I just read a recent NFIB newsletter piece titled “How Congress Can Relieve Labor Threats for Small Businesses.” It argued that the solution to labor challenges is rolling back regulations—from labor protections to climate standards. Now, I read NFIB’s surveys and analysis every month. They’re valuable because they capture what small business owners are really thinking and feeling in the moment. And while I don’t always agree with their takeaways, I never dismiss them—because these surveys represent the lived reality of hundreds of thousands of entrepreneurs.

But here’s where I part ways with this month’s newsletter opinion: regulations don’t appear out of thin air. They exist because customers, employees, and communities demanded something better—better wages, better working conditions, more sustainable practices. That’s not a burden. That’s a market signal. And the savviest small businesses treat those signals as fuel for innovation and growth.

Instead of fighting every new rule, what if we looked at them as guardrails that push us toward excellence? What if they became the very constraints that forced us to build better businesses—businesses people actually want to work for and buy from?

Here are three examples of small businesses that embraced practices often labeled as “constraints” and turned them into marketing advantages. They didn’t succeed despite doing the right thing. They succeeded because of it.

3 Small Businesses (Like Yours) That Embraced Constraint as a Marketing Advantage

1. Elizabeth Suzann – Ethical Fashion as Brand Differentiator

• Snapshot: Elizabeth Suzann is a Nashville-based slow fashion brand founded in 2013, at one point employing 40+ team members in an ethical, transparent supply chain. Reached $1 million in sales within a year of launching.
• Approach: Paid living wages, prioritized quality over volume, and told that story as their brand.
• Takeaway: Their ethical stance drove early traction, attracted loyal customers, and positioned them as a standout in a crowded category.
  

Marketing Lesson: Elizabeth Suzann turned compliance into content. By openly sharing how they care for employees and the planet, they attract their ideal customer and built loyalty among conscious consumers who are willing to pay more for alignment with their values. In marketing terms: their ethical choices became their positioning, separating them from fast fashion.

2. Bookminders – Flexibility as a Value Proposition

• Snapshot: Bookminders is an outsourced bookkeeping firm founded in 1991, built around remote-first, flexible roles designed for working caregivers. Now employs ~85 professionals and expanded across multiple states.
• Approach: Created a “Cottage Corporation” model—remote work before remote was popular—vitally centered on trust and flexibility.
• Takeaway: Their marketing isn’t just about accuracy; it’s about alignment. They attract and retain talent—and clients—by promising both quality work and a humane work environment.

Marketing Lesson: Bookminders made flexibility a brand promise. What others saw as a cost, they turned into a competitive advantage—attracting top talent and long-term clients. Their marketing didn’t just say “we’re accountants”, it said, “we’re the accountants who understand modern work-life balance.” This is especially important today because there simply aren’t enough accountants out there. 

3. Alvarado Street Bakery – Ownership as Marketing Power

• Snapshot: A California-based worker-owned cooperative founded in 1979. Over 40,000 loaves baked daily, solar-powered facility, average employee earnings between $65K–$70K. Over 50% of staff have tenures exceeding 15 years.
• Approach: Shared ownership, democratic governance, strong pay—employees invested in business success.
• Takeaway: Their values aren’t marketing fluff—they’re baked into daily operations, and customers love knowing their bread is made by owners, not just workers.

Marketing Lesson: Alvarado Street turned ownership into their story. Customers love knowing the bread they buy supports worker-owners, not distant shareholders. By leaning into what NFIB might call a “threat” (worker power), they created a marketing narrative rooted in authenticity, fairness, and sustainability. That story translates directly into sales.

Regulations are a Market Signal – Not a Burden

The NFIB surveys are a valuable pulse check on how small business owners are feeling. Their members are telling us, loud and clear, what keeps them up at night. But feelings and fears aren’t the whole story — they’re the starting point.

Every regulation NFIB members cite as a “threat” — from labor protections to climate rules — grew out of real demands from employees, customers, and communities. That’s not a burden, that’s a market signal.

The most successful small businesses don’t just acknowledge those signals, they act on them. Companies like Elizabeth Suzann, Bookminders, and Alvarado Street Bakery prove that what some owners see as “costs” can actually be turned into brand-building, loyalty-driving advantages.

Doing the right thing isn’t charity. It’s strategy. NFIB gives us the raw data; our job as marketers is to look at it differently — and use it to build businesses that people want to work for and buy from.

What This Means for You and Your Business

Doing the right thing and being profitable are NOT mutually exclusive. In fact, constraints are huge opportunities. My web developer always says: if you want it to be easy for you, it’s going to be hard on the user. If you want it to be easy on the user, it’s going to be harder on you. But oh—the rewards.

This is the marketing opportunity hiding in plain sight. By the time the government or policymakers change course, your business could already be struggling or gone. The faster, smarter, and more profitable strategy is to focus on improving your customer’s life. Instead of fighting regulations because you fear the costs, take on the challenge of being better. Provide more value, and your customers will gladly choose you over competitors, pay you for the privilege of working with you, and refer you to others.

Stop putting your future in the hands of things and people you can’t control. Take your power back. Build a better business—and your customers will thank you for it.

Real Talk FAQ: Questions NFIB Members Might Ask

1. Isn’t it unfair to expect small businesses to shoulder the cost of regulations?

No doubt—it feels heavy. But here’s the flip side: regulations often reflect what your customers and employees are already asking for. By getting ahead of them, you build loyalty, trust, and differentiation that competitors who resist won’t have.

2. What if fair wages and benefits cut into my already thin margins?

Margins are always tight, but fair pay is not just an expense—it’s a retention strategy. Lower turnover, higher morale, and stronger performance offset the cost of constantly replacing and retraining staff.

3. Aren’t customers mainly motivated by price?

Some are, but not all. More and more, customers are choosing based on values and experience. A fair, transparent, and ethical business can charge more—and people will pay it because they believe in what you stand for.

4. How do I know these “do the right thing” stories aren’t just outliers?

They’re not. From fashion to bakeries to accounting firms, values-driven business models are proving sustainable. And data shows purpose-driven companies consistently outperform the market in the long run.

5. Isn’t lobbying for fewer regulations just protecting my business?

Maybe in the short term. But the long-term risk is bigger. By the time rules change—or don’t—you could lose customers to competitors already delivering what the market wants. Focusing on value creation puts control back in your hands.

It happened at a major industry trade show, the kind where companies spend tens of thousands just to be seen. I was wandering the aisles when I stopped dead in front of one booth. It looked like the set of a Disney ride—playful, intentional, and impossible to ignore. I told the marketing manager how incredible it looked. She leaned in and confessed: “Most of our booth never showed up. Shipping lost it. What you’re seeing is only 30% of what we planned.” The kicker? They won best display. Traffic was up. Prospects lined up. By losing most of their assets, they ended up with something better.

That’s the paradox of business constraints. They frustrate you, stress you, and force you into corners. But inside those corners, you get sharper. You focus on what actually matters. And you often create something more powerful than you could have planned with endless time and endless money.

Why Big Marketing Budgets Hurt Small Business Growth

When I first started my business, I had cash to spend. I did what most new business owners do—I wasted it. Letterhead. Business cards. Fancy websites. None of it generated customers. By the time the money ran out, I realized what I should have been doing: building relationships, generating referrals, and focusing on revenue.

Big budgets breed lazy marketing. They encourage throwing money at ads and bloated campaigns that look good on paper but flop in practice. Abundance hides inefficiency. Constraints, on the other hand, reveal what really works.

Sidebar: Signs Your Marketing Budget Is Working Against You

• You can’t explain how your marketing spend ties directly to customer acquisition.
• Your campaigns look beautiful but rarely convert.
• You’re adding new tools and channels without maximizing the old ones.
  

The Constraint Dividend: Why Small Budgets Build Better Marketing

Solopreneurs often assume constraints are a weakness. But they’re the secret dividend—the unexpected return on being small. Here’s why constraints give small businesses an edge:

• Sharper Focus. You cut fluff and double down on one clear message.
• Scrappy Creativity. You find viral ways to get attention—AI memes, community hacks, borrowed audiences.
• Real Authenticity. Customers trust grit and realness over glossy perfection.
  

Research Insight: Why Scarcity Sparks Innovation

A University of Illinois study led by Ravi Mehta found that scarcity—not abundance—actually enhances consumer creativity. “If you look at people who don’t have resources or only have limited resources, they actually end up being more creative with what they have,” Mehta explains. “When times are tough, resource-poor people become more innovative in their use of everyday products.” Read the study here.

Additional research from Harvard Business Review shows that companies innovating under constraints often grow faster in the long run, because their solutions are leaner, sharper, and more sustainable.

Case Study: Jan and Mike’s Restaurant

Jan and Mike’s restaurant learned this first-hand. When illness forced them to cut hours, they invented a membership program. Customers signed up eagerly, paid upfront, and brought friends. Sales jumped 30% month over month, profits 20%. Constraint didn’t kill their business. It grew it.

