Xocial Gong, LLC

At Xocial Gong, we help small business owners, startups, and freelancers build visibility, trust, and traction using LinkedIn — without relying on paid ads or complicated funnels. 

Our strategy is built around a simple truth: most people don't get business on LinkedIn because they’re using the wrong approach or none at all. We fix that by helping you optimize your profile, doing targeted outreach, and filling your calendar with meetings from prospects who are already interested in what you offer.

Our philosophy is rooted in the concept of the Link(Ed)In Net(Work)ER — also the title of my upcoming book. It’s about making genuine connections, doing the work that drives results, and using smart, human-first systems to grow your business.

What We Do:

Profile audits and optimization for visibility and credibility

Strategic outreach campaigns to connect you with decision-makers

Messaging frameworks that start real conversations

Calendar booking with qualified leads (no cold pitching, no fluff)

Ongoing support to keep your pipeline full and your presence sharp

Who We Serve:

Small business owners, solopreneurs, consultants, founders, and sales professionals who are ready to scale — and tired of being invisible online.

I don’t call myself a marketing expert or a sales guru. I’m just someone who cares, who’s done the work, still doing the work, learned what actually moves the needle, and now helps others do the same. That’s why I call myself the Chief Helpfulness Officer.

📲 Curious how we can help? Text me directly: +1 323-690-1659

Founder, Chief Helpfulness Officer

Iron Dog Fitness

I am the owner and founder of Iron Dog Fitness Personal Training.  I am a personal trainer with over 23 years of experience in the health and fitness industry.  My primary objective is to help you achieve your personal health and fitness goals. I don't put together a cookie-cutter workout and nutrition plan. I walk you through an initial assessment that is designed to target not just your goals but what you need to work on to assure a successful outcome specific to the plan we create together just for you.

USA Weightlifting Sports Performance Coach
International Kettlebell and Fitness Federation Certified Kettlebell Trainer
USATF Level 1 Coach
CIF Certified Coach

*Specialties: 
- Certified Kettlebell Trainer 
- Heavy Rope Training
- Optimum Performance Bodywork 
- Active Isolated Stretching Techniques 

For more information go to www.irondogfitness.com

Founder, Entrepreneur, Personal Trainer

Commerce Business Council

I proudly serve as a Ambassador as well being an active member of the Commerce Industrial Council Chamber assisting the chamber in the city of Commerce promote local business and build strong relationships with the community.  My services include assisting in promoting chamber events and informing members of the many benefits of chamber membership. My goal is to help every chamber member maximize the benefits of chamber functions as well as services provided and informing them of the many benefits available to them through the city.

Ambassador

I proudly serve as a Ambassador as well being an active member of the Commerce Industrial Council Chamber assisting the chamber in the city of Commerce promote local business and build strong relationships with the community. My services include assisting in promoting chamber events and informing members of the many benefits of chamber membership. My goal is to help chamber members maximize the benefits of chamber functions as well as services provided and informing them of the many benefits available to them throughout the city.

Ambassador Chair

AME -  Alliance of Multicultural Entrepreneurs 

Promote the vision of AME (Alliance of Multicultural Entrepreneurs), membership drive, social media marketing campaigns, seek sponsorship and facilitate networking events. Establishing and maintaining a strong business relationship between the business community and AME.

Board Of Directors

Board of Advisors

Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce

Volunteer in the promotion of the chamber, membership outreach, membership retention, event planning and organization and facilitation of networking events, grand openings and ribbon cuttings.

Project NEO

Outreach to the community to introduce them to the mission of Project NEO and it's free tutoring program for students of the Alhambra Unified School District. Fundraising, MC at events; help organize, coordinate and facilitate fundraiser events. 
Help with providing direction and making relevant decisions to grow and expand the mission of Project NEO to other community schools by providing a school-based learning program for at-risk youth.

President

Board of Director

Vice President

Santa Fe Springs Chamber of Commerce

As an Ambassador my responsibilities are to help facilitate chamber events, welcome and greet people as they arrive to chamber events as well as introduce prospective members including new members to current members.  My other responsibilites is to coach members on the benefits of chamber membership as well as introduce them to the various opportunities they have to get involved in activities of the chamber to help residents of the City of Santa Fe Springs.

MONTEREY PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Help with strategic planning for the advancement of the Chamber and member benefits. Establishing and maintaining a strong business relationship between the business community and the city of Monterey Park. Advise prospective members of the benefits of chamber membership and maximizing the results of participation. Membership retention and expansion. Establishing a healthy relationship amongst businesses and the community.

Executive Board Member

SOUTH GATE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE A CORP

Primary function is to help the Executive Director in promoting the South Gate Chamber of Commerce, helping members understand the benefits of Chamber membership and introducing prospective members to the chamber. Assisting with chamber functions such as grand openings, open house, ribbon cutting and networking events. Help local businesses thrive in the community by building strong relationships within the community.

Board of Directors

LAPD Centurions Football

As part of the LAPD Centurions Football program my responsibilities primarily are to design and implememt a pre-season and in-season strength and conditioning program to help improve athletic skills, prevent injury and improve strength.

Head Strength & Conditioning Coach

Chief Helpfulness Officer at Xocial Gong LLC | LinkedIn Strategist | Community-Driven Brand Builder

What is a Personal Link(Ed)In Net(Work)ER?

