Viewing entries in
small business growth

Comment

Why Original Content Matters More Than Ever

Standing out on social media has never felt harder. We’re competing for attention in a world overflowing with news, opinions, entertainment, and constant noise. Add in crowded industries and saturated feeds, and it can feel nearly impossible for a small business to plant its flag, let alone be noticed.

That’s exactly why original content is being prioritized right now.

Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok are shifting away from recycled trends and duplicated content in favor of posts that feel human, intentional, and original. They’re rewarding content that keeps people engaged, sparks conversation, and adds value, not more of the same.

For small businesses, this shift is an opportunity. Original content doesn’t require flashy production or viral ideas. It’s about sharing your perspective in a space where everyone is trying to be seen. Your voice and experience are what help you cut through the noise.

Think of original content as planting a flag. It says: This is who I am. This is what I stand for. This is how I help. In a crowded digital landscape, that clarity matters.

Why Original Content Is Winning

Algorithms are increasingly rewarding content that:

  • Is created natively on the platform.

  • Feels personal, not mass-produced.

  • Encourages saves, shares, and thoughtful engagement.

When content educates, reassures, or resonates, people slow down. They save it. They share it. And that signals to the algorithm that it matters.

What Original Content Can Actually Look Like

Original content doesn’t mean reinventing the wheel. It means sharing your perspective in a way that feels natural and aligned with your brand. Here are a few examples small businesses can create without overthinking it:

  • Your take on a common question.
    Answer something clients ask you all the time, in your own words.

  • Behind-the-scenes moments.
    Show how you work, what a typical day looks like, or what goes into delivering your service.

  • Lessons learned.
    Share a win, a challenge, or something you’ve learned along the way.

  • Educational content.
    Teach one small, helpful tip your audience can use right away.

  • Personal perspective.
    Talk about why you do what you do, what you believe in, or how you approach your work differently.

Original content isn’t about being louder, it’s about being clearer and more consistent.

Clear Takeaways for Small Business Owners

  • Stop trying to blend in. You don’t need to appeal to everyone; you need to connect with the right people.

  • Share your point of view. Your perspective is what sets you apart.

  • Create with intention. One thoughtful post is more effective than five rushed ones.

  • Focus on connection, not virality. Trust grows faster than reach.

  • Be consistent in your message. Repetition builds recognition.

In a world full of noise, original content isn’t about being louder, it’s about being clearer. And that’s exactly what social platforms — and your audience — are responding to.

If finding your voice on social media feels overwhelming, or you’re clear on your brand but need help turning it into consistent content, Take Flight can help you show up with clarity and confidence.

Comment

Comment

Why Small Businesses Win When They Collaborate

There’s something really powerful that happens when small business owners come together. We often spend so much time wearing all the hats…creator, marketer, bookkeeper, customer service rep, that collaboration can feel like a luxury. But in truth, it’s one of the smartest, most sustainable ways to grow.

Lately, I’ve been reminded just how impactful connection can be, thanks to one of my amazing clients who recently started the SoCal Small Business Social Club. What began as a simple idea, to gather local entrepreneurs in one room, has turned into an inspiring community of people who genuinely get it.

What moves me most about small business owners is the heart behind the work. These are the hard workers, deep thinkers, and creative spirits who pour their energy into building something meaningful, often while juggling families, full-time jobs, or side hustles. Many are driven not by profit alone, but by the hope of creating something better for themselves and their communities.

When we support small businesses, we’re investing in people with courage, the ones who take the leap, stay up late brainstorming, and show up every day to do work that matters. Every collaboration, purchase, or word of encouragement helps someone’s vision take flight.

At these meet-ups, conversations flow easily because we all share the same challenges: managing social media, balancing family and business, keeping momentum when motivation dips. And yet, for every pain point, there’s a small win waiting to be celebrated, landing a new client, mastering Reels, or simply carving out time for creativity again.

What’s so refreshing about collaboration in spaces like this is that it’s not about competing for attention; it’s about lifting each other up. One person’s idea sparks another’s. Someone’s story of resilience reminds you to keep going. Partnerships and cross-promotions naturally form, and suddenly, everyone’s reach expands, organically and authentically.

Here are a few simple ways collaboration can help your business take flight:

  • Cross-promote each other’s work on social media. A simple tag or shared post introduces your business to a new audience.

  • Co-host an event or giveaway. Shared energy and resources make it easier, and more fun to connect with your community.

  • Exchange expertise. You might be a marketing pro while someone else excels at email strategy, photography, or product packaging. Collaboration allows everyone to play to their strengths.

Small business ownership can be lonely at times, but connection changes everything. Surrounding yourself with people who understand your journey, and who want to see you succeed, is the kind of support that fuels sustainable growth.

So here’s your reminder: collaboration isn’t just good for business, it’s good for the heart. ❤️

Comment

Comment

How to Make Social Media Work When You Hate Being on Camera

Let’s get one thing straight: Reels and video still rule the social media world—but that doesn’t mean you have to be front and center every single time.  

If the idea of hitting “record” makes you want to disappear into your blanket cocoon with a cup of coffee (or wine, no judgment), you are not alone. Most of the time, those of us behind the business accounts are in our jammies or pleasure wear, hair in a bun, definitely not dolled up and “camera-ready”.

And sure, you could argue that’s the most authentic version of ourselves—which it totally is—but let’s be real: we’re all a little vain. We want to show up as the best version of ourselves, or at least with a little lip gloss and decent lighting. We get it. The pressure is real.  

So, what if we told you there are plenty of ways to show up without actually showing up on camera?

Here are some creative, faceless video ideas and tips to help you stay visible—without stepping too far outside your comfort zone:

1. Voiceovers Are Your New Best Friend

Record your voice sharing a tip, story, or answer to a frequently asked question. Pair it with:

  • A screen recording of you working in Canva or packaging an order

  • A timelapse of your workspace or daily routine

  • Stock or branded video clips

Pro tip: Use Instagram’s built-in voiceover tool or record in your phone’s voice memo app for a more casual vibe.

2. Lean Into Text-Only Storytelling

Reels with trending music + bold text are still engaging. Try:

  • “3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Starting My Business”

  • “I said yes when I should’ve said no—and here’s what happened.”

  • “What I’d Tell Any New Business Owner in 10 Seconds”

Use animated text, fun transitions, or Canva’s video templates to make it pop.

3. Let Your Products or Services Shine

Create videos that focus on what you do, not what you look like:

  • A hands-only tutorial or packaging video

  • A quick before-and-after

  • Behind-the-scenes of your process, shot from behind or overhead

4. Repurpose Content into Reels

Turn an old blog post, caption, or testimonial into a Reel using tools like:

  • Canva’s “Talking Presentation” templates (you don’t have to show your face!)

  • InShot or CapCut for dynamic text + stock footage mashups

5. Use Templates + Trends Thoughtfully

You don’t need to memorize a script or be an improv star. Try:

  • Lip-syncing a trending audio that fits your niche

  • Using the green screen tool to talk about a visual (not yourself)

  • Following a “this or that” trend using just on-screen text

And remember: Most of us aren’t nailing it on the first take. Or the fifth. Or the twelfth. Creating content takes time. It’s messy. It’s full of retakes and do-overs. But that’s normal.

You don’t have to be “on” to show up for your business. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection. If your content helps just one person feel seen, learn something, or laugh a little, it’s already done its job. So go ahead, post that faceless Reel. Your lip gloss can wait.

Need help bringing these ideas to life? Reach out to Take Flight—we’ll walk you through these strategies (and more!) to help you confidently promote your small business without ever stepping in front of the camera. Let’s make social media work for you.

Comment