My Mastermind Beta Test

Today I wanted to share a valuable lesson I learned that helped me overcome a challenge I was facing.

When I had the opportunity to join a mastermind group, I was hesitant. The moment I walked into the entrance of their building, a feeling caught me off guard. It was a collaborative workspace building, where I knew other entrepreneurs were building successful businesses.  My eyes were opened. I realized I missed that corporate feeling riding up the elevator on my way to our conference room. The feeling I got when joining this mastermind group was unlike anything else. This group of aspiring entrepreneurs were willing and eager to support one another. Our goals were shared, we challenged one another, and we had accountability.  Even though a mastermind was not on my radar, it was exactly what I needed.

I was excited to be part of a group of confident entrepreneurs who understood what it takes to build a business by sharing ideas and helping each other succeed. They were making a difference and finding positive ROI. Sitting side-by-side with these entrepreneurs was when I decided it was time for me to take action. Three things came as a result of that mastermind, I ran my first webinar, I became a published author, and I started my own mastermind. I am the owner and creator of EPIK Mastermind.

Starting my own mastermind wasn’t easy. I followed the same blueprint from the original group, but reality struck because this was all mine. This was the first time I had my own product and service. I needed to find participants but instead found myself stuck. I was ready to push forward but felt alone like most entrepreneurs do.

With the encouragement of a mentor from SCORE, I created a beta group for EPIK Mastermind. Beta testing gave an opportunity for entrepreneurs to experience first-hand a mastermind. Plus, I was excited to share my experience to help them move forward. My beta test was a sample. Instead of a six-month program, I offered a condensed three-month version. Instead of meeting two hours a week, we met one hour a week.  Testing gave me the real-life experience of running a mastermind.

Testing my mastermind as a beta group was a great way to get feedback from those who participated. 

It’s hard to put into words just how much my beta group helped me. Some people might think that being in a leadership position means you always have all answers, but I found out otherwise. That’s what is so great about masterminds. The group works together. There were no right or wrong answers or even having control of the details. Instead the solutions were discovered because there were fresh eyes 

Beta testing gave me the opportunity to focus on the experience of the participants. I defined my target market which was female entrepreneurs who were stuck and struggling with their business. As a result, I received testimonials I was able to use on a sales page that speaks for itself. 

Today EPIK Mastermind has evolved. There is now a follow-up group where entrepreneurs can stay connected monthly instead of weekly. Beta testing is a balance of asking your best people for the project and being open to change. The benefits I gained outweighed the risks because I was able to offer a hands-on experience as a learning curve. There are many mastermind groups where you’re just a number and there’s no personalization. EPIK Mastermind is a group of ten entrepreneurs who are always willing to help you. We are committed to accountability as we openly share our goals with our peers. Overall, everyone is influenced in a positive way by learning from others’ skills and experiences–and expanding their own knowledge.

Lisa Carmichael ~ Owner & Creator of EPIK Mastermind. lisarcarmichael.com