The Small Business Constraint Playbook

Here’s how small businesses and solopreneurs can turn constraints into smarter strategies:

• Cap your ad budget deliberately. One solopreneur cut their ad spend by 50% and focused only on LinkedIn. Their organic posts ended up outperforming the $1,000/month they were spending on Facebook ads.
• Test micro-offers before scaling. Sell the smallest viable version of your product, then expand once you see traction.
• Use AI as your intern. Tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and Descript can draft proposals, create social posts, and edit videos—replacing hours of manual work.
• Try this now: Pick ONE marketing channel, cut your spend in half, and see what survives. What remains is your most resilient, profitable strategy.
  

Quick Stat: According to HubSpot, 55% of small businesses say budget constraints forced them to discover more profitable marketing channels.

Examples of Brands That Turned Constraints Into Marketing Wins

• Southwest Airlines couldn’t afford more planes, so they hacked the boarding process. Ten minutes saved per flight equaled another plane in the sky.
• Dell: made PCs to order to save on inventory costs and ended up creating a 
• Dropbox offered free storage for referrals instead of ad campaigns.
  

Over and over, the pattern is clear: constraint breeds innovation.

And solopreneurs today are leaning on it, too. 82% already use AI tools to save time and money. A tamale shop in California went viral with a ten-minute AI video. Indie creators are outpacing Fortune 500 brands on TikTok with nothing more than a phone and a sharp idea. Small beats big when big is bloated.

“Constraints don’t limit you. They’re the shortcut to sharper strategy.”

Why Constraints Give Small Businesses a Competitive Advantage

Constraints aren’t what’s holding you back. They’re your moat. In an era where everyone can buy attention, you can earn it—because constraints force you to sharpen your edge.

So stop apologizing for your budget. Start using it as your compass. Constraints don’t crush creativity—they’re the dividend that powers it.

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now

Ready for personalized support? Book a Fix It Session with me. In just one focused session, we’ll flip your limits into leverage and build a plan to win with less.

FAQs to Take You to the Next Level

What does “constraint marketing” actually mean?

Constraint marketing is the idea that limits—like small budgets, limited staff, or fewer tools—can actually make your marketing stronger. Instead of spreading resources thin, you’re forced to focus on the essentials, cut waste, and get creative with what you have. It’s about turning limitations into a competitive advantage.

How can I apply constraints if I don’t already have budget issues?

You can deliberately create constraints to sharpen your strategy. For example, cap your ad budget at a lower amount, restrict yourself to one marketing channel for 90 days, or set a goal to create content only with free or low-cost tools. These self-imposed limits force you to innovate and find smarter solutions.

Are constraints really an advantage, or just something we spin positively?

Research suggests they truly are an advantage. A University of Illinois study found that scarcity boosts creativity. Many well-known brands like Southwest Airlines and Airbnb built their breakthroughs under heavy constraints. In practice, limits cut down on waste and push businesses toward clarity and originality.

How do I know which constraint to focus on first?

Start by looking at where you spend the most money and time. If ads are eating your budget without consistent ROI, try cutting ad spend in half to see what survives. If you’re juggling too many channels, pick the one that brings in the most customers and double down. The best constraint to test is usually the area where you’re currently overextended.

What if constraints backfire and hurt my business?

Constraints only backfire if you treat them as roadblocks instead of opportunities. The key is to pair each constraint with a clear goal. For example: “I have to cut ad spend, so my goal is to improve organic reach.” When you embrace limits strategically, they push you toward innovation rather than stagnation.

That’s the magic of a sales pipeline. It’s a visual roadmap that shows you exactly where each lead is, what’s next, and how close you are to hearing “yes.” You get to nudge people along, fix bottlenecks, and keep the whole thing humming like a well-oiled espresso machine.

And it works. Companies with strong pipeline systems see up to 80% higher revenue and profitability. Why? Because most sales die in the follow-up. And a pipeline makes following up easy, automatic, and almost impossible to screw up.

That’s where Zoho Bigin comes in. It’s a lightweight CRM built for real businesses—not software demos. So if your current system is a spreadsheet duct-taped to your inbox, keep reading. We’re about to fix that.

Meet Zoho Bigin: The Simple CRM For Small Business

Now here’s where things turn around. Zoho Bigin isn’t just another CRM. It’s the one that was actually designed for you—the solopreneur, the small team, the business owner who’s doing All The Things.

It’s affordable (we’re talking $7/month per user), it’s mobile-friendly, and it doesn’t require a week-long training to get started. Think of it like a tidy little control panel for your business—with all the grown-up automation and none of the enterprise fluff.

You can get access to Zoho Bigin via Zoho One. (This is your lowest total cost option)

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

What Makes It Different?

First let’s talk about the fact that most CRMs are more for management reporting than helping sales stay on top of deals.  Salespeople hate CRMs because filling in all the details often takes more time than managing the sale.  

And this is why I love Zoho Bigin.  Zoho Bigin is more focused on helping you close the deal and keep the prospect in the loop, without wasting all your time filling in fields.  

Here are just a few features that make it easy:

• Easy pipeline views so you can see who’s where in your process at a glance

• Task and follow-up automation so nothing slips through the cracks

• Email and calendar integration that actually works

• Customizable fields and tags to keep everything organized your way
  

In short, you can make Bigin as simple or as complex as you like.  And that’s what makes it a terrific choice. 

How to Start Using Bigin the Smart Way (Without Importing a Thing)

Here’s the thing: I don’t recommend starting with a giant contact import. Why? Because dumping a hundred contacts into a CRM before you even know how you’ll use it is like buying a closet full of new clothes before organizing your dresser. It’s overwhelming and counterproductive.

Instead, let Bigin grow with your business.I recommend that you start by setting up your sales pipeline; the steps your prospect moves through from first contact to final sale.  

Pick a Pipeline Template

If you’re not sure what your pipeline should look like, don’t worry – Bigin offers templates for 12 of the most popular industries for small businesses. 

Of course, you can create your own custom template as well.  But I recommend picking one of the templates,  You can customize them along the way. 

Add Your Prospects (Manually)

With your pipeline chosen, you can start adding your prospects.  Add them manually.  Do NOT import them.  Importing them will create garbage.  If you add them manually, you’ll learn the system and give yourself the opportunity to intentionally qualify and add specific notes related to your project. Not only that, but after you’ve entered your prospects manually, you’ll uncover exactly what kind of information you need to include when you automate.

Adding Prospects Automatically

After you’ve added your prospects manually, I recommend you set up a few ways to automatically add prospects with the same level of quality information that you added manually. 

Here’s what I do:

1. Integrate with your calendar tool.  I happen to use Zoho Bookings, so this is really easy.
2. Use a form.  You can create forms (I use either Zoho Forms, or Zoho Campaigns) you can use MailChimp or whatever lead capture system you prefer. This will allow you to grab targeted leads and place them inside your Zoho Bigin pipeline. 
3. Connect Bigin to tools like Microsoft 365, Google Contacts, Mailchimp, Constant Contact, Zoho Books, and Zoho Forms. New or updated contacts in those systems can sync automatically to Bigin, keeping your data up to date without manual entry
4. Business Card/QR Scanner:Use the Zoho Card Scanner app to scan business cards or QR codes. The app will automatically fill in the relevant fields and create a new contact in Bigin—no typing required.
5. Email-In Feature: Set up an email alias for your pipeline in Bigin. Any email sent to that alias will automatically create a new contact (if it’s a new email address) and associate it with a record in your pipeline. If the sender is already a contact, their info is updated as needed.
6. Of course, you can also Import from Spreadsheets: If you have a list of contacts in a spreadsheet, you can import the file directly into Bigin. During import, you can map spreadsheet columns to Bigin fields, and all details are added automatically

Bonus Round: Automate Your Sales Process

Bigin lets you build “if this, then that” workflows without needing to code or cry. Like:

• If someone fills out a contact form, send a welcome email and assign a task to follow up
• If a deal hasn’t moved in 7 days, send a reminder
• If a deal is won, send onboarding docs and mark them in the “Client” tag

The result? A system that works while you sleep. Which means fewer things fall through the cracks—and more deals close themselves.

Real-Time Everything, Even on Mobile

And since most small business owners are mobile, Bigin has you covered. 

You know what makes a CRM truly game-changing? Being able to use it when you’re not at your desk.

Bigin’s mobile app is fully functional and dead simple. You can call clients, log meetings, check pipelines, and get reminders without having to open your laptop.

Perfect for:

• Post-networking follow-ups while the convos are still fresh
• Quick updates between appointments
• Keeping your pipeline moving even when you’re out running your business

FAQ: Sounds Great – But…

Do I need to use other Zoho tools for Bigin to work? 

Nope. Bigin works beautifully on its own, but it also plays nice with the Zoho family. That said, even if you’re not using Zoho Books, Zoho CRM, or Zoho Mail, Bigin will still give you everything you need to manage leads and close deals.

What if I’m not tech-savvy? Will Bigin be too hard to set up? 

You’re in good company. Bigin was built specifically for people who don’t have time for complex tools. If you can use a calendar and email, you can use Bigin. The setup process is straightforward, and most people get up and running in less than an hour.

Can I use Bigin if I offer different types of services? 

Absolutely. You can create multiple pipelines for each service—consulting, coaching, VIP packages, you name it. Each pipeline can have its own stages, automations, and workflows so you’re not trying to jam everyone into the same process.

How secure is my client data in Bigin? 

Zoho takes data security seriously. Your information is encrypted, stored in secure data centers, and protected by enterprise-grade security protocols. You own your data, and they don’t sell it.

