small business growth Archives - Concierge Business Solutions

Posts

The Most Powerful Referrals Don’t Come From Marketing

Introducing the Concierge Business Solutions® Affiliate Program

February 24, 2026/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

A few years ago, something quietly powerful started happening.

People would say, “I sent you someone.” Or, “I shared Essential Elements™ with a colleague.” Almost every time, they’d add, “I hope that was okay.”

It was more than okay. It was everything.

Those referrals didn’t come from marketing funnels or paid ads. They came from real experience. From business owners who had used our tools, implemented our systems, and experienced firsthand what structure and operational clarity can do for a business.

At the same time, behind the scenes at Concierge Business Solutions®, we were doing some of the biggest work in our company’s history. We revamped our software, modernized our platforms, and restructured our programs to meet today’s service business owners where they actually are. We expanded our offerings so owners could start small, grow intentionally, and stop being the bottleneck in their own business.

As everything came together, one truth became clear: people were already helping us grow. We simply weren’t rewarding them for it

That didn’t sit right. Because in our industry, referrals aren’t casual. They’re personal. When you recommend a resource, you’re putting your reputation on the line. You’re saying, “I trust this. I believe in this. This helped me.”

So we built something new. Not to sell harder, but to honor that trust.

That’s how the Concierge Business Solutions® Affiliate Program was born.

Why We Built the CBS Affiliate Program

For years, referrals happened informally. Owners shared Essential Elements™, consulting services, policies and procedures packages, and the 5-Day to Freedom Challenge because they genuinely believed in them. We knew it was time to elevate that experience and make it structured, transparent, and rewarding.

The CBS Affiliate Program was designed to be simple, transparent, and aligned with the values that define our industry. There are no complicated dashboards or tech overwhelm. You always know where your referrals stand. And when your trust leads someone to become a client, you benefit directly.

If you believe in well-run service businesses and the power of systems, this program gives you a natural way to share tools that truly help, while earning for doing so.

How the Affiliate Program Works

We intentionally designed this to be effortless.

First, you sign up and receive your personalized referral link along with a quick-start guide. Then, you share CBS resources in whatever way feels authentic to you. That might be a direct message, a conversation, a social media post, or an email to someone who needs better systems.

When someone uses your link and becomes a client, you earn a commission. Everything is tracked clearly through our system, so there is no guesswork.

For recurring subscriptions such as Essential Elements™ Plus and Complete, you continue earning as long as your referral remains active. We also offer performance bonuses for affiliates who reach certain milestones throughout the year.

No quotas. No pressure. Just aligned partnership.

What You Can Promote

Affiliates can share any product or service within the CBS ecosystem, depending on what best fits the person they are referring.

That includes Essential Elements™ Software in all tiers, the Freedom by Design™ Self-Study Program, policies and procedures packages, Essential Guides, business consulting, the 5-Day to Freedom Challenge, and various training and coaching resources.

You are never locked into promoting just one offer. You simply connect people with the solution that fits their stage of growth.

Why This Is a True Win-Win

You already understand what happens when a business gains clarity. When documentation is organized, processes are repeatable, workflows are structured, and the owner steps into the CEO role instead of managing daily chaos, everything changes.

By referring CBS resources, you are not selling. You are helping other owners eliminate overwhelm, streamline operations, improve client communication, reclaim time, increase billable hours, and reduce stress.

For many service-based entrepreneurs, this is transformational.

The Affiliate Program ensures that when you facilitate that transformation, you are compensated for the trust and credibility you’ve built. That is what real partnership looks like.

A Powerful Way to Start 2026

The concierge and lifestyle management industry is evolving. There is growing demand for structured, scalable, well-run service businesses. More owners are actively searching for tools that help them scale responsibly without burning out.

The CBS Affiliate Program positions you as a connector and trusted resource in that process. Whether you want to add a passive revenue stream, strengthen your professional network, deepen your industry expertise, or elevate the standards of our profession, this program creates meaningful opportunity.

Read more on our latest newsletter HERE.

Ready to Join?

Becoming an affiliate takes just minutes.