Let’s break it down:
Link(Ed) = education, connection, access
Net(Work)ER = doing the work, increasing your net, becoming the responder who moves relationships forward

It’s a philosophy, a strategy, and the title of my upcoming book. (A free course is in the works too — stay tuned 📚👀.)

I started as a personal trainer with no marketing budget and no visibility. Before I even named my company Iron Dog Fitness, I had a tough realization: no one knew who I was. That sparked a journey of self-education and strategic experimentation.

I learned that Facebook creates awareness, LinkedIn builds trust, and newsletters keep you top of mind. I built my brand around these pillars, eventually growing from unknown to in-demand — and along the way, I helped others do the same.

As I volunteered with chambers of commerce and nonprofits, I used my newsletter and outreach to revive participation and drive real engagement. One councilmember even asked for my help on his mayoral campaign based on the transformation I sparked in his local chamber. That’s when I knew I wasn’t just promoting myself — I was building a repeatable system.

Today, I run Xocial Gong LLC, a LinkedIn-focused marketing agency for small business owners, startups, and freelancers — people like me, who wear too many hats and have too little time or budget.

Most of my clients don’t need to advertise on LinkedIn. They just need to optimize their profile, apply the right etiquette, and use proven outreach methods to get in the door with decision-makers.

That’s where we come in.

Xocial Gong is the “Link” and “Ed” educator that helps you get “In” with your ideal customers. We increase your “Net” profits by doing the “Work” for you on LinkedIn — using “ER” (Effective, Responsive) strategies to fill your calendar with quality leads who are already interested in what you offer.

Let’s connect if you’re ready to turn LinkedIn into your #1 relationship-building tool.
📲 Text me directly: 323-690-1659

Damien Orozco

The "I’m waiting on marketing to fix this PDF" excuse just died. 🪦

If you’ve been tab-switching between ChatGPT, Canva, and Adobe all day, your workflow just got a massive upgrade, and the "App Wars" just officially heated up.

Here’s the news:

Adobe just announced they are integrating Photoshop, Express, and Acrobat directly into ChatGPT.

Whtat this means for you:

You can now use a simple text prompt to trigger high-level edits, create designs, or merge PDFs without ever leaving the chat interface.

Why this actually matters for Lead Gen (The Meat):

Most people are looking at this as a "cool tech feature." They are missing the bigger picture.

For sales pros and thought leaders, friction is the enemy of execution.

Every time you have to open a new app to resize an image, fix a typo in a sales deck, or tweak a whitepaper, you lose momentum. This integration removes that friction. It brings the creation to the conversation.

Canva and Figma beat them to the punch back in October, but Adobe entering the Chat gladiator arena brings "pro-level" tools to the massive ChatGPT user base.

Here is my take:

I’ve seen too many brilliant lead magnets and sales assets sit in "draft mode" because the creator got stuck on formatting.

This integration isn't about making you a graphic designer; it's about making you a faster communicator.

Need to personalize a PDF case study for a prospect? Do it in the chat.
Need a quick visual for a LinkedIn post about your new offer? Prompt it in the chat.

Speed to market = Speed to lead. 

Most of us have heard this before: Success loves Speed.

Your Turn:
Are you sticking with the user-friendly vibes of Canva, or are you ready to embrace the power of Adobe now that it's text-based?
Let’s argue in the comments. 👇
#LinkedInTips #SalesEnablement #AI #Adobe #LeadGen #StanSocialSprint

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Chief Helpfulness Officer at Xocial Gong. Your personal Link(Ed)In Net(Work)ER. We hook'm, book'm and all you do is close'm. Let's grow your business. Find out how! 👉🏾📞🗣️💬 +1 323.690.1659

This is so humbling and awesome. I was recently featured by the LinkedIn team in their “Community Member Spotlight” in Club Navigator Community.

Here is how this all got started: 

📧 Hi Damien,

I hope you’re having a good week!

I just reached out via LinkedIn. I’m Francesca, the new Community Manager in the Sales Navigator Community. I’ll be helping Eva to continue to grow and support the Community by providing opportunities for members to gain and share valuable insights. 

Over the past few months, we have been noticing your contributions and engagement in the Community, and we’d love to feature you in the next “Community Member Spotlight” that will be shared next week.

This totally caught me off guard, and quite honestly, my eyes got a little teary with happiness.

It's nice to be recognized for just being yourself. I do my best to share useful information and comment with valuable insights, and admittedly sometimes challenge a post.
#AttitudeofGratitude #Humbled #EntrepreneurLife #IAmI #BeYourSelf #StanSocialSprint

Looking for a way to fill your sales calendar without cold calls or awkward DMs? 👀

The old-school referral is still the most powerful growth engine for any small business.

But most people aren’t using it right on LinkedIn.

Here’s how to make referrals work for you (and for others):

1. Make it easy for people to refer you 
Don’t wait for someone to “remember” what you do. Share a simple one-liner about who you help and how. Post it on your profile and in your content. Example: “I help local gyms attract new members through social media.”

2. Ask directly – but make it specific 
A vague “Let me know if you hear of anyone” never works. Instead, try: 
“Do you know any gym owners who want more signups this month?” 
The more specific, the better the results.

3. Give referrals often 
Spot a need in someone’s network? Connect the dots. Comment on someone’s post with a tag and quick note. “@JaneSmith – thought of your bakery after reading this!” 
People remember those who help them win.