Can I share Bigin with a VA or team member without giving them full access? 

Yes! You can add users to your Bigin account and control what they can see or do. Whether it’s a virtual assistant, sales rep, or project manager, you decide what level of access they get.

The Final Word

You didn’t start your business to spend hours searching for client phone numbers or retyping the same email 10 times. You started it to serve clients, make money, and have more freedom.

Zoho Bigin helps you do exactly that—with a price tag even the leanest business can handle.

So let’s call it: 2025 is the year you finally get your systems together.

No more spreadsheet chaos. No more missed follow-ups. No more wondering if you remembered to do that thing you swore you’d do last week.

Try Bigin. You’ll thank yourself by next Friday.

Ready to switch? Start your Zoho Bigin free trial today and see what happens when your business runs like the real thing.

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now

That’s the magic of booking automation.

If you’re a service-based solopreneur—consultant, coach, creative, or advisor—the fastest way to generate income is by selling your time. In this guide, we’ll show you how to do it right inside Zoho One using Zoho Bookings.

You’ll create a booking page, sync your calendar, and connect payments—all without needing a website, VA, or complicated setup.

Let’s turn your calendar into a revenue stream.

Why Selling Your Time Is the Fastest Way to Get Paid

Your time is your most valuable (and easiest to monetize) asset. If you know something that solves a problem, there are people willing to pay to pick your brain. Or get your advice. Or spend an hour working through their strategy.

You don’t need a digital product, eCommerce store, or content funnel to start making money.

You just need a booking link.

Step 1: Structure Your Offer

Before you create your booking page, decide what you’re offering:

• Free consults (15–30 min) to get leads in the door
• Paid discovery calls for more serious prospects
• Strategy sessions or working calls charged by the hour
  

Make it clear, focused, and valuable. Example: “30-Min Strategy Call – $97”

This simple, specific offer sets the foundation for everything that follows. It’s what you’ll be automating and promoting.

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Step 2: Set Up Zoho Bookings

With your offer locked in, it’s time to turn that idea into a real booking link your clients can click.

Step-by-Step: Set Up Your Booking Link

1. Log into your Zoho One dashboard and open Zoho Bookings.
   
2. Click “Create New Service” and choose One-on-One Appointment.

3. Name your service (e.g. Strategy Session).
   
4. Set your duration (30 mins, 60 mins, etc.) and price.
   
5. Add a description so your prospect knows what to expect.
   
6. Set buffer times, cancellation windows, and intake forms.

7. Connect your calendar (Zoho or Google Calendar).

8. Choose your availability.
   
9. Link your payment gateway (Stripe, Razorpay, PayPal).

10. Save and publish your booking link.
    
    

👉 Set up Zoho Bookings now

Step 3: Unlock Automated Workflows

Once your booking link is live, the real magic begins. Zoho Bookings isn’t just a calendar tool—it’s a workflow powerhouse.

Here’s what you can automate:

• Confirmation emails and SMS reminders
  
• Client notifications and staff alerts
  
• Reschedule and cancellation workflows

• Intake form data pushed to your CRM
  

And the best part? It’s all built-in. No Zapier. No code. Just powerful automations that make your life easier.

Step 4: Sync Everything

Let’s make sure your entire business talks to each other.

Zoho Bookings integrates seamlessly with your existing tools:

• Syncs with Zoho Calendar so you’re never double-booked

• Sends Zoho Mail confirmations to both you and your client
  
• Adds contacts to Zoho CRM or Bigin automatically

This isn’t just a scheduling tool. You’re building a full sales process that runs without you.

Step 5: Bookings vs. Calendly — What You’re Getting for Free

Lots and lots of people are using Calendly.  I did too.  But it wasn’t long before I realized that Bookings in Zoho One gave me PAID Calendly features as part of my Zoho One subscription.  It was a no brainer. 

So, I’m sure you’re probably wondering how these two compare.  

Let’s compare what you get with Zoho Bookings (included in Zoho One) vs. what you’d have to pay for in Calendly.

With Zoho Bookings, you’re not paying more for more features. You’re getting the premium experience as part of Zoho One—no extra cost, no upsells.

Final Thoughts: Your Calendar is Your New Sales Funnel

You don’t need complicated funnels or high-ticket sales scripts. If you have an offer people want, your calendar link is the shortest path to payment.

Set it up once, and let people book you while you sleep.

Next Week: We’ll help you build a bio site and landing page that ties everything together.

👉 Start with Zoho Bookings today

Need Help? Book a Fix-It Session

Not sure how to set up your booking flow? I can help.

In one Fix-It Session, we’ll:

• Create your booking page
  
• Sync your calendar and payment system
  
• Test your workflow from booking to confirmation
  

👉 Book Your Fix-It Session Now

Placeholder for video:
Your Booking Link is Your Sales Funnel

FAQ: Everything You Wanted to Know About Zoho Bookings

1. Do I need a website to use Zoho Bookings?
Nope! You get a hosted booking page with a link you can share anywhere.

2. Can people pay when they book?
Yes—just connect your payment method and you’re good to go.

3. What calendars does it sync with?
Zoho Calendar and Google Calendar.

4. Can I collect info before the call?
Absolutely. Use custom intake forms to gather details before the appointment.5. Can I send reminders?
Yes—email and SMS reminders are built in.

Your website isn’t broken—it’s just not doing its job. It’s collecting dust, not customers. While you obsess over sleek designs, your competitors are quietly launching conversion funnels fueled by AI-generated traffic, smart research, and one streamlined platform. That platform? Zoho.

If you haven’t noticed, the digital landscape changed. AI now answers before people even click. Brands like HubSpot saw 75% declines in organic traffic. According to Forbes, nearly 60% of Google searches end without a click. Bain reports 80% of consumers rely on zero-click results in at least 40% of searches. SparkToro data confirms only 360 out of 1,000 Google searches in the US lead to a non-Google site.

What does this mean for your business? The old “content-to-blog funnel” no longer works. Instead, you need pages built to convert—funnels disguised as single pages. And those funnels need automation, analytics, and ease of use. 

That’s exactly what Zoho offers.

Why AI Took Your Traffic—And Why That’s Not the Problem with Zoho Websites

AI-driven zero-click search means users get answers without clicking your site. Semrush recently reported that AI Overviews are now in 13% of all search queries, and that number is rising. Users are consuming content directly in search results.

If you’re relying on blog content to drive discovery, that discovery is happening on Google’s turf—not yours. Which means you have to shift from attracting visitors to converting them immediately when you have their attention.

Andy Crestodina—co-founder of Orbit Media—reminds us that clarity is everything: Clear messaging builds trust fast, which makes persuasion easier. He emphasizes quick scanning: 75% of users don’t scroll past the fold. And he warns about overusing form fields—each extra field drops conversions.

From Vision to Funnel: The Structure That Works

Let’s talk structure. There are a lot of formulas out there, but I’m going to recommend Andy Crestodina’s because this is his area of expertise and he measures and tracks these strategies with real businesses, just like yours.  

Here’s how you can improve your web page’s conversion rate and be human at the same time 

1. Headline = Answer

Immediately let visitors know they’re in the right place. Think: “Launch Your Online Store in One Afternoon” instead of “Welcome to My Site.”

There is so much to love here. There is the clear and unambiguous description of the business; not pithy, no play on words, it just tells you exactly what the business does.  It lets you know that you are in the right place. 

2. Proof = Evidence

Client logos. Case study stats. Certifications. These provide emotional and logical reassurance. If someone else trusted you, your visitor might too.

189 5-star reviews.  Think about this, every single review is 5-stars.  Just one 4-star review takes you down to less than 5.  So this is significant. 

You can also use testimonials for this.  But if you focus your business on generating 5-star reviews on Google – this is a big win. 

3. CTA = Invitation

Tell people what to do. Don’t use wishy-washy phrasing like “learn more”—use clear, action-driven language like “Start My Free Trial” or “Get My Demo.”

LOVE this call to action layout.  You can call or text, you can chat, you can request a call back, you can send a message on Facebook, you can email – all the things. 

4. Simple Design = No Clutter

Whitespace is underrated. Avoid clutter, keep your CTA visible, and remove distractions. If it doesn’t support conversion, it doesn’t belong.

Granted, in this example, there’s not a lot of white space, but everything you need is right there. Most importantly, this small business is very close to their customer, they know exactly what customers want to know in order to make a decision on stump grinding.  And they give it to them. 

5. Form Fields? Less Is More

Limit forms to 3-4 fields: name, email, maybe one qualifier. More than that, and you’re asking too much too soon.

This form is about as simple as it can get.  The only thing missing here is the ability to attach images of the stumps you want removed. 

6. Track Everything

Install analytics, heatmaps, and behavior tracking from day one. Gut feelings don’t scale—data does.

Each of these elements becomes a decision point in your page design.

Flip the Switch on Zoho: Launch a Funnel in a Day

One thing I will tell you about this example site is that it’s hosted on a streamlined, integrated platform (Not Zoho) but the fundamental system applies. 

A vertically integrated platform means that the website, the communications (the forms, the calls, the messaging, the scheduling, etc. is all inside of a single platform.  The biggest benefit of this is that everything is connected, nothing will “break” because there was an update or change in one element of your lead generation.