If you’ve supported CBS in the past or believe in the power of systems-driven service businesses, we would love to welcome you into this next chapter.

Let’s make 2026 the year of collaboration, clarity, and collective growth

The Quiet Battle Behind Every Entrepreneur’s Success

October 14, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Running a business is exhilarating—but it can also feel like standing alone on a cliff’s edge. Every decision, every risk, and every setback rests squarely on your shoulders. While strategy gives you a roadmap, your mindset determines whether you keep moving when the road gets rough.

Entrepreneurship is full of highs and lows: late nights, uncertain income, and moments of self-doubt that make even seasoned business owners question their path. The difference between those who burn out and those who thrive often isn’t luck or talent—it’s mental resilience.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, we’ve seen firsthand how mindset shapes outcomes just as much as strategy. You can have the best marketing plan and the most efficient systems in place, but if you don’t believe in your ability to lead, pivot, and grow, you’ll struggle to sustain long-term success.

Strategy Builds the Business — Mindset Keeps It Alive

A solid strategy provides direction: clear goals, measurable outcomes, and systems to support your vision. But it’s your mindset that helps you stay focused when things don’t go according to plan.

Think about it—how many times have you created a business plan that fell apart after the first unexpected challenge? Mindset is what helps you adapt instead of abandoning ship.

Strategic thinking answers what to do next.
Mindset answers how to keep going when it gets hard.

When you treat both as equally important, your business becomes stronger, steadier, and more scalable.

The Entrepreneur’s Inner Circle: Who You Surround Yourself With Matters

No one builds a thriving business alone. The people around you can either lift you up—or drain your energy. Successful entrepreneurs intentionally build a support network that strengthens both strategy and mindset:

Mentors who have walked your path and can offer perspective.
Peers who understand your struggles and celebrate your wins.
Resources that challenge your thinking and fuel your growth.

When you surround yourself with people who “get it,” you’re reminded that struggle doesn’t mean failure—it means growth. That community keeps your mindset grounded, especially when you’re navigating the unpredictable world of small business ownership.

Practical Ways to Strengthen Your Entrepreneurial Mindset

Mindset isn’t just motivation—it’s a skill you can build. Try incorporating these habits into your daily routine:

Reflect regularly. Take time to evaluate what’s working and what’s not without judgment.
Celebrate progress, not just perfection. Every step forward counts.
Reframe failure. Instead of seeing setbacks as losses, view them as lessons that inform your next strategy.
Invest in personal development. Read, attend workshops, or join masterminds that expand your perspective.
Ask for help early. Don’t wait until burnout hits. Partner with experts who can help you strengthen both the business and the mindset behind it.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, We Help You Build Both

Our approach goes beyond operational strategy. We work with you to uncover the barriers—mental and structural—that keep your business from scaling. Together, we develop systems that support sustainable growth, while also strengthening your confidence as a leader.

Because success isn’t just about doing more—it’s about thinking better.

Ready to Strengthen the Way You Think About Your Business?

If you’re ready to stop running on overwhelm and start running with clarity, it’s time to work on your mindset as much as your strategy.
👉 Join the 5 Days to Freedom Challenge — a free one-on-one experience designed to help you uncover hidden opportunities, regain focus, and move forward with purpose.

Visit conciergebusinesssolutions.com/the-5-day-freedom-challenge to sign up or share it with another business owner who needs a reset.

FAQ: Mindset and Strategy for Entrepreneurs

Q: Isn’t mindset just about motivation?
A: Not at all. Mindset shapes how you interpret challenges, setbacks, and opportunities. It influences your decision-making, resilience, and leadership style—core elements of business success.

Q: How can I improve my mindset if I’m already feeling overwhelmed?
A: Start small. Take 10 minutes a day for reflection, gratitude, or learning. Connecting with a mentor or coach can also help you reframe challenges and regain perspective.

Q: What’s the link between mindset and profit?
A: A strong mindset helps you stay consistent, confident, and creative under pressure—all of which directly affect productivity, team morale, and ultimately, your bottom line.