4. Use LinkedIn’s recommendation feature 
Take 5 minutes to write a LinkedIn recommendation for a client or partner. This is more public than a DM and gets noticed by their network, too.

5. Follow up with gratitude 
When someone sends a referral, thank them publicly (when appropriate) and privately. People are way more likely to refer again if they feel valued.

The best part? Referrals work both ways. The more you help others grow, the more growth comes back to you.

Want to keep your sales calendar full? 
Start by asking for one referral today—and give one to someone else in your network.

Who will you help next?

#StanSocialSprint #SmallBusinessTips #LeadGeneration #ReferralNetwork #LinkedInGrowth

Why LinkedIn doesn't work for me.

I hear this one all the time.

Here’s the funny part: It’s usually not LinkedIn. It’s how we’re using it.

Let’s break down the most common excuses (or reasons) and how to fix them.

1. "No one sees my posts."

Try mixing things up. Post content that actually solves a problem for your network. Use questions or share a quick story. Stories and solution-based content always get more attention. 💡

2. "I get connections, but no messages."

Don’t just collect contacts; start real conversations! Send a friendly note. Ask what they’re working on. Be curious, not salesy! 🫱🏾🫲🏾

3. "I post, but no one engages."

Do you engage with others first? Comment on their stuff. Give before you ask. LinkedIn rewards people who act like humans, not robots. 😄

4. "LinkedIn is full of spam."

True, sometimes. But you control your feed. Unfollow, block, or mute the noise. Connect with people who actually care about their work and reputation. 🧹

5. "It takes too much time."

You don’t have to spend hours here. Fifteen minutes a day gives you enough time to comment, post, and connect. Small actions add up over time. ⏰

Bottom line: LinkedIn actually works👉🏾 if you do. If you want to win a game, you have to show up. Swap the excuses for small habits that build trust and real relationships.

Sounds simple, but it’s proven to work time and time again.

#LinkedInTips #LeadGeneration #SmallBusinessGrowth #BrandBuilding #RelationshipMarketing #StanSocialSprint

Ever get a random cold call and cringe a little (actually probably a lot)?

Let’s be real: cold calling feels like knocking on doors people want to keep shut. 😮

But here’s what makes LinkedIn different. 🤔

On LinkedIn, you can actually build a relationship before pitching anything. 
It’s like showing up to someone’s party with something to add, not just a sales script.

Here’s the difference:

Cold Calling 

Pros:

🤔 Sometimes it’s the only way to reach prospects who aren’t on LinkedIn.
😃 If you’re quick and clear, you can get immediate answers.
😃 Builds phone confidence and grit.

Cons:

👉🏾 You interrupt someone’s day
👉🏾 They don’t know you or trust you.
👉🏾 You have seconds to make it work, or you’re out.


Relationship Building on LinkedIn 

Pros:

😃 You start with value, not a pitch.
👀 People see your name and face before you ever start a conversation
🗣️You can comment, share, and connect long before you ever “sell”.
🤗 Turns a cold call into a warm call if your prospect connects with you here.

Cons:

☹️ Not every ideal prospect is active on LinkedIn or even has an account. ⏰ Building genuine relationships takes time and consistency.

Bottom line:
 
There’s still a place for cold calling, especially for prospects who live off LinkedIn. 
But when you connect on LinkedIn first, your “cold” calls can suddenly feel a lot warmer.

Stop being a stranger. Start being a connection people actually want.

Have any tips you'd like to share 🤔 Drop them below 👇🏾
#LinkedInTips #LeadGeneration #RelationshipMarketing #BusinessGrowth #SmallBusiness #StanSocialSprint

Ever stared at your LinkedIn post, counting Likes and wondering what you’re missing? 👀

It’s easy to get stuck in the “Like trap”. A post takes off, and you start thinking you’ve cracked the code. Or... you get ten Likes and start doubting every word.

But here’s what most people get wrong about Likes 🤯 Likes are not a trophy, and they’re definitely not a sign you’ll win new business. ☹️

A Like can mean a lot of things:

👉🏾 Someone agrees with you (or barely reads it, hits Like, moves on)
👉🏾 They want you to notice them (they might be trying to win your business)
👉🏾 They're supporting the person you tagged or the event you shared
👉🏾 They're trying to get the attention of your network
👉🏾 They're your fans, and they love your content (could be prospects, power partners, or customers cheering you on)
👉🏾 Or, sometimes, accidentally hit the "Like" button.

None of these means they’re about to become your next client.

So, what do you really need to track if you want to see growth and land real leads? 📈👀🤔💭

Watch for the things that happen behind the scenes:

👉🏾 Are more people checking your profile after a post?
👉🏾 Did views on your 'Featured' section or 'Services' page jump?
👉🏾 Did you get more connection requests, or even better, more DMs with real questions?
👉🏾 Are people actually commenting, therefore starting conversations?

The best signals are off the main stage. The DM that says “I liked your post, can we chat?” is worth 100 Likes. 💬

So next time you post, don’t sweat a low Like count. Obsess over the right metrics: Profile views. DMs. The way people talk to you after they see your content.

If you want to stop chasing vanity metrics and start building real business through LinkedIn, send me a DM, or drop a comment below, and let’s talk strategy.

#LinkedInTips #LeadGeneration #BrandBuilding #BusinessGrowth

Ever look up in December and wonder where the year went? 🎯⏳

I think every small business owner does.

