing your skills, experience, and aspirations so the right people immediately get what you’re about.

Whether you’re just starting your career or looking to elevate your presence, this episode will help you create a LinkedIn profile that actually works for you.

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Sam Swirsky has been a LinkedIn coach and writer since 2020, working with top creators like Justin Welsh, Alex & Leila Hormozi, and Tasleem Ahmad Fateh. He specializes in working with creators to “Gain Clarity, Visibility & Authority” on their social media journeys. In his spare time time enjoys playing pickleball, getting lost in the woods and making funny faces at his 12 nieces and nephews.

Connect with Sam here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-swirsky/

https://www.samswirsky.com/

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Clarity in LinkedIn profiles is crucial for professional success.

A strong headline is essential for making a good first impression.

Profiles should clearly communicate the main focus or offer.

Consistency across profile sections enhances credibility.

Engaging content can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Networking on LinkedIn can reduce feelings of isolation for entrepreneurs.

A well-crafted profile can attract referrals from unknown connections.

LinkedIn is a platform where personal branding is key.

Profiles should include a clear call to action for visitors.

Humor and personality in profiles can make them more relatable.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Use Podcasting to Amplify Your Brand | ft. Steve Guberman | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 21:21:37 GMT

In this episode, Justin sits down with Steve Guberman to unpack how podcasting can be so much more than another piece of marketing—it can actually become a powerful tool for business development.

They talk about how podcasts help you grow your reach, build brand authority, and most importantly, create meaningful connections with the people you want to serve. You’ll also hear practical strategies and real-world examples for turning a podcast into an asset that works long after the mic is turned off.

If you’ve been wondering how to make podcasting worth the effort, this episode will show you how to use it to grow your business in a way that feels authentic and sustainable.

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With over 25 years in the creative, marketing, advertising, and public relations industry, including a decade spent running and eventually selling his own successful agency, Steve Guberman now channels his expertise into coaching agency owners. As the founder of Agency Outsight, Steve helps owners unearth their challenges, define their goals, and conquer them all, enabling them to build and run the agency of their dreams.

Connect with Steve:

https://agencyoutsight.com/

https://agencyoutsight.com/podcast/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/agencycoach/

https://www.instagram.com/agencyoutsight/

https://www.youtube.com/@agencyoutsight

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

The podcast is a resource for solving specific problems, boosting expert status.

Engaging listeners has positioned the host as an authority, attracting coaching inquiries.

Specializing in niches has streamlined client acquisition and growth.

The podcast builds relationships and generates leads in today's sales environment.

Tools like Trello and Asana ensure efficient podcast production.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Will Greenblatt Testimonial

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:00:03 GMT

“It's so easy. I'm also a technical idiot, so you're able to help me with the link to join, the way to set it up, help with the lighting, exactly how to brighten my ring light that I have, and your eye as a videographer is super, super helpful.”

Maybe the #1 reason people hesitate to do video by themselves is tech.

They worry it’s expensive.

That they’ll spend a ton of money and still not know how to make the video look good.

Even worse than $$, they’ll waste their time.

Luckily, we’ve got the whole process sorted out, so it’s as fast and easy for you as possible.

I’ve got an equipment list of (cheap) gear that really makes a difference.

And I will walk you through every step.

Including actually making the video. Just by having a 30-minute chat with me.

Thanks to Will for his very nice words.

If you want to test the process out for yourself, contact me. Can’t wait to see you.

The LinkedIn Metrics That Matter

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:00:06 GMT

Here’s what you should care about on LinkedIn.

(and here’s what to do if your metrics suck)

1) shares

Hands down, on LinkedIn, the thing we care most about is shares.

Shares are the rarest form of engagement.

When someone shares your stuff, they’re putting their professional rep on the line.

They’re publicly saying, “Hey, this person’s legit. I’m backing them up.”

So if you get a lot of shares, congrats. It’s the most important form of engagement.

2) comments

The level below that is comments.

Not just the # of comments.

But the quality of the comments.

Stuff like “hey, nice video” or “great job” is always nice to see.

But you really want comments that show people are engaging with your videos and that they’re taking the time to think and respond.

The easiest way to measure how much mental real estate you’re occupying is with comments.

3) the rest of it

After that comes everything else.

Views, likes, etc.

4) Okay, but what do you do if your metrics aren’t where you want them?

In most cases, don’t worry about it.

In my business, we only put about 20% of value on metrics.

The vast majority of ideal-fit clients in the B2B world do not engage.

They don’t comment on your content.

They don’t share your videos.

But they DO watch and they take notice.

And eventually, when the time is right, they buy.

It can be very discouraging to look at your engagement numbers and think, “I have low engagement. No one’s interacting with my stuff.”

But one day, you’ll get in a sales call and somebody will go, “Wow, I’ve been watching your stuff for a year. I really love what you have to say.”

And that’s where you see value.

You really do have to play the long game and not fixate on early metrics.

Remember, the best clients will probably not engage.

Will Greenblatt Behind-the-Scenes

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 11:00:17 GMT

The key to a great video is talking about what your audience wants you to talk about.

But it can be hard to do that and sound natural.

That’s why our method works.

I’m here to guide the conversation and ask the questions your audience will want answered.

To say, “Hey, wait, let’s zoom in on that. Let’s focus on that.”

Together, Will and I came up with a really cool video that I’m proud of. Go check out his page to see it.

In 30 minutes, you’d be surprised at how many gold nuggets we can get that will turn into 1 really amazing video.

But you don’t have to be surprised.

You can try for yourself.

Contact me for a free video session.

Lenore Behind-the-Scenes

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:00:03 GMT

If you’ve had issues figuring out what to say without sounding scripted…

…don’t worry.

That’s literally everyone starting out.

It can take the pros years of public speaking and training to sound polished and know what to say on the fly.

But you don’t have to take years to get the same result.

If you’ve got 30 minutes, sit down with me and let’s have a chat.

I’ll guide you through a brief conversation about your business and what’s most interesting to you.

You’ll come out with a great vid you can post to LinkedIn (and anywhere else you want), and hopefully, you’ll see why this is a great value add to your marketing.

Thanks so much to Lenore for trying out the process.

If you want to do the same, contact me.

It’s free.

How to Use the Five Finger Analogy in Marketing | ft. Jimi Gibson | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 21:53:22 GMT

In this episode, we dig into the kind of storytelling that doesn’t just sound good—but actually connects. Justin sits down with Jimi Gibson to talk through what makes a story resonate in marketing and personal branding: real emotion, clear transformation, and the courage to be a little vulnerable.

You’ll hear why your everyday experiences hold more power than you think, how to spot the stories worth telling, and why forced narratives fall flat. Forget perfection, it’s about being real, intentional, and relatable.

If you’re looking to tell stories that build trust, this episode will help you show up in a way that actually sticks.

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To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.dialogwith.us/intro⁠

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Pinky Promise: Keep promises to build trust and brand integrity.

Ring Finger Passion: Passion fosters long-term business commitment.

Middle Finger Defiance: Oppose industry "villains" to create engaging stories.

Pointy Finger Focus: Know your audience and keep messaging clear.

Thumb Legacy: Your unique "thumbprint" differentiates your brand.

Magic and Marketing: Jimi links magic to marketing for better communication.

Storytelling: The Five Finger Analogy helps businesses connect through storytelling.

Holistic Marketing: Integrate elements for a cohesive marketing strategy.

Thought Leadership: Personal branding builds trust and authority.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

What Makes You Successful with Video on LinkedIn

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:00:10 GMT

What makes you successful with video content on LinkedIn is NOT the video content.

That might sound like it makes no sense, but stay with me.

A lot of people have this misconception.

They look at video content and they think, “Wow, look at these other guys. If I just put out videos and it’ll solve my marketing problems.”

But LinkedIn is not a social media platform first.

It’s designed to be a networking platform above everything else.

So if all you do is post and ghost, you’re not going to see results.

Even if the content is fire (as my kids say).

Instead, treat LinkedIn like a networking platform.

→ Spend time there in the ecosystem
→ Make connections with people
→ Start conversations and respond to comments (yes, even something as simple as, “Great video! Loved it”)

That will be the #1 factor to your success with video content.

(plus it adds to the value of what you’re already doing)

You can’t make it on LinkedIn with video content…

…if you can’t even make it ON LinkedIn.

So log on, spend some time there, and engage.

Otherwise, you won’t see the results you want from your video content. No matter how hard you try.

Anna Frazzetto-Miano Testimonial

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:00:26 GMT

“What a great experience to have this video recording today with Justin, so easy and so natural and so conversational. I didn't even realize that I was being recorded.”

The #1 reason most people don’t do video is because it’s hard.

It takes too much time and effort to:

→ Come up with a script

→ Fix your lighting

→ Get a decent mic and video set-up

→ Actually sit down and film

→ Edit the videos

→ Write a copy and post them on your 3+ social media channels

But hey, that’s what I’m here to fix.

We set everything up right at the start and guide you through the whole process.

The only thing you need to do is sit down and have a (great) conversation with me.

Spend 30 minutes on a call and you’ll get instant value with a personal video delivered straight to your email.

Try it out.

(it’s easy)

Thank you so much to Anna for her glowing testimony.

My New Favorite Marketing Question

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:30:00 GMT

What content marketing initiative has worked the best over the past year?

(i’ve found this is the most efficient way to stay on top of marketing trends)

When I talked to Marianne Hickman, she had 1 answer.

*Tripwires on social media*

(tripwires are anything you give away to get people interested. My tripwire is a free video session.)

Here’s the strategy:

✅ She created value-packed lead magnets. Short, 12–18 page eBooks on topics she knows inside and out (She wrote 17 of them last year!).
✅ She tested them across different social channels.
✅ She gave them away for free. No email wall. No funnel. No bait and switch. Just instant access.

And it had insane success.

She started pulling in ~150 new email subscribers per week.

Totally organically.

Give people what they need. Start the conversation. Build the relationship.

That’s content marketing that actually works.

Thanks so much to Marianne for hopping on the podcast.

No Equipment Needed

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Here’s a classic mistake entrepreneurs make when it comes to video content.

They go on a shopping spree.

"I need a better camera."

"I need this tripod, that mic, that lighting kit..."

They build out a studio before they ever hit record.

But that gear ends up collecting dust in a closet…

…because the real action never happens.

If that’s you, no shame. You’re not alone. But here’s what I recommend instead:

�� Start with a Content MVP

(that’s Minimum Viable Product to use some start-up slang)

What’s the bare minimum setup you need to take *real* action?

Hint: It’s not buying equipment.

It’s recording your first video with WHATEVER you have.

Your phone is enough. Your window light is enough. You are enough.

The goal isn’t perfection.

It’s momentum.

How to Build Your Personal Brand with Storytelling | ft. Renee Frojo | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 18:17:11 GMT

In this episode, we dig into the kind of storytelling that doesn’t just sound good—but actually connects. Justin sits down with Renee Frojo to talk through what makes a story resonate in marketing and personal branding: real emotion, clear transformation, and the courage to be a little vulnerable.

You’ll hear why your everyday experiences hold more power than you think, how to spot the stories worth telling, and why forced narratives fall flat. It’s not about perfection—it’s about being real, intentional, and relatable.

If you’re looking to tell stories that build trust, not just noise, this episode will help you show up in a way that actually sticks.

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Connect with Renee: www.reneelynnfrojo.com

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.dialogwith.us/intro ⁠

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Storytelling is essential for effective marketing and branding.

A story is fundamentally about transformation and change.

Personal storytelling can significantly enhance business opportunities.

Vulnerability in storytelling fosters deeper connections with audiences.

Identifying the core emotion behind a story is crucial for resonance.

Writing down observations can help build a repository of stories.

Avoid forced narratives; authenticity is key in storytelling.

Creating curiosity and tension in stories engages the audience.

Storytelling is a life skill that can be developed through practice.

Connection through storytelling is vital in today's marketing landscape.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Your Personal Brand Isn't Enough Anymore

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 11:30:01 GMT

Remember when posting content on LinkedIn was enough to get leads?

Those were the golden days.

Your personal brand *alone* could bring in thousands of views (sometimes, even clients).

But here’s the truth no one likes to say out loud:

→ Building a personal brand ≠ Getting clients
→ Posting great content ≠ Sales strategy

That gap is where a lot of consultants, coaches, and founders get stuck.

A lot of business owners are uncomfortable with sales. And uncomfortable with the idea of having to find clients.

So this new idea really appealed to them.

They were told: “just post your ideas and the clients will come.”

But they don’t. At least, not the *right* ones.

Here’s what actually works now:

→ Use content to build trust at scale
→ Use DMs to start conversations
→ Use both to drive intentional action

Today, I don’t sell content as a lead gen tool.

I sell it as a credibility engine. A form of social proof.

It builds trust, positions you as an authority, and makes people feel like they know you.

(even when you’ve never spoken)

But content alone isn’t the whole strategy.

If you're not pairing it with outbound (aka real conversation), you're leaving results on the table.

I had a great conversation with Mat about this B2B shift and much more.

Setting the Record Straight on Short Form Video

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 11:30:01 GMT

Let’s clear something up about short-form video.

I often say it “builds trust faster.”

But it doesn't.

At least not compared to:
→ a one-on-one call
→ a warm referral
→ a well-done webinar

So what do I *really* mean when I say short-form builds trust faster?

It builds trust faster - at scale.

→ You’re not trying to get someone to buy from one 60-second clip.
→ You *are* building familiarity across dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of people (over and over and over as your video plays)

Think of short-form video as creating micro-touchpoints over time.

Each one adds a little more trust.

And over time, those touchpoints compound.

When someone finally hops on a sales call with you?
→ They already feel like they know you.

They've seen you. Heard you. Trust you.

All before you've spoken one-on-one.

That's the power of building trust at scale.

You’re not replacing deeper conversations.

You’re accelerating them.

How to Simplify Your Content and Win on LinkedIn | ft. Lee Densmer | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:30:42 GMT

Justin sits down with Lee Densmer to unpack one of the biggest roadblocks in content marketing: overcomplication. From trying to speak to everyone to getting lost in tactics, many businesses make their content harder—and less effective—than it needs to be.

Lee shares lessons from her work in the language services industry, including how cultural awareness and localized strategies can make or break your marketing efforts. They also dive into practical ways to simplify your content, get better results on LinkedIn, and tailor your message to the people who actually matter—your ideal clients.

If your content feels scattered or stuck, this is the clarity you’ve been looking for.

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Lee Densmer is a content marketing consultant and owns Globia , an agency that offers content strategy, editorial planning, and content development. Her basic ethos is 'simplify to be strategic' after consistently seeing overly complicated programs that return little to no ROI.

She has worked in the translation and interpretation industry for 23 years. A large focus of this industry is cultural understanding and awareness and multilingual communication. Because of this expertise, Lee is able to consult with her customers on how to communicate to their audiences across cultures and languages.

Check out Globia: www.globiacontent.com

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.dialogwith.us/intro⁠

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Simplification is key to effective content marketing.

Overcomplicating content strategies can hinder success.

Focus on a few key buyer personas for better targeting.

Content marketing should prioritize quality over quantity.

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building business relationships.

Engagement on LinkedIn requires a strategic approach.

Inbound marketing is not a guaranteed strategy for success.

Global businesses must consider localization in their content.

Cultural understanding is crucial for effective marketing.

Using tools can enhance social selling efforts.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

You need to know your villains

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 11:30:01 GMT

Who’s the villain in your client’s story?

(And no, I don’t mean some cartoon supervillain.)

In storytelling, there are good guys and bad guys.

And marketing is just storytelling.

Stories mimic real life. In your life, the villain is what’s standing between your audience and the outcome they want.

And if you're not leveraging the villain in your client's story, your message is probably falling flat.

Let me give you a real example from my own business:

I run a video agency. We help B2B founders create content consistently with remote video sessions.

