Get richer teacher with Ola Kowalska

In this episode I talk about:

• establishing strong foundations, including target audience, messaging, and one-to-one offers
• the important yet frustrating stage of getting those foundations right
• Introduction to the Rocket Takeoff program to support struggling freelancers in their business journey
  
  The program I talk about, The Rocket Take off, is designed explicitly for freelance teachers at the earlier stages of their business journey. In just 3 weeks, we cover everything you need to set those foundations up for good and so you can have a steady stream of high-paying students in no time. I bet that if you put in the work, you could find your first well-paying student before the course ends! Join us now!

Thanks for tuning into the Get Richer Teacher Podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, head over to Apple Podcasts to subscribe, rate, and leave your honest review.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 400 language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see the world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their students lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business. Take a look at what I offer here!

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

In this episode I talk about:

• my journey from working in a language school to starting my own online language school
• Adapting to online teaching during the pandemic and helping others transition
• Feeling the need for change and embracing a new identity as a language school owner
• Importance of messy action, trust, and building a strong community
• Invitation for language school owners to seek support and guidance

In this podcast episode, I address seven common mistakes made by freelance language teachers. These mistakes include undercharging for services, neglecting marketing efforts, failing to diversify income, struggling with time management, lacking boundaries, and disregarding self-care. I emphasises the importance of recognising the value of one's services, being proactive in marketing, exploring different income streams, managing time effectively, setting boundaries with clients, and prioritising personal well-being.

***

Timestamped overview:

[00:00] In this podcast episode, the host discusses the importance of giving and receiving feedback and apologizes in advance if they come across as too blunt.
[01:08] The first mistake freelance teachers make is undercharging for their services and not recognizing the value they bring beyond just language expertise.
[03:08] Neglecting marketing efforts and being passive about finding students is another common mistake made by teachers.
[05:32] Diversifying income is crucial for freelance teachers to move beyond survival mode and explore passive income streams.
[07:20] Teachers often struggle with time management and need to prioritize their needs and find students who can accommodate their preferred teaching schedule.
[09:59] Teachers should not underestimate the time required for business activities and need to make time for marketing and other business-related tasks.
[11:20] Setting boundaries with students and clients is essential for sustainable teaching and business practices.
[13:16] Teachers often overlook their own well-being and sacrifice themselves for others, but it is important to prioritize self-care and set a good example.
[15:46] The host encourages teachers to reflect on these mistakes, make small changes, and start the process of improving their teaching and business practices.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

In this podcast episode, I address the common concerns language teachers have about pricing their lessons and products. I emphasise the need for a strategic approach to pricing, highlighting that it is not just a random decision but a way to position oneself in the market and attract the right audience. The host explains that specialising in a certain area or target audience allows teachers to charge higher prices, as it demonstrates expertise and value. They also discuss the importance of understanding the customer journey and communicating the benefits and outcomes of language learning. Overall, the episode encourages teachers to have confidence in their pricing and to continually evaluate and adjust their prices as their business grows.

Make sure that you have a look at my £9 pricing course here to get help in that too!

***

Timestamped overview:

[0:00] In this podcast episode, the host addresses the common concern among teachers about charging too much and discusses the importance of pricing strategy.

[1:25] The host explains that pricing is not a random decision but should be based on positioning yourself in the market and attracting your target audience.

[3:30] The host emphasises the importance of specialisation and how it allows you to charge more for your services.

[5:45] The host shares her own experience as a business coach for teachers and how specialising in helping teachers has allowed her to set her own prices.

[8:00] The host advises teachers to know their audience well and spend time listening and experimenting with pricing.

[9:45] The host encourages teachers to communicate the value and benefits of their services effectively to justify their prices.

[12:00] The host explains that pricing should be based on the stage of the customer's journey and the perceived value of the product or service.

[13:45] The host addresses common objections to higher prices and suggests positioning yourself as an expert solution to minimise price negotiations.

[15:30] The host summarizes the key points and assigns a homework task to evaluate pricing and target audience.

[16:30] The host concludes the episode, encourages sharing and subscribing, and thanks the audience for listening.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

This episode emphasises the need for language teachers to avoid being pushy or manipulative when selling their services. It highlights the outdated marketing techniques still being used and the importance of understanding the concerns and struggles of potential customers. Building authentic connections and creating educational content that addresses those concerns is recommended. It also encourages teachers to focus on their target audience and create offers that are a right fit for them, rather than just teaching language skills. By understanding their audience and their problems, teachers can sell their services more effectively and enjoy a sustainable and fulfilling business.