Eleven months fly by before you even realize it. Some things go exactly as planned. Others... not so much. 🤷‍♂️

Maybe you finally nailed that new outreach strategy. 💡 Or grew your LinkedIn presence and brought in new leads. 📈 Maybe you tried something bold that just didn’t hit like you hoped. 😅

The wins and the misses both count. Looking back, those “off-script” moments usually teach us way more than any plan ever could.

What worked for you this year? ✔️  
What surprised you? 🤔  
What totally flopped? ❌

Now’s the time to take stock so you can use every single lesson in December. There’s still a whole month left to finish strong. 💪🎉

December doesn’t have to be about slowing down. It can be your best month, if you want it to be. 🌟

So here’s what I’m doing: looking at the results, tweaking what didn’t work, doubling down on what did, and using every lesson to push harder this last month. 🔄

What about you?  
What’s one lesson you learned in the past 11 months, or what are you planning to do differently in December? 📝

Let’s hear it. Your reflection might help someone else wrap up the year on a high note. 🚀✨

#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #LinkedInTips #YearEndReflection #StanSocialSprint

First impressions on LinkedIn aren't just important, they are everything. 👀

Think about the last person you met online. Did you trust them more if they had a clear, friendly photo? Or did you hesitate if the image felt outdated or low quality? 🤔

Your LinkedIn profile picture is your digital handshake. 🤝📸 It's the first thing people see, along with your LinkedIn banner, whether they're recruiters, clients, or potential partners. 

People make snap decisions fast. ⏱️

Here’s the cold truth: 👇🏾

A blurry selfie or a cropped party photo sends the wrong message. People may wonder whether you take your business seriously, and theirs, if they were to do business with you. 🚫 It sounds harsh, but we all do it, even if it's unconscious.

Your photo doesn't have to be professionally shot, but it should be clear, recent, well-lit, and show you at your best. Smile. Look approachable. Wear what you’d wear to an important meeting. 😊👔👗

I’ve seen clients make this one change and suddenly experience more profile views, higher engagement, and more incoming connection requests. It’s a small adjustment that can spark bigger results. 🚀📈

Here’s a quick checklist:

👉🏾 Is your photo current (taken within the last 2 years)? 📅
👉🏾 Does it show your face clearly? 🧑💼
👉🏾 Would you trust someone with this picture? 👓
👉🏾 Does it reflect the professional image you want to project?👀
👉🏾 If they ran into you randomly at a street corner, would they recognize you from your profile photo? 🤯

If you’re unsure, ask a trusted friend for honest feedback. Sometimes, a fresh eye spots what we miss. 👂🧐

Remember, on LinkedIn, you rarely get a second chance at a first impression. Your photo is your first step to building trust before a message is ever sent. 💡🛤️

When did you last update your profile picture? If it's been a while, maybe today’s the day to take that small but powerful step. 📲

Want a professional headshot? 🤔💭 Comment 'headshot' below and I will connect you with a professional photographer in my network.
If you're a photographer, give yourself a shout-out below so people can reach out to you. 📸👀😃

#LinkedInTips #PersonalBranding #ProfilePhoto #FirstImpression #LeadGeneration #StanSocialSprint

Anyone else here tired of people trying to sell you AI prompt collections, the next AI software, or both 🤔💭 Do you already have an encyclopedia of AI prompts?

🛑 Stop Copy-Pasting Your Prompts! Meet Your New AI Entourage.

Did you know you can stop treating your AI like a stranger every time you open a new chat?

If you’ve been keeping a "cheat sheet" of prompts that you copy-paste every time you need specific help (like "Act as a Senior Python Dev" or "Be my strict Grammar Editor"), you can officially delete that file.

Meet "Gems" in Gemini. 💎

Think of Gems as custom versions of Gemini that remember your instructions forever. You build them once, and they stay in your sidebar, ready to work.

Imagine having: 

👨💻 A Coding Partner that already knows your tech stack. 
✍️ A Social Media Manager that knows your brand voice perfectly. 
🥗 A Sous Chef that remembers your allergies and what's in your fridge.

It’s not just a time-saver; it’s like building your own team of specialized experts.

Have you tried building a custom Gem yet? What’s the first one you’re making? 👇

#AI #ProductivityHacks #Gemini #FutureOfWork #TechTips #StanSocialSprint

Watch out, TikTok & YouTube (Google)! The Instagram+Amazon Power Move is Here! 📺📱

Big news for the creator economy and streaming giants! Instagram Reels are officially making the jump from your phone screen to your Amazon Fire TV with a brand-new, dedicated app: "Instagram for TV."

This power move by Instagram (Meta) is a massive strategic play:

1. Lean Back Viewing: Reels are organized into channels (think Sports, Travel, Music) for a true "lean back" television experience. Hello, shared viewing parties!

2. Strategic Partnership: By prioritizing Amazon Fire TV for this rollout in the U.S., Instagram (Meta) is positioning itself directly against rivals like YouTube and TikTok on the biggest screen in the house.

3. Multi-Account Magic: The app supports up to five accounts, making it a true household entertainment hub.

This move solidifies Reels as a core entertainment format, not just a mobile time-killer. It’s a huge opportunity for creators to reach viewers in a new context and for advertisers to access premium TV inventory.