And the #1 villain our clients face?

Time.

→ Planning takes time.
→ Filming takes time.
→ Editing takes time.

Time most founders don’t have.

So my message becomes clear: Hey, if you never have time to create video content, we’ll do it with you, and for you.

Lack of time is the villain.

And their villain becomes my hook.

Because people relate to the problem before the solution, I can use my messaging to get the attention and interest of more clients.

If you're waiting for the perfect moment, keep waiting.

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 11:30:02 GMT

That perfect moment doesn’t exist.

(not just for video. For anything)

→ There’s no perfect moment to get engaged.
→ No perfect moment to get married.
→ No perfect moment to have kids.

And there’s definitely no perfect moment to hit “record.”

But here’s what I’ve seen over and over (especially with founders and experts): We wait for the stars to align.

→ The right lighting.
→ The right mic.
→ The right mindset

And while we wait… nothing gets made.

The truth is that you could record a video *right now.*

You don’t even have to post it.
→ You just have to start.

You don’t need to master the full video content learning curve overnight (it’s a steep one).

Start messy. Start small. Just start.

You should be using this audio tool

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Ever watch a video that sounds like it was recorded inside a tin bucket?

You probably didn’t watch for long.

Here’s something most people don’t realize:

Sound is more important than video quality.

Studies show people are more likely to swipe away from a video with bad audio than bad visuals.

You can forgive shaky footage. You can’t un-hear echo, reverb, or background noise.

So here’s a quick, easy fix if your recording situation isn’t the best:
→ Use Adobe Audio Enhance

It's a really cool way to use AI to improve the sound.
→ Background noise? Gone.
→ Echoey room? Reduced.

I’ve even seen this guy test it on a video with drilling in the background (i don’t recommend you film where there’s drilling, but still - crazy impressive).

At our agency, we use Adobe Audio Enhanced for most of our client stuff, and it is a lifesaver.

(especially if you’re recording in less-than-perfect environments)

How to improve your batch recording

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 11:30:02 GMT

Batch recording is one of the smartest ways to create video content at scale.

(it’s a method I recommend and that our clients use)

But if you're spending hours trying to crank out multiple takes by yourself…

I’ve got a simple upgrade that’ll make the whole process *way* easier:

It’s the Content Buddy System.

→ Have somebody ask you questions
→ Prompt ideas
→ And respond to those ideas

(it’s much better than sitting alone, staring at your camera, and feeling awkward)

Having someone there helps you stay in flow and is 10x more comfortable.

(which your audience will respond to. They can tell when someone is unnatural)

So yes, batch your videos.

But do it with someone who can guide and support you.

That’s how I create better content. Faster.

There's your free tip for 2025. Good luck in your video content creation.

And if you need a content buddy?

That’s literally what we do.

Plans start at $900/month.

Everyone's obsessed with numbers

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

My 1-year-old daughter is obsessed with her numbers book (and my clients are obsessed with theirs)

When it comes to video content, the #1 question I get is: “What kind of numbers should I expect?”

Here’s the honest answer:

1) Your first video will probably get the most engagement.

When you do your first video ever on LinkedIn, you can expect a spike in engagement that'll drop off over time.

Why?

Because people are excited to see you show up.

People love seeing other people put themselves out there.

Your network rallies behind you.

Then… it drops off.

That’s normal.

2) after that, the numbers start to look different.

It’s not going to be fast. It’s not going to be sexy.

→ You may not go viral.
→ You may not get 100 likes.

But then you’ll start hearing things like:

→ “Hey, I’ve been following your videos for a while now. Love what you’ve been doing.”
→ “I saw your content and knew I had to reach out.”
→ “I feel like I already know you.”

Your numbers are gonna be less numbers and more anecdotal as you do video content.

That’s the real ROI of video.

Not view count. Trust.

Trust is what leads to real business.

So if you're getting caught up in views and likes, zoom out.

Chasing numbers won’t help.

Video is about showing up consistently, so your future clients remember you when it matters.

Don't edit

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Editing is probably the reason you're not doing video right now.

→ It takes forever.
→ It’s a bunch of complicated software to learn.
→ And it’s a technique you need to master.

I've heard it said by smarter people than me: If you don't plan to be in editing full-time, don't even bother.

That's why I don't even edit my own videos

I work with amazing editors like Abdel, Jordan, and Cannon to handle it for me and my clients.

Instead of stressing over what editing software you should use, delegate the heck out of that as soon as you can.

(you don’t do your own accounting. don’t do your own editing)

The most important thing you need in video content isn’t fancy editing.

It’s having a clear, concise message. Every time.

You’re not trying to make a movie or impress anyone with your editing skills.

You’re sharing valuable, simple content. One topic per video. That’s it.

Focus on what you do best, and let someone else handle the editing.

(unless you have absolutely no money to put toward it)

It’s about getting better at what you know, not learning a skill that won’t move the needle long-term.

How to Use Systems and Strategy to Make Your Content Work Harder ft. Holly Jean Jackson | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 17:39:14 GMT

In this episode, Justin sits down with Holly Jean Jackson —a systems expert and entrepreneur—to unpack what really keeps content marketing from working: lack of strategy, structure, and follow-through.

They dig into how systems can eliminate burnout, why repetition is your best friend in marketing, and how data (not just gut instinct) can help you make smarter content decisions. Holly also shares practical tips for using LinkedIn to spark real partnerships—and why most entrepreneurs are missing out by not following up.

If you’re overwhelmed by content creation or struggling to turn visibility into results, this conversation is packed with simple, actionable strategies to help your marketing finally start working with you—not against you.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: ⁠ https://www.dialogwith.us/intro⁠

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Repetition in content marketing is essential for success.

Data-driven decision-making can enhance business strategies.

Creating systems can alleviate burnout for entrepreneurs.

Follow-up is crucial in both marketing and sales processes.

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building partnerships.

Annual content planning helps in strategic execution.

Automation can streamline initial outreach efforts.

Customizing KPIs is important for measuring success.

Effective content strategies can lead to significant revenue growth.

Systems help maintain relevance and drive results.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Here's what my competitors don't do

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Listen, I get it, you're a busy entrepreneur. Me too.

I’ve got:
→ a family to manage
→ a business to run
→ employees, software subscriptions, and bills to pay

That’s why I changed my business model early on.

My agency isn’t built around, “Hey, you could do all this work to create all this video content….and then send it to us and we'll edit it.”

We built our model around busy entrepreneurs (aka you and me)

Most of our competitors don’t do this.

Here’s how it works:

→ We book the recording time with you.
→ You show up once a month and talk about what you know.
→ We turn that raw convo into polished, high-value video content.
→ We write the posts too.
→ You just approve it, and it goes live.

No filming setup. No editing. No writing. No stress.

Just show up and share your expertise.

We handle the rest.

If you’re tired of trying to be a content creator, editor, and strategist *on top of* running your business, let’s chat.

Because done-for-you should actually feel… done for you.

Don't worry about the perfect set up

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:30:01 GMT

Founders: still not making video content because of your set up?

You’re missing out.

The best-performing B2B videos could be shot in an underground bunker.

They don’t need fancy cameras or perfect lighting.

They need clear ideas and real value.

These days, you only need 2 things to film powerful B2B thought leadership content:

1) A smartphone (yes, the one in your pocket—most shoot 4K now)
2️) A light source (mine’s literally a window and a desk lamp)

That’s it.

No studio. No $1,000 gear. No overthinking.

Your audience wants insights. Not aesthetics.

Should founders replace themselves with AI?

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

I got a wild call from a client the other day...

“Should I replace myself with AI?”

(no, this isn’t a black mirror episode. this is real life in 2025.)

More and more founders are asking the same thing:

If tools like HeyGen can generate video content of me... why not just automate myself entirely?

Here’s what I always ask in response:

If you found out the content you loved from someone you admire was AI-generated… how would that change your perception of them?

For me?

I'd feel misled. Disconnected. Maybe even a little betrayed.

I'm spending my time getting to know, like, and trust this person, but it's not them.

It's a robot version of them.

Believe it or not, this has already happened to a lot of people.

When people discover the “thought leader” they’ve been engaging with is actually an AI clone (or worse, a VA)…

�� Trust is instantly shattered.

And trust is everything in business.

That’s why I don’t recommend using AI to replace you.

I recommend using it to enhance you.

→ Let AI save you time
→ Let it streamline your workflow
→ But don’t let it replace your voice, your presence, or your connection

If your sales calls are working (but your marketing isn't)

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Marketing can feel like a black box...

....full of mysterious funnels, automations, hacks, and “secret” strategies.

But when you strip it down, especially in B2B...

Marketing is just enhancing what your sales team is already doing.

Sales = one-to-one connections.
Marketing = one on many (aka connections happening at scale)

It’s not magic. It’s not a mystery.

It’s not a black box.

It’s just this:

→ Take the value you deliver in sales calls
→ Extract it
→ Share it with the world

What does that look like?

Well, it needs to look like the first taste of what it's actually like to work with you.

So instead of shady marketing hacks and mysteriously magical automations, try simply educating your audience.

On LinkedIn, I personally recommend video content.

No black box required.

This many people are on LinkedIn

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 11:30:05 GMT

it's over a billion

(a lot of people don’t realize it’s gotten that big)

That’s why LinkedIn is THE platform for business audiences.

And here’s why: LinkedIn tells you exactly who is looking at your profile.

Other platforms have this huge gap in their metrics.

They’ll give you broad numbers but it’s hard (and frankly irritating) to try to track down exactly who is looking at what.

LinkedIn gives you exact insight into:
→ who is viewing your content
→ who is checking out your profile
→ And who is interested in what you have to say

If you’re leveraging the author approach and the speaker approach 1-on-1, then LinkedIn is both of those things at scale.

You’re teaching your audience with your content (aka the author approach).

And then after they view your content, you can approach them 1-on-1 through messages and build those deeper connections (aka the speaker approach).

I had a great conversation about these effective strategies in much more depth with Melody Ann as a guest on Author Nation Interviews.

Are you posting and praying?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 11:30:00 GMT

(I've been there, too)

It’s a common myth:

→ Just post content, and the leads will come.

Maybe that was the case at one point.

It doesn't work like that anymore.

(unless you have a massive following on LinkedIn)

Here’s what actually works.

These are 3 things I do every week to generate leads for my business.

1) post content

Posting regularly is essential. You have to share what you know and give value.

Solve real problems.

You want to be doing that BEFORE you ask for something from your audience.

2) comment on key accounts

I have a list.

It’s got 30-40 people who are important to my business.

And I make sure to comment on their content every single week.

→ It builds stronger relationships with them.
→ And it puts me in front of their audience (same audience as mine)

3) send connection requests to interesting people

Send connections if…

→ they’re looking at your profile
→ they’re responding to your comments
→ they’re titans in their industry

If it makes sense, connect. Don’t wait.

So those are three key actions you can do to get business from LinkedIn, no rosary required.

Aerica Testimonial

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 11:30:07 GMT

Everything you need to film a great video.

“Justin at Dialog Video Marketing made making this video so easy, you wouldn't believe we did this in about 15 minutes.”

Video isn’t as hard as you think.

I make sure my clients have everything they need to film a great video.

→ Helping them set up their cameras
→ Guiding them through lighting techniques
→ Talking to them about their business in a natural, authentic way

At the end of the session, they’ll get instant value with content they’re proud of and edited videos they can post soon after.

Thanks to Aerica for her kind testimonial. One of Aerica’s Evolution partners connected us, but you can contact me right from my LinkedIn profile and book a free session today.

Only 2-3% of People Are Doing This

Fri, 30 May 2025 11:30:02 GMT

Only 2 to 3% of people are posting on LinkedIn.

(that’s straight from the horse’s mouth. and the horse is named LinkedIn.)

2 to 3% is a crazy small percentage.

And of that percentage, how many do you think are doing video?

(it’s 2 to 3%)

So you can be in the top 0.01% just by doing video content.

(and hey, you don’t even have to do it well at first. you’re already standing out because so few people do it.)

A lot of people I talk to are hesitant to start video because they assume, “Oh everyone’s doing video.”

That’s not true.

Your feed might be filled with video, but that’s because the algorithm rewards it.

Your feed is a giant funnel. It takes 1,000 people’s content and puts it into one tiny place for you to scroll.

If you actually did an audit of your LinkedIn followers, you would realize that an astonishingly small number of people on here do video.

Take advantage of that statistic.

Cadi Testimonial

Wed, 28 May 2025 11:30:00 GMT

“This experience has been nothing short of amazing because it makes it easy for you to get set up. [I get] a few pointers for me…just to be able to get going out of the gate.”

My goal is to transform video content from a stressful task to having a quick talk with a friend.

A lot of people worry about what they’re going to say.

But I’ve spent hundreds of hours doing calls like this.

(my faithful editors can attest)

I have a lot of experience leading conversations and asking questions that will get you talking about what matters most.

Honestly, I have a lot of fun with it and my clients do too.

Don’t overthink it. Just schedule a call and get instant value.

....

Want to create content that builds engagement and connects with your audience? Visit my profile to book a free video session.

You Can't Post and Ghost

Mon, 26 May 2025 11:30:02 GMT

I’ve heard a lot of other entrepreneurs complain that they’re not getting the results they want within a 3-6 month period.

I’ve been on LinkedIn for 2+ years posting consistently.

And I figured out why people aren’t getting the results they want.

(spoiler: it has to do with the social part of social media)

LinkedIn is NOT just a social platform. You can’t just post and ghost.

It’s a networking platform way before it’s a social platform.

If you’re trying to get results from LinkedIn and feel like you’re hitting a wall, you probably just haven’t found your people here yet.

You want to be looking for the people who are:

→ your peers

→ your mentor

→ a champion that will connect to your audience

Then, you need to actually build relationships with them.

You can’t just post and hope someone notices you.

You have to interact.

It’s the law of reciprocity: If you want to get attention, you have to give attention.

LinkedIn is a platform full of the best and the brightest.

(i’ve met so many amazing people on here.)

It’s not enough to post into the void. You gotta find your people and say hi.

That’s when you’re going to start to see results.

This Would Improve 90% of LinkedIn Profiles

Fri, 23 May 2025 11:30:01 GMT

Here’s how to dramatically improve your LinkedIn banner.

This trick would improve 90% of the profiles out there.

Just add a short sentence about the value you offer.

(you have to be succinct for it to work)

Don’t try to type out a paragraph. If it looks crowded, no one’s going to read it.

→ Fun fact: I used to be a graphic designer.

All you need is a snappy sentence about the transformation you offer.

Here’s a good template to work with, “What would your life look like if _______?”

If you’re not sure how to write your banner text, use that to start.

A mentor a few years back taught me that trick and it’s been really successful.

The Unspoken Benefit to Video

Wed, 21 May 2025 11:30:00 GMT

There’s a benefit to video content I never see people talk about.

You know that feeling when you get a great idea?

You’re so excited that you scramble for your notes app or a piece of paper to write it down.

But you look at your idea later…and it’s like reading gibberish.

Creativity block is a very real problem.

It’s like there’s this barrier in our brains preventing our thoughts from flowing smoothly to paper.

Here’s how to fix that:

→ Start using video to capture your ideas instead.

By recording a conversation with a friend to explain your idea, you can communicate so much more seamlessly.

Even if you make a mistake, boom - you can catch that in the editing bay.

Now you have these complex concepts with only the best bits captured into video.

And, if you really want a written copy of it, you can then take the video and turn that into written word.

(it’s 10x easier doing it that way. try turning a blog into a video. way more friction)

One of our clients experienced how much better this method is after I audited her experience working with us.

She saw the value of being able to distill her ideas into short, watchable clips of video content vs. having to write it all down.

Todd Testimony

Mon, 19 May 2025 11:30:11 GMT

“Working with Justin is exactly how I hope I treat my customers. Made it as easy as possible.”