Q: Can Concierge Business Solutions® help with both business strategy and mindset?
A: Absolutely. Our programs combine practical systems with strategic coaching to help you streamline operations, strengthen leadership, and sustain growth long-term.

You Can’t Scale What You Haven’t Documented: Build Your Process, Then Delegate Your Way to Freedom!

Documented Processes: The Key to Scaling Your Business

July 15, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Let’s talk about one of the biggest myths in small business: the idea that if you just hustle hard enough, everything will magically fall into place. Spoiler alert—it won’t. You can’t hustle your way to a scalable, self-sufficient business. You need documented processes. Why? Because you can’t scale what you haven’t documented!

Here’s a hard truth: If every task, every client interaction, every invoice, and every internal procedure lives only in your head, you’ve built a business that can’t grow beyond what you personally have the bandwidth to do. And, let’s be honest, your brain is already operating like a browser with 76 tabs open—half of which are frozen.

When you don’t document, you can’t delegate. And if you can’t delegate, you’ll never be able to step away from the day-to-day grind. Remember when I worked 36-hour stretches, fell asleep at my desk, or hauled my laptop on my honeymoon? I’ve been there—and it’s a one-way ticket to burnout. The moment I started writing things down, creating repeatable systems, and teaching them to others, everything changed. Suddenly, I could focus on growing the business instead of drowning in it.

Documentation Isn’t Glamorous—But It’s Pure Gold

I know what you’re thinking: “Leslie, writing down procedures sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry.” And you’re right—documenting your processes isn’t glamorous. But neither is working yourself into an early grave because no one else knows what you know. When you document your systems, you unlock your ability to train others, create consistent results, and build a business that doesn’t collapse the second you step away for a vacation (or, let’s be real, even just a weekend off).

I’ve seen businesses double and triple their revenue just by getting organized and creating step-by-step guides for what they do every day. Processes are the puzzle pieces that turn your business from chaos into a well-oiled machine.

Introducing Essential Elements™: The Secret Weapon for Scaling Your Business

You don’t have to build these systems alone—and you definitely don’t need to manage them on sticky notes or random spreadsheets. That’s why I created Essential Elements™, our powerful ERP software built specifically for Lifestyle Management companies, concierge services, and other small businesses that need more than a generic CRM.

Essential Elements™ isn’t some clunky off-the-shelf tool. It’s the system I personally developed after decades of wrangling a million moving parts in my own business—and then completely overhauled it with a fresh, modern interface and new features our clients have been begging for.

Here’s what makes Essential Elements™ a complete game changer:

✅ Centralized Client & Project Management – Keep everything about your clients, projects, vendors, and tasks in one easy-to-navigate place.

✅ Automated Billing & Retainers – Save hours every month with built-in time tracking and automated invoices. Our new retainer billing is a lifesaver for recurring clients.

✅ Calendar & Scheduling – Manage visits, meetings, and jobs seamlessly so you don’t drop the ball (or forget an appointment).

✅ System User Procedures Included – No more wondering how to use your new software. We provide step-by-step documentation for every feature, so you (and your team) can hit the ground running.

✅ Ongoing Upgrades Included – Your monthly subscription covers all future upgrades. You’ll never have to pay extra for new features or worry about falling behind.

✅ Backups & Server Fees? Covered! – Your data is secure, automatically backed up, and hosted on reliable servers. You don’t have to lift a finger.

✅ One-Time Setup & Training – We’ll customize Essential Elements™ to your business, provide hands-on training, and make sure every user knows exactly what to do.

This isn’t just software. It’s a complete business management system that turns your documentation into actionable workflows so you can finally delegate with confidence and watch your business grow without you having to do everything yourself.

Why Wait? The Best Time to Document Was Yesterday—The Next Best Time is Now

Every day you operate without documented processes is another day you’re stuck playing whack-a-mole with problems that shouldn’t even exist. Essential Elements™ makes documentation easy by turning what you do into repeatable, teachable systems—and giving you the power to automate, delegate, and scale.

If you’ve been looking for a sign to stop reinventing the wheel and start building a business that can run itself, this is it. Don’t let another year slip by without giving yourself the freedom you deserve.