The short skippy is that you should look for a completely integrated system where all your customer information is in one place so that you can easily create new relationships, and build on your existing relationships.  

Loyalty and repeat business don’t come from providing loyalty cards, they come from consistently delivering on your promise. 

Launch a Funnel With Zoho Landing Pages

Do you need a full blown website like this to start?

Nope.  

No code? No problem. Zoho Landing Pages offer ready-made templates tailored for conversions. Select a layout, edit the copy, and integrate with Zoho CRM or Campaigns.

You can:

• Use templates designed for opt-ins, booking calls, or sales.
• Customize text, images, and CTAs within minutes.
• Integrate directly with your CRM to manage leads effortlessly.

Take a look at my “Fix it Session” landing page:

This took me about 30 minutes to build (I already had the copy completed).  It’s got everything you need to start making money.

Build Your Home Base with Zoho Sites

Zoho Sites offers a drag-and-drop website builder with all the essentials for a professional business presence. Here’s what to include:

• Homepage: A hero image, strong value prop, and clear CTA.
• Services Page: Break out your offers using benefit-driven headlines and client-focused copy.
• Testimonials: Add credibility with quotes and stats.
• Contact Page: A form, your email, maybe a map and phone number.

Here’s an actual example from a Zoho user called Urban Element

Everything you need is in one place.  Nothing fancy, just tell people who you are and what you do. 

No – You Don’t Need a Blog

Skip the blog for now. With the onset of AI summaries in Google (and all search engines) blog and content traffic is DOWN by more than 85%! In other words, writing content for the sake of answering questions is over for most small businesses. 

The good news, however, is that landing pages and sales pages, or any page where conversions happen, is still doing well. 

Sell Smarter with Zoho Commerce

Need e-commerce? Zoho Commerce handles everything:

• Product listings with photos and variants
• Secure checkout and payments
• Inventory and tax settings
• Sales tracking and order management

Here’s my Zoho Commerce store that I (again) built in about 30 minutes.  

It took me longer to create the products than it did to get them up on the site.  This is a simple example with simple products. 

But check out Automation Werks.  These guys are an Illinois parts distributor.  That means that inventory and distribution management is a big deal.  

Not the sexiest site on the planet, but the sexy is happening behind the scenes.  They are using Zoho Commerce to manage more than 35,000 products, thousands of customers, and all of this with only 14 people!.

Read their story here.

Trigger Automation with Zoho Flow + CRM + Campaigns

Imagine your business running itself:

• New leads are tagged in Zoho CRM
• Campaigns kick off tailored email sequences
• Sales team gets auto-notified for follow-ups
• Cold leads re-engage via timed offers

Zoho Flow connects your tools, triggers events, and simplifies automation.  Zoho Flow is your alternative to Zapier!  And, it’s not an extra fee, it’s included in your Zoho One subscription.  

The above is a shot of the “flows” I have set up inside my Zoho One.  Zoho is also launching more advanced AI agents monthly, so expect this to become even more powerful. 

Measure Smarter with Insight, Not Vanity

With Zoho Analytics and Zoho PageSense, you can track:

• Heatmaps: See where users scroll and click
• Conversion Funnels: Understand where people drop off
• Source Attribution: See what actually drives sales
• Revenue per Visitor: Get ROI at-a-glance

Data wins over guesswork every time. Even if you only check it weekly, insights like “People are abandoning my form halfway through” lead to fast wins.

I set up Zoho PageSense to measure and track the performance of my new “Fix it Session” page.  The data I’m collecting here will help me improve and optimize that page. 

I love heatmaps because they show you exactly how much time someone spends on each section of your site.  

In this example, red is actually GOOD.  People are spending a lot of time reading the offer, what it is, and how it can help them. 

Crush Perfectionism: Launch Now, Iterate Always

Your first version won’t be your best—but it needs to exist to improve. Publish now, tweak weekly. Use heatmaps, form analytics, and A/B testing to optimize. Run tests like:

• Which CTA drives more clicks?
• Does a testimonial or stat convert better?
• Should the form come earlier or later?

Let’s look at an example from one of my landing pages. 

So what’s driving the attention and the action – that button at the very top of the screen is driving all the clicks.  So here’s what we know – the offer is good, it’s driving them to explore the options of the offer. 

And then, as we scroll down, we can see what the most popular offer is.

Sound like something you want?  Awesome, I’ve pulled together a basic plan that you van use. 

Your 30-Day Zoho Setup Plan

If you haven’t guessed by now, I’m going to give you a simple way to set up your business on Zoho so that you can start making money right away.

First, start by starting a free trial with Zoho One.

Read my detailed review of Zoho One

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Here’s a tip.  The typical trial is for 30 days, but you can definitely extend it.  Just reach out to support@ZohoOne.com

Week 1

• Set up Zoho One
• Create 1 landing page and feature a simple offer.
• Use Zoho Checkout to set up your shopping cart. 
• Connect to Zoho CRM

Week 2

• Build out Zoho Sites homepage + services
• Add 3 testimonials, 1 contact form

Week 3

• Set up Zoho Commerce
• Connect payments, taxes, shipping
• List 3-5 products or services

Week 4

• Automate email sequences with Zoho Campaigns
• Track performance in Zoho Analytics
• Launch first A/B test via PageSense

Why Zoho Wins: One Platform, One Price, One Dashboard

You don’t need a Frankenstein stack of apps. Zoho gives you everything:

• Websites (Zoho Sites)
• Landing Pages (Zoho Landing Pages)
• CRM (Zoho CRM)
• Email (Zoho Campaigns)
• Analytics (Zoho Analytics)
• Commerce (Zoho Commerce)
• Automation (Zoho Flow)

And it’s all included in Zoho One.

Final Word: Be Tactical, Not Tactless

The AI revolution didn’t kill websites. It killed lazy ones. You don’t need more traffic. You need a system that converts the traffic you already have.

Zoho lets you launch fast, test smart, and automate everything.

Ready to turn your site into a sales machine?

And I mean fast.

Because nothing kills momentum like doing all the work of building your business… and then realizing you have no easy way to collect payments. That ends here.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to set up Zoho Checkout, Zoho Invoice, and basic invoicing in Zoho Books—all from your Zoho One dashboard. I’ll also show you how you can also use Zoho Bookings to get paid for meetings and consulting sessions. 

You’ll create a real offer, a simple way to accept payment, and an automated system that tracks your income like a pro.

Let’s make you money—today.

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Why You Need to Get Paid Before You Start Marketing

Most small businesses spend weeks creating content, running ads, and posting on social… without a single way for someone to buy. That’s backwards.

Marketing is expensive—in time, energy, and money. Before you invest in it, you need to validate your offer and open the door for revenue. With Zoho, you can do this in minutes..

Setting up your payment tools first means:

• You test and validate offers quickly
• You have real cash flow to reinvest in growth
• You act like a business from day one

Step 1: Create Your First Offer

You don’t need a full product catalog or fancy launch. You just need a simple offer people can say yes to.

Here’s how to do it:

• Pick something you already know how to do (service, product, session)
• Define the result your customer gets
• Put a price on it (flat fee is easiest)
• Give it a name they can remember

Example: “Power Hour Strategy Call – $97”

It’s specific, clear, and you can sell it right now.

More information on how to create offers:

• These 3 Methods Will Help You Create a Product Offer – Guaranteed
• How to Create an Irresistible Offer

Need help creating an offer? Grab a Fix it Session Today

Step 2: Accept Payments with Zoho Payments

Once you’ve got your offer ready, the next step is to make sure your business can accept money—securely and easily. Zoho Payments is the built-in solution that connects across the entire Zoho ecosystem.

Zoho Payments is a great built-in alternative to platforms like PayPal. It supports a range of payment options, including credit cards and ACH, and integrates directly with other Zoho apps.

Why use Zoho Payments?

Using Zoho Payments means you’re skipping the need for extra tools and third-party services. You don’t need to sign up for PayPal, Stripe, or anything else to start getting paid. Everything’s already connected and ready to roll.

• No third-party payment processor required – Everything is managed within Zoho, reducing friction and fees.
• Direct integration across your tools – It syncs instantly with Zoho Checkout, Zoho Invoice, Zoho Books, and even Zoho Bookings.
• Global-ready from day one – Accept payments in multiple currencies using cards, ACH, UPI, and more—perfect if you work with international clients.

It’s a simple, secure, and seamless way to manage money without juggling a million accounts.

How to Set Up Zoho Payments

1. Go to the Zoho Payments setup in your Zoho One dashboard.
2. Choose your business location and currency.
3. Connect your bank account for direct deposit.
4. Set up supported payment methods (ACH, card, UPI, etc.).
5. Verify your business details and submit documents (if requested).
6. Once verified, Zoho Payments will be your default method in Checkout, Invoice, and Bookings.

Zoho Finance Apps: Which One Is Right for You?

Let’s pause for a second. You’ve got your offer, your payment setup, and you’re ready to start bringing in money. But before we dive into invoicing and tracking every dollar, here’s a quick overview of Zoho’s finance tools—so you know what’s what.

Great news!

You get access to all of these with Zoho One. That means you don’t have to stress over picking the “perfect” one. They’re built to work together, and whichever you start with, you’re covered.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Zoho Invoice
Think of this as your lightweight, super-smart billing sidekick. Perfect for freelancers, service providers, and solopreneurs. If you need to send professional invoices, track time, or set up recurring billing, this one’s for you.