My business works because we provide the maximum amount of value for the minimum amount of effort.

We let you know everything you need upfront.

You spend 30 minutes on a call with me.

Then, you get personal video content delivered straight to your e-mail.

There’s no easier way to increase your ICP and engage with your existing audience in a professional, authentic way.

Try it out.

(it’ll be fun.)

....

Want to create content that builds engagement and connects with your audience? Visit my LinkedIn profile to book a free video session.

How Not to Burn Out Pivoting

Fri, 16 May 2025 11:30:04 GMT

Pivoting is the fastest way to burn out (if you’re doing it without support).

I pivoted a LOT before I found the niche I’m in now.

And I learned a ton each time I did, but it was deeply exhausting.

If you’re a founder and things aren’t working out after a pivot, here are some signs:

→ You’re spread too thin.

→ You don’t have clarity.

→ You’re not getting market traction because your product probably isn’t a fit.

And you probably DO need to pivot again.

But before you do, stop and get some advice.

You need somebody to advise you on your pivot.

They can help you identify if it’s the right pivot to make. And they can encourage you to take a leap again and hold you accountable to your new vision.

How to Turn Conversations Into Clients Through Smart Content Strategy | Content Lessons with Justin

Thu, 15 May 2025 18:36:52 GMT

In this episode, Greg Wasserman joins us for a deep-dive into what really makes content marketing work—especially when it comes to podcasting. Spoiler: it’s not about chasing downloads or going viral.

We talk about why consistency, repurposing, and strategic planning matter—but even more importantly, why relationships are at the heart of it all. Greg shares how to turn your podcast into a tool for connection and how to use your content to build trust that actually leads to business growth.

If you're creating content but not seeing traction, this conversation will help you realign your strategy around what truly moves the needle: people.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing is about understanding the behind-the-scenes success of others.

Your content should be distributed across multiple platforms.

Building relationships is more important than chasing downloads.

Podcasts can serve as a tool for deepening relationships.

Consistency in content creation leads to success.

Every piece of content can be repurposed for different platforms.

Having a clear purpose for your podcast is essential.

A content strategy helps streamline your efforts.

Engaging in conversations can lead to valuable content ideas.

Relationships are the foundation of business success.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How Not to Be Cheesy

Wed, 14 May 2025 11:30:00 GMT

A lot of people are terrified of their videos looking cheesy. Here’s how to fix that.

You have to shift your mindset.

When you hit record, STOP acting and START sharing.

People get too in their heads when they do video.

They start thinking, “I’m going to be on video. I’m making something that will live forever and forever. I have to be super professional. I have to sound and look just right.”

(and yes, the internet is forever…but you’re only making it worse by getting in your head.)

Instead, just start sharing your knowledge.

Imagine you’re talking to your parents about work. Think about telling them something you’re proud of or something interesting you learned.

When you focus on just sharing what you’re passionate about, you’ll relax.

Your body won’t be stiff and awkward.

(your smile will look less like a mugshot)

You’ll just be focused on sharing your knowledge.

When you just see video as a way to capture your insights, you’ll do a much better job being aesthetic with your content and you won’t have to worry about looking cheesy.

How to Use Blogging to Clarify Your Message and Attract Clients | ft. Janine Coombes |Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 13 May 2025 16:52:59 GMT

In this episode, we sit down with Janine Coombes to explore how blogging—yes, good old-fashioned writing—can become one of the most powerful tools in your content strategy. Janine shares her shift from video to blogging, the mindset hurdles she overcame, and how writing became not just a marketing tool, but a way to clarify her message and connect deeply with her audience.

We talk about why clarity in your offer matters more than clever tactics, how tuning into your clients' real struggles creates better content, and why your content should reflect you. Whether you're a natural writer or still warming up to the idea, this episode is packed with practical ways to turn words into relationships—and relationships into results.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Blogging can be a powerful tool for content marketing.

Clarity in offers is crucial for business success.

Writing can serve as a therapeutic process for marketers.

Engaging with clients directly can yield valuable insights.

Content should align with personal strengths and interests.

Consistency in content creation leads to better engagement.

SEO can play a role in attracting clients through blogs.

Repurposing content can maximize its reach and effectiveness.

Understanding client challenges helps tailor marketing strategies.

Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and connect with others.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Most B2B Founders Don't Realize This

Mon, 12 May 2025 11:30:04 GMT

Most B2B founders don’t realize authenticity is more professional than polish.

When people hear the word “professional,” they think of suits and ties, dress clothes, and briefcases.

They feel the need to act in this very refined (and frankly stiff) way.

And this seeps into how they view video content.

They want their video content to be polished.

They want it to be perfect.

Because they feel like the quality of the video reflects the quality of their product.

(and they’re worried an unpolished video will hurt their company’s reputation.)

But here’s the thing you have to realize about B2B: True professionals are authentic.

→ They’re honest.

→ They’re level with their clients.

→ They use real language everyone understands.

All of those things are 10x more important than being polished.

When it comes to getting sales, you want to build a likeability and relatability factor.

You’re not going to build that factor if you equate professionalism ONLY with polish.

Video content is designed to unlock an authentic connection between the creator and the consumer.

At EOD, the polish of your presentation doesn’t matter, as long as you can deliver value to the other person.

That’s what gives your business a good reputation.

Bloopers

Fri, 09 May 2025 11:30:01 GMT

I make videos practically every day.

I still make a ton of mistakes.

(and today, i’m sharing them with you)

Enjoy a reel of my finest moments

And contact me to start making mistakes of your own. It’ll be worth it, I promise.

When You're Exhausted

Wed, 07 May 2025 11:30:01 GMT

I got my first remote video client in 2022.

And I had a big choice to make.

I had to decide, “Am I going to go after this short-form video content niche? Or do I stay with what I’m doing?”

(at the time, I was in recruitment marketing.)

While video content is a no-brainer now, the choice wasn’t so straightforward then.

I had tried several different business niches in the years before and I was drained from all the pivots.

My work back then was also really demanding. I was doing everything for everybody as a marketing agency.

(which hey, it was worth it. Some of those clients I still work with today.)

When you’re really tired, big decisions seem even more paralyzing.

I was just so reluctant to pivot yet ANOTHER time.

If I hadn’t had Brent Hafele in my court to encourage me, I probably never would have taken the dive into the market I’m in now.

I wouldn’t have been able to build up so many people as thought leaders with video.

And I would have regretted it…majorly…

If you don’t have people around you encouraging you to go in the right direction, you’re probably going to make bad decisions.

You’re going to play it safe and stay small as a business.

(there could be a multiverse version of me that’s still chugging along trying to do everything for everybody)

I’m really thankful Brent was able to give me advice and glad I had the courage to act on it, even when I was running on fumes.

Petar Testimonial

Mon, 05 May 2025 11:30:06 GMT

“It’s exactly as advertised. You don’t need to be prepared…if you have 30 minutes to spare, which you should, definitely take advantage of that. It was a great experience. Check it out.”

I know your days are booked and busy.

But all I need is 30 minutes, and I can help you make great content.

Video is proven to:

→ Build trust with your audience

→ Broaden your ICP

→ Diversify your LinkedIn engagement

Petar saw the value.

So can you.

....

Want to create content that builds engagement and connects with your audience? Visit my LinkedIn profile to book a free video session.

Our team tried using AI video but someone got hurt.

Fri, 02 May 2025 11:30:01 GMT

(not a real person, though)

AI video has a loooong way to go before we start using it regularly.

Here’s why:

→ It takes longer to put together which disrupts the editing workflow

→ It costs more per video than finding a stock video

We tried Runway ML and Sora.

Both have really promising starts, but they can’t be used consistently in video content.

(after tons of prompting, the AI would still generate a business meeting with a guy getting hit in the face)

Bottom line: It’s too expensive to get videos where they need to be.

(especially when all our clients need is B-roll footage)

AI video is probably the future, but the future isn’t here quite yet.

But what is here and still working is founder-led video content.

You can make great content right now, contact me to book a session today.

How to Grow a Brand That Builds Trust, Not Just Traffic | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:25:35 GMT

In this episode, we’re getting into the real mechanics of content marketing—beyond the vanity metrics. Our guest, Marianne Hickman, pulls back the curtain on what makes content convert, including a deep dive into “tripwires” that stop the scroll and spark real conversations.

We talk about why generosity isn’t just a feel-good strategy—it’s a growth engine. From using your CRM in a way that actually builds relationships, to creating content that serves instead of sells, this episode is packed with practical ways to show up with purpose and build a reputation that lasts.

If you’re ready to stop marketing like everyone else and start showing up in a way that creates trust, traction, and real results—this one’s for you.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires understanding what works for your audience.

Tripwires can be rebranded as initial offers to attract clients.

Generosity in lead generation fosters organic relationships.

Using automation can streamline follow-ups and enhance engagement.

Building a reputation based on generosity leads to sustainable success.

It's essential to prioritize genuine connections over transactional relationships.

Content creation should reflect your expertise and value to the audience.

A CRM system is crucial for tracking and nurturing leads effectively.

The law of reciprocity works best when approached selflessly.

Your motives significantly influence your success in business.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Behind the Scenes...

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 12:00:12 GMT

Look behind the curtain

Everyone has felt unsure before. Sometimes that feeling is paralyzing.

It’s a feeling that sucks as an employee but can make or break a founder.

Founders have to cut through uncertainty, chart a path forward, and solve immense challenges.

(All without succumbing to the brain’s panicked shouts of, “JUST STAY IN PLACE.”)

So, I asked Chantelle Fitzgerald this simple question, “What type of volatility are you seeing leaders being challenged with these days?”

She said two things:

→ A new administration

→ The connection between VUCA and uncertainty

If you want to find out more about these challenges and how they affect leaders right now, check out her page.

We filmed some great content together in just one short trial session.

There’s a lot of value and insider business expertise packed in a few videos.

If you want that same kind of instant value, all you have to do is contact me. Let’s set something up. I’m excited to show you why this works so well.

Don't Prepare

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 12:00:18 GMT

Just start talking

“Video in general is a challenge for a lot of people, certainly me. And this made it very simple for

me…wasn't a lot of preparation effort. I just kind of show up and talk and we have a conversation.”

That’s it.

That’s how easy we make it for people to record great videos.

All you have to do:

→ Show up for an hour and chat

And from that…here’s what you get:

→ Edited, well-produced videos of you providing business insight

→ Instant value that can be posted on LinkedIn and other social media sites

→ Video content that will broaden your ICP and reach new viewers

→ A fun conversation with me :)

Easiest thing in the world.

Have a conversation and get 10x the value instantly.

Be 1% of 1%

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 12:00:28 GMT

These people get sales

More people would rather be dead than give a speech in public.

That means, if you’re at a funeral, you’d rather be in the coffin 6 feet under than on the stage giving an eulogy.

But what would happen if people didn’t have that fear?

Imagine if you sat down for just 30 minutes, and recorded a conversation.

You would forget about the camera.

You’d let yourself get into the flow.

And the 30 minutes would fly by…maybe you’d even be there chatting for hours…

At the end of the conversation, you’d have all this great content.

All of a sudden, you get clips sent straight to you and then those clips are put into a video post with a few of your written thoughts and posted right on LinkedIn.

Guess what that does for your personal brand?

It shows that you're willing to think through things, and you're willing to share that you think through things.

So very few people do that.

We all think through things, but very, very few of us share.

So if you do share, you're one of the 1% of the 1%.

And that’s where you want to be if you’re running a business.

Because those people stand out.

And those people get sales.

How to Stand Out on LinkedIn with Smart Content & Outreach | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 19:51:32 GMT

In this episode, we cut through the noise and talk about what’s actually working in content marketing right now—especially on LinkedIn. The days of “post and pray” are over. Mat Lehnhoff unpacks how the game has changed: from just creating content to building real relationships through proactive outreach and engagement.

We dive into how personal branding plays a bigger role than ever, what’s going on behind the scenes with LinkedIn’s algorithm, and why business owners can’t afford to sit around waiting for leads to show up.

If you’re tired of posting into the void and ready to start conversations that move the needle—this episode is for you. Real talk, real strategy, and actionable steps to start turning content into clients.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing is evolving, especially on platforms like LinkedIn.

The shift from content to outreach is crucial for lead generation.

Personal branding is important but should not be the sole focus.

Proactive engagement is key; clients won't come to you without outreach.

Building trust through content is essential for high-ticket sales.

The rules of engagement on LinkedIn are changing due to algorithm updates.

A mixed approach of content and outreach yields better results.

Understanding your audience is vital for effective marketing strategies.

Sales skills are often lacking in business owners; training is necessary.

Multiple marketing systems should work together for optimal results.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Get 10x Improvement on LinkedIn

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 12:00:18 GMT

The secret is video

“Prior to this, we were putting out LinkedIn posts but without video and we were getting one or 200 impressions…But what was really missing was the video content. Once we started putting video content, you saw like a 10x improvement, not only in terms of comments, but likes and shares and engagement.”

I’ve always been ready to die on the hill that video content should be the backbone of every marketing strategy.

(and I actually have died on that proverbial hill in many a friendly argument)

But I’m not doing it out of blind passion for video.

I’m doing it because it works.

People see genuine improvements in metrics (which is great) but also in what really matters: audience connection.

When you put out a steady stream of videos, you’re setting yourself up for long-term success and opening up your ICP.

And you never know when a video in your backlog could blow up.

The sky’s the limit with video.

Start embracing LinkedIn posts with videos and see the results for yourself.

How to Actually Make Sales

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:02:17 GMT

Here are two ways to win in B2B business online

At EOD, the only thing people want to know is this: How do I actually get online sales for my B2B business?

Time.

Okay, but time doing what?

There are 2 things that really work well to get large ticket sales for B2B businesses online.

1) Networking with champions

Find the people in your niche who are well-connected.

Then, build up those relationships in the DMs.

Have a conversation on Zoom or even in real life if you’re close enough to meet up.

(always meet up if there’s an industry convention or panel happening nearby)

Those relationships are the cornerstone of any solid B2B strategy.

There’s a reason they say, “Your network is your net worth.”

2) Content

Even if you’re the most extroverted person on the planet, having a ton of conversations 1-on-1 is exhausting.

You need a way to share that you exist and have valuable knowledge on a regular basis.

And you need a way to do that to the world.

That’s where sharing content (specifically video content) is crucial.

It helps you stay top of mind with:

→ Your partners

→ Your champions

→ Your ICP

Plus, I don't know about you, but it's really annoying sending follow-up emails time and time again to somebody you had a sales call with.

Instead, share content that you're creating to be less annoying and also help you

really position yourself as the authority in your space.

Building trust with strangers on the internet is harder than in person, but when you have a system in place, you can make exponentially more connections.

You're Spending Too Much on Lighting

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 12:00:14 GMT

Most lighting issues can be solved with two changes

Here’s the secret to solve 90% of lighting problems.

(and you don’t have to shell out $40k on bulbs the size of your head)

1) Use a window as your natural light source.

Do NOT use:

→ Overhead lights

→ Halogen lights

→ Other artificial lights

Just use natural light.

It will ALWAYS make you look much better than trying to rig up multiple lights and all that jazz.

I’ve tried that before.

You can do it.

It works for some people.

But it takes way more time…and it’s very difficult to do well.

2) Avoid backlighting

If I’m standing behind a window, that’s backlighting.

All of the sudden, my body’s just going to turn into a shadowy blob.

That’s a super common mistake we see with lighting.

Just do those two things, and you’ll instantly improve your lighting. All without spending thousands of dollars on lighting rigs.

The Best Creators Do This

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 12:00:07 GMT

You're driving down the highway. You spy one of those signs that say, "Do billboards work?"

It just did.

A lot of people think doing video content on LinkedIn starts by actually doing the video.

(but there's actually a step before that.)

It really starts by watching other people’s video content.