🚀 Book Your Free Demo Today

Ready to see how Essential Elements™ can revolutionize your business? Let’s hop on a call so I can show you exactly how this system works—and how it can give you back your time, sanity, and weekends.

👉 Click here to schedule your free demo
or
👉 Sign up now to get started with Essential Elements™

Let’s document, delegate, and scale your business together—so you can finally build the life (and the freedom) you started your business for in the first place.

When Goodbye Means Growth: The Unexpected Upside of Letting Go

May 20, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Let’s be honest: losing a client can sting.

It doesn’t matter whether the decision is mutual, theirs, or yours—when a client walks away,

it can feel like a punch to the gut. Especially if they’ve been with you a long time, especially if you did your best work, and especially if your team went above and beyond to deliver exceptional service.

That’s exactly what happened to us recently at Executive Errands®.

We’ve provided rental support services for years, handling the late-night calls, weekend issues, guest complaints, and the endless, never-quite-right scheduling of cleaners and vendors. At one point, it was a major part of our business. But about two years ago, we made a strategic decision:we stopped offering rental support services to new clients.

Why? Because the numbers didn’t pencil out.

It turns out that 24-hour coverage (especially over weekends) is expensive, exhausting, and a massive distraction from the parts of our business that are actually profitable, sustainable, and aligned with our values. Rental support took up a disproportionate amount of time and attention compared to the revenue it brought in. So, we cut it loose. Well—mostly.

We kept just two long-standing rental clients who also used a wide range of our other Lifestyle Management services. They were wonderful clients, and we stayed with them because they were part of the fabric of our company. But then something happened.

The First Break

One of the two rental clients became increasingly unresponsive. Requests would go unanswered, confirmations weren’t coming in, and the collaboration we relied on to serve her guests simply wasn’t there anymore.

We wrestled with the decision, but in the end, we knew what we had to do: we fired her.

It was professional and polite, but clear. We were no longer a fit.

It was hard—but not as hard as we thought it would be. In fact, it felt like a weight had lifted. That was the first sign that we were heading in the right direction.

The Final Goodbye

A week ago, the last remaining rental client—our longest-standing one—let us know she was making a change. She had decided to move to a new management arrangement, and just like that, we were out of the rental business for good.

Honestly, it hit hard. She had been with us for many years. We had history. She trusted us with her home, her guests, her reputation. Losing that kind of relationship leaves a mark.

But once the shock wore off, we had a realization:

We were never really built for rental support.

This wasn’t a loss. It was a release. It was the universe giving us a final nudge to fully align with who we are and how we serve.

The End of an Era… and the Start of a Better One

The departure of our last rental client marked the official end of an era at Executive Errands®—and the beginning of a much clearer, more focused business model.

No more weekend panic calls. No more scrambling to clean a house between back-to-back bookings. No more absorbing the stress of guest reviews or unrealistic expectations.

We’re not Airbnb managers. We’re not hotel front desk staff. And we certainly aren’t a 24-hour concierge service for vacationers.

We are a Lifestyle Management company—and that means we support homeowners, not short-term renters. Our clients are people who want quality, consistency, and peace of mind. They want their homes cared for, their projects managed, and their lives simplified.

Letting go of the last vestige of rental support allows us to do exactly that, with no distractions and no compromises.

So, Why Is This a Good Thing?

When you’re in the thick of it, losing a client can feel like a red flag—like something went wrong.

But here’s what we’ve learned:

1. It Creates Space

When a misaligned client leaves, you gain back time, energy, and resources you can pour into the clients and services that do align with your vision. The right clients will always come when you have space to serve them.

2. It Forces Clarity

Every goodbye is a moment to ask: What kind of business am I really building? This final rental departure helped us see, once and for all, that our true purpose lies elsewhere.

3. It Boosts Morale

When your team no longer has to bend over backwards for services that drain them, morale improves. We’ve already seen renewed energy and enthusiasm from our staff now that they’re focusing on what they do best.

