Tag marketing strategies

3 Questions to Ask When Handling Criticism and Negative Feedback as a Thought Leader

Putting yourself out there always comes with the risk of criticism. 

When you perceive someone is attacking you, it can be almost impossible to see the negativity as an opportunity. 

But it doesn’t have to be this way. 

You don’t have to get defensive because a hater can become your biggest fan if you learn from negative feedback. 

The most successful thought leaders actively seek out constructive criticism to help them refine their ideas.

So how do you handle criticism and negative feedback in a way that is productive and constructive? Here are three questions to ask yourself before responding:

  1. Is the criticism valid?
    Before you react, take a step back and consider whether the criticism has any merit. Is it based on a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of your ideas? Maybe just a troll? Or is there a legitimate flaw in your argument or approach? If the criticism is valid, acknowledge it and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
  1. Who is giving the feedback?
    Consider the source of the criticism. Is it coming from someone who has expertise in your field? Or is it from someone who may not have a full understanding of your work? Understanding the context and perspective of the feedback can help you respond in a more productive way.
  1. What is your goal?
    Think about what you hope to achieve by responding to the criticism. Do you want to defend your ideas? Clarify your position? Engage in a constructive dialogue with the person giving the feedback? Having a clear goal in mind can help you respond in a way that is productive and effective.

Handling criticism and negative feedback is an ongoing process. It takes practice and self-awareness to respond in a way that is constructive and productive. But by asking yourself these three questions and approaching criticism with an open mind, you can turn negative feedback into an opportunity for growth and improvement.

How to Differentiate Yourself from Other Thought Leaders in Your Industry

So many people are so busy fitting in that they forget to celebrate their unique viewpoint. Sometimes you fit in by standing out. 

And when you don’t celebrate what makes you YOU, the world is missing out. 

What if you feel like you don’t have anything “special” to say when there are so many other thought leaders who have communities based around their words/solutions? 

It means you are too close to your own experiences to see the angles you can work to stand out. 

You don’t need to climb Mount Everest or pretend your toddler speaks like a genius to gain attention. All you need to do is sit down with a ghostwriter who can pull out the nuggets of wisdom in your experiences. 

 Here’s how to make the process easier: 

  1. Identify Your Target Audience: Start by identifying the group of people you want to appeal to with your book. Who are they and what are their interests, pain points, and challenges? 
  2. Brainstorm Potential Topics: After you have a clear idea of your target audience, brainstorm a list of potential topics that would appeal to them. Think about the problems that you have faced in your industry and how you have overcome them. 
  3. Research the Competition: Before finalizing your topic, research the competition to see what has already been written in your niche. Look for gaps in the market that you can fill with your unique perspective.
  1. Create a Road Map: Once you have a topic, create an outline of your book to help you organize your thoughts and ideas. This will help you see how your experiences and insights fit together and will give you a roadmap to follow/tweak as you work with your ghostwriter. 

Humanize Your Brand & Revolutionize Your Industry

Just like Steve Jobs did with Apple, you too can humanize your brand and revolutionize your industry.

I understand the importance of building a community around your solutions to connect with more people.

With a ghostwriter, you’ll be able to reach a wider audience and make a bigger impact in the world. I know what it takes to humanize a successful brand; I am here to guide you every step of the way.

Imagine a world where you are the newest icon in your industry, leading the way for others to follow. It can be a reality.

The Best Script for Rookie Podcasters

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Segue (can be a sound effect, short musical clip, or a phrase)
  • Topic B: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • [Sponsor message]
  • Topic C: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action
  • [Closing theme music]

You have a message that you want to share with the world, but you don’t know how to start a podcast. Podcasting is a great way to share your message with the world, but it can be intimidating to get started. I can help you get their message out there to engage and educate your listeners.

This Podcast Template Can Be Your New Co-Host

Ready to take your podcasting skills to the next level? Podcasting with a co-host can be a lot of fun, but it can also be tough to keep the conversation flowing. That’s why I’ve created this template – so you can focus on your solutions for your niche and build communities around your words.

You’ll sound like a pro with my easy-to-use template; your listeners will appreciate the flow of conversation.

Keep reading and schedule a time to talk with me. <calendly link>

Template: 

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] (sound effect, short musical clip, or phrase) 
  • Topic B: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] 
  • Topic C: ________ (Duration: ___ )
  • [Segue] 
  • Outro: (Duration: ___ ) 
  • Recap 
  • Call to action 
  • [Sponsor message] 

[Closing music jingle/sound effects]

You’ve been struggling to create a community for your solutions. It’s hard enough to get people interested in your product, let alone engage them enough to stick around and participate in a community built around your solutions.

I can help with the tools and resources needed to get started, including a co-host template that makes it easy for you and your co-host to get communities built around your solutions.

Your Template for an Interview-Based Podcast

The most popular podcast format is the conversational/interview show. Audiences love the easygoing nature of conversations, where listeners feel that they’re simply sitting in on a talk between friends (whether the content is comedic, educational, or simply friendly banter).

These types of podcasts work best with a loose structure that supports the conversational element. It’s key to give the hosts space to speak normally and let the conversation flow as it wills while providing the right amount of structure to keep it from going off the rails.

Interview: 

  • Intro: Concise summary of the upcoming episode’s contents. Intro yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Guest introduction: Guest bio, including their title, experience, and any relevant accomplishments. Thank them for joining the podcast. 
  • Question 1 (Duration: ____ )
  • Question 2 (Duration: ____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • Question 3 (Duration: ____ )
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action

[Closing theme music]

Ready to build communities around your solutions? Schedule a call with me!