What do you think? Will you be using the Instagram for TV app? Let me know in the comments!👇🏾

#Instagram #Reels #AmazonFireTV #Meta #CreatorEconomy #DigitalMarketing #StreamingTV #StanSocialSprint

Hey Small Business Owner, Entrepreneurs, & Freelancers. Let's shine together.

Let's try something new and unique today. Post your Black Friday Deal below. 
Here are all the rules:
(1) No business opportunity posts
(2) Share the regular price and what the Black Friday price is
(3) Tell us a little bit about the product or service.
(4) Help people understand how your product or service helps them.
Happy Posting
#SupportSmallBusiness #ShopSmall

You got some likes, comments, & shares on your last post. Amazing. 😃

Did it pay the electric bill? Probably not. 🤯

The most frustrating feeling for a small business owner is seeing high social media engagement but zero movement in the bank account. ☹️

The problem is usually that you are optimizing for Vanity Metrics instead of Buying Signals.📈📊🚦

If you want to know whether your content is actually generating sales leads, stop looking at the heart icon and start looking for these specific clues. 🕵🏽‍♂️

Here is the hierarchy of social media signals, from "noise" to "next customer":

🚫 THE NOISE (Low Intent)

👉🏾 A "Like" 👍🏾 or "Heart." 💖
👉🏾 Generic comments like "Great post! 🔥" or "So true!"
(These help the algorithm, but they don’t pay the bills.)

🤔 THE SILENT CONSIDERATION (Medium Intent)

These are hidden signals that show someone is evaluating your expertise for later.

🗝️ High "Save" Counts: A Save means, "I need this, but I can't implement it right now." They are flagging themselves as a future customer.
🤐 Private Shares: You see zero public reposts, but your analytics show 20 "Shares" (a.k.a. Dark Social). This means your content is being DM'd privately between decision-makers or partners.

💰 THE BUYING SIGNALS (High Intent)
The best leads often show up as "barriers to entry" in the comments. They have a specific hurdle they need you to remove so they can proceed with the purchase.

👉🏾 The Logistics Check: "Do you serve clients in [Location]?" or "Is this available for Mac users?"

👉🏾 The Availability Check: "Are you taking on new projects for Q4?"
👉🏾 The Implementation Question: "How would this strategy apply if my business is in [Specific Niche]?"

But the obvious 'Buying Signal' is when someone privately sends you a message inside your LinkedIn Inbox (or InMail), Emails you directly, calls you directly, or uses some other direct form of communication, such as your other social media accounts. 🗣️📞😃 That's a BIG WIN 🥳

The Takeaway:

If you are only getting hearts, your content is entertaining.
If you are getting specific questions, your content is selling.

Go check the comments on your last three posts. Are they noise, or are they signals?

👇🏾 Which of these "buying signals" do you see most often on your profile? Let me know below.
#SocialSelling #LinkedInStrategy #SmallBusinessTips #LeadGeneration #StanSocialSprint

Let’s talk about the one thing killing your LinkedIn profile faster than a bad headshot. 🚫📸

Writing your About section like it’s a press release.

Seriously, stop talking about yourself in the third person. 🤷‍♂️
It’s not building trust.
It’s just weird.

“John is a visionary leader...” 🙄
Who actually talks like that?

Here’s the real secret: your About section isn’t a résumé.
It’s a handshake. 🤝

Your "About" section is your shot to actually connect with another person. 👋

If your About sounds like a Wikipedia page, you’re missing the point.

Your prospects don’t care about buzzwords or how many industry awards you “seamlessly leveraged.” 🏆

Your prospects care if you understand their headaches. 😓
If you can relate.

Try this:

👉🏾 Share a real story about a problem you solved (or solve). 💡
👉🏾 Talk about why you love what you do. ❤️
👉🏾 Make it obvious you’re an actual human, not a corporate robot in a suit. 🤖

Easy test: read your "About" section out loud. 🗣️
If you wouldn’t say those words to a potential client over coffee, it's time to rewrite it.

Personal wins trust. 🏆
Trust brings business. 💼
Stop hiding behind stiff text.

Go review your profile. 🔍
Be brave.
Make it real.

And if you’re brave enough, drop a before and after in the comments. 📝

Let’s see who sounds more like a person than a press release. Feel free to criticize mine as well. I occasionally update it because I'm never happy with what I wrote a month ago. 😂

#LinkedInTips #PersonalBranding #StanSocialSprint #LeadGeneration #SmallBusinessGrowth

Some days, I look at my LinkedIn inbox and wonder if anyone actually reads what they send. 🤔

You know the ones. 👇🏾

👉🏾 The cold pitches that feel like they were written by a robot who never had to make rent. 🤖

👉🏾 Or the connection requests that start with "I see we have mutual interests" but never say what those are. 💬

Here's my favorite one: I've been following you and really enjoy your content. Hint: I ask them which piece of content they were referring to, and guess what kind of response I get? A band of crickets. 🦗

I used to get annoyed. Now, honestly, I feel a little sad for them. 😅

Why? Because behind every awkward message is a real person, probably just trying to hit a number, a quota, or prove something to their boss. 📊

But here’s the thing I keep coming back to: the best connections I’ve made here didn’t start with a pitch. They started with a question. Or a story. Or just a moment of actual curiosity. 👀

It’s weird how rare that is.