4. It Reinforces Boundaries

Saying goodbye—especially when it’s your decision—is a powerful act of self-respect in business. It says: We know who we are, and we’re not going to stretch ourselves to be something we’re not.

Take This Lesson for Your Own Business

If you’re holding onto a client, service, or offering that no longer fits, ask yourself:

Is this draining more resources than it’s worth?
Am I only keeping this out of habit or fear?
Does this align with the business I’m trying to build?

If the answers are yes, yes and no, maybe it’s time to say goodbye too.

You don’t have to serve everyone. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. And sometimes, letting go of a client is the best thing you can do—for you, your team, and your future.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, We Help You Build a Business That Fits YOU

Want help designing a business that aligns with your strengths, values, and goals? That’s exactly what we do.

Check out our educational program, Freedom by Design: How to Build a Business That Runs Itself, available now at: Learn Concierge Business Solutions

Or tune in to our podcast, Twisted, Bent and Exhausted – The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Sanity and Success, where we talk honestly (and often hilariously) about the real-life wins and losses of running a small business. Listen on Spotify or YouTube – just search for Twisted, Bent and Exhausted.

Final Word

Losing a client doesn’t always mean failure. Sometimes, it’s the universe whispering, “It’s time to grow.”

Here’s to letting go—and growing forward.

Networking your Business, Part II

August 6, 2024/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Networking your business in 2024 involves leveraging both traditional and digital strategies to build connections, establish your brand, and generate leads.

Here are some of the best ways to network your business effectively in the current landscape:

Utilize Social Media:

LinkedIn: Create a professional profile, join relevant groups, and actively engage with posts. Share industry insights, participate in discussions, and connect with potential clients or partners.
Facebook and Instagram: Use these platforms to showcase your brand, share success stories, and engage with your audience through comments, likes, and shares
Twitter: Participate in Twitter chats related to your industry and use hashtags to reach a broader audience.

Attend Virtual and In-Person Events:

Industry Conferences and Trade Shows: These provide opportunities to meet industry leaders, potential clients, and partners. Participate in panels or give presentations to showcase your expertise.
Webinars and Online Workshops: Host or attend virtual events to share knowledge, learn from others, and connect with attendees.

Join Professional Organizations:

Chambers of Commerce: Local chambers offer networking events, workshops, and opportunities to meet other business owners
Industry-Specific Associations: These organizations often have member directories, forums, and events that can help you connect with like-minded professionals

Leverage Networking Groups:

BNI (Business Network International): Join a local chapter to exchange referrals and build relationships with other business owners.
LeTip: Another business networking organization that helps members grow their businesses through trusted referrals.

Engage in Community Involvement:

Volunteer: Participate in local community events or volunteer for causes related to your industry. This not only helps the community but also builds your reputation and expands your network.
Sponsor Events: Sponsor local events or sports teams to increase your brand visibility and connect with community members.

Use Digital Tools:

CRM Systems: Use Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools to manage and nurture your connections. Track interactions and follow up with leads systematically.
Email Marketing: Build an email list and send out regular newsletters with valuable content, updates, and promotions to keep your network engaged.

Collaborate with Influencers:

Industry Influencers: Partner with influencers in your industry to reach a wider audience. They can help promote your brand to their followers through collaborations, endorsements, or guest blogging.

Create Valuable Content:

Blogging: Write blog posts on topics relevant to your industry. Share insights, tips, and trends to establish yourself as a thought leader.
Video Content: Create videos to showcase your expertise, behind-the-scenes looks at your business, or customer testimonials. Share these on YouTube, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms.

Network within Your Industry:

Forums and Online Communities: Join and actively participate in industry-specific forums and online communities like Reddit, Quora, or niche professional groups.

Follow Up and Stay Connected:

Consistent Communication: Follow up with new contacts after networking events. Send personalized messages, schedule meetings, and stay in touch regularly to nurture relationships.

By combining these strategies, you can effectively network your business in 2024, building meaningful connections and driving growth.

Do You Have a Support System?

