How do you approach onboarding and simplifying processes for your clients?

I approach onboarding and simplifying processes for my clients by focusing on building relationships and understanding where they are at. I emphasize the importance of treating my clients like students and providing them with clear instructions and guidance. I believe in using the least resistant path to match my relationship with each person, and I am willing to provide resources and support without requiring unnecessary steps such as collecting emails or making forms. I also emphasize the importance of not overwhelming my clients with too much information or tasks, and instead, I break things down into manageable steps.

What are the 3 mistakes (plus the additional fourth mistake) mentioned?

The three mistakes mentioned in the masterclass are the zone of doubt, the inverse journey, and the drown the journey. The additional fourth mistake is called the drive-by.

How do you use the least resistant path to match your relationship with someone?

I use the least resistant path to match my relationship with someone by avoiding the use of emails, forms, and automation. Instead, I prefer direct communication such as DMs or connection calls to provide resources and information. I believe in making the process simple and convenient for the person I am interacting with.

Why do you emphasize the importance of relationships in your coaching?

I emphasize the significance of relationships in my coaching because I strongly believe that without strong relationships, businesses cannot thrive. I firmly believe that building strong relationships with customers is the key to retention and scaling, resulting in long-term success. I also emphasize that relationships are the most valuable currency to monetize, as without them, businesses have nothing.

The Importance of Building Strong Relationships in Business

In today's fast-paced business world, it's easy to get caught up in the latest marketing trends and strategies. But amidst all the noise, one thing remains constant: the importance of building strong relationships with your customers. In this blog post, we'll explore why relationships are crucial for business success and how you can cultivate them effectively.

The Power of Word of Mouth Marketing

Did you know that 93% of marketing is word of mouth? That's right, relationships and recommendations from satisfied customers play a significant role in driving business growth. When people have a positive experience with your brand, they are more likely to share it with their friends, family, and colleagues.

Customer Journey and the Triangle of Death

To understand how to build strong relationships, it's essential to grasp the concept of the customer journey. The customer journey refers to the steps a customer takes from the moment they discover your brand to when they become a loyal advocate.

However, many businesses make a common mistake when it comes to the customer journey. They fall into what I call the Triangle of Death.

This triangle consists of three key mistakes:

Lack of Clarity: Customers need to know what they are a part of and why it matters. Clearly communicate your brand's mission and values to create a sense of belonging.
Lack of Safety: Customers must feel safe when engaging with your brand. This means providing a secure and trustworthy environment where they can share their personal information and make purchases without hesitation.
Lack of Results: Ultimately, customers want to see results. Whether it's achieving their goals, solving a problem, or experiencing a transformation, delivering tangible outcomes is crucial for building trust and loyalty.

The Role of Multi-Medium, Multi-Touchpoint, and Multi-Modality

In today's digital age, it's not enough to rely on a single communication channel. To effectively engage with your customers, you need to employ a multi-medium, multi-touchpoint, and multi-modality approach. This means using various platforms and methods to consistently deliver your message and create a cohesive brand experience.

The Power of Constant Improvement

To succeed in business, you must be open to constant improvement. Don't settle for mediocrity or complacency. Continuously evaluate your customer journey, identify areas for enhancement, and implement changes that will deliver better results.

The Magic is in the Work You Won't Do

One of the secrets to business success is recognizing that the magic lies in the work you won't do. This means stepping out of your comfort zone, challenging conventional thinking, and embracing divergent thinking. Don't be afraid to take risks and try new approaches that will set you apart from your competitors.

The Zone of Doubt

The first mistake businesses make in the customer journey is the zone of doubt. This refers to the emotional gap after a customer has made a commitment, where the initial excitement wears off. To overcome this, businesses should focus on providing support and reassurance during this critical period. Clear communication, personalized follow-ups, and addressing any concerns or questions can help alleviate doubts and build trust.

The Inverse Journey

The second mistake is the inverse journey. Instead of focusing on yourself and your accomplishments, shift the focus to your customers and their results. Your customers' results will speak volumes about your brand and its effectiveness. By highlighting success stories and showcasing the value you provide, you can build credibility and trust with your audience.