I’ve been guilty of rushing, too. Sending something out just to check it off the list. ✅ But the times I slowed down, asked a real question, or shared something I was actually struggling with... those are the conversations that stuck. 💡

Maybe that’s the real trick. Not optimizing for volume, but for honesty. ❤️

I don’t have a perfect system. Some days I still fall into old habits. But I’m trying to remember that there’s a person on the other side, not just a profile. 👤

And when I do, the whole thing feels a lot less like work. 🙌

If you’re tired of the copy-paste messages and want to build genuine relationships here, drop a comment or connect with me. 

Tell me one thing you wish people would do differently on LinkedIn. Let’s start a real conversation.🤔💭

#LinkedInTips #LeadGeneration #RelationshipMarketing #HumanFirst #StanSocialSprint

There’s a weird myth floating around that you need to be on every social media platform, all the time, to build your brand. 🤯

Post daily. Comment on every trending topic. Jump on every new feature the second it drops.

Gary Vaynerchuk says you should post everywhere, several times a day. 
Meanwhile, other experts insist you should focus hard on just one platform and get really good at it.

No wonder business owners and solopreneurs feel pulled in every direction. 

One minute it’s all about "be everywhere" hustle, the next it’s "go deep in one channel."

Honestly, it’s exhausting just thinking about it.

Here’s what I’ve learned watching people try both:

Consistency beats intensity every single time. 🏁

You don’t have to be the loudest. You don’t have to follow every trend or copy the latest expert playbook.

You just have to show up, regularly, with something real to say.

Some weeks, your posts will flop. 
Other weeks, a simple tip will spark a dozen private messages, new connections, and even a meeting with the decision maker you’ve been wanting to meet. ✉️

But the magic isn’t found in chasing viral moments or burning out trying to keep up with every new trend.

The magic in the steady drumbeat of showing up, even on the days you wonder if anyone’s listening. 🥁

That’s how trust is built. That’s how relationships grow.

So if you’re feeling burned out by all the contradictions and noise, here’s my take:

Pick your lane. 
Show up however you can. 
Repeat. 🔁

That’s enough.

Actually, that’s the foundation most people skip over while chasing the next quick win.

If you’re overwhelmed by what the experts say, remember the following. Your job isn’t to do everything. It’s to do what you can keep doing, well.

How do you handle all the conflicting advice? Have you found a rhythm that works for you? Share the love by letting others know what's working for you. No sales pitches, please (I will delete them). Share your genuine experience below. 

#LinkedInTips #PersonalBranding #Solopreneur #ConsistencyMatters #SocialMediaStrategy #StanSocialSprint

🛍️ 10 Reasons to Shop SMALL This Black Friday, Cyber Monday & Small Business Saturday! 🎁

Skip the big box crowds and the endless scroll of massive retailers! This year, make your holiday shopping matter by choosing a small business. Here are 10 great reasons why your support is a huge deal:

Why Shopping Small is a BIG Win!

😃 Unique Finds, Not Cookie-Cutter Gifts: You'll discover one-of-a-kind treasures that truly show you put thought into the present, instead of mass-produced items everyone else has.

😃 Every Dollar Stays Local: Small businesses typically reinvest 3x more of their revenue back into the local economy than chain stores. That means better schools, roads, and services for your community!

😃 Customer Service That Cares: Say goodbye to automated phone menus! You get personalized attention and direct access to people who are passionate about their products.

😃 Creates & Sustains Local Jobs: Your purchase directly supports the jobs of your neighbors, friends, and family. You're not just buying a product; you're funding a livelihood.

 😃 A Boost to Creativity & Innovation: Small businesses are often run by entrepreneurs pushing the boundaries of their craft. You're supporting innovation and artistic vision!

 😃 Less Environmental Impact: Many small businesses source locally, leading to less transportation, less waste, and a smaller carbon footprint.

😃 More Meaningful Discounts: Unlike big stores that mark up just to mark down, small business sales are often a genuine thank you to their customers and a chance to clear inventory with thoughtful deals.

😃 Helps Build Community Character: Small shops are the soul of your town! They sponsor local teams, donate to charities, and make your Main Street a vibrant, unique place to visit.

😃 Higher Quality, Curated Goods: Owners are often experts in their niche, hand-selecting or crafting items for superior quality and durability.

😃 The "Happy Dance" Factor: Seriously, when you make a purchase from a small business, you are making a real person (often the owner!) do a little happy dance. Try getting that feeling from a giant corporation! 😉
Mark Your Calendars!

 👉🏾 Black Friday: Nov 28 🖤
 👉🏾 Small Business Saturday: Nov 29 🛍️ (The official day to #ShopSmall!)
 👉🏾 Cyber Monday: Nov 30 💻 (Many small businesses have online deals too!)
#ShopSmall #SmallBusinessSaturday #BlackFriday #CyberMonday #SupportLocal #HolidayShopping #BuyLocal #Gifts #StanSocialSprint

I’ve become an #InboxZeroHero with @SaneBox. Try it out for free for 2 weeks! https://lnkd.in/gyPJ8hYe #StanSocialSprint

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It's easy to feel grateful when everything is going your way. 🤔💭

But real gratitude shows up when things don’t go as planned, but you keep showing up anyway. 🙏

I want to give a genuine thank you to every client who’s trusted me along the way. 💙

Every partnership started with a simple connection. Maybe it was a message on LinkedIn 💬 or a quick chat in person 🤝. From there, it grew into real conversations. We talked about your business 🏢, dug into your challenges, and explored what wasn’t working. Those honest discussions about pain points 🩹 are what set the groundwork.