June 11, 2024/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Whether you are an entrepreneur or a solopreneur, finding a support system is crucial for your success and well-being. For small business owners, this often starts with a solid team. If you have employees, they are the backbone of your operation. Hiring people who are not only skilled but also share your vision and enthusiasm can propel your business forward.

But, if you do not have a built-in team, there are many other sources of support you can tap into.

Here’s where you can find or build a support system:

Networking Groups and Associations

Joining local or online networking groups can connect you with other entrepreneurs who understand the challenges you face. Organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, industry-specific associations, or online platforms like LinkedIn groups can provide valuable connections and support.

Coworking Spaces

Coworking spaces offer more than just a place to work. They are hubs for like-minded professionals who can offer advice, share resources, and collaborate. These environments foster a community feel and can provide much-needed social interaction.

Coworking spaces are particularly important if you are working from home for the first time. It takes discipline and routine to be productive when working from home. If this is challenging for you, the coworking space may be ideal.

Mentorship Programs

Seek out mentorship programs where experienced business owners provide guidance and support. Organizations like SCORE, Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), or online platforms like MicroMentor can connect you with mentors who can offer personalized advice.

Business Coaches and Consultants

Hiring a business coach or consultant can provide tailored guidance and accountability. They can help you set goals, overcome obstacles, and stay focused on your business strategy.

As Concierge Business Solutions Inc® is focused on Lifestyle Management and Concierge services specifically, we are an ideal source for mentorship, coaching and consulting. Our 30+ years of corporate and entrepreneur experience allows you to fast-track your business without reinventing the wheel.

Online Communities and Forums

Your peers and fellow entrepreneurs can also play a significant role. Surrounding yourself with other business owners can create a support system where you can share experiences, exchange ideas, and offer mutual encouragement. Think about local business associations or entrepreneur meetups where you can connect with like-minded individuals.

There are numerous online communities and forums where solopreneurs gather to share experiences and support each other. Websites like Reddit, Facebook groups, and industry-specific forums can be great places to ask questions, get feedback, and find encouragement.

Professional Services

Building a network of professional services like accountants, lawyers, and marketing experts can provide crucial support. These professionals can help you manage specific aspects of your business, allowing you to focus on what you do best.

Friends and Family

Don’t underestimate the power of your personal network. Friends and family can offer emotional support, lend a hand when needed, and provide a sounding board for your ideas. While they might not always understand the intricacies of your business, their encouragement can be invaluable.

On the flip side, your family and friends want to protect you and may become unintentionally negative when you say you’re starting your own business. Naysayers who doubt your capabilities or constantly highlight potential failures can sap your energy and confidence. It’s important to recognize and minimize the influence of such negativity, focusing instead on building a positive and encouraging network.

Educational Resources

Investing in your education by attending workshops, webinars, and conferences can expand your knowledge and connect you with other solopreneurs. These events are often great places to meet potential collaborators and mentors

Examples of Solopreneur Support Systems

1. Local Networking Group:

See if you have a local CAI organization (Community Associations Institute) – they are filled with Community Managers, Homeowners and vendors.

2. Coworking Space:

When looking for a coworking space, look for one where realtors also congregate. Realtors can be your best source of leads, but there are specific ways to finesse the realtor/lifestyle manager relationship.

3. Mentorship Program:

For the fastest mentorship or coaching, Concierge Business Solutions Inc® is your most cost-effective resource (yes, that’s us!)

4. Online Community:

There are multiple online groups where you can brainstorm and hold each other accountable. Many of these are by invitation only so if you’re looking for one, let us know.

5. Professional Services Network:

All small businesses need an accountant, bookkeeper, digital marketer and possibly even a newsletter publisher. The key is to work ‘on’ your business, not ‘in’ it. Outsourcing these tasks allows you to focus on building your business.

The bottom line is that the people you surround yourself with profoundly affect your small business’s success. Supportive employees, mentors, peers, and loved ones can provide the skills, insights, encouragement, and stability needed to thrive.

By building and nurturing these relationships, you set yourself and your business up for greater success. So, take a moment to evaluate your network and consider how you can surround yourself with the right people to help your business flourish.

Tag Archive for: small business growth