Script for Your Solo Podcast

You don’t need a co-host to produce a great podcast. With my easy-to-use podcast template, you can create a professional-sounding podcast on your own – without any prior experience.

My template is simple to use and helps you sound like a pro from the start. It is also easy to update as your show grows.

Get started today and create your very own podcast!

Bare bones template

  • Intro: _____ (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic 1: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Topic 2: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Segue
  • Topic 3: _______ (Duration: ____ )
  • Notes
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • [Closing theme music]

Detailed solo

  • Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduction of yourself and your guest. (Duration: _____ )
  • [Sponsor message]
  • [Theme music]
  • Topic A: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information 
  • Topic B:  _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Segue
  • Topic C: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
  • Main point
  • Supporting points
  • Data, quotes, or other information
  • Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
  • Recap
  • Call to action
  • [Closing theme music]

Podcasting can be a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. Not only do you have to come up with interesting topics and guests, but you also have to write the show notes for each episode.

I can help with my quick and easy podcast writing services that will engage your audience and help build communities around your solutions.

How NDAs Help Your Brand…


The relationship between a writer and their client is always important. It is especially critical when working with a ghostwriter. Finding fresh angles can be difficult in a market so crowded with all types of voices. Having an NDA in place ensures all parties understand the terms of the relationship and the scope of deliverables they are creating together.

An NDA protects both the writer and the client, giving each peace of mind and confidence during the process. Without an NDA, there could be confusion surrounding ownership of ideas and compensation claims, which could lead to conflict down the line.

By having clear rules established up front through an NDA, both writer and client can collaborate seamlessly and focus on what really matters: creating a great piece of content that will stand out in today’s crowded market. If you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter for your next project, make sure to get that vital NDA signed as soon as possible.

Let’s get started on your NDA today: https://calendly.com/maureencastellon


What You Need to Know If You’re Thinking of Hiring a Ghostwriter

Finding the best writer for your project is critical. If you’re considering hiring a ghostwriter for a book, article, or other project, there are a few key things you need to know about this process.
What to look for may surprise you.


References and a portfolio are not always available

If a ghostwriter is conducting business correctly, they will not have a wealth of references. It might also be hard to get samples of their work. After an NDA is signed, the writer cannot share their work. You can pay a ghostwriter to create a sample chapter or deliverable to evaluate their work.

Not having experience in your industry is normal/acceptable
A ghostwriter doesn’t need to have experience in your field as long as the writing skills are there. In fact, it may be best if they don’t. You won’t have to correct any misconceptions and can even guide the writer to have the same perspective as you.

Communication shouldn’t be 24/7

A writer needs time to write. If both of you have agreed upon a process, communication can be flexible. What matters is your vision is exceptionally reflected. Make sure to provide a brief for the project so there doesn’t have be a ton of back and forth. 

Although ghostwriters keep a low profile, they are accessible. Let’s discuss your upcoming projects. Schedule a time with me now: https://calendly.com/maureencastellon

The Power of Consistent Messaging

When it comes to success in the business world, communication is absolutely crucial. Whether we are talking to clients or giving presentations to colleagues, it is essential that messages come across clearly and powerfully. What exactly makes a message powerful? According to studies, one of the most important factors is consistency; that is, a consistent message will foster trust and good relationships between you and your audience.

With clients or representatives from other organizations, it is important to be deliberate and consistent in everything you say. One great way to achieve this is by using ghostwriters. You maintain consistency even when you face daily pressures from competing priorities. By understanding the power of consistent messaging, executives can ensure their success both now and in the future.


Examples of consistent messaging

Consistent messaging is a key component of any successful marketing strategy. Whether you are promoting a new product or trying to build your brand, it is essential that every message you put out to the world is clear and consistent. Although this may seem like an obvious concept, many companies still struggle to establish and maintain a coherent message over time. Fortunately, there are examples of successful, consistent messaging campaigns that can help you better understand what this practice entails. Here are a few.

Starbucks 

For decades, Starbucks has been synonymous with high-quality coffee and good times. With its iconic green logo and ever-present storefronts, the company is truly a cultural icon. It is also an unregulated bank. Their rewards program lets millions of customers preload money onto Starbucks cards. Customers are loaning the company more than $1 billion at 0 percent interest. Their consistent messaging helps keep the focus on the exclusive yet convenient coffee experience.

Nike 

Nike’s “Just Do It” slogan launched in 1988. It has become synonymous with Nike’s core values of hard work, determination, and perseverance. By pairing this powerful message with advertisements featuring some of the most inspiring athletes of each generation in history, Nike has created an indelible brand identity that resonates with consumers all over the world.


Coke
Year after year, century after century, Coca-Cola has maintained an image that is clean and modern, yet always rooted in tradition. This streamlined approach has proven to be remarkably effective at engaging consumers from all walks of life. Whether it’s through print ads, television commercials, or multimedia campaigns on social media, CocaCola has demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with its target audience. By tapping into universal themes like happiness and fun, the company has been able to create an enduring brand presence that is virtually synonymous with success and excellence. For generations to come, Coca-Cola will no doubt continue to deliver on its long-standing promise of consistently stellar products and services.

Your marketing campaign can have lasting impact if your messaging is clear and consistent at every turn. When it comes to effective communication, consistency is key. Whether crafting blog articles, podcast show notes, doing interviews, or writing an e-book, it’s important to always use the same language and messaging to create a cohesive brand voice. Executives have to focus on operation, not brainstorming, writing and editing. 

Ghostwriters can help communicate consistent messaging in an engaging, on-brand way.

Let me be your boo!