That’s how it happens, every time. Trust is built 🛠️, and they decide to let you and your business help tackle those challenges. That trust? It means everything to me.

Being an entrepreneur means taking risks every day. There will be times you will make decisions and will regret them (I know, I've made these mistakes).

Sometimes things fall into place 🥰. Other times, it feels like nothing is going as planned. ☹️ But I’ve learned that every tough day, every failure, and every small win is all part of building something bigger. 📈

You won’t succeed without risk. 🚦 You won’t grow if you never fall down along the way. But every small step forward, every time you get back up, it gets you closer to where you want to go and where you deserve to be. 🏃‍♂️

So thank you to everyone who started with a simple connection, commented on one of my social media posts, shared real business pains, and then trusted me to help. 🥰

Whether your journey is smooth or bumpy right now, don’t forget: the little steps matter more than you think. 🌱

Here’s to the risks, the lessons, and the wins ahead. 🚀

Share your gratitude story below. 👇🏾😃

#Gratitude #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #ClientSuccess #LinkedInFamily #TrustBuilding #TakeRisks #KeepGoing #BusinessGrowth #StanSocialSprint

Ever get this advice? 👀🤔💭
"Just engage with your prospects' content, and you'll build relationships that turn into sales." 🤔

Here's the problem:

Most of my ideal clients on LinkedIn barely post. 
Some never post at all. 👀

So what do you do when there’s nothing to comment on? 
And your DMs are met with silence? 🦗

This is where most advice falls flat.

If you're selling to business owners, founders, or even busy execs, you’ll run into this all the time.

Here’s what actually works for me (and my clients):

1. Optimize your profile so it does the talking 

If your profile is clear, inviting, and focused on your buyer’s pain points, you become discoverable. 
Think of it as your 24/7 sales page. 🛠️ 
A good profile pulls people in, even without any outreach.

2. Post content that answers their silent questions
 
Most people don't post, but they do scroll. 
Share tips, quick wins, or stories that speak to the problems your ideal clients are facing. 
You might not see them like or comment, but they're paying attention. 👓

3. Use your network to get warm intros

If you have mutual connections, ask for a quick intro. 
People ignore cold DMs, but a warm intro from someone they trust cuts through.

4. Be visible in their circles

Join the same groups or events they attend. 
Show up to webinars, comment on company pages, or share their company’s updates. 
It’s about being seen, not just being in their inbox.

5. Give value before you ask for anything

Share a resource or insight that solves something for them, with zero pressure. 
No pitch, just help. 
That’s how you break the ice on LinkedIn—especially with people who don’t post or reply. 🧊

Bottom line:

Don’t wait for your prospects to make the first move, because most won’t.

Lead with value in your profile, your posts, and your approach. You’ll attract the right folks, even if they're silent.

This has opened more doors for me (and my clients) than any "just comment on their post" tactic ever has.

#LinkedInTips #LeadGeneration #RelationshipBuilding #SmallBusinessGrowth #StanSocialSprint

Sales objection alert! 🚨 You hear those dreaded words: "I can't afford it." Don't panic! Instead of seeing it as a dead end, see it as an opportunity to dig deeper.

Here’s how to handle the "I don't have the money" objection without breaking a sweat:

1. Agree & Empathize 🤗 

Never argue. Start by acknowledging their concern.  

Try this: "I completely understand that budget is a top priority. It's smart to be careful with your investments."

2. Get Curious & Isolate the Objection 🕵️‍♀️ 

Is it really about money, or is it about value? Time to find out.  

Try this: "Just so I'm clear, if budget wasn't an issue, would our service be the right solution for you?"

This helps you understand if you're facing a genuine budget constraint or if you haven't demonstrated enough value yet.

3. Reframe from Cost to Investment 💰➡️📈 

Shift the conversation from what they'll spend to what they'll gain.  

Try this: "I see this less as a cost and more as an investment. Our clients typically see [mention a specific ROI, like 'a 25% increase in productivity' or 'save 10 hours per month']. What would that kind of return mean for you?"

4. Offer Flexible Solutions 🤸 

If it's a true cash flow issue, show you're willing to work with them.  

Try this: "We have a few different packages and flexible payment options. Would you be open to exploring a plan that fits more comfortably within your current budget?"

Turning a price objection around is all about proving your value and showing you're a partner, not just a vendor.

If you want more practical ways to handle tough objections and start closing more deals, let's talk. 😃

I'm booking a few strategy sessions this week for business owners ready to level up their sales game.
  
Interested? Reach out, and let's see how I can help.

#SalesTips #ObjectionHandling #ClosingDeals #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurLife #StanSocialSprint

Exact Tax Inc.