(which, hey, you’re doing that right now)

From my years of doing video content, I’ve realized the people who make the best content for themselves are the people who consume the most from others.

That’s right: the best creators are the best consumers.

(this makes sense. the best authors are the ones who read the most books…the best directors the ones who watch the most films…)

So congrats, your addiction to scrolling LinkedIn has come in handy. You’ve already started your journey to making video for your business.

Now you don’t get hung up on the second step, which is to actually shoot some videos.

I'm Not Great on Camera...

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 12:00:17 GMT

But this makes it super easy

“I'm not great on camera. I always have the idea in my head to talk to the camera and I just can't do it by myself. I feel silly. So this was super easy to have somebody to talk to and have the questions to be able to give a good quick-fire answer instead of fumbling with my words and figuring out what to say.”

The reason our system works so well is that most people aren’t hardwired to be good on camera.

(i definitely had to learn to get comfortable…and I've been doing these interviews for over 2 years)

There’s probably only 1% of the population that pops into the world ready to star on late-night shows.

But that’s okay because we make content from conversations.

Not everyone can be Jimmy Kimmel…but everyone can have a talk with a friend.

You’ll instantly have videos that are:

→ More authentic for the audience

→ More comfortable for you

→ More guided and impactful

And best of all, they won’t feel like a hassle to make.

Just sit down and have a short conversation. You’ll get instant value.

2 Reasons You Struggle with Video

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 12:00:08 GMT

I've done hundreds of interviews...these are the problems I see

Here are the 2 main reasons people struggle to share content on video.

(I’ve done this for 2 years and have conducted hundreds of interviews.)

1) I ask them a question. They struggle to answer.

I always start by asking clients a question about what they believe or what they know.

And a lot of the time…they’ll struggle to answer it.

They can’t create a reference point.

Sure, they have the start of a framework.

They say, “Well, I’ve done things this way…I know not to do this…I know to do this.”

But they haven’t really thought through their methods.

It’s like writing a book.

When you want to write a book, you have to think through EVERYTHING.

And when you do that, you build a framework piece by piece that you can then share with other people.

Most of us haven’t been writing that book.

We have our methods and our business tactics, but they’ve become just a way of doing things.

We haven’t had to think through why we do things that way or explain them to others.

You have to learn to think in a framework mindset.

And that’s something our clients really struggle with because they’ve never thought about the way they do things.

(even though, their ways are successful and get great results)

2) They get overwhelmed.

This second issue is really a subversion of the first.

Once they start thinking about their methods, their brain goes, "Great, I'm glad you're thinking about this. Here's everything you should be talking about right now."

And they get overwhelmed with how many things there are to talk about on that subject.

(after all, they’re experts in their field.)

They spend time hopping down rabbit hole after rabbit hole.

They talk about a million things but can’t really form a single clear thought because their brain hasn’t yet accepted, “We're going to talk about JUST this right now.”

Their brain wants to get everything out there.

And they end up going in a million directions and switching lanes all the time.

So we do get some really good content…some really good insights…but without editing, it’s very confusing.

You have one part here and half a part there.

(then we splice and dice to connect the parts in the editing bay.)

So yeah, after 100s of interviews, these are the problems I see pop up the most.

But so what?

Our business is built around letting clients make those mistakes. Letting them be as natural as possible.

In interviews, I’ve got a verbal safety rope around my clients to pull them right back out of those rabbit holes and onto the track.

In the editing bay, we make your insights pithy and straightforward.

That said, you CAN learn how to avoid these obstacles. Ultimately, it comes down to getting in the habit of sharing your knowledge as a thought leader.

All that takes is time and a solid marketing strategy that forces you to practice.

The Value is Obvious

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 12:00:08 GMT

What Timothy Had to Say about Us

“Quality content that is edited well has created credibility across the board. Even though it's difficult to measure, it's obvious the value of that. What's really easy to measure is the fact that we've gotten people mentioning, ‘Oh, I saw your video. Oh, that was a great video. I was learning some things.’”

When you share your personal stories and business expertise with video…people notice.

High-quality videos bring you:

→ Credibility

→ Engagement

→ Connection

Timothy now has a stockpile of content that’s making way more connections than he’d ever be able to one-on-one.

That’s the beauty of a video-first content system.

99% of People Should Be Doing This

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 12:00:31 GMT

It's called the "Buddy System"

I’d say 99% of people should be using the content buddy system.

Maybe the world has 1% of people who are just born to give speeches.

You give them a topic and they’re off to the races.

They’re able to talk about complicated things in a really eloquent and engaging way.

They don’t:

→ Go off-topic

→ Wander down rabbit holes

→ Confuse their audience

Which is great for them, but…

If you’re like me, you aren’t part of the 1%. You’re part of the 99%.

(welcome to the club)

That’s where the content buddy system comes in.

Because not everyone can give a great speech off the dome, but everyone can have a great conversation with a friend.

What happens all the time when we film video is that we feel like we’re putting on a performance, or like we’re giving a speech.

But the content buddy system erases that performativity and lets us be a lot more authentic and engaging.

We can easily slip into our state of flow and tap into our expertise.

I’ve seen this with so many clients now.

They think they don’t have the ability to film videos without feeling awkward.

But it’s all there under the surface…they just can’t access it when they’re trying to put on a performance.

A lot of the time, they don’t even notice the camera rolling because of the content buddy system.

That’s why it works.

That’s the whole point.

We Let This Influence Our Video Content

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:00:09 GMT

And it's driving up production costs

If I watched The Rings of Power on Amazon Prime with my wife for the last two

weeks and it was shot with an iPhone, I'd have a problem with that.

But here’s the problem with my problem: We’ve let those standards influence our video content.

Let me get a little philosophical for a second.

I would argue a lot of people have this idea that high production quality is what matters the MOST when it comes to video content.

And that makes sense because for the last 100 years, we’ve been watching movies and TV shows.

If it was a moving picture, it was high-quality.

Our brains are locked into that association.

But if you’ve been paying attention to social media at all in the last 20 years, that’s not the standard anymore.

(especially not on TikTok)

It’s way LESS about production quality and way MORE about the value you’re providing in the content.

(this is doubly true for B2B)

In fact, the more polished it looks, the less you’re going to resonate and connect with your audience.

(which hey, is the whole point of doing video content)

It’s as simple as this:

→ If you want polish, go write a blog post. Tweak every word to perfection.

→ If you want to connect with your audience, do video.

And here’s the secret third thing, if you want to make authentic videos quickly and easily, get in contact. We've got you covered.

Frame Your Videos the Right Way

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 12:00:10 GMT

It's the first mistake people make.

Let's talk about framing.

Framing is hands down one of the most common mistakes I see in video content.

(Especially when it’s someone’s first time starting video.)

It doesn’t matter if it’s LinkedIn…YouTube…or heck, even the occasional Zoom call.

But I’ve seen plenty of bad videos with people’s heads stuck in the wrong place.

And that is so distracting to me and it's distracting to you and everybody else…

No one wants to watch a video where your head is super low or super high or in some contortionist position yoga instructors would envy.

So here are three basics you need to know.

If you get these down, you will be able to frame your body AND your head in the right place.

It’s the most basic fundamental for doing video effectively.

1) Check your body placement

Place your body so it’s mostly visible to the camera.

Yes, we're doing talking head videos, but I want to see more than just a floating head.

2) Keep your eyes and face in the top third of the video

Doesn’t matter if you’re filming vertically or landscape, your head and your eyeballs should be touching or completely in the top third of the video.

Use the grid on the camera to set this up properly or give it a rough estimate.

3) Don’t crowd the top of the video frame

Keep just a little bit of space between the top of your head and the top of the video frame.

Listen, it might be uncomfortable at first, but if you watch movies, you’ll see this framing all the time.

It moves the emphasis of the video onto your face instead of your surroundings.

4) Check your background

Make sure there’s nothing being captured on either side of you.

Think:

→ Pets licking themselves

→ Family photos if you don’t want your family on video

→ Open doors with people walking behind you

All these things can be really distracting.

Fix these 4 things and your videos will look better than 90% of the content out there. Now, go out and shoot some video.

We're Not in the Era of AI

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:00:19 GMT

We’re in the era of founder-led content strategies.

I never talk about Dialog.

(This is probably one of the first videos where I even mention it)

I never HAVE to talk about Dialog.

People know me, not my company.

And that’s the way it’s going to stay for years to come.

A lot of founders went into business thinking, “I have a vision but I just want to execute from behind the scenes. I just want to produce a great product people enjoy.”

That’s not enough anymore.

We forget that our story (why we do what we do) is the biggest asset when it comes to getting sales results.

And the best founder-led content strategy starts with video.

There’s a New Industry Standard

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

The standard isn't perfection anymore.

Did you know that "authentic" was the word of the year for 2023?

If you've been hesitant about diving into video content because you're worried about not having the "right" equipment or the perfect polished look, you're not alone.

But here’s the truth: that’s not the standard anymore.

In fact, striving for perfection in your videos right off the bat could actually hurt your efforts more than help. Over-polished content isn’t what’s resonating with audiences today. Instead, authenticity has taken center stage.

Authenticity: The New Standard

Consumers (whether B2B or B2C) are seeking out real, relatable, and honest content. This applies to you, even if you’re a multimillion-dollar B2B founder. Your audience doesn’t need perfectly lit, studio-quality video to trust you.

What they want to know is:

→ Have you done the thing?

→ How did you do it?

→ Can you give me the real deal?

People connect with real, behind-the-scenes insights. It’s less about looking "polished" and more about providing value .

Focus on Value, Not Perfection

When you first start creating videos, don’t worry about getting everything perfect. Sure, your lighting might not be ideal, or the sound could be a little off, but if you’re providing valuable, actionable insights, your audience won’t care.

They want to learn from you and hear your genuine experience.

The key is to share what you know in an authentic way. Focus on giving value. It’s about showing your audience that you’ve been there, done that, and now you’re ready to help them with your knowledge.

This will build trust and foster deeper connections with your followers.

And guess what? Your audience will appreciate you starting now. They’ll connect with you more deeply because you're showing up as your real, authentic self.

Even with mistakes and all.

Later on, you can refine your videos and work on the polish, but don’t wait until everything is perfect. By that time, your audience will already be expecting value from you, and that’s what matters most.

If there's one takeaway from this, it's that the new standard in video content is authenticity. People care more about who you are and what you can offer than whether your lighting is flawless or your sound is crisp.

Go ahead, press record, and start creating!

Client Testimonial: Growing Confidence in Creating

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Learn about the Dialog Difference

At Dialog, we’re passionate about helping our clients unlock the power of video to connect with their audience. Recently, Jennifer shared her experience working with us, and we couldn’t be more thrilled with the results.

Here's what she had to say:

“Since working with them, I have answered my team's plea for additional video content. I have grown more comfortable in front of the camera and really more confident in saying what is most important to those in our audience, really trying to understand what we do, how we serve them, and how we support them. It's been a great experience.”

This testimonial perfectly encapsulates what we aim to achieve for our clients:

→ Comfort

→ Confidence

→ Clear focus on what matters most to their audience

Overcoming Camera Shyness

One of the biggest hurdles for many business owners and leaders when it comes to video content is simply feeling comfortable in front of the camera.

Many people are hesitant to share their message or feel awkward on video. But through our work with our clients, we are able to help overcome that barrier.

We’ve found that, when leaders can confidently speak about their business and its mission on video, they make deeper connections with their audience.

Connecting with the Audience

Jennifer also mentioned an important shift in perspective. She's started to focus more on what’s most important to her audience .

Instead of simply pushing out content, she's looking at how her video messaging supports and adds value to the people she serves.

This approach is a key part of creating effective video content. It's not just about sharing your company’s message, it’s about aligning that message with the needs, interests, and pain points of your audience.

When you understand why you’re creating content and who you’re creating it for, the impact is much stronger.

The Dialog Difference

Our goal at Dialog is simple: to help our clients create high-quality video content that resonates with their audience and builds trust.

By coaching our clients through the process, from getting comfortable on camera to shaping a message that speaks to their audience’s needs, we’ve seen incredible transformations.

It’s been an honor to work with Jennifer and see her growth and confidence blossom.

But Jennifer’s story isn’t unique, we help business leaders across all industries break through the discomfort of creating video content and ultimately connect more effectively with their audience.

If you’re struggling to create video content that speaks to your audience or aren’t sure where to start, we’re here to help.

You Don’t Need a $12,000 Video Production Budget

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

You Can Still Film Great Videos

There’s a common misconception that to create great video content, you need a DSLR camera, a team of videographers, and a hefty budget for a two-day shoot.

While I’m not dismissing the value of high-production content (you’ll need it for major events, courses, or mini documentaries), this level of production isn’t necessary for most video content.

In fact, when it comes to building a sustainable and relatable content strategy, the sweet spot is in creating non-distracting quality.

The Happy Middle: Non-Distracting Quality

What do I mean by “non-distracting quality”? It’s a video that’s good enough to be clear and professional without distracting your audience from the message.

This means:

The head is framed well : You’re not cutting off your face or awkwardly off-center.
The sound is clear : People can actually hear you without static, echo, or background noise.
The lighting is decent : It’s not dark, it’s not overly harsh, it’s just enough to make you visible.

It doesn’t have to be cinematic.

It just needs to be watchable .

It should be something your audience can engage with without being distracted by poor production values.

Phones Are Powerful Tools for Content Creation

Here’s the thing: all phones have 4K cameras now.

You no longer need expensive equipment to create content that looks good.

In fact, the focus shouldn’t be on appearances. It’s not about having perfect lighting or a flawless set.

It’s about providing value to your audience.

If your video is clear enough that it’s not distracting, and the message you’re sharing is valuable, people are going to engage with it.

The Power of Sustainability and Relatability

A key benefit of this “non-distracting quality” approach is that it’s sustainable.

When you’re not relying on a huge production crew or complicated equipment, you can make content on a regular basis.

Instead of shooting a video once a year with a massive budget, you can be creating videos weekly, monthly, or however often works for your business.

This consistency is what builds trust and credibility with your audience over time.

Moreover, when you use your phone or basic equipment, the content becomes more relatable . Your audience sees you in your environment, using your tools, and creating something real.

It removes the barrier between you and your audience, making your content feel less “produced” and more authentic.

Focus on Value

Ultimately, it’s not about looking perfect, it’s about providing value. The most successful thought leaders, content creators, and entrepreneurs aren’t the ones with the flashiest production setups.

They’re the ones consistently delivering insights, solutions, and knowledge that resonate with their audience.

So, don’t get caught up in the idea that you need to spend thousands of dollars to create great content.

Focus on delivering value in a way that’s sustainable and authentic.

The Biggest Mistake in Video Content

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

Don't Introduce Yourself. Just Jump Right In.

90% of what makes a video successful is avoiding the mistakes that lead to bad videos.

And one of the biggest mistakes?

The long, drawn-out intro. Nobody wants to hear the “Hi, I’m Justin, and today I’m going to talk about…” speech.

That’s just not going to grab anyone’s attention.

Just jump right in.

When it comes to creating engaging video content, people want to hit the highway immediately . They want to get up to speed at 70 miles an hour without wasting time. The key to getting them there is the hook.

Why You Need a Strong Hook

The first few seconds of your video are absolutely crucial.

In fact, they’re often the only seconds that matter when it comes to catching and keeping attention.

The hook is everything.

It’s what draws the viewer in and convinces them to stay.

Think about it. You’re scrolling through LinkedIn or any social feed. What makes you stop and actually watch a video?

It’s usually something bold, intriguing, or direct. A great hook will instantly tell your audience why they should care.

Want to see a simple example? “Here are 5 mistakes I see done all the time on LinkedIn video content.”

That’s a hook.

It immediately tells the viewer what they’re about to learn, and it piques curiosity right from the start.

