Podcast Summary: Grow Your Local Business - Episode 125 Title: Skillset Gap or Implementation Gap? What’s Really Keeping You Stuck
Host: Leslie Presnall
Release Date: July 8, 2025

Introduction to Troubleshooting in Business

In episode 125 of Grow Your Local Business, host Leslie Presnall delves into the critical topic of troubleshooting and problem-solving within local businesses. The focus is on distinguishing between a knowledge (skillset) gap and an execution (implementation) gap, enabling business owners to identify and address the underlying issues that hinder their growth.

"Today I want to talk about troubleshooting and problem solving in your business and getting really crystal clear on whether you have a knowledge gap or an execution gap..."
— Leslie Presnall [02:15]

Understanding the Knowledge vs. Execution Gap

Leslie emphasizes that many business owners encounter obstacles in achieving desired results, often attributing their struggles to a vague sense of