The book mentioned in the episode is called Influence by Robert Cialdini.

***

Timestamped overview:

[0:00] In this episode, the focus is on not being pushy or salesy when selling teaching services and courses.
[0:34] Many big brands have poor marketing and sales techniques that are outdated and ineffective.
[1:16] The book Influence by a researcher describes emotional triggers in purchasing decisions, but marketers have used this information for their benefit.
[2:15] Understand your audience's concerns and struggles, which go beyond just language-related issues.
[3:30] Building authentic connections with your audience helps you understand their struggles and concerns.
[4:30] Avoid teaching via content and focus on creating educational content that solves people's problems related to language.
[6:00] Teachers often nurture relationships with other teachers, but need to focus on understanding their target audience.
[7:00] Understand who you're trying to help and what their problems are to create the right offer for them.
[8:30] Selling becomes easier when the marketing and messaging are aligned with your audience's needs.
[10:00] Nurture relationships with your audience by offering free content with an end goal of profitability.
[11:30] Creating a profitable business allows for more freedom to experiment and enjoy teaching.
[12:30] Selling should not be about pushing or manipulating people, but about helping and understanding your audience.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

In this episode we're talking about  avoiding burnout in your freelance teaching business. The topics I cover are:

• Avoiding burnout and maintaining work-life balance.
• Setting boundaries with oneself and others.
• Understanding the link between burnout and hormones.
• Developing a personalized self-care routine.
• Shifting mindset to see rest as preparation for work.
• Finding ways to plan and organize work effectively.

***

Timestamped overview:

[00:02:01] Tips for avoiding burnout and improving productivity.

[00:06:16] Burnout and hormones linked to menstrual cycle.

[00:09:53] Setting boundaries is challenging but necessary.

[00:12:16] Unsustainable self-care, need a new approach.

[00:15:49] Self care: path of least resistance. Mindset shift: rest prepares for work. Anxiety of going to work on Monday.

[00:17:36] Flexibility in planning can lead to success.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

In this episode we're talking about building a teacher personal brand:

• While language skills are crucial, they shouldn't be the sole determinant of success. Showcase your broader understanding of what it takes to become a fluent speaker - don't build your brand solely on your language expertise
• Embracing authenticity: Standing out from the crowd by showing up online as your genuine self. Let your personality shine through and infuse it into every aspect of your brand, from visual elements like colours to the choice of fonts. Authenticity attracts an engaged audience.
• Considering your target audience: Building an effective brand requires a good relationship with your customers. Identify your target audience and develop a deep understanding of their needs and desires. Create content that entertains, engages, and aligns with your values.

If you're at the beginning of your teacher bran building journey you may find my new free audio training called 'Teacher starter kit' may be of interest. It's a 5-day step-by-step process to help you build a profitable, sustainable and enjoyable teaching business from scratch. You can get access to it here.

***

Timestamped overview:

[00:03:36] Start by analyzing yourself, find your passion. The Big Leap is a helpful book. Brands should be unique and reflect you. Consider using a SWOT analysis.

[00:05:26] Consider writing, leverage opportunities, minimise weaknesses.

[00:07:49] Colours and fonts represent me perfectly. Branding and customer relationships are crucial. Target audience matters.

[00:13:33] Teacher's focus on language limits success.

[00:14:50] Building a brand means more than language. Becoming an influencer attracts brands and money.

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!

this episode, Ola shares some ways in which teachers can make the summer count by:

• reflecting on the last 6 months
• planning what's next
• committing to take action

The episode comes with a handy workbook called 'Your business check-in' that can be used in  the summer, at the end of the year or any other transition period. Download it for free here!

Thanks for tuning into the Get Richer Teacher Podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, head over to Apple Podcasts to subscribe, rate, and leave your honest review. Connect with me on Instagram, visit my website for even more detailed strategies, and be sure to share your favourite episodes on social media. Get your free marketing 10 ways to find students for your language classes here.

Now, it’s time to go get richer, teacher!