Stop Wasting Time on the "On-Ramp"

Most of us, when we first start sharing content, fall into the trap of creating an “on-ramp.” We slowly build speed, we start talking, and we warm up to the main topic. But let’s face it: nobody wants to sit through that.

Viewers don’t want to wait for you to get to the point. They want to jump right in, and they expect a fast-paced, engaging experience.

The on-ramp might be important for you to get into the flow of your content, but it’s not something your audience wants to wait for.

Once you’ve got their attention with a strong hook, you can hit the "highway" with your message.

The "highway" is the meaty middle of the video, the part where you get into the core of your content.

Then, once you've delivered the value, you can do an "off-ramp" to wrap things up with a succinct summary.

Creating the Perfect Hook

The best hooks grab attention within the first few seconds. Consider:

Being direct : Start with something bold. “Here are 5 common mistakes” or “What most people get wrong about [topic]” will grab attention immediately.
Being relevant : Make sure your hook speaks directly to your audience's pain points or interests. What problem are you solving? What’s in it for them?
Being concise : Keep it short and sweet. The quicker you get to the point, the more likely they’ll stay engaged.

Don’t Let Your Audience Wait

The key takeaway here is that your audience doesn’t want to spend time on the on-ramp. They want to hit the highway right away, and the best way to get them there is with a compelling hook.

If you’re just starting out with video content, remember: no one cares about your long intro. Get straight to the point and deliver value quickly.

If you’re struggling to come up with the perfect hook, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. My website has 99 and a half hook ideas to get your video content started on the right foot.

Next time you create a video, remember: your hook is everything. Make it count, and your audience will thank you.

Why Video Content Matters for B2B Executives

lydialeerice@gmail.com (Lydia Rice) — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 18:49:37 GMT

(And How to Capture It on the Go)

Let me drop an interesting statistic: 59% of executives prefer a video explaining a subject over text.

That’s almost two-thirds of people, and here’s the kicker: These aren’t just younger people. These are middle-aged executives across both genders who prefer video over text.

This shows that video isn’t just a trend for the younger generation. It’s becoming the preferred method of content consumption across all age groups, including the decision-makers in the B2B world.

Whether we like it or not, video is no longer just a form of content for millennials and Gen Z. Now, it’s a powerful tool for businesses looking to connect with a wide audience, including key executives.

The Power of Video in B2B

In the world of B2B, we’re always sharing content. Whether it’s through sales calls, networking, attending events, or even casual discussions with peers, there’s constant content being exchanged.

What if we could capture those moments and turn them into valuable content for our audience?

That’s where the “sawdust method” comes in.

This method is about capturing content as it happens, in real-time, throughout your day.

How to Capture Video Content on the Go

My favorite way to do this is by recording quick videos.

It doesn’t have to be complicated.

The beauty of video is that it’s more engaging and personal than text, and as we've seen, executives across the board prefer it.

Here’s how you can start incorporating video into your daily routine:

1) Record During Calls – Whether it’s a sales call or a team meeting, turn on your camera and record the conversation (with permission, of course). You never know what insightful nugget of information you might want to share later.

2) Capture Your Thoughts on the Go – If something comes to mind during a networking event, a meeting, or even while you’re working, hit record. Share your thoughts in a quick video and save it for later.

3) Be Authentic – The beauty of video is that it allows you to be more authentic and connect with your audience in a more human way. Don’t overthink it. Just speak naturally and share what’s on your mind.

Use Video for Thought Leadership

Executives are looking for insights. That’s why you should turn your everyday conversations and reflections into valuable thought leadership content. A short video can showcase your expertise and help you build trust with your audience.

The best part?

It doesn’t require much effort, and it’s incredibly effective in connecting with your audience.

One Thing I’ve Learned in 6 Years of Business

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

You can't do it alone.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past six years of running a business, it’s this: You cannot build a successful business on your own.

Sure, we often hear stories about Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and other iconic founders who built massive companies like Tesla and Amazon.

But here’s the thing: they didn’t do it alone.

Behind every great entrepreneur is a strong team of people helping them execute their vision. Hundreds, sometimes thousands, of individuals who play key roles in the success of these companies.

And it’s not just about employees. Founders like Musk and Bezos also rely on mentors, advisors, and peers.

We often forget about the value of mentorship, but it’s a critical part of the puzzle.

I’ve personally benefited from:

having access to a coach
working with fractional CFOs and CMOs
being part of group coaching programs over the years

What I’ve realized is that if you don’t have the right people in your core, you’re really going to struggle. You need people who can help you navigate the challenges, offer advice, and support your growth.

Why Community Matters

Building a business can be overwhelming, especially as it scales. There are countless decisions to be made, and it’s easy to get stuck or lost in the weeds.

You need a team that brings different skills, perspectives, and experiences to the table.

Whether it’s an experienced coach to help you refine your leadership or a fractional CFO who can guide your financial strategy, these relationships are vital.

In fact, when I work with founders who are trying to scale their businesses, one of the first questions I ask is, Who’s on your team?

It’s not just about having people around you. It’s about having the right people.

People who challenge you, offer fresh perspectives, and help you stay accountable to your vision and goals.

The Power of Mentors and Coaches

Having mentors and coaches isn’t just about advice. It’s about learning from others who have walked the path before you. They can offer insight, wisdom, and a sounding board for your ideas.

I can’t tell you how valuable this has been for me in my journey as a business owner.

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that as a founder, you have to know everything. But the reality is that no one can succeed alone.

As you work to grow and scale your business, take a moment to reflect on the people around you. Are you surrounding yourself with individuals who add value and support your growth? Do you have mentors or advisors to help guide you along the way?

If you’re trying to scale your business, the right team and community are crucial.

The connections you build today could be the difference between hitting your goals and struggling to get there.

Building a successful business is never a solo endeavor.

Client Testimonial: The Power of Authenticity in Video Content

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

The metrics don't lie. Authenticity is the way to go.

When it comes to creating meaningful connections with your audience, authenticity is everything.

Recently, one of our clients shared how embracing authentic video content has led to a significant increase in engagement and recognition.

Here’s what she had to say:

“I am definitely getting an increase in engagement. I am getting a lot of people commenting to me. They'll private message me…‘I see your videos, you know, keep it up. I love the authentic content.’ Everything that we do rallies around this authenticity. And so me putting myself out there, I feel that like resonates with people 'cause this is who I am. This is how I act and react. Whether I'm like sitting in front of you or in a meeting or whatever, so it gives people an opportunity just to continue to see me, even if I'm remote most of the time.”

At Dialog, we’ve always believed that authenticity is key to building lasting relationships with your audience. While polished, high-production videos have their place, the real power lies in being yourself and letting your audience see the human behind the brand.

Why Authentic Video Content Matters

In today’s digital world, people crave real connections more than ever before.

Especially with the rise of AI.

While flashy ads and overly produced videos might capture attention momentarily, they rarely build the kind of lasting connection that authentic content can.

When you show up as yourself (raw, genuine, and true to who you are), you give your audience the opportunity to connect with you on a deeper level.

This isn’t just about what you’re saying; it’s about how you make them feel.

The Impact of Consistent Video Engagement

For our client, the results have been undeniable.

Increased engagement, comments, and private messages all point to the fact that their authentic content is hitting the mark.

People are noticing, engaging, and most importantly, connecting.

Even though much of their work is done remotely, video content provides a way for them to remain present and visible.

Be Yourself, Share Your Expertise

If there’s one thing we’ve learned through working with clients like this, it’s that authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a game changer.

So, if you’re hesitant to get in front of the camera, remember this: Your audience wants to hear from you, the real you .

Don’t worry about being perfect or overly polished.

Focus on sharing your message, your expertise, and your story.

People will connect with you on a much deeper level when you’re true to yourself.

If you want to take your video content to the next level, please reach out. We’d love to help.

Two Challenges Founders Face with Content Creation (And How We Solve Them)

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 11:30:00 GMT

It's not as hard as it feels, you just need the right system

Founders often feel like there’s a million things keeping them from consistent content creation.

Content creation can often feel like one more thing on your already overflowing plate. Between running your business, supporting your team, learning new things, and applying them on the go, where does content creation fit in? And even if you manage to carve out time, how do you turn your thoughts into concise, digestible content?

In reality, there are just two problems stopping most founders.

1. The Time Struggle

The most frequent objection I hear from founders is, “I don’t have time for content.”

It’s easy to understand why.

As a founder, you're typically running the business, making quick decisions, supporting your team, and constantly learning. When you’re in the weeds, finding time to create content can feel nearly impossible.

But here’s the thing: content does take time, but it doesn’t have to take as much time as you might think.

The Solution: Block Off One Hour a Month

We’ve found that the best way to solve the time problem is simple: schedule it. In our business, we block off just one hour a month for content creation.

That’s it.

One hour.

It’s amazing how powerful this solution is. By making content creation a priority and setting a dedicated time on the calendar, founders can consistently show up and create content without feeling like they’re sacrificing other important tasks.

It’s all about setting aside that small window and treating it as a non-negotiable part of the month.

2. How to Create Succinct Content

The second challenge is just as common. Founders know they need to create content, but they struggle with how to do it succinctly. Founders often have a lot of great insights to share but may struggle to narrow it down without rambling.

The Solution: Professional Coaching and Editing

To address this, we have a two-part solution:

Step 1: Expert Interviews and Coaching

We bring in professional producers to interview our clients and draw out their expertise.

The producers help guide the conversation and coach the founders on how to express their ideas clearly and succinctly, focusing on the key points that matter most to their audience.

Step 2: Efficient Editing

Once the content is recorded, our experienced editing team works to tighten things up.

Even if the founder goes a little over their time, the editing team knows how to cut down the content to make it more concise while preserving the core message.

The result is a polished, engaging video that resonates with the audience and doesn’t drag on.

By solving these two challenges, we’ve helped many founders successfully build their content strategy.

If you’re a founder facing similar struggles, remember that it’s all about making time a priority and bringing in the right support to help you stay on track and get your message across effectively.

Content creation doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task.

With the right systems in place, you can consistently create impactful content that builds your brand and connects with your audience.

Short-Form Video Builds Trust Faster (But Not in the Way You Think)

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 12:30:00 GMT

If you want exponential growth...here's how to get it.

Short-form video builds trust faster than other forms of content. That’s true, but not the way you probably think.

When compared to a one-on-one call, a webinar, or even a referral, short-form video doesn't always build trust in the same way.

Short-Form Video Builds Trust at Scale Over Time

The secret is in understanding the difference between trust-building on an individual level and trust-building at scale.

When you have a one-on-one conversation with someone, or attend a webinar, trust is built through direct interaction.

That’s trust-building on an individual level.

Establishing trust one-on-one is important. But, let’s be honest, you’re probably not making a sale right away after a single meeting.

The same goes for referrals.

It takes multiple touch points before someone feels comfortable enough to make a buying decision, especially when the product or service is more expensive or complex.

Anyone who has bought a course from someone knows this is true. You don’t just buy a course from a random stranger online.

You buy a course from someone who:

→ You’ve watched regularly

→ Gives advice that you resonate with

→ Provided consistent value

This is where short-form video shines.

The goal of short-form video content isn’t for someone to watch one video and immediately make a purchase.

It’s not about the instant sale.

Instead, short-form video allows you to build trust through repeated interactions with your audience. By creating multiple pieces of content, you have the opportunity to reach hundreds, or even thousands, of people across a variety of touch points.

So yeah, short-form video can build trust faster, but it’s important to understand that it happens over time and at scale.

Trust is built with repetition.

By using short-form video consistently, you’re building a relationship over time that reaches a much larger audience than you could with individual calls or webinars.

That’s the secret to exponential growth.

If you want to start producing high-quality short-form video, reach out. That’s what we love to do at Dialog.

Why Philosophy Matters More Than You Think

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 12:30:00 GMT

The secret ingredient to long-term business success.

We hear too much about strategy and execution and not enough about the secret ingredient that great long-term businesses are built on.

To be fair, it makes sense that this happens. After all, having a solid plan and being able to execute it effectively is key to success.

But there’s something that informs, or SHOULD inform, long-term strategy and execution.

It’s one thing that many businesses overlook: philosophy.

You might be thinking, "Philosophy? Isn’t that just an abstract concept or a college major we never use?"

In reality, philosophy is everything.

It’s:

→ How we see the world.

→ The values we hold

→ Why we make the decisions we do

The truth is, many businesses fail to define and communicate their core philosophy. And that’s a huge missed opportunity.

Why Philosophy Matters in Business

At its core, philosophy is about understanding the why behind what we do. For businesses, it’s an essential part of building a strong brand and creating meaningful connections with customers.

1) Philosophy Defines Your Values

Your company’s philosophy is rooted in your values. When you define and communicate your philosophy clearly, it helps potential customers understand who you are, what you stand for, and what they can expect from your brand.

2) People Want to Buy From Brands They Trust

In today’s world, people are not just looking for products or services. They want to feel connected to the businesses they support.

They care about the values that drive your decisions. Whether it's sustainability, inclusivity, or innovation, your philosophy allows you to connect with customers on a deeper level.

When people align with your values, they’re more likely to trust you, become loyal, and ultimately, choose you over competitors.

3) Philosophy Creates Authenticity

Let’s face it. Consumers can smell inauthenticity from a mile away. If your business is all about executing a strategy but you’re not clear about what you believe in, customers may feel like something is missing.

By openly sharing your philosophy, you make your business more human and approachable. You build trust, and you create a stronger emotional connection with your audience.

4) Philosophy Dictates Future Performance

Perhaps most importantly, strategy and execution are informed by philosophy. If your company grows and you don’t have a defined philosophy for where you want to take it and what you believe in, you are going to struggle.

Philosophy dictates vision.

A Personal Experience: Why Philosophy Works

From my experience running a business, I can tell you that understanding and communicating our philosophy has been one of the biggest factors in building meaningful relationships with clients.

Yes, strategy and execution are critical, but being transparent about our values has helped us stand out in a crowded marketplace. It’s that trust that turns casual clients into long-term partners.

So, ask yourself: Are you talking enough about your philosophy? Are you sharing what you believe in, and how it drives the decisions you make as a business?

If you’re not, it might be time to start. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about what you do, it’s about why you do it.

How to Blend AI & Human Craft in Content Marketing ft. Jaclyn Sergeant | Content Lessons with Justin

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:18:46 GMT

In this episode, Justin interviews Jaclyn Sergeant, a marketing expert, about her journey in the marketing world and her recent experiment using AI to enhance content creation on LinkedIn. Jaclyn shares insights on the importance of human touch in AI-generated content, the results of her 10-day experiment, and the motivation it provided her to engage more actively on social media.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing is evolving, and AI can play a role.

Human insights are crucial for relevant content.

Jaclyn's experiment involved using AI to generate content ideas.

The importance of personal experience in content creation.

Posting frequency increased during the experiment.

AI can serve as a thought partner, not a replacement.

Engagement with the audience is key to success.

Creativity can be sparked by structured experiments.

The value of sharing authentic experiences in marketing.

Networking and respect in the industry can lead to significant wins.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

The Secret Trick Behind Seamless Video Edits

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Learn All About the "Push-In"

Stress over editing and post-production holds a LOT of people back from making video content. They worry over how much is too much or even where to start.

Today, I want to share with you one of our most popular, unobtrusive tricks.

If you’ve ever watched a video where the frame zooms in, then zooms back out, you might not have realized it, but that’s a trick we call a push-in . It’s one of those subtle video editing techniques that helps make a video feel smooth and natural without drawing attention to the edit itself.

I asked Jordan, one of the talented editors on my team, to explain the magic behind it.

Why Push-Ins?

Push-ins are a simple yet powerful tool for masking cuts in a video. Here’s how it works: when we make a cut, a push-in zooms in slightly on the frame. This seamlessly covers the transition between two different sections of footage.