Zoho Books
Ready for more advanced bookkeeping? This is the upgrade. It’s ideal for small business owners who want a bird’s-eye view of income, expenses, and taxes—all without hiring a bookkeeper.

Zoho Billing
Running a subscription model? This app helps you manage plans, track metered usage, and automate the back-and-forth of recurring charges. Great for SaaS businesses or agencies with packaged monthly services.

And remember: you don’t have to choose just one. Since they’re all part of Zoho One, you can mix and match, try them out, and find the flow that fits your biz. It’s like a buffet of financial automation—with zero pressure and no extra cost.

Comparison Table

What We Recommend

For this series, we’re using Zoho Invoice to automate your client billing and Zoho Books to track all your payments. If you run a subscription model, explore Zoho Billing separately for its advanced features.

Step 3: Set Up Zoho Checkout

Zoho Checkout is the fastest way to collect payments online. It’s perfect for one-time offers, flat-fee services, or digital products.

Step-by-Step: Set Up Zoho Checkout

1. Log into your Zoho One dashboard and open Zoho Checkout.

2. Click “New Payment Page” and choose One-time Payment.

3. Name your product/service (e.g. Strategy Call).
4. Add a description and set your price.
5. Choose your payment method (Stripe or Razorpay integration).
6. Customize your checkout page (add logo, brand colors).

7. Save and publish your link.
8. Share the link in your emails, website, or social media.

Here’s an example of a complete payment page:

👉 Set up Zoho Checkout now

Step 4: Automate Invoicing and Track Payments with Zoho Books

Now that your payment systems are in place and you’re ready to collect money, it’s time to organize it all. This step is where Zoho Books takes over to streamline your invoicing and make tracking income totally stress-free.

Here’s the thing about Zoho One—once you’ve added Zoho Invoice, you’re likely to be redirected to Zoho Books. Why? Because Zoho Books includes everything Zoho Invoice does… and then some. It’s your all-in-one accounting suite, and it’s where invoicing, payments, and reports all live together.

So instead of managing your invoices in one app and tracking payments in another, we’re going to keep it simple and do it all inside Zoho Books.

Why use Zoho Books?

Zoho Books isn’t just an invoicing tool—it’s a full-on business finance command center. Whether you’re sending your first invoice or prepping for tax season, it brings everything together in one easy-to-navigate place.

• Everything’s in one place – Track your clients, payments, invoices, and financial reports without switching between tools. It’s your money HQ.
• Works beautifully with the rest of Zoho – Zoho Books syncs automatically with Zoho Checkout, Zoho Payments, and Zoho CRM, so you’re never duplicating data or chasing down missing info.
• Powerful built-in tools – From tax summaries and profit/loss statements to budgeting and expense tracking, it helps you make smart decisions with clear, simple insights.

And remember—Zoho Books is included in Zoho One. That means no extra cost, no extra signups, and no reason not to start.

Step-by-Step: Set Up Invoicing and Payment Tracking in Zoho Books

1. From your Zoho One dashboard, open Zoho Books.
2. Click to Settings>Preferences> Organization and customize with your logo, business info, and payment terms.

3. Navigate to Settings > Preferences > Sales>Invoices to set up your default invoice template.

4. Head over to Contacts and add your first client.
5. Click + New Invoice, select your contact, and add your offer details.
6. Set a due date and add any taxes or discounts.

7. Click Send to email the invoice directly—or copy the link to share it.
8. Turn on Payment Reminders to automate your follow-ups.
9. Check Payments > Customer Payments to track who paid and when.
10. Use the Reports tab to generate summaries for taxes, income tracking, or budgeting.

👉 Try Zoho Books now

Bonus: Get Paid with Zoho Bookings

If you’re a consultant, coach, lawyer, or service provider—this one’s for you.

Zoho Bookings lets you get paid just by letting people book time on your calendar. No back-and-forth. No chasing payments. You set the availability, price, and payment method—Zoho handles the rest.

Here’s how to use it:

1. Open Zoho Bookings from your Zoho One dashboard.
2. Sync your Zoho Calendar or Google Calendar.
3. Create a new service (e.g. “Strategy Session – $197”).
4. Set your availability, duration, and buffer time.
5. Connect your payment gateway (Stripe, Razorpay, or PayPal).
6. Embed the booking link on your site or share it directly.

Your clients can book and pay in one smooth motion—no manual invoicing required.

Screenshots to include:

• Zoho Bookings calendar sync
• Service creation screen with pricing
• Booking link preview with payment option

👉 Try Zoho Bookings now

You don’t need a website. You don’t need a funnel. You don’t even need an audience. You just need a payment link and an offer that solves a problem.

By setting up your Zoho Checkout and Zoho Invoice tools now, you’re making sure your business isn’t just busy—it’s bankable.

Next Week: We’ll build out your online presence with a landing page, a bio site, and link everything to your brand.

👉 Set up Zoho Checkout now

Need Help? Book a Fix-It Session

If setting this up sounds like a headache, let me walk you through it.

I offer Fix-It Sessions where we get your Zoho payment tools set up in real time. You’ll walk away with:

• A live checkout page
• Your first invoice template
• Everything tested and connected to your bank account

👉 Book Your Fix-It Session Now 

Placeholder for video: How to Take Payments by Tonight Using Zoho Checkout and Invoice

FAQ: What New Business Owners Want to Know

1. Do I need a website to use Zoho Checkout? Nope! You get a hosted payment page with a shareable link you can post anywhere.

2. Can I connect PayPal or Stripe to Zoho? Yes, Zoho supports Stripe and Razorpay natively. For PayPal, you can use Zoho Invoice.

3. Is Zoho Invoice free? Zoho Invoice is 100% free and includes time tracking, estimates, recurring billing, and more.

4. What if I need recurring payments? Use Zoho Checkout’s recurring option or set up auto-invoicing in Zoho Invoice.5. Do I need Zoho Books too? If you want to track income and generate reports, yes—but Zoho Books Lite is included in Zoho One.

And if you’re a solopreneur or a local business, I’ve got good news: the trust advantage is already yours. You just haven’t tapped into it yet.

Let’s fix that.

Most Customers Trust You More Than the Big Guys—So Show Up Like It

There’s a reason your neighbors would rather buy honey from a local beekeeper than from a faceless megabrand. According to a PRWeb survey, 67% of consumers trust local businesses more than online-only brands. That’s a massive opportunity—and most small business owners are letting it go to waste.

While you’ve been stressing over trying to look bigger, your ideal customers have been looking for small, human, authentic businesses to give their money to. I’ve heard so many local businesses complain about big box stores. I’ve seen consultants do everything in their power to look big. This is no longer a thing. Big isn’t better—trustworthy is.

Why? Because they’re trying to market like the big guys. Glossy ads. Generic content. Bland stock photos.

But trust isn’t built on polish. It’s built on presence.

Tell Your Local Story Like You’d Tell a Friend Over Coffee

If your business started in your garage, or you learned everything you know from your grandmother’s pie shop, say that. Human stories are magnetic. They’re the antidote to bland marketing. You don’t need a branding agency to tell your story. Just a little honesty and a willingness to share.

Marketers like to say that your “mess is your message.” Don’t be afraid to talk about what inspired you, what drove you crazy, and what problem you were trying to solve. Lean into your uniqueness and humanity. It works.

Post about your journey on your website. Snap behind-the-scenes photos and share them on social. Let people meet the human behind the hustle.

That’s what builds customer trust. Not slick design. Not six-figure ad campaigns. You.

Community Isn’t a Buzzword—It’s Your Best Marketing Tool

There’s a reason local businesses that show up at street fairs, donate to school raffles, or sponsor little league teams always seem “top of mind.” They’re part of the community’s fabric.

Want to drive foot traffic? Sponsor a neighborhood cleanup day and hand out branded water bottles. Want more visibility? Partner with a local coffee shop for a “buy one, get one” promo. These aren’t just feel-good gestures—they’re strategic trust builders.

And they don’t require tech skills. Just a little time and a willingness to collaborate.

The Simplest Tools Work the Hardest When You Use Them Right

Let’s demystify “digital marketing” for a sec. You don’t need to master AI or run complex funnels. Just nail the basics:

Google Business Profile: Keep your hours updated. Add fresh photos regularly. Answer every review—even the awkward ones. Google favors active, well-maintained listings, and so do customers.

Social Media: Pick the platform where your customers are most likely visiting (this is often Facebook) and lean into it. You don’t need to be everywhere.

Email Newsletters: People LOVE newsletters that communicate specials, deals, and events. Relevant newsletters are everything. Tell your customers what you’re featuring this week or this month. Are there specials? Are there events? Share insider knowledge. Hair salons can talk about new styles, review products, and promote new services. Financial planners can explain financial products or demystify legislation. Regardless of your business, this is your space to shine.

Real People Saying Nice Things About You Is Your Best Advertising

Want instant credibility and customer trust? Show what others are saying about you.

Word of mouth is still the #1 marketing tactic. But you have to give people something to talk about. Pick something simple that you can lean into and deliver on 200% (yes, I’m exaggerating—but only slightly). It can be communication, timeliness, cleanliness, friendliness. Know what all these things have in common? They are FREE TO DO and deliver priceless results.