Tune in to the latest episode of the  podcast, where Ola dives deep into this topic and shares valuable insights and strategies to help you conquer your sales fears. Here are three key takeaways from the episode:
💡 Takeaway 1: Change your perception of failure: In the world of online business, low sales or a product not selling is seen as information, not a judgment on your worth. Embrace the notion that failures provide valuable feedback and opportunities for growth.
💡 Takeaway 2: Target a specific audience: By choosing a specific audience to target, you can tailor your approach and achieve faster results. This also reduces competition, enhances your understanding of their needs, and allows you to create more effective solutions and products.
💡 Takeaway 3: Embrace discomfort and take action: Our brains are wired to keep us safe and comfortable, but growth and progress require going against this natural tendency. Embrace the discomfort of taking risks and making informed decisions. Don't let fear paralyze you from moving forward.

If you want to understand your tendencies even better try (just for fun!) these two quizzes might help:

• Money Archetype quiz by Denise Duffield Thomas.
• Self sabotages quiz

The doors to my signature course, 🚀The Rocket (in its new edition called Rocket Accelerator and all focused on diversifying your income) are open until the end of 4/07. Sign up here!

***

Timestamped overview:

[00:03:09] Teaching experience & variety important in job interviews but not in  business, sales require relevant arguments.

[00:05:27] Helping others requires getting to know them, focusing attention. Like one-on-one language study for quicker results. Group settings divide attention, marketing and sales too. Narrow focus benefits specific groups, not exclusion of others.

[00:08:16] Fear of not being good enough or unique enough in business; fear of imposter syndrome and rejection. Realize it's just your brain.

[00:11:25] Invest in Rocket course/tools, take risks, fear of failure in online business. Lack of sales ≠ judgment/feedback on worth.

[00:15:57] Fear of potential failure, hesitation to target specific audience, concern over others' perception, self-doubt, fear of wasted effort. Take action despite fear and discomfort. No alternative solution provided.

[00:17:30] Your brain wants you to stay safe, but you must do the opposite to grow. Negative thoughts are a survival mechanism, not always accurate. You can figure it out, though some situations are clearly dangerous.

[00:21:05] This text describes a money personality quiz by Denise Duffield Thomas that reveals your attitude towards money.

[00:24:49] Choose what serves you, not just what keeps you safe. Safety doesn't guarantee happiness, growth, or prosperity. Food for thought. See you on the Rocket or in the next episode. Good luck!

Thanks for tuning into the Get Richer Teacher Podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, head over to Apple Podcasts to subscribe, rate, and leave your honest review. Connect with me on Instagram, visit my website for even more detailed strategies, and be sure to share your favourite episodes on social media. Get your free marketing 10 ways to find students for your language classes here.

Now, it’s time to go get richer, teacher!

Here are top five takeaways from this episode:
1. It's crucial to define what financial freedom means to you. Take the time to reflect on your values, priorities, and goals. Don't just follow advice blindly, but create a plan that aligns with your unique vision.

2. Building financial freedom requires taking action and being proactive. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you, but try out different income streams, products, and marketing strategies until you find what works for your situation.

3. Sustainability is key. It's tempting to aim for short-term financial gains, but in the long run, having a stable, predictable income is much more valuable. Focus on creating a business that will last, not just one that makes a quick buck.

4. Saying "it is what it is" can be dangerous. While acceptance is important, you don't want to feel stuck or hopeless. Recognize when change is possible and desirable, and then take action to make it happen.

5. Freedom is a multifaceted concept. It's not just about having a lot of money, but about having control over your time, energy, and relationships. Prioritise doing work that you love, treating yourself with kindness, and cultivating a support system that will help you achieve your goals.

Passive income can be a great way to contribute to your vision of financial freedom. If you want to learn how to leverage passive income in your teaching business you can't miss my free event 26-27/06/2023 'Mission: Passive Income'. Sign up here!

Hey, I'm Ola!

For the last 2 years I have been helping language teachers like you build online brands, connect with their perfect students and make more money. I used to be a teacher, a teacher trainer and even ran my own language school in the past, but I am now focused on coaching teachers full-time (and I love it!) So far I have helped over 300 hundred language educators from all over the world and my mission is to see a world where teachers thrive, enjoy the hell out of life and their job and have a great impact on their student's lives (without burnout or selling their souls).

How we can work together for free:

• you can listen to this weekly podcast!
• you can read my blog
• you can watch my '10 ways to find perfect students' training for free here
• you can request my ebook with 33 ideas for things you can sell as a teacher here
• you can follow me on Instagram where I share tons of tips and inspiration for teachers in business

You can also pay me for help in your teaching business:

• you can buy one of my many digital and hybrid courses
• we can work together in my 1:1 coaching/mentoring program
• you can join my group coaching Mastermind experience

Whatever you choose - I'm totally committed to your success! Go get richer, teacher!