Account Director

Caltech

- Develop a strategic plan for the launch of the first employee resource group on campus 
- Formulate growth strategy, develop marketing materials and present at events, which lead to 600% membership increase
- Cultivate relationships with Pasadena City College and Jet Propulsion Laboratory to foster community collaboration

Chair of Asian Pacific Americans at Caltech (APACT)

- Lead in drafting and executing gift agreements over $100,000 in partnership with legal counsel and Provost
- Partner with development officers on negotiation strategies, closing a total of over $250M in charitable gifts
- Project manage, build, and implement automated workflows on Microsoft SharePoint, Power Automate, and Adobe Sign
- Build and maintain the department's website on Wagtail to serve its' internal audience
- Lead and prepare presentations as subject matter expert on gift agreements and donor challenge matches

Assistant Director of Advancement Information Systems

- Managed and developed a road-map for the parents and young alumni program, engaging over 20,000 constituents
- Cross-collaborated with campus partners and senior leaders to execute giving campaigns on $500 budget
- Tracked and managed team budget; reduced spending by 6% through vendor negotiations and contract reviews
- Developed and administered metrics and ad-hoc Excel reports to measure campaign performance, drive segmentation, and leverage for Giving Day, Calendar-Year-End, and Fiscal-Year-End solicitation strategies
- Liaised with the Advancement Services team to develop and improve Advance and Tableau reports (i.e. Participation Dashboard Reports, ROI, Reunion Giving)

Assistant Director, Recent Alumni and Parents Annual Giving

- Cultivated donor relationships and designed stewardship experiences with planned events; managed event logistics, prepared briefings for event programming, and coordinated with third-party vendors for event execution
- Launched Friends of Caltech Campaign in FY18; strategized on continual annual solicitation to Friends
- Developed and executed a stewardship program for annual Fund donors, which includes designing resources and materials, managing a stewardship matrix, and distributing and tracking gift acknowledgment letters
- Monthly reconciliation of the Caltech Fund expenses; reviewed and forecasted budget quarterly and made recommendations to maximize spending efficiency and strategize on budgetary priorities
- Supervised the administrative work of student workers to execute fundraising and stewardship goals

Program Assistant - Caltech Fund and Parents Program

UC Irvine

- Prepared materials for and attend quarterly UCI Foundation Board of Trustees meetings and annual retreats
- Developed a framework of priorities and processes to support the Vice Chancellor and senior leadership
- Requested and compiled monthly reports monitoring advancement fundraising activity on Excel
- Created a wide range of materials including, correspondence, memoranda, e-mail and meeting agendas; Reviewed materials to ensure correct spelling and accurate grammar
- Processed PALCard and Kuali payments for a variety of office purchases and expenditures
- Managed processing of expense reimbursements and payment of invoices on Kuali Financial Systems.  Coordinated with university advancement’s finance office to ensure all financial transactions are documented appropriately and completed in a timely manner
- Developed communications and presentation materials for special projects and presentations for meetings and conferences
- Managed tracking of contact reports and proposal records into donor database.  Coordinated all biographical updates with the Advancement Operations team, as needed

Office Administrator - Office of Vice Chancellor, University Advancement

Kinaga Law Firm

- Managed monthly billing and interfaced with clients for billing and collections
- Mentored and trained summer interns and full-time legal assistants on legal research and court filings
- Prepared and analyzed wage-hour data used client strategy meetings, DLSE settlement conferences, mediation, and trials
- Design marketing brochure to summarize firm experience and achievements for client meetings
- Prepared and processed invoices for clients using billing software, Sage Timeslips
- Organized financial documents to submit to company's CPA
- Reviewed and selected potential candidates during hiring process, and conduct interviews
- Trained support staff in the use of all office systems, including filing protocols, docket procedures, legal deadlines and calendaring, client intakes, and other office procedures

Office Administrator

- Facilitated with clerical work such as: faxing, filing, copying, bank deposits, and correspondence.
- Communicated with clients, IRS, Secretary of State, and Franchise Tax Board regarding tax related documentation, information, and inquiries.
- Utilized government websites such as www.irs.gov, www.edd.ca.gov, and www.sos.ca.gov to assist and update office tax preparers.
- Established new document database and recording procedure.
- Designed and created marketing materials such as company newsletters and brochures.

Executive Assistant

- Assisted daily patrons with parking ticketing and general university related inquiries
- Conducted parking lot utilization studies by recording field data
- Managed parking kiosk upkeep

Parking Attendant

Delta Sigma Pi

- Served as a liaison between school chapter and provincial chapters
- Increased participation by 50% by strategic marketing and maintaining consistent communication
- Planned and organized inter-chapter social events with over 80 members in attendance

Director of Inter-Chapter Relations

- Assisted in developing the pledge education program and leadership activities
- Directed pledge meetings during the Vice President of Pledge Education’s absences

Assistant to Pledge Educator

Passionate about making an impact through joy and positivity, and a strong advocate for mental health awareness. I love the sense of community, especially through the act of sharing food and food stories. I have a genuine curiosity for people, so I'd love to connect and get to know you! Let's chat and have a coffee (or wine) hour. 

Top 5 Gallup CliftonStrengths:
• Individualization - intrigued by uniqueness of others
• Empathy - perspective taking
• Achiever - hard work and stamina (also wanting the best of the best)
• Harmony - seeking common ground
• Context - understanding the present by researching the past

Major Achievements:
➤ Completing grad school while working full time
➤ Personally raise $35,000 in corporate sponsorships and GIKs for APIDC
➤ Launch Caltech's inaugural Giving Day on a $500 budget
➤ Establish the first ERG at Caltech: Asian Pacific Americans at Caltech (APACT)

taplio

The Battle

Damien Orozco

Nicole Wong, MBA

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The Battle

Damien Orozco

Nicole Wong, MBA

Followers

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Engagements

Likes

Performance Score.css-goub6s{font-size:var(--chakra-fontSizes-md);font-weight:500;color:var(--chakra-colors-gray-600);display:block;margin-top:var(--chakra-space-1);}Damien Orozco's LinkedIn Performance

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