Use testimonials, Google reviews, and even quick customer quotes. Feature them prominently on your website, in your emails, on social posts. Better yet—ask happy customers to tag you when they post. That’s called user-generated content, and it’s pure trust gold.

Don’t have reviews yet? Ask for them—gently. “If you enjoyed your visit, a review would mean the world to us.” Just don’t offer rewards in exchange. It feels shady and Google might penalize you.

Your happy customers would be thrilled to share their great experience – but you have to make it easy on them.

Don’t Overthink Feedback—Just Ask and Listen

Formal surveys are great, but simple check-ins work too. Ask “What did you enjoy?” or “What can we do better?” when someone checks out. Use tools like Google Forms or Typeform for quick polls in your newsletter.

Listen, Listen, Listen. Pretend you know NOTHING about your business. Pretend you are a new hire and just listen to your customers. But here’s a secret way to listen: instead of listening to just what they are saying, listen for what they are NOT saying. What’s underneath the thing they are talking about? If you’re not sure, ask something like “Why is this important to you?”

Embrace complaints. A complaint is nothing more than a desire in disguise. If someone is complaining about wait times, what they want is faster service. Complaints are awesome because they tell you what the customer doesn’t want—and therefore what they do want instead.

And if you’re ready to level up, free tools like Genspark can help you analyze customer sentiment without needing a degree in data science. It’s like having a focus group in your back pocket.

Partner Up and Watch Your Reach Multiply

You don’t need a massive following when you can tap into someone else’s. Co-promote with other local businesses. Do a “Friday Favorites” series where you shout out your favorite neighborhood spots. Bundle services together—like a massage and a smoothie—or co-host a workshop.

Stop focusing on competition and start focusing on cooperation. Look for businesses who sell to the same customer and create partnerships. My friend Pamela Slim calls it the Peanut Butter and Jelly strategy. It’s two great businesses that are better together.

These cross-promotions aren’t just fun. They make both brands look more trustworthy because community is contagious.

Think of it this way, customer trust is transitive.  If they trust the partner business, they will trust you.  

Be Consistent, Not Complicated

The secret to marketing success isn’t complexity. It’s consistency.

This is more than branding. This is about behavior and what your customer can expect from you. I can’t stress this enough. As I said earlier, pick ONE thing that you’re going to blow out of the park. ONE thing and double and triple down. It can be communication, it can be friendliness, it can be the BEST delivery of a specific product or service. Whatever it is—be consistent.

Keep your tone, visuals, and message aligned across platforms. When someone walks into your shop after seeing your Instagram, it should feel like the same brand. Same vibe. Same voice.

The one thing any customer will choose is consistency at any price. When I want X, I’m going to go to Y. That’s it.

Let’s Wrap This Up With a Reality Check

Trust isn’t something you launch. It’s something you live.

And the solopreneurs and local businesses that win? They’re the ones who show up like real people, who care about their customers, who tell the truth, and who keep showing up.

If you’ve noticed anything here, I want you to notice that this stuff is FREE. The biggest cost to you is time and effort.

Always remember, marketing isn’t about DOING, it’s about BEING. And this research says that you have the eye and ear and desired loyalty of consumers. What are you going to do to actually earn it?

So here’s your move: Pick one trust-building habit and commit to it this week. Update your Google profile. Share a behind-the-scenes moment. Post a customer win.

Keep it real. Keep it simple. And most of all—keep showing up.

What to put this strategy to work in your business? Grab a Fix-it Session Here

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to use Zoho Start, Zoho Domains, and Zoho Mail to set up your entire business foundation—legally and professionally—in less than an hour. It’s all part of our 90-day plan to build a profitable business on one secure platform.

No consultants. No complicated tech. Just simple steps and one Zoho login.

Why You Should Register Your Business

Before we jump into the how, let’s talk about the why. Registering your business isn’t just a formality—it’s your first real move as a business owner. It unlocks bank accounts, tax deductions, vendor relationships, and builds immediate trust with customers and partners.

The 3 Most Common Business Structures:

• Sole Proprietorship: Easiest and cheapest to start, but you’re personally liable for everything.
  
• LLC (Limited Liability Company): The sweet spot for most solo businesses. Protects your personal assets and is simple to manage.
  
• Corporation (S or C): Best for startups planning to raise money or bring on investors. More paperwork and tax rules.
  

Our Recommendation:

If you’re a service provider, freelancer, or coach, go with an LLC. It gives you personal protection without the hassle of corporate formalities.

Now let’s walk through setting it all up with Zoho Start.

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Step 1: Register Your Business with Zoho Start

Zoho Start is like the friend who knows what paperwork to fill out and exactly where to send it.

Here’s your step-by-step:

1. Go to Zoho Start and create an account

2. Choose your business structure (LLC recommended)
   
3. Enter your desired business name and check for availability
   
4. Input your business address and member/owner details

5. Select any add-ons you want (like an EIN or Registered Agent)

6. Review and submit your application
   

Zoho handles the filing with your state and will keep you updated on the status. Most people complete the setup in under 30 minutes.

👉 Click here to launch your business with Zoho Start

You should be able to complete this in under 30 minutes—and Zoho will update you as your paperwork is processed.

Step 2: Grab a Domain with Zoho Domains

Before we dive into the setup, let’s talk about why this matters.

Buying a custom domain isn’t just about looking professional—it’s about building trust, securing your identity, and creating a brand that sticks.

Here’s why it matters:

• Branding: A domain like “janesmithcoaching.com” tells the world you’re serious. It helps people remember you and builds authority in your niche.
  
• Email Credibility: Using your domain for email (like you@yourbusiness.com) improves email deliverability and looks way more legit than Gmail or Yahoo.
  
• Privacy Protection: When you register through Zoho, you get domain privacy included. That means your personal information isn’t exposed online.
  
• Security & Control: Domains registered through Zoho are automatically integrated with Zoho Mail and other apps. You get full control over DNS, renewals, and user management—all in one place.
  

Now that you know why it matters, here’s how to do it with Zoho Domains.  If you’ve ever purchased a domain with GoDaddy, the process is exactly like that.  If you’ve never purchased a domain, you’ll find it a breeze.

Zoho Domains is built for solo founders who want simplicity and security. 

Here’s how it works:

• Buy or Bring Your Domain: You can register a brand-new domain or connect one you already own. If it’s registered elsewhere, you’ll verify it by adding a TXT or CNAME record. I’ll show you how to buy a domain name below.  Here is how I’ve added my existing domain. 

• Instant Email Integration: Domains registered with Zoho are pre-configured for use with Zoho Mail. That means no complicated DNS setup—email just works.
  
• Centralized Admin Console: You manage everything—email accounts, user access, DNS records, security settings—from one clean dashboard.
  
• Advanced Features: Use catch-all addresses, subdomain aliases, and domain-wide disclaimers without extra tools or tech help.
  

It’s all designed to support your small business operations without adding complexity or cost.

👉 Get your domain now with Zoho Domains

Step-by-Step: How to Purchase a Domain with Zoho Domains

1. Go to Zoho Domains and either sign in with your Zoho credentials, or open an account. 

2. Search for a Domain Name: Enter your desired domain name in the search bar to check availability. Try to get a .com if possible.

3. Select Your Domain: Choose from the available domains and click “Buy Now.”
4. Choose the Duration: You can register your domain for 1 to 5 years. One year is usually fine to start.
5. Enable Domain Privacy: Make sure this option is selected to protect your personal contact information from public WHOIS databases.

6. Review Your Cart: Confirm the domain name, duration, and privacy settings.
7. Make Your Payment: Enter your billing information and complete the checkout process.
8. Domain Activation: Once purchased, your domain will be listed in your Zoho admin console, pre-integrated for Zoho Mail and ready for further configuration.

That’s it—you’ve officially claimed your online real estate.

Step 3: Set Up Your Branded Email with Zoho Mail

Now that you’ve secured your domain, it’s time to tie it all together with a branded email address. This is the step that often takes down even the most determined DIY business builders. Why? Because setting up custom email on your domain usually involves digging through DNS settings, adding confusing MX records, and hoping you don’t accidentally crash your website in the process.

But this time, you’re using Zoho. So, it’s going to be easy.

When you get your domain through Zoho and use Zoho Mail, the entire process becomes nearly automatic. That’s not just easier—it’s smarter. You don’t need to call in a tech-savvy friend or spend hours Googling instructions. Zoho Mail does the heavy lifting for you.

Even better? Zoho Mail is one of the best Gmail alternatives out there—especially if you care about your data privacy. Zoho doesn’t scan your emails, doesn’t serve you ads, and doesn’t sell your data. It’s a secure, business-class inbox designed for entrepreneurs who want control without complexity.

And when you bundle it all with Zoho One? You’re looking at a full Google Workspace alternative—email, calendar, contacts, file sharing, and more—without the monthly shock to your wallet.

Once your domain is live, you’ll create a professional email address using Zoho Mail. Something like you@yourbusiness.com instantly upgrades how people perceive your brand.

With Zoho Mail, you get:

• A clean, ad-free inbox that feels like Gmail (without the tracking)
• Built-in calendar, tasks, and contacts
• Seamless integration with your new domain

Now let’s set up your Zoho Mail account. 

