Here at William Ballard & Associates, LLC we've identified 4 key phases (or stages) of business growth and development -- from just starting out to moving into more of a scale model focus. As you grow from one phase or stage to the next the focus shifts, and we are here to help you navigate through each new challenge every step of the way.
We have developed specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that are designed for each of the business growth phases to ensure you get the most out of your time with a business coach and marketing consultant, that way you are working on the right initiatives at the right time.
With that said, we also know that not all businesses are created equal. Continued development is crucial to business growth, and depending on where you are on your business journey, the challenges you face can be vastly different.
Sometimes you're going to have a specific challenge standing in your way while other times you simply need to develop your skills or get a new perspective that can help give you that extra push in the right direction.
We have developed specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that are designed for each of the business growth phases to ensure you get the most out of your time with a business coach and marketing consultant, that way you are working on the right initiatives at the right time.
With that said, we also know that not all businesses are created equal. Continued development is crucial to business growth, and depending on where you are on your business journey, the challenges you face can be vastly different.
Sometimes you're going to have a specific challenge standing in your way while other times you simply need to develop your skills or get a new perspective that can help give you that extra push in the right direction.
Start With An Initial Business Discovery Call
William Ballard & Associates, LLC is a business coaching and marketing consulting firm. We partner with Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs -- like you -- and we are just as dedicated and committed to your business's success as you are.
William normally coaches and consults one-on-one (or in groups) with writers, authors, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. If you have questions about starting a business, managing a business, starting a marketing campaign or setting marketing goals and objectives, or direct-response style copywriting, or digital marketing and content marketing strategies, William can cut through the confusion and provide concrete next steps, as well as offer trusted resources.
He conducts coaching and consultations primarily through Zoom, which allows you to join his online meeting room from any device or by phone. Calls and meetings are recorded unless requested otherwise.
William's one-on-one coaching and/or consulting fee for the hour generally begins around $1,250 -- but you won't have to pay that price here.
Here are the FOUR Phases or Stages of business growth and development we go through (and will give an overview on your coaching or consulting call) in order to help business owners like yourself make a huge IMPACT in the community you serve.
Phase One: Business Planning

You have a great idea for a business. Now, let's make a plan to bring it to market.
Here is what we will go over during this phase:
- Conduct market research and competitive analysis
- Establish a vision and mission, as well as goals and objectives
- Write out your business and marketing plan
- Calculate your startup cost and overall financials
Phase Two: Launching Your Business

It has been said that a failure to plan is a plan to fail... but even worse than failing to plan, is to plan and then fail to ever execute on that plan. This is where we start to implement your business plan.
Here is what we will go over during this phase:
- Choose your business location (and how you will do business online)
- Choose a business structure and decide on a name
- Register your business (get federal and state tax ID numbers)
- Apply for licences and permits (if necessary)
- Open a business bank account
- Get business insurance (if necessary)
- Write out the marketing copy that will be used throughout all marketing materials
- Go over how to re-purpose your marketing content for multiple marketing mediums
Phase Three: Managing Your Daily Business Operations

We are to be good stewards of the work that has been entrusted unto us. This is where we learn how to manage our day-to-day operations and prepare for success.
Here is what we will go over during this phase:
- Manage finances
- Hire and manage employees, independent contractors, as well as volunteers
- Stay legally compliant
- Identify assets and liabilities
- Prepare for emergencies -- as well as for growth (more about that in phase four)
- Manage specific departments and teams
- Manage marketing and sales training for team members and volunteers
Phase Four: Preparing For Growth and Expansion

There is a time or season for sowing -- and then there is a time or season for reaping. When it is harvest time it is time for growth and expansion.
However, preparing for growth is no easy feat. This is where we will cover all your bases and get you headed in the right direction.
Here is what we will go over during this phase:
- Capitalizing on new markets and expanding to new locations
- Becoming a federal contractor
- Expand marketing outreach initiatives
- Planning for growth and executing on new opportunities
- Re-evaluate marketing cost and overall financials
Other Areas of Expertise
William has in-depth experience with:
- Planning, launching, managing, and growing a business
- Content marketing strategies for freelance writers, authors, and entrepreneurs
- Leadership development and operations management
William and our team can also help with writing any marketing materials you may be in need of, but at a fee.
Not Sure We Are Right For You?
Not sure you are ready to make an -- at least -- 6-month financial investment and commitment in a Business Coach and/or Marketing Consultant? No problem!