Drown the Journey

The third mistake is drowning the journey. Many businesses overwhelm their customers with too much information, too soon. Instead, take a step-by-step approach and guide your customers through the journey at a pace that suits them. Break down complex processes into manageable tasks and provide clear instructions and resources to support their progress.

The Drive-By

The fourth mistake is the drive-by. This refers to impersonal and intrusive communication that leaves customers feeling disengaged and annoyed. Instead, focus on building genuine connections and seeking consent from your customers. Respect their time and preferences, and provide value in your interactions.

Conclusion

Building strong relationships is the key to long-term business success. By focusing on the customer journey and avoiding the Triangle of Death, you can create a brand that customers love and advocate for. Remember, your message is only as effective as the recipient's ability to hear it, understand it, and implement it. So, strive to communicate your brand's value in a way that resonates with your audience and cultivates lasting relationships.

Stay tuned for the next part of this blog series tomorrow, where we'll delve deeper into the strategies for creating an effective customer journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you approach onboarding and simplifying processes for your clients?

I approach onboarding and simplifying processes for my clients by focusing on building relationships and understanding where they are at. I emphasize the importance of treating my clients like students and providing them with clear instructions and guidance. I believe in using the least resistant path to match my relationship with each person, and I am willing to provide resources and support without requiring unnecessary steps such as collecting emails or making forms. I also emphasize the importance of not overwhelming my clients with too much information or tasks, and instead, I break things down into manageable steps.
What are the 3 mistakes (plus the additional fourth mistake) mentioned?

The three mistakes mentioned in the masterclass are the zone of doubt, the inverse journey, and the drown the journey. The additional fourth mistake is called the drive-by.
How do you use the least resistant path to match your relationship with someone?

I use the least resistant path to match my relationship with someone by avoiding the use of emails, forms, and automation. Instead, I prefer direct communication such as DMs or connection calls to provide resources and information. I believe in making the process simple and convenient for the person I am interacting with.
Why do you emphasize the importance of relationships in your coaching?

I emphasize the significance of relationships in my coaching because I strongly believe that without strong relationships, businesses cannot thrive. I firmly believe that building strong relationships with customers is the key to retention and scaling, resulting in long-term success. I also emphasize that relationships are the most valuable currency to monetize, as without them, businesses have nothing.

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Back-to-School Marketing: Why VALUE Beats Everything

By Nick Dougherty • July 23, 2025

It’s that time of year again—back-to-school season is here, and it’s one of the biggest opportunities of the year to grow your school. But before we talk about flyers, graphics, or ads, let’s get real about one thing: Are you giving value —or just noise? “The whole key to your marketing is you have to provide value for people and expect nothing in return. ” That one line is everything. In this webinar, I walked our community through a complete back-to-school marketing campaign—graphics, emails, social posts, and strategy. Over 20 hours of work went into it, and we’re giving it away completely free. Why? Because that’s what real value looks like. Everyone Talks About Value… But What Are You Really Giving? Too many businesses are showing up online with the wrong energy. No value. No heart. Just random posts—and then wondering why nobody is engaging or buying. Here’s the truth: If your content isn’t connecting… If it’s not starting conversations… If it’s not making someone stop their scroll… Then it’s not working. Stop Waiting. Start Giving. Don’t wait for a perfect funnel or fancy design. Start by asking: What is anyone getting from you today? How are you helping people—right now? What makes you unforgettable in a crowded feed? That’s the foundation of this back-to-school campaign. Not ads. Not gimmicks. Just real help, delivered consistently. Marketing Is Magic… or It’s Invisible Your marketing either stops someone in their tracks—or it gets scrolled past and forgotten. And that’s the line in the sand today. This campaign isn’t about spending more money. It’s about making your message magnetic. Because when you show up with clarity, energy, and a genuine offer to help… That’s when the magic happens.