It creates the illusion of continuity, ensuring the edit doesn’t disrupt the flow of the video.

But why are we cutting in the first place?

1. Dead Space

Whether it’s a pause while I think, or a moment where I’m figuring out what to say next, we all need a little space to breathe in videos.

The good news?

A quick edit can clean this up, cutting out those awkward moments without interrupting the flow of the narrative.

2. Mistakes

Let’s face it, mistakes happen.

Umms, umm, ummm, ahh…
Misstep in delivery
Awkward phrasing

(It’s okay, though! Nobody’s perfect on the first take.)

Push-ins help clean up these little blunders by hiding the cuts and making everything sound and look just right.

3. Condensing Content

At Dialog, a lot of our work involves taking long interviews or conversations and condensing them into something more digestible and engaging.

This often means cutting between different sections of the video to capture the most impactful ideas. Push-ins help smooth out these transitions and ensure the final product flows seamlessly.

Why It Works

While B-roll (the secondary footage we use to complement the main action) certainly helps smooth things over, it’s the push-ins that really make the edits feel invisible.

By slightly zooming in, the cut becomes less noticeable, keeping the viewer engaged and immersed in the content without drawing attention to the editing process.

Push-ins are more than just a visual effect.

They’re a vital tool in crafting a polished, professional video.

At Dialog, we rely on techniques like this to create videos that not only look great but also tell a cohesive and engaging story.

Here's How I Coach My Clients

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

3 Ways I Help My Clients Make Great Videos

Everyone can use a coach every now and then, especially when it comes to creating great videos. Here’s how I help my clients level up their content.

The best way to create a powerful video? Have a conversation. It’s a technique I talk about all the time. (You can check out my other content for more on that.) But the real secret to ensuring a smooth, productive conversation is having a partner who can help keep you on track and focused.

1) Prompt Based on the Big Idea

I started by helping Timothy get clear on the big idea he wanted to share. This step is crucial because it ensures he’s focusing on what truly matters, which is what’s going to bring value to his audience. You can’t skip this part if you want your message to hit home.

→ Start with a prompt based on the main idea you’re trying to convey. Then, just start talking.

2) Point Out Where People Lose the Plot

As business owners or creators, it’s easy to get caught up in our own excitement and forget that our audience doesn’t have the same depth of knowledge we do. One of the fastest ways to lose your viewer’s attention is forgetting to include key context.

→ Here, Timothy needed to connect marketing to the concepts he was trying to explain more explicitly.

3) Guide the Conversation In-Depth

No one wants to make a generic video. You know, one you watch and think, “That’s cool, but I already know that.” I guide my clients to explore specific details, connect higher-level ideas, and talk about what they can bring to the table that no one else can.

→ In this session, I pointed out to Timothy that he really needed to highlight the tension between quality and quantity in his content. That was an insight only he could provide.

Creating great videos is all about having a conversation that resonates. And with the right coaching, you’ll always have someone there to guide you and make your content more impactful.

Want a session like this? Get in touch, I’d love to help.

How to use LinkedIn notifications to build a custom feed

jrvajko@gmail.com (Justin Vajko) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 16:34:05 GMT

In this video I share a simple yet effective way to ensure you see content from specific individuals on LinkedIn. By adjusting the notification settings on their profiles, you can choose to receive all updates instead of relying on the algorithm. I personally follow about 30 to 40 key people this way, which helps me engage meaningfully with their posts. I encourage you to try this method to enhance your networking on LinkedIn.

3 Mistakes That Will Kill Your Videos

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Easy to Fix. Often Overlooked.

Here are three mistakes that will kill your first impression on video.

1) Poor Framing

If your head is in the center of the frame or, worse, down at the bottom, you’re quite literally starting off on the wrong foot.

Here’s a trick. Place your head in the top third of the frame.

This small adjustment does two things:

It makes you look more professional.
It keeps the viewer’s focus on you, not the distracting background.

Always double-check your framing before hitting record!

2) Poor Sound

Pro Tip: Bad audio is worse than bad video.

People will swipe away faster if they can’t hear you clearly. It doesn’t matter how crisp your video looks. If the sound’s off, your message won't get through. Audio quality is crucial for making that strong first impression.

Invest in a $30 or $40 mic. Trust me, it’s worth it. Good audio makes a huge difference in keeping your audience engaged.

3) Scripting Your Videos

Don't do it.

I get it, scripting feels safe, but no one enjoys hearing someone read from a script. It’s stiff, it’s awkward, and it kills the connection.

When you're too focused on reading word-for-word, your delivery feels unnatural.

Use bullet points to guide your thoughts. Glance at them when needed, then look back at the camera and let your ideas flow. Keep it conversational, keep it real.
Speak in sprints, not speeches. Break your video into smaller sections, then stitch them together in post-production. This way, you can keep things smooth and authentic.

Those are three common mistakes I see all the time. They’re easy to fix, but they’re often overlooked.

How to Improve Content Marketing w/ Feedback Loops ft. Karl Staib | Content Lessons with Justin

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 19:04:47 GMT

In this podcast episode, Justin Vajko explores the intricacies of content marketing with guest Karl Staib. They discuss the importance of feedback loops in marketing, the necessity of documenting and analyzing content performance, and the challenges of narrowing down a niche. The conversation emphasizes the role of ego in content creation, the value of interviewing customers for insights, and the need for effective feedback systems to drive business growth.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Feedback loops are essential for effective content marketing.

Documenting content performance helps identify what works and what doesn't.

Narrowing down your niche can lead to better audience engagement.

Ego can hinder the ability to receive constructive feedback.

Regularly interviewing customers provides valuable insights for improvement.

Creating a system for feedback can enhance content effectiveness.

Small adjustments can lead to significant improvements in content.

Understanding your goals is crucial for creating impactful content.

Consistency in reviewing content performance is key to success.

AI tools can assist in optimizing content creation processes.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Why Polarizing Opinions Are Crucial to Marketing (Pt 3)

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

When is the right time for your polarizing opinion?

If you want to be a thought leader, you’ve got to be willing to share polarizing opinions from time to time.

But the real question is: when is the right time to share your polarizing opinion?

Can’t you just share your knowledge without stepping on anyone’s toes?

Sure, you can.

We have plenty of clients for whom that works just fine. But eventually, if you’re doing the right kind of work, you’ll develop a unique perspective on your industry.

You’ll start seeing things differently than most people do.
And that’s when it’s time to speak up.

Some might call it a “hot take,” but we’ll call it a polarizing opinion. If you’ve done the work and have real experience to back up your perspective, you can share it.

Why do people hesitate to share their polarizing opinions?

A lot of us hesitate because we’re afraid we don’t have enough experience yet. We keep gathering more and more data, waiting for someone to disprove us.

It’s okay if you don’t have polarizing opinions early in your career. But if you’ve been in business for five years or more, you should have a few things to say about how things are done in your industry.

And more importantly, you should offer a better way to do them.

That’s where you create a competitive edge.
That’s where you create new value for your existing customers and attract new ones.

Why Polarizing Opinions Are Crucial to Marketing (Pt 2)

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

How do you identify your strong point of view?

There’s way too much generic content on LinkedIn. So, how do you stand out?

Stand out by sharing your polarizing opinion.

Not sure what I mean by that?

Check out my other videos and blog posts. I’ve been doing a whole series on this topic. But today, let’s focus on how you actually figure out what your polarizing opinion is.

How do you identify your strong point of view?

A great place to start is by asking yourself: What are the “shoulds” in your industry?

The things that really get you fired up are often the topics you feel most passionate about.
And guess what? Those are the topics that should turn into your content.
Especially video content.

Don’t be afraid to plant your flag every now and then.

Let people see where you stand.

If you don’t, you’ll just blend in with all the other safe opinions out there.

Don’t hold yourself back from being a little polarizing.

Why Polarizing Opinions Are Crucial to Marketing (Pt 1)

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

I believe every content strategy should start with video.

That’s a polarizing opinion.

A lot of people disagree with me, and that’s completely fine. It’s important to learn how to use polarizing opinions like these in marketing.

What exactly is a polarizing opinion?

It’s a strong stance you take about something in your industry that you believe should be done a certain way.

It’s an idea you’re not willing to budge on because, through your own testing and experience, you’ve found it’s the best way forward.
This is a belief you stand by. It’s important to share those strong opinions in business.

Why are polarizing opinions crucial to business marketing?

Polarizing opinions are how you attract the right-fit clients. If you’ve been in business for more than four years, you definitely have a polarizing opinion or two.

The next step?

Have the courage to share it.

Here's How to Actually Get Leads

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

I audited 12 of my last clients. Here's what they told me.

STOP viewing posting as a way to get a lead right away.

If you're doing that, you're looking at B2B all wrong.

It might seem logical at first:

You post something.
You get a lead.

But it doesn’t work that way in reality.

I’ve talked about this before in my coaching sessions.

I audited my last clients. None of them referenced a single post.

Recently, I audited the last 12 clients I worked with. And guess what? Not one of them mentioned a specific post.

When I asked, “Was it that post that grabbed your attention?” they all said, “I’ve been following your content for a while.”

It’s about consistency over time.

That’s what generates leads, not just a single post.

And honestly, this is what you want, too.

If you're in a complex, high-stakes industry, you don’t want to be getting leads from just one post. You need to be selective about the type of clients you bring on board.

You want people to:

Get to know you.
Like you.
Trust you.

Over time, that’s when the real connections happen. That’s when they’ll think, “I want to work with this person.”

If you want more tips on how to post the right way as a B2B founder, keep reading.

All Your Issues With Video Content Addressed in One Post

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Don't know what to say? Don't know how to say it?

Let me address your main problems with creating video content in ONE post.

I often hear people say:

“I don’t know what to say.”
“I know what to say; I just don’t know how to say it in a way that resonates.”

If you’re stuck on what to say, here are two things that can help:

1) Download our free guide on 40 questions to get your ideas flowing.

→ They’re pretty universal across industries, so no matter what you do, you’ll find inspiration.

2) Head over to ChatGPT.

→ Type in: “I’m [your name], I do [what you do], and I have [how many years of experience]. I want to talk about topics like this and that. Can you give me 10 questions to answer?”
→ Boom! You’ve got 10 topics ready to go.

Now, if you’re struggling with how to say it, that’s where coaching can make all the difference.

Send me an e-mail. Reach out to me on social media. However you contact me, I’m ready to help. My business is built around helping clients express their ideas in a way that resonates.

But if coaching isn’t an option right now, here’s a simple strategy to get you started:

Pair up with a content buddy and follow this 3-part framework I love.

Think of your video as a mini TED Talk. TED Talks have seven parts, but the three most important are:

A strong introduction – Grab attention right from the start.
A meaty middle – Give the viewer real value and insight.
A clear summary – Wrap it all up and reinforce your main message.

Use that framework to structure your video content, and you’ll have a much easier time delivering your message in a way that sticks.

Why B2B Founders Shouldn't Want to Go Viral

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Be a subject-matter expert.

The goal of a B2B founder online is NOT to go viral.

Let me take a quick detour to explain why.

You’ve probably never heard of Eddy Grant, but I’m sure you’ve heard his song, “Electric Avenue.”

That’s a classic example of a one-hit wonder in the music world. This lesson isn’t just about music, it applies to B2B video content creators too. Sure, it’s great to get a viral hit. Who wouldn’t want that?

But let’s be honest: most of your content will fly under the radar, and that’s perfectly fine.

The real goal for a B2B founder is to be a subject-matter expert.

The goal is to become known in your niche and to establish yourself as a subject matter expert.

Because your niche is where your sales come from. That’s where you need to focus your efforts. You need to reach those people. Eddy Grant might not be a household name, but he likely has a loyal fanbase that shows up to his concerts year after year.

B2B founders should think the same way.

Build a small, dedicated group within your niche who will:

Get to know you
Like you
Trust you

And, eventually…buy from you.

While viral content can be fun, it’s not what’s going to bring in leads and sales.

The content that truly works for B2B founders is the kind that consistently shows up for the same audience by delivering valuable insights and information.

That’s how you build trust. And that’s how you get results.

If you have trouble remembering this principle, just think of your favorite one-hit wonder.

I’ve got a ton of tracks from my youth that I’ll think about and wonder, “Hey, where did those guys go?”

How to Use Cold Emailing for Better Engagement and Sales ft. Conrad Zolman | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 01:15:44 GMT

In this episode, Justin and Conrad Zolman delve into the intricacies of content marketing, particularly focusing on cold emailing as a powerful tool for engagement. They discuss the evolution of email strategies, the importance of crafting engaging content, and the innovative 'hands-up shoulder shrug' approach to connect with audiences. The conversation emphasizes the significance of humility in marketing, the acceptance of failure as a learning process, and the need for marketers to adapt their strategies based on audience responses.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires understanding what works behind the scenes.

Cold emailing can be an effective way to engage potential clients.

Crafting engaging content is crucial for capturing attention.

The 'hands-up shoulder shrug' approach fosters humble curiosity.

Failure in marketing is a learning opportunity, not a reflection of ability.

Shorter emails often yield better engagement, but context matters.

Humor in content must be carefully considered to avoid misinterpretation.

Engagement strategies should evolve with audience preferences.

Collaboration with non-marketers can lead to innovative ideas.

Being humble and curious can enhance marketing effectiveness.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

A Small Trick to Keep Your Viewer Numbers Up

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Background matters.

Here’s a small but powerful way to keep your viewership numbers UP.

It’s something I’ve learned after creating hundreds of thought leadership videos.

Your background matters.

If people keep seeing the same background over and over, their brains start to tune it out.

When your video pops up in their feed, they’ll think, “Oh, I’ve seen this before,” and scroll right past without a second thought.

Why? Because the human brain craves variety.

So, mix it up!

Today, I’m sitting by the river downtown. But for you, it could be as simple as switching up where you film:

Your office
At home
Outside in the shade

If you want to keep those views consistently high, changing your background is an easy, effective way to keep things fresh and engaging.

I’ve learned a ton of little tricks like this over time. My website is full of resources that will help make your content better.

How to Protect Your ChatGPT Data from Competitors

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

Some founders hesitate to use ChatGPT. Here's how to protect your privacy.

Some founders are hesitant to use ChatGPT. They’re worried about their data being shared with competitors.

A lot of people assume that using ChatGPT means their information is out there for anyone to see.

But the truth is, you can actually stop that from happening.

How to Protect Your Data on ChatGPT

Here’s a simple step-by-step process to make sure your data stays private:

Click on your profile in the top-right corner.
Go to Settings .
Head to Data Controls .
Look for the option called “Improve the model for everyone” and turn it off.
Click Done .

And just like that, none of your data will get shared with the cloud.

A Quick Note:

This assumes that ChatGPT has your best interests at heart and isn’t sharing your data elsewhere. That’s a different conversation.

But, if your concern is protecting your information from spreading to the internet or competitors, this is how you can keep it secure.

Fear of Filming Video Content

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 12:30:00 GMT

There's a stat that says people are more scared of dying than public speaking. Here's how to fix that.

There’s a stat out there that says people are more afraid of public speaking than dying.

That’s right. Most people would rather be in the casket than giving the eulogy.

It sounds crazy, right? When you think about it, we’re all communicating every day without that level of fear. We talk to:

Clients
Employees
Peers

So, why does video feel different?

The Shift from Performance to Connection

When we’re having one-on-one conversations, we don’t worry about performing. We’re focused on:

Sharing ideas
Offering value
Helping others

It’s about connection, not perfection.

But when it comes to video, many of us fall into the trap of thinking it’s all about performance. That’s where the fear kicks in.

The Truth About Video Content

It doesn’t have to be that way.

When you’re talking face-to-face with someone, you’re not thinking about performing. You’re just having a conversation.

If you’re comfortable sharing insights with clients over Zoom, you can do the same on video.

No performance required.

