Hate Funnels, Jargon, and Marketing B.S.? Read This.
Let me guess. You built your creative business to $5k months from referrals and the occasional post.
Now people are talking about funnels, lead nurture, conversion strategy. And you're like... is this English?
If your brain wants to shut down and your fingers itch to open another client project instead, I get it.
But here’s the truth: if you're a creative, coach, or freelancer trying to grow your income this is the part that unlocks your next level.
Over the next few weeks, I’m going to break all that intimidating marketing lingo into bite-sized, real definitions.
And more importantly, give you 5-minute steps that actually move the needle.
Let’s Start With Marketing
Marketing = how people find you, connect with you, trust you, and pay you.
You can’t skip this if you want consistent income.
But you can make it way simpler and way more you.
Here are the 4 kinds of marketing you need in your business:
1. Attraction Marketing (aka “How the heck do people find you?”)
Bring new humans into your world.
Think: Reels, SEO blogs, YouTube, speaking gigs, collabs.
It’s your digital handshake.
2. Nurture Marketing (aka “Why should they care?”)
Warm them up. Build trust.
Think: Email newsletters, BTS posts, DMs, podcasts.
This is where you become unforgettable.
3. Conversion Marketing (aka “Ready to buy?”)
Turn a maybe into a hell yes.
Think: Sales pages, launch emails, 1:1 convos, offers.
No manipulation. Just clear invitations.
4. Retention + Referral Marketing (aka “Make ‘em come back and bring friends.”)
Turn one client into ten.
Think: Thank-you gifts, surprise bonuses, asking for referrals.
Happy clients = marketing gold.
Try These 4 Things Today (5 Minutes Max)
Post something that lit you up today. A view, a win, a moment. Hit publish. Don’t overthink it.
Message someone who liked your last post. Ask: “Hey! What’s something you're excited about this week?”
Follow up with a ghosted lead. Try: “Hey, did you ever get [XYZ] sorted out?”
Ping a fave client. Say: “You're a dream to work with. Know anyone like you who needs help with [what you do]?”
That’s it.
That’s marketing.
No ad budget.
No funnel rabbit hole.
Just human connection, done daily.
Small steps done consistently build big empires.
What’s Next
Tomorrow, we’re breaking down “funnels” in a non-cringe way. Stay tuned.
👉 Want personalized help building this kind of simple, human-first marketing into your business? Come join me inside The Hive™. It’s where creatives learn how to turn consistent action into consistent income.
Big love,
Ash