You Are Your Own Media Company: The Wake-Up Call Every Entrepreneur Needs

By Nick Dougherty • April 21, 2025

Let me tell you a truth bomb that might just change your entire business trajectory: “The wake-up slap algorithm is not your enemy. Your silence is.” That one line says it all. In an era where attention is currency, the speaker behind this game-changing insight—a marketing and media strategist who’s partnered with some of the most influential entrepreneurs in the world—reveals exactly what it takes to stand out, grow fast, and stay relevant. This isn’t theory. It’s war-tested strategy. The Game Has Changed. Here's How to Win It. 1. You’re not just a brand. You’re a media company . Let that sink in. Your job isn’t to run ads and hope for a few likes. Your job is to show up every damn day with content that: Builds trust Builds identity Builds community The speaker’s been through the grind. He didn’t “go viral”—he built value . He didn't chase trends—he created a movement by leveraging three weapons: Consistent content creation Strategic partnerships Relentless differentiation “You don’t want to look, sound, or feel like anyone else. That’s the brand.” Be Different, Or Be Forgotten The worst thing you can be in business today is forgettable. “If your heart were set on building a real vibe , you’d be sickened by looking like everyone else.” Too many entrepreneurs copy. They blend. They water down their message. And they wonder why they get ignored. This speaker flipped that script. He built something bold. Raw. Personal. Because that’s what connects. And connection = currency. Collaborate with Killers Want to shortcut success? “Collaborate with killers. I don’t know if anyone’s doing it at the level I am.” This isn’t just about who you know—it’s about who you create with . Strategic partnerships amplify your message, fast-track your reach, and embed your brand in new audiences. He’s done it with names like Tony Robbins, Dean Graziosi, George Bryant, and Randy Garn. Why? Because alignment matters more than algorithms. Content Is the Frontline of Your Brand “You are your own media company and it’s just the scale or the level of where it is right now.” So, what’s the level you’re playing at? This isn’t optional. This is your new job description: Wake up Document Publish Repeat And don’t rely on organic growth alone. That’s amateur hour. You have to invest in attention, in strategy, in systems that scale. Stuck in the Same Place? That’s a Choice. Here’s the slap: “If you're stuck in the same environment, you need to invest your time and energy and fly out and hang out with me for a day. If you're not willing to get out of that environment, you're going to stay in it.” Translation: if you want to grow, get uncomfortable. Get in the room. Get around people who stretch you. Final Takeaways (The "Kicker Quotes" You Need to Tattoo on Your Brain) “It's like we all know that. But they don’t have a solution. I do.” “The wake-up slap algorithm is not your enemy. Your silence is.” “Collaborate with killers. It’s not cocky—it’s the truth.” What to Ask Yourself Next: Are you creating consistent, high-impact content—or just blending in? Who are you collaborating with that elevates your brand? What do people feel when they interact with your business? What environment are you stuck in—and are you brave enough to leave it?

Why Your Social Media Still Sucks (And How to Fix It in 90 Days or Less)

By Nick Dougherty • April 10, 2025

Let me get this out of the way… Your content doesn’t suck because you’re lazy. It sucks because no one ever gave you the damn blueprint. Until now. I’m Nick. I’m not a “guru,” and I’m not here to sell you some TikTok trend that dies in two weeks. I’m a marketing personal trainer for martial arts school owners — the real ones, the ones fighting every day to build something that matters. And I’m going to show you how to turn your broken content into a reality show that prints leads like clockwork. The Truth: You’re Not in the Martial Arts Business Anymore You’re in the attention business. And attention goes to the loudest, most consistent, most relatable brand in the room. Right now, there are little league coaches, youth pastors, and Zumba instructors outposting you… …because they’ve figured out something most martial arts schools haven’t: 🎥 Your content IS your perception. And your perception IS your business. If your social media looks like an afterthought… Your school feels like one too. The TV Show Framework That Changes Everything What if instead of random posts, you built a show ? Not fake. Not scripted. A raw, unfiltered, “this is what we stand for” kind of show. Here’s the formula I gave away in my recent training that had even Alex Hormozi , James Walker , and Boogie-Down Simpson saying: “This is the future.” Build Your Show: Daily themes. (So you’re never guessing what to post) Reels as commercials. (80/20 value-to-offer ratio) Instagram = Magazine cover. Make it clean. Stories = Behind the scenes. Make it human. Facebook = Your value vault. Email = Where you program their subconscious. AI = The assistant that never lets you down. This isn’t just strategy. This is how you create a movement around your brand . Final Thought (Read This Twice) Stop waiting for permission. There is no everybody. The schools that win from here on out will be the ones who show up bold , authentic , and relentless . You are the show. Now build it like you mean it.