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Zoho Mail

1. Log in to your Zoho Admin Console: Start at mailadmin.zoho.com and sign in with your Zoho credentials.

2. Add Your Domain (if not already integrated): If you registered your domain through Zoho, it’s pre-configured. Otherwise, follow the on-screen steps to verify and configure DNS.
3. Create User Accounts: Add yourself and any team members as users. Assign email addresses (e.g. you@yourbusiness.com).

4. Set Up Email Delivery: If you purchased or registered your domain through Zoho Domains, this will be done for you.  Zoho will guide you through updating MX records if needed (for outside-registered domains like from GoDaddy).  
5. Enable Security Features: Turn on two-factor authentication and SPF/DKIM for email security. 

• Go to Security and Compliance > TFA (Two-Factor Authentication).
• Toggle it ON and enable for your entire organization.
• Users will be prompted to set up their preferred 2FA method (Zoho OneAuth, SMS, etc.).

6. Set Up SPF Record: Setting up an SPF (Sender Policy Framework) record tells email providers that Zoho is authorized to send emails on your behalf. This helps prevent spoofing and improves your email deliverability.

• Navigate to Domains > [Your Domain] > Email Configuration > SPF.
• Copy the SPF TXT record (typically v=spf1 include:zoho.com ~all).
• Paste it as a TXT record in your DNS provider.
• Click ‘Verify SPF Record’ in Zoho.

7. Set Up DKIM Record: DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail) adds a digital signature to your emails, verifying they came from your domain and weren’t tampered with in transit. This is critical for brand trust and inbox placement.

• Go to Domains > [Your Domain] > Email Configuration > DKIM.
• Click ‘Add’ and generate a selector (e.g., zoho).
• Copy the DKIM TXT record.
• Add it to your DNS provider under the name zoho._domainkey.
• Verify and enable DKIM in Zoho Mail.

👉 Set up Zoho Mail with your domain

If you bought your domain through Zoho, setup is nearly automatic. If not, Zoho gives you a step-by-step guide to update your DNS settings.

Why Zoho Is the Best Choice for Solo Founders

Most people spend $250–$500 cobbling together tools to get their business off the ground. With Zoho, you can:

• Register your LLC
• Buy your domain
• Set up a branded email
  

…all for around $120–$150 total. And you do it all in one place. No juggling logins, no hidden fees, and no waiting weeks for approvals.  And these are basically one time set up costs.  After you’ve done that, if you’re using Zoho One, you are at about $37 per month per user,

Plus, Zoho’s values align with yours. They don’t answer to shareholders—they answer to you. They’re committed to privacy, small business support, and tools that make sense for founders who want to run lean.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let This Be Another Thing You Put Off

Whew, that was a lot of work—but here’s the thing: you could literally do all of this in one sitting. No tech help. No 12-tab YouTube rabbit hole. Just a streamlined, professional setup that gives you everything you need to get started.

And the result? Your business is legit (literally). You’re officially registered and you’ve hung out your shingle—on paper and online. You’ve claimed your name, your email, and your presence. That’s more than most would-be entrepreneurs ever do.

Next week, we’re going to get you paid. We’ll walk through how to set up Zoho’s payment tools and connect them to your bank account, so you’re ready to make your first sale and actually collect money like a real business.
Need Help? Book a Fix-It Session

If you’re feeling stuck or just want someone to walk through this with you—I’m here to help. I offer personal Fix-It Sessions where we go through your Zoho Start, domain setup, and email configuration step-by-step.

Whether you’re stuck at the beginning or just want to make sure it’s done right, we’ll get your business set up fast—and right the first time.

👉 Book Your Fix-It Session Now

Placeholder for video:
How to Set Up Your Business in 30 Minutes Using Zoho Start (walkthrough of all 3 tools)

FAQ: What New Business Owners Want to Know

1. Do I have to use Zoho for everything?
Nope—but using Zoho for your business foundation means everything is designed to work together. No duct tape. No Frankenstacks. Just clean integrations and one login to rule them all.

2. What if I already registered my business—can I still follow along?
Absolutely. You can skip the Zoho Start part and jump straight into getting your domain and setting up your email with Zoho Mail. Everything else still applies.

3. Can I use a domain I already own with Zoho Mail?
Yes! You can connect any domain to Zoho Mail with a few simple DNS tweaks. Zoho provides clear, step-by-step instructions.

4. What if I’m not tech-savvy—will I need help?
That’s the beauty of Zoho Start and Domains. These tools are made for non-techies. No coding. No jargon. You can truly do this in one sitting without outside help.5. Is Zoho really a good alternative to Google Workspace?
Yes, and in some ways it’s better—especially if you care about data privacy and cost. Zoho gives you email, calendar, documents, and even CRM in one affordable platform.

If you’ve ever sent an email or put together an offer and felt like something was missing — but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it — you’re not alone. That “almost there” feeling is more common than you think, and it usually comes down to one thing: clarity.

Over the last few weeks, I’ve been helping members of the DIYMarketers community fine-tune their emails and offers. We’ve been digging into what’s working, what’s confusing, and how small changes can make a big difference. (I call those “Fix-It Sessions”- more on that after the tips)

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now

One community member shared an email promoting an amazing offer — but when I read it, I noticed it was missing something critical: clarity around the result the reader could expect. The message had heart and value, but the takeaway wasn’t obvious. 

In this email and “Fix it Session” example, I’ll walk you through a process you can use to make sure you’re marketing message gets conversions. 

Step-by-Step: How to Reverse Engineer a High-Converting Offer

Step 1: Scroll With Intention Go through your Facebook feed, Instagram stories, or Google search results. Don’t just skim. Scroll until something stops you in your tracks. Take screenshots of anything that makes you want to click.

Here’s one that came up in my facebook stream. 

Let’s go over what grabbed me that led me to click from the ad to the landing page. 

“Every morning I wake up to 10 new leads asking about my coaching services in the DMs”  

This is super captivating and appealing.  I mean the ideal desired outcome for any consultant or coach is to have a flood of new prospects waiting on you without having to do anything. 

Another attractive piece of copy is where it says “I never had to touch a single DM”

But then – it says “My assistant sends 1000 cold DMs every month and generates 24 clients.

Also notice that there’s a huge (and intentional) gap between what’s said and unsaid about HOW these 24 clients show up from DMs.  This is what the program is about. 

I often recommend that you make this a daily practice and look for ways to incorporate those practices into your marketing. 

Step 2: Ask yourself “What grabbed me”? 

Dissect the ad or message. What words or phrases caught your attention? Was it a dream outcome? A bold claim? Something you desperately want to avoid?

Here’s what grabbed my attention and how you can adapt your offer to do the same:

1. DM Script​ — in the yellow bar, “DM script” jumped out at me.  No one wants to talk to prospects or customers and “DM script” offers an escape from that.  Selling feels icky and no one wants to do it.  SO, DM script sounds awesome. 

Your turn:

Think about your own offer – does it offer an escape from something? If so, what can they avoid doing ever again?  And what is it that they want that they can get – even without doing the thing they want to avoid doing. 

2. 20% Conversion rate — This is a desired outcome. Conversions are downright impossible right now as people are looking for something that works. 

Your turn: 

What is the desired outcome your customer is yearning for? Is it something that seems or feels impossible to achieve or maybe something they’ve tried to achieve over and over but failed. 

3. “Stop wasting hours on dead end leads” — wasting time = wasting money. Spending time doing something to get NOTHING.  It’s that slot machine thing.  So the promise to avoid yet another activity you don’t want to do. 

Your turn:

Think about what specific activities have your customers been doing over and over again and gotten NOTHING for it. 

4. “My VA turns DMs into High-Ticket Clients Daily”: Someone else does the work and can convert just as well as I can. 

Your turn:

What is it that makes your offer effortless and easy to implement or put to use?  

5. 15 minutes or less – Getting fast results is another must-have ingredient for an irresistible offer. In this case, the promise of not taking over my day. May be really easy if I can do it in just 15 minutes. 

Your turn:

In what ways does YOUR offer generate results quickly, easily, and effortlessly?

6. Negligible investment of only $7 – this is a no brainer, low-cost offer.  It’s called a trip-wire.  It’s designed to ferret out buyers from tire-kickers.

Your turn:

What element of your full-price offer can you provide as a lead magnet or a sample that will provide value for the money and also qualify and filter your ideal customers who would be happy to pay the full price?

7. The small print – This landing page has some valuable small print that provides critical information.  A lot of these offers don’t provide this, but it often holds important information. 

It’s hard to see in the image, so I’ve pulled it out here: 

The results you see are the results of specific clients. We do not guarantee you will receive any specific results. You could get better results, worse results, or the same results. We only guarantee that we will give you our tools to help increase the performance of your ads or your money back..  

Notice in the small print it tells you they only guarantee that you’ll get tools to help increase the performance of your ads – right away you can see that this is going to be something with ads, most likely facebook ads.  

Read the small print because if you have no intention of doing ads, then this isn’t for you. 

Now the question is how can you reverse engineer this ad and landing page in a way that’s going to make your offer do well.

Step 3: Reverse Engineer Your Offer Against the Sample

Now let’s take all of those elements that jumped out at you and see how you can fit your offer inside those same criteria.