Video is just another way to connect. You don’t need to be polished or rehearsed. You just need to be yourself.

Are You Overthinking Your Video Content?

If you're putting too much pressure on yourself to perform, it’s time to rethink your approach.

Focus on authentic connection.
Embrace imperfection. It’s what people want to see!

What Older Founders Are Missing About Video Content

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:30:01 GMT

Embrace authenticity. Real connection beats perfection every time.

I often see founders from older generations struggling with video content on social media.

It's not about technical skills or editing.

They actually have the ability to edit and produce videos. They struggle with the mindset around content.

They crave polished, perfect videos

For decades, polished content was the standard. If you wanted to be on TV or the big screen, everything had to look flawless. It’s what they’ve grown up with.

But that era is behind us.

Social media today thrives on authenticity, not perfection. The demand for flawless videos is fading fast. In the future, polished videos will be reserved for movies.

The shift is happening right now. Think about videographers. It’s becoming harder for videographers to find work beyond high-budget CEO videos and documentaries. The demand for “perfect” content is decreasing.

It’s time for a new approach to creating content that connects beyond aesthetics.

You’re Approached by Two Salespeople…

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:47:28 GMT

Why Video Makes a Difference

Imagine you're approached by two salespeople, each pitching the same product or service. On the surface, the message is identical, but there’s one key difference in how each salesperson presents themselves.

Let me walk you through the scenario:

Salesperson A

Salesperson A reaches out with a simple message: “Hey, do you want to buy my software?”

You check out their profile, and there’s nothing remarkable about it.
Their last post was six months ago, and it’s clear they’ve since changed jobs.
You don’t get a sense of who they are or what they stand for, other than the fact that they’re in sales.

Salesperson B

Now, Salesperson B reaches out with the same exact message: “Hey, do you want to buy my software?”

But when you check out their profile, you see something different: video content .

Maybe you decide to watch one of their videos, and instead of just pushing a sale, they’re educating you on a topic related to the software.

They’re:

→ Teaching

→ Sharing insights

→ Adding value to the conversation

Which Salesperson Would You Prefer?

Given the exact same offering, which salesperson are you more likely to trust? Who would you feel more comfortable buying from?

Chances are, you’d lean toward Salesperson B, and for good reason.

The Power of Social Proof

Salesperson B’s video content provides a powerful form of social proof. By sharing helpful, relevant content, they’re showing you that they’re not just pushing a product, they’re invested in educating their audience and adding value.

They’re also demonstrating expertise and authority, making it easier for you to trust them and their product.

In today’s world, content is more than just marketing. It’s a tool for building relationships and credibility.

When you regularly share valuable content, you position yourself as a thought leader, not just a salesperson. Video content, in particular, has the ability to engage and educate your audience in a way that text alone can’t.

Why Video Content Matters

Engagement – People are more likely to engage with video than with written content. It’s simply more dynamic and harder to ignore.
Trust – Video helps humanize you and your brand. You’re not just a name in an inbox; you’re a person with knowledge to share.
Education – Videos allow you to demonstrate expertise and educate your audience in a more digestible way. Instead of just selling, you’re teaching. That builds a stronger connection.
Consistency – Regularly posting video content builds a pattern of engagement that nurtures trust over time.

Next time you’re thinking about reaching out to a potential customer, ask yourself: How are you presenting yourself online? Are you just another salesperson, or are you someone who shares valuable content and builds trust over time?

By consistently creating content that educates and adds value, you can differentiate yourself and become the salesperson your customers prefer to engage with.

How to Master Content Marketing w/ Storytelling, Authenticity, & Web3 | Content Lessons with Justin

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:55:51 GMT

In this podcast episode, Justin Vajko and Caitlin Ryon-Duffy discuss the evolving landscape of content marketing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and adapting strategies to meet client needs.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires a tailored approach for each client.

Storytelling is a powerful tool that consistently works in marketing.

Chasing trends can lead to burnout; focus on unique stories instead.

Authenticity is crucial; consumers can sense inauthenticity.

A strong mission can drive a brand's narrative and strategy.

Novelty in content creation can lead to significant engagement.

Web3 and blockchain are shaping the future of marketing.

Mental health is essential for creativity and productivity.

Creating more than consuming is vital in today's digital landscape.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

How to Get Started with LinkedIn: The Simplest Way to ROI

jrvajko@gmail.com (Justin Vajko) — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 22:18:49 GMT

Most people overcomplicate LinkedIn. This is the simplest way that I've found to use it for generating new business.

Most people overcomplicate LinkedIn.

They think they need to spend hours writing content, mastering algorithms, or building massive audiences.

You don’t.

If you’re a business owner, founder, or sales professional, you just need a simple, actionable strategy that drives ROI.

This guide will show you exactly how to use LinkedIn to generate leads and sales—without the fluff.

Step 1: Build a Custom LinkedIn Feed

You can’t create effective content without understanding what resonates in your industry. A custom feed ensures you’re constantly learning from the best.

Follow the Right People :
Identify 5-20 industry peers, leaders, or competitors who consistently post valuable content.
These should be people whose audiences overlap with your target market.
Set Notifications to “All” :
Go to their profiles, click the bell, and select “All” to see every post they make.
This creates a personal feed of content tailored to your goals.
Why It Works :
By studying the content that performs well in your niche, you’ll quickly understand what resonates with your audience.

Don't forget to also remove all notifications that aren't helpful for you, such as birthdays, job changes, and the like. You can do this by clicking on the three dots next to the notification type and selecting "Show less like this." Warning: if you do this for any post notification, it may affect your post notifications. You can always visit your LinkedIn notification settings to reset this if you mess up.

Step 2: Start Commenting

Engagement builds visibility and credibility. You don’t need to post right away to make an impact—start by joining the conversation.

Add thoughtful comments to posts from the people in your curated feed.
Aim for 1-2 comments per week to start, and gradually increase as you build confidence.

Why It Works:

Comments show up on your profile under “Activity,” so even if you haven’t posted yet, your insights are visible.
This builds awareness and positions you as someone worth following.
If someone visits your account, they'll be able to see that you're active on LinkedIn (win for trust-building) AND get an idea of how you think (which you want in order to attract great buyers).

Step 3: Start Posting Consistently

Once you’ve built momentum by commenting, it’s time to share your own content.

Focus on Pain Points :
Think about your ideal clients or customers. What keeps them up at night? What are they struggling with?
Create posts that identify those pain points and provide simple, actionable solutions.
Post Weekly :
Start with one post per week. Consistency is key.
Don’t aim for perfection—focus on being useful and relatable.

Stuck? Remember Step 1.

Not sure what to post? Take notes from the leaders you follow. What topics are trending? How can you add your own perspective? This is why step 1 is so important. If you surround yourself with influential people in your niche, your content will improve as you learn what's working and what resonates with your shared audience.

Step 4: Use the Content Buddy System™

Consistency is the hardest part of LinkedIn—so don’t do it alone.

Here’s how to simplify your content creation:

Find a Buddy :
Pair up with someone you trust, like a colleague, peer, or mentor.
Schedule a monthly 1-hour call to discuss industry trends, challenges, and success stories.
Record the Session :
Use Zoom or any recording tool to capture the conversation.
Platforms like Opus AI can turn these recordings into short video clips.
Repurpose the Content :
Turn the video clips into LinkedIn posts (both video and text).
Use the transcript to draft posts and refine them with tools like ChatGPT.

In just one hour per month, you’ll generate enough content for the entire month—without ever staring at a blank screen.

Step 5: Combine One-to-Many with One-to-One

To maximize ROI, you need to pair content with personal outreach. If you skip this step, you'll join the thousands of people who complain that "they tried posting and it didn't work." Unless you have 100,000 followers or more, you must be willing to start conversations in the DMs to make LinkedIn work for you.

Start with Warm Leads

Focus your efforts on people who’ve already shown some level of interest or knowledge of your industry:

Profile Viewers :
Use LinkedIn’s profile viewer feature to see who’s checking you out.
Prioritize those who match your partner profile or ideal client criteria.
Engaged Connections :
Look for people who’ve liked, commented on, or shared your content or on the content of your network (remember step 1? Yep, here's another reason why you want to have a custom LinkedIn feed).
These individuals are familiar with you or your industry and more likely to respond positively.
New Connections :
Message those who’ve recently connected with you.
They’re already open to a conversation since they accepted your request.

Open with Curiosity

The key to a great DM is making it about them. Your first message should spark curiosity and invite a response.

Effective Openers for Warm Leads:

“Hi [Name], I noticed you viewed my profile—was there something specific you were interested in?”
“Hey [Name], I saw you checked out my profile. Just curious, what caught your attention?”

For New Connections:

“Thanks for connecting! I’m curious—what made you want to click on that connect button?”
“Hi [Name], great to connect. How did you come across my profile?”

Build Rapport Before Diving In

Don’t rush into business talk. Start with genuine curiosity about their goals or interests. This builds trust and makes the conversation feel natural.

Look for context clues in their profile, such as shared interests, recent posts, or work experience.
Use an authentic, unscripted tone:
“I noticed you’re in [industry]—what are you focused on these days?”
“It looks like you’ve been working on [specific project]. That’s fascinating—how’s it going?”

Embrace Asynchronous Sales

LinkedIn DMs are rarely instant back-and-forth chats. You’re playing the long game, so patience is key.

Tips for Managing Asynchronous Sales:

Stay Persistent : If someone doesn’t reply immediately, follow up a week later with a light touch.
“Hey [Name], just checking in! Curious if my last message landed—no rush.”
Focus on Adding Value : Share a relevant resource, insight, or idea that aligns with their goals or challenges.
“I came across this article on [topic] and thought it might be helpful for you.” (Bonus points if you share content you've created that's relevant to them. See Step 4.)
Avoid Over-Pitching : Let the relationship develop naturally. If they express interest in your expertise, then transition to discussing your services.

Learn from the Best

Mastering DMs takes practice. To refine your approach:

Follow Dr. Nancy Zare and Darren Gibb , who are experts in conversational selling and LinkedIn outreach.
Study their tips to better balance curiosity, value, and relationship-building in your messages.

Combining one-to-many (content) with one-to-one (DMs) ensures you’re creating both visibility and meaningful connections. Thoughtful outreach turns casual LinkedIn activity into a steady pipeline of opportunities.

The ROI of This Approach

This strategy isn’t about going viral or becoming an influencer.

It’s about building trust, creating visibility, and turning LinkedIn into a pipeline for your business.

With just 1-2 hours per week, you can:

Increase your visibility with your ideal audience.
Build relationships that lead to real sales conversations.
Position yourself as a thought leader in your niche.

You don’t need to spend hours on LinkedIn to see results.

Start by following 5-20 leaders, engaging with their content, and using the Content Buddy System™ to simplify your own content creation.

Content Marketing Secrets: AI and Beyond ft. Matthew Proctor | Content Lessons With Justin Podcast

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 17:03:08 GMT

In this podcast episode, Justin Vajko interviews Matthew Proctor, a seasoned content marketer with over 15 years of experience.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires a long-term commitment.

High-stakes industries value quality content.

AI can assist but lacks the ability to build trust.

Webinars should focus on education, not sales.

Video content is essential for modern marketing strategies.

Effective content marketing combines various distribution channels.

Understanding client pain points is crucial for content creation.

Building a personal brand through consistent content is powerful.

Trust in the process of content marketing is vital.

Networking and referrals play a significant role in client acquisition.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Discovering Content Marketing Secrets ft. Sarah Oyungu | Content Lessons with Justin

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:12:47 GMT

In this episode, Justin Vajko interviews Sarah Oyungu, a fractional CMO, to explore the intricacies of content marketing. They discuss the importance of understanding the 'why' behind content creation, the balance between structured and emotional content, and the significance of human insights in marketing strategies. Sarah shares her experiences and strategies for helping clients articulate their marketing goals and create impactful content that resonates with their audience.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

- Content marketing requires understanding the 'why' behind actions.

- A fractional CMO can make corporate marketing accessible to small businesses.

- Short form video is a powerful tool but not always the right choice.

- Creating content should be a balance of structure and emotion.

- Listening to your audience is crucial for effective content creation.

- Human insights drive successful marketing strategies.

- Content should add value to the audience's experience.

- Regular content creation helps maintain audience engagement.

- AI tools can assist in generating content ideas but human touch is essential.

- Consistency in content creation is key to building an audience.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Why Short Form Video Is the Best Marketing Opportunity in Over a Decade

jrvajko@gmail.com (Justin Vajko) — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 21:14:29 GMT

The opportunity to create new business with short-form video is massive—but the window is closing fast.

In 1898, a budding actress named Lillian Malcolm set out from New York City to make her way to Alaska. Gold fever had swept the nation, and she left the lights of Broadway to seek her fortune.

But she arrived a few years too late. By the time she got there, the gold had already been claimed. She tried again in Nevada and Mexico, but in each case, she was too late to stake her claim.

When I came across this story, it reminded me of what’s happening right now with short-form video platforms: TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and even Threads. These platforms are today’s equivalent of gold rushes, offering massive opportunities for businesses to stake their claim—but the window to take full advantage is narrowing.

Short-form video has been exploding in popularity for nearly a decade, and its momentum shows no signs of slowing. Billions of people watch these videos every day, and billions of dollars are being spent and won through video marketing. The time to act is now.

Why now?

Markets for new opportunities follow a predictable curve. The best time to invest in a stock? Before the market catches on. The best time to mine for gold? Before it’s all been mined. The same is true for short-form video.

While short-form video will continue to exist for years to come, the opportunity to gain outsized returns on early adoption is shrinking. As more creators and businesses flood these platforms, competition will increase, making it harder for newcomers to gain traction.

If you’re hesitating, consider this: so many business leaders are unaware of the gold mine right under their feet. They think short-form video is just a trend or dismiss it as “kid stuff.” Here’s why that’s wrong.

Not just for kids

Sure, 40% of TikTok users are under 30. But that means 60% are over 30—the generations with the most buying power. And TikTok is just one platform. YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels are popular among older audiences as well.

For example, TikTok has seen a surge in users aged 35-54, with that group growing by over 50% in 2023 alone (Statista, 2024). Meanwhile, YouTube’s billion-plus monthly active users span every age group.

Take Chris Williams ( CL Will ), a baby boomer and former VP at Microsoft. He posts weekly TikTok videos about HR topics. His educational content has racked up millions of views and earned him over 200,000 followers. He’s not just entertaining; he’s leveraging video to build thought leadership and expand his reach.

Short-form videos: not a trend

Many people doubted the internet’s staying power in the 1990s. Today, its influence is undeniable. Similarly, short-form video has proven it’s not just a flash in the pan. TikTok launched in 2016. YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels followed in 2020. Seven years later, short-form video remains a dominant force in marketing—and its trajectory suggests it’s here to stay.

It's more than just free reach

One of the biggest advantages right now? Platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels are battling for dominance. To attract creators, they’re giving away massive organic reach. The algorithms are designed to push content to as many viewers as possible, especially if it’s engaging.

Think about it: in the early days of Facebook Pages, organic reach was incredible. Today, getting similar results requires paid ads. Short-form video is in that same early-stage “golden era” where you can achieve significant exposure without spending a dime. A single video can reach thousands, if not millions, of viewers—a level of organic reach that’s almost impossible with blog posts or static social media content.

But video content isn’t just about reach; it’s about building trust. A recent LinkedIn/Edelman study found that 9 out of 10 decision-makers are more likely to engage with a sales pitch if it’s preceded by thought leadership content. Video—by showing not just what you know but who you are—accelerates trust-building in a way that written content cannot.

Multi-Platform Reach and Search Engine Behavior

One of video’s unique strengths is its adaptability. A 60-second clip can live on TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and even LinkedIn. This multi-platform approach maximizes your reach, ensuring your message connects with audiences across different ecosystems.

