Sales, Marketing, and Guiding Small Businesses with Kim Hummel of Hummel Consulting

Ever meet someone who seems to effortlessly build connections with everyone they encounter? That's Kim Hummel, owner of Hummel Consulting, whose natural marketing abilities have been evident since she sold Kirby vacuum cleaners door-to-door at just 14 years old. 

In this captivating conversation, Kim reveals how her psychology background became the secret weapon in her marketing arsenal. Rather than viewing each business interaction as a potential sale, Kim approaches each encounter with genuine curiosity and a desire to educate. "I'm not trying to sell you anything," she explains. "Let's have a conversation." This refreshing philosophy has served her remarkably well, allowing her to build a thriving marketing consultancy that has weathered economic storms including the 2008 recession and the recent pandemic.

What truly distinguishes Kim's approach is her passionate commitment to small businesses. Having witnessed countless entrepreneurs waste precious marketing dollars on ineffective strategies, she's made it her mission to protect them from predatory marketing tactics. Her consultations begin with education rather than sales pitches, often showing potential clients how to handle certain marketing tasks themselves before discussing paid services. This transparency builds the trust that has become her business's foundation.

Kim's journey hasn't been without challenges. From balancing single motherhood with entrepreneurship to temporarily closing her agency during economic downturns, she's faced numerous obstacles. Yet her unwavering belief that "it always works out" has carried her through. Her definition of success—"waking up every day excited to see what the day will bring"—reflects a holistic approach to life and business that inspires everyone she meets.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just beginning your business journey, Kim's insights on authentic marketing, resilience, and defining success on your own terms will leave you with valuable perspectives to apply to your own path. Connect with Kim Hummel to learn how her psychology-informed marketing approach might transform your business outcomes.

Chapters

• 0:00 Kim Hummel's Early Years
• 8:15 Exploring Psychology and Criminal Law
• 16:10 Entering the Sales and Marketing World
• 25:47 Building a Marketing Agency
• 33:50 Psychology's Role in Marketing Success
• 41:23 2008 Recession and Career Pivot
• 48:36 Current Business and Marketing Philosophy