What is the result you’re selling?: Not the product, but the transformation. In the example below, it wasn’t about DMs or a VA. It was about getting high-ticket clients with zero effort.  

• Describe the before, during, and after: Imagine that you’re a camera.  Picture your ideal customer in their natural habitat. Describe what you see.  Notice what feelings they are experiencing; pain, frustration, doubt, etc. What’s causing these feelings, where are they struggling? 
• Imagine them experiencing your offer.  What is their experience with your offer? Finally, what is the transformation? Compare the before to the after.  This is a lot like any infomercial where they expand on the pain and frustration and
• Show the after; the relief, the joy, the success.  In what ways is their life different? This is the desired outcome.

Spot the “Implied How”: What’s being hinted at but not fully explained? That gap creates curiosity and makes you click. Look for what’s said and unsaid.

• Build curiosity. What you don’t say about your offer is actually one of the most powerful conversion levers you can use.  Just look at the ads that grabbed you. Notice how the promise of the silver bullet is the magnet.  
• Test the offer. I don’t often advocate purchasing expensive offers, but consider purchasing some of these low cost offers and save them for your research and swipe file. Your goal is to see the level of detail or value that you get from 

Break Down the Trust Triggers: Low price? Big guarantee? Simple time investment? Clear steps? These remove friction and lower risk.

• Prove you get them: My favorite trust trigger is actually the copy.  The level to which your copy grabs their attention, keeps them reading and generates clicks will tell you how much trust there is. 

Create the Fine Print: Sometimes the truth of what’s actually being delivered is in the disclaimers. Learn how they manage expectations.

• Should you add fine print?  I say it’s a good idea, especially if you are charging for the tripwire.  Few people read it, and, at the same time, you can reveal elements of what’s in the offer that will help define what’s in the offer. 

Set a low price: Instead of giving things away for free, offer a low-price offer.  $7 is very popular. 

• Your goal is to qualify prospects here, not make a million dollars.  Make the price a no-brainer, but one that still communicates value. 

Sell the feeling: This ad doesn’t sell you a product. It sells you a feeling — of ease, automation, and ROI. That’s what you need to sell, too.

ACTION STEP: Pick one ad this week and reverse engineer it using the 6 steps above. Then take what you’ve learned and apply it to your own email, landing page, or social post.

Want help breaking down your offer? Book a Fix-It Session with me and we’ll turn your almost-there message into something that sells.

That’s not just a smart question—it’s a necessary one. Especially if you work in healthcare, finance, law, or any industry where data privacy is non-negotiable. This article breaks down the safest AI tools for small business use, which ones to avoid, and how to use them without compromising client trust.

Use this guide to find the best safe AI options for small business so you can work faster without putting sensitive data at risk.

Is Your Company Data Safe With AI Tools?

Sometimes. It depends entirely on which tool you use and how it’s configured. Free versions of AI chatbots are often less private, while enterprise versions usually offer stronger protections.

Let’s break down the differences between popular platforms.

ChatGPT (OpenAI)

ChatGPT is widely used by small business owners. It’s fast, intuitive, and versatile. But if you’re using the free or Plus version, it’s important to know that your inputs may be used to train the model.

Free and Plus Versions (chat.openai.com)

• Conversations may be used for model training
  
• Staff may review your prompts
  
• Chat history can be turned off, but training use still applies
  

Enterprise and Teams Plans

• Your data is not used for training
  
• All data is encrypted and private
  
• You retain full control and ownership
  

Privacy Details

Bottom Line: Don’t share client data in the free version. If privacy matters, upgrade.

Claude (Anthropic)

Claude is built with privacy in mind. Whether you’re on the free or Pro version, Anthropic does not train its model on your inputs. It’s one of the safest AI options for small business owners who don’t want to worry about data collection.

Claude 2 and 3 (claude.ai)

• No training on your prompts
  
• Temporary storage for system stability
  
• Pro users get the same protections
  

Privacy Statement

Bottom Line: One of the most secure and user-friendly choices for small business.

Gemini (Google)

Gemini, formerly Bard, is integrated across Google products. That can be convenient, but also comes with privacy trade-offs. Unless you’re using Gemini for Workspace, assume that your data might be used to improve the tool.

Gemini (Public Version)

• Prompts may be reviewed and stored
  
• Data can be used to improve AI
  
• Privacy settings are customizable through your Google account
  

Gemini for Workspace

• Offers stronger data controls
  

Privacy FAQ

Bottom Line: Free version isn’t one of the safest AI options for small business. Use the enterprise version for stronger protection.

Grok (xAI / Twitter)

Grok is Twitter’s AI assistant created by xAI. It’s designed to entertain more than serve regulated business use. If you’re wondering about its privacy policies—there’s not much transparency.

Grok (via X Premium)

• Tied to your Twitter account
  
• No clear enterprise-level protections
  
• Minimal data policy documentation
  

Privacy Policy

Bottom Line: Grok isn’t a safe AI option for small business tasks involving real data.

Zoho One - The Operating System for Small Business

Imagine a world where all your business tools play nicely together (cue angelic choir). Whether it’s handling your finances, projects, or marketing, Zoho One keeps everything seamless and oh-so-simple. Plus, the price? A fraction of what you'd pay for piecing together different apps. Talk about a BARGAIN!

If you’re ready to take the leap from surviving to thriving, Zoho One is your trusty steed. Let’s ride into the sunset of efficiency, my friends. Click that button and get ready to supercharge your hustle!

Buy Now

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Zoho Zia

Zia is Zoho’s built-in AI assistant and one of the most secure choices available to small business owners. It doesn’t rely on public data or third-party models, and it stays entirely inside your Zoho environment.

While tools like IBM WatsonX or Salesforce Einstein can cost tens of thousands annually, Zoho Zia comes included with Zoho One—making it one of the most cost-effective and safe AI options for small business.

Where You’ll Use Zia

Zoho CRM

• Suggests optimal follow-up times
  
• Flags deals at risk
  
• Analyzes trends in your pipeline
  

Zoho Desk

• Summarizes customer service tickets
  
• Recommends help docs
  
• Detects churn risk
  

Zoho Books and Projects

• Flags unusual expenses
  
• Helps organize tasks
  
• Answers accounting questions in plain English
  

Zoho Privacy Commitment

Bottom Line: Zia is a powerful, private AI built for business—and it doesn’t share or train on your data.

AI Tools by Small Business Type

Here’s a quick comparison of the safest AI tools for small business use based on what kind of company you run:

How to Use AI Safely in Your Business

• Don’t paste sensitive client or financial info into free AI tools
  
• Use business or enterprise versions whenever possible
  
• Regularly clear chat history and review platform settings
  
• Stick to tools like Claude, Zoho Zia, or enterprise ChatGPT
  
• Write and share a simple AI usage policy with your team
  

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the safest AI options for small business?

Claude and Zoho Zia are currently the most secure, small business-friendly AI tools. They don’t use your data for training and have clear privacy protections built in.

Can I use ChatGPT for business without sharing data?

Only with the Enterprise or Teams version. The free and Plus versions collect and store your inputs unless you opt out—and even then, there’s still risk.

Is it safe to upload client documents into AI tools?

Not on free versions. Always avoid uploading anything that includes personal, financial, or protected information unless you’re using a secured, private AI platform.

What kind of businesses need private AI tools?

Any business that deals with legal, financial, or medical information—or simply wants to protect internal strategy and customer trust—should prioritize privacy in their AI tools.

How do I know if an AI tool is training on my data?

Check their privacy policy. Look for phrases like “used to improve our services” or “data may be reviewed.” That usually means it’s fair game for training.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions

Can I turn off data sharing in AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini?

In some cases, yes. ChatGPT allows you to turn off chat history, which limits data from being used for training—but doesn’t guarantee full privacy unless you’re on an enterprise plan. Gemini users can manage activity in their Google settings, but complete opt-outs usually require Workspace.

What does it mean when a tool says it doesn’t “train on your data”?

It means your inputs aren’t being used to improve the AI model. Claude and Zoho Zia are examples of tools that keep your data private and do not use your content to refine their systems.

What if I already used sensitive data in a free AI tool?

Go back and delete the conversation history if the platform allows it. Also, review your privacy settings and consider switching to a business-grade tool moving forward.

Can I use AI tools with encrypted email or cloud services?

Yes, but it depends on how the AI is integrated. Tools like Zia, which operate inside secured platforms like Zoho, are better suited for working alongside secure services. Always check that both ends—your AI and your storage—follow strong encryption standards.

What AI tool works best for solopreneurs or startups with tight budgets?

Zoho Zia is a strong option if you’re already using Zoho One. It gives you enterprise-grade AI features without the massive cost. Claude’s free version is also a solid pick if you want privacy without paying upfront.

Final Take

You don’t need to avoid AI—you need to use it smartly. Choose platforms that are built for business, respect your privacy, and give you control over your data.

Looking for a simple list? Download the Safe AI Use for Small Business checklist.

If you care about your clients, your brand, and your bottom line, finding safe AI options for small business isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Fix It Session

$150.00

Send me one thing you’re stuck on in your business — a page, funnel, or offer. I’ll review it and send you a short video with clear feedback and next steps. No pressure, just a simple, actionable fix to get you unstuck.

Schedule Now