Additionally, TikTok has become a primary search engine for Gen Z. According to Google’s own research, nearly 40% of people aged 16-24 turn to TikTok or Instagram instead of Google when searching for information. If your business isn’t visible in these spaces, you’re missing out on a critical touchpoint with younger buyers.

How to Get Started Using the Content Buddy System™

Getting started with short-form video can feel overwhelming, but the Content Buddy System™ makes it easy. Here’s how it works:

Book a Content Session: Schedule a 1:1 session with a colleague, coach, or trusted partner. Think of this as a collaborative brainstorming meeting rather than a formal production process.
Prepare Questions: Before the session, prepare a list of questions that align with your expertise and audience interests. For example, "What’s the biggest misconception about your industry?" or "What’s one tip you wish every client knew?"
Hit Record: During the session, have your partner ask the questions while you answer them conversationally. Treat it like a casual interview—this helps reduce the pressure of being on camera.
Repurpose the Content: After recording, pull out key soundbites and moments to create short clips. Tools like Descript or CapCut can make editing quick and painless.
Post and Iterate: Share the clips on platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and LinkedIn. Monitor engagement and use the feedback to refine your next session.

The beauty of the Content Buddy System™ is that it feels natural, reduces the stress of creating content, and generates high-quality material that resonates with your audience.

Don’t Wait to Stake Your Claim

If your business wants to grow, what got you here won’t get you there. Phone books are long gone. Blog posts alone won’t cut it anymore. Short-form video is the next evolution in marketing—a format that builds trust, accelerates reach, and creates opportunities at a scale we haven’t seen in over a decade.

Ready to see the power of short-form video for yourself? Schedule a free 30-minute video session with us . 30 minutes with us will produce 1 beautifully edited video you can use for whatever you want.

The gold mine of short-form video is here. But just like Lillian Malcolm’s story, those who wait too long may find they’ve arrived too late.

Mastering Organic Marketing to Build Your Personal Brand on LinkedIn ft. Joeri | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:02:56 GMT

In this conversation, Justin Vajko and his guest, Joeri, discuss effective content marketing strategies, particularly focusing on organic marketing on LinkedIn. They explore the importance of building a personal brand, the time investment required for success, and how to navigate LinkedIn's changing algorithm. The discussion also highlights client success stories, emphasizing the effectiveness of lead generation through meaningful conversations and connections.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Understanding your brand's position is crucial for success.

Good copywriting is essential for attracting customers.

Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your authentic self.

Building emotional connections through storytelling is key.

Providing free value can attract leads effectively.

Time investment is necessary for achieving results.

Organic marketing is still vital despite algorithm changes

Engagement through DMs increases content visibility.

Focusing on B2B coaching can yield better results.

Success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of the strategies.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Unlocking Success with Content That Connects ft. Julie Nichols | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 08:19:17 GMT

In this episode of Content Lessons, Justin Vajko interviews Julie Nichols, a content marketing expert, who shares her insights on the importance of branding, storytelling, and understanding client needs in content marketing. Julie discusses her journey from theater to content marketing, the significance of creating engaging content for professional services, and how to measure the success of content marketing efforts. She emphasizes the need for emotional storytelling and staying authentic in the current content landscape.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing is about telling your brand's story.

Understanding your business's unique value is crucial.

Confidence in your product enhances your marketing efforts.

Julie transitioned from theater to content marketing.

Small business owners often need guidance in marketing.

A marketing assessment helps identify content needs.

Engaging content should be digestible for the audience.

Measuring success involves tracking engagement and conversions.

Emotional storytelling resonates with audiences.

Authenticity is key in today's content marketing landscape.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Crafting Content That Builds Community ft. Jonathan Cor | Content Lessons with Justin

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 07:35:03 GMT

In this conversation, Justin Vajko interviews Jonathan Cor, a social media copywriter specializing in the construction industry. They discuss the intricacies of content marketing, the importance of social media in building a brand, and the challenges of engaging with an audience. Jonathan shares his journey from being an in-house marketer to running his own agency, emphasizing the significance of patience, community engagement, and a strategic approach to content creation. The discussion also highlights the value of learning from other content creators and the evolving landscape of social media marketing.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires understanding what works behind the scenes.

Social media copywriting is crucial for brand building.

Building a team can alleviate the overwhelm of solo entrepreneurship.

Engagement on social media is key to success.

Patience is essential in seeing results from social media efforts.

Creating valuable content can lead to business opportunities without direct selling.

Understanding the sales process is vital for converting leads.

Setting specific goals helps in measuring social media success.

Community engagement enhances visibility and relationships.

Learning from other content creators can inspire new strategies.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

Visual Mastery & The Art of Ghostwriting for Linkedin ft. Ben Wise | Content Lessons with Justin

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 04:22:13 GMT

In this episode of 'Content Lessons with Justin', Justin Vajko interviews Ben Wise, founder of Storyd, a ghostwriting studio that specializes in creating compelling LinkedIn content for seven-figure founders in the B2B space. They discuss various strategies for attracting clients, the importance of storytelling in content marketing, and how to differentiate services in a crowded market. Ben shares insights on the significance of visual content, the challenges of client relationships, and the nuances of measuring success in content marketing. The conversation emphasizes the balance between vulnerability and professionalism in social media marketing, providing actionable tips for content marketers.

To access our Free Video Mini Course on getting leads with video on LinkedIn: https://www.dialogwith.us/intro

Here are several topics we cover in this episode:

Content marketing requires understanding the behind-the-scenes processes.

Ghostwriting can significantly enhance a founder's personal brand on LinkedIn.

Proactive inbound strategies are essential for attracting clients.

Clients should be problem-aware and ready to scale their efforts.

Experience and strategic planning are key differentiators in ghostwriting services.

The Trojan Horse method effectively integrates storytelling with marketing.

Visual content is crucial for engagement and brand representation.

Client results drive cooperation and engagement in content creation.

Success in content marketing can be both tangible and intangible.

Finding a balance between vulnerability and professionalism is vital in social media.

Enjoy and thanks for watching!

From Side Project to Scalable Service: How Dialog Helps Busy Founders Become Thought Leaders with Video

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 21:49:24 GMT

How Dialog went from a side hustle to a scalable video service, helping busy B2B founders break out of their tight circles and build trust on LinkedIn.

The following was an interview between entrepreneur Maiko Sakai and Dialog's founder Justin Vajko.

Q1: I'd love you to share the backstory of starting DIALOG. What were you doing before & what led you to start this venture?

Before starting Dialog, I spent years doing website design and graphic design as a side project while working for others. I was the solo marketer for a $4 million nonprofit and later for a $60 million B2B manufacturer, helping them grow to $90 million in three years. In 2018, I took the leap and launched Dialog full-time, initially offering a range of marketing services like branding, email marketing, social media, and web design.

What really led to the pivot in 2022 was a remote video project I did for the number one broker in LA. We did a 30-minute remote interview and turned his answers into short social media clips. Despite the video being far from perfect, it received thousands of views—far more than his usual listing videos. That’s when I realized there’s a huge opportunity for well-known entrepreneurs who want to expand their presence but don’t have the time or desire to make high-end video content. This was the turning point where Dialog became focused on remote video marketing.

Q2: This blog series is all about sharing unique niche businesses I find within my network. Keeping this in mind, I'd love you to describe what problem DIALOG solves in your own words.

Dialog solves the problem for entrepreneurs who are well-known within their tight circles but want to expand their reach. Most of these people are busy B2B founders who know the importance of video content but don’t have the time to plan, script, or prepare for it.

Our service removes the friction by meeting with them just once a month for an hour. We prepare the topics, conduct a live interview-style conversation, and turn their answers into short, under-90-second clips for LinkedIn and social media. We take care of the entire process—from recording to editing to publishing—so they only need to show up and share their expertise.

Q3: I'll be honest. Most of the time when founders talk about what their business does, it goes over my head. How did you discover it to be a viable niche?

It took me a while to discover this niche. Initially, I was doing all kinds of marketing work for different types of clients. But after reading John Warlow’s book Built to Sell, I realized I needed a productized, scalable service.

The breakthrough came when I did that first remote video interview for the LA real estate broker. His engagement skyrocketed, even though the video quality wasn’t amazing and he wasn’t the best on camera. I saw firsthand that the demand was there for entrepreneurs who wanted to be more visible without putting in the time and effort video production usually requires. That’s when I knew I had something viable.

Q4: It would be amiss not to mention how DIALOG's website seamlessly highlights its niche and makes it all about its customers. Because it's impressive, I'd like you to use this space to brag all about it. Go!

What we’re really proud of with Dialog is how easy we make it for B2B founders to see how we solve their problem. The website clearly outlines our process: we take busy entrepreneurs who want to be thought leaders on LinkedIn but don’t have the time to create content, and we give them a friction-free way to do so. We handle everything—from topic prep to recording to publishing—and the site focuses on showcasing how that saves them time and removes the stress of video production. We’ve streamlined everything to be all about their convenience and results.

Q5: I always say discovering your profitable niche isn't a linear process. Too many business owners avoid the necessary & occasionally painful work because they are impatient. Do you have any stories that can inspire them to keep going at it?

Absolutely. For me, it took nearly five years to find my niche. I was doing a little bit of everything for everyone—websites, branding, social media, you name it. It felt like I was constantly casting a wide net and hoping something would stick. But I kept my eyes on the goal of finding a scalable service that I could be known for.

It wasn’t until that remote video project in 2022 that I realized short-form video content was the niche. I had to be patient and open to the process, and it’s the same for anyone—your niche will reveal itself, but it might take time. And just because you’ve found a niche doesn’t mean you have to say no to all other work—you can still take on projects outside your niche as needed, but having that focus builds momentum.

Q6: You came up with a formula that helps thought leaders stay consistent with their social media presence. Any customer success stories you want to share?

One of my favorite success stories is a VC firm founder, Lenore. She was already well-known within her small circles, speaking at events and beloved by her clients. But she wasn’t active on LinkedIn. We started working with her to create short-form video content through our monthly interview process. The result? Her LinkedIn engagement took off, leading to booked-out events and real sales-qualified leads.

For example, before working with us, she had an event that had to be canceled due to lack of interest. After we promoted the same event with just one video we created together, it was fully booked. That’s the kind of impact we aim to have for all our clients—consistent, meaningful engagement that drives results.

Q7: What's next for DIALOG? Also, what's next for you?

What’s next for Dialog is to keep refining the model. We’ve been troubleshooting it for two years, and now it’s solid—especially with the shift to a monthly model where we handle everything from writing posts to publishing content.

Next, we’re focused on scaling. The goal is to equip 10,000 B2B founders to share their voice on LinkedIn. That’s the big, audacious goal we’re working toward. As for me personally, I’m excited about growing our team and continuing to build something that frees entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best while we take care of the rest.

Marketing Advice for Service Businesses

How to Use LinkedIn Engagement to Grow Business | ft. Allison Ditmer | Content Lessons with Justin

A Huge Problem with (Most) Content Marketing Plans

They don’t include video.

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(Like at all)

Behind the scenes on a remote video shoot

Your clients (and prospective clients) want to hear your stories.

My Instagram Origins

Now you probably know me as the LinkedIn video guy, but I actually started on Instagram.

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How to Use AI Without Losing Your Voice | ft. Joe McKay | Content Lessons with Justin

90% of People are Missing This

Here’s what 90% of people are missing when it comes to their LinkedIn profile.

Video Coaching (It Works)

“I really appreciate the coaching in the call. As if we were on the set of an actual movie, and you’re like, ‘Let’s take it again. Try this.’ It’s awesome.”

Being a leader means being a glue stick

Being a leader feels a lot like being a glue stick.

(stay with me, this analogy is going to make sense)

"I'm just not comfortable on video."

I hear this all the time: “Justin, I’m just not comfortable on video. I know I need to do it, but I don’t want to.”

How to Navigate Book Publishing from Idea to Launch | ft. Lee Densmer | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Lead with Pain Points in B2B Marketing | ft. Patrick Cumming | Content Lessons with Justin

Chris Dubois Behind-the-Scenes

I’ve got a system that makes video creation easy.

Don't treat LinkedIn like any other social media platform

The #1 mistake people make is that they treat LinkedIn like any other social media platform.

You probably aren't thinking enough

If there’s 1 thing you probably weren’t doing enough of in 2025, it’s thinking.

Why people want to buy

“I wanted to work with you because your pitch just makes sense.” ﻿

How to scale your business

Every task you hold on to is a roadblock to scaling your business. ﻿

Don't chase the highest production levels

I was talking to someone this week who was obsessed with having the highest production value.

Kim Cram Behind-the-Scenes

Most founders think scaling revenue is just about the math.

How to get 0 buys

If you don’t have trust, you won’t get business.

The LinkedIn metrics that actually matter

“Justin, what LinkedIn metrics actually matter?”

Katie Turner Behind-the-Scenes

The #1 thing every marketing department chases is a good story.

How many times you should post

I get asked this all the time: “Justin, how much should I be posting?”

"I don't have time to do 1 million different takes."

1 complaint I hear all the time about doing video is: It just takes too freaking long. I don't have time to do 1 million takes.

Terri Maxwell Behind-the-Scenes

“Did you want to talk about anything specifically? Otherwise, I will throw a question your way.” ﻿

How to Build Trust on LinkedIn Without the Cringe | ft. Angie Jones | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Understand Buyer Motivation | ft. Stacy Eleczko | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Turn Research Into High-Impact Content | ft. Erin Balsa | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Use Infographics to Stand Out on LinkedIn | ft. Vince Pierri | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Find Your Marketing Sweet Spot | ft. Dana Herra | Content Lessons with Justin

Follow the attention formula for better video views

Many founders don't realize there's a formula for good video content. But it's different based on the context of the video.

Honor the story.

There's a formula for good thought leadership video content.

Why the formula changes (it's not what you think).

How to Craft a Clear LinkedIn Profile for Success | ft. Sam Swirsky | Content Lessons with Justin

How to Use Podcasting to Amplify Your Brand | ft. Steve Guberman | Content Lessons with Justin

Will Greenblatt Testimonial

“It's so easy. I'm also a technical idiot, so you're able to help me with the link to join, the way to set it up, help with the lighting, exactly how to brighten my ring light that I have, and your eye as a videographer is super, super helpful.”

The LinkedIn Metrics That Matter

Here’s what you should care about on LinkedIn.

(and here’s what to do if your metrics suck)

Will Greenblatt Behind-the-Scenes

The key to a great video is talking about what your audience wants you to talk about.

Lenore Behind-the-Scenes

If you’ve had issues figuring out what to say without sounding scripted…

How to Use the Five Finger Analogy in Marketing | ft. Jimi Gibson | Content Lessons with Justin

What Makes You Successful with Video on LinkedIn

What makes you successful with video content on LinkedIn is NOT the video content.

Anna Frazzetto-Miano Testimonial

“What a great experience to have this video recording today with Justin, so easy and so natural and so conversational. I didn't even realize that I was being recorded.”

My New Favorite Marketing Question

What content marketing initiative has worked the best over the past year?

No Equipment Needed

Here’s a classic mistake entrepreneurs make when it comes to video content.

How to Build Your Personal Brand with Storytelling | ft. Renee Frojo | Content Lessons with Justin

“I wanted to work with you because your pitch just makes sense.”

Every task you hold on to is a roadblock to scaling your business.

“Did you want to talk about anything specifically? Otherwise, I will throw a question your way.”

Batch recording is one of the smartest ways to create video content at scale.

My 1-year-old daughter is obsessed with her numbers book (and my clients are obsessed with theirs)

Only 2 to 3% of people are posting on LinkedIn.

Pivoting is the fastest way to burn out (if you’re doing it without support).

“It’s exactly as advertised. You don’t need to be prepared…if you have 30 minutes to spare, which you should, definitely take advantage of that. It was a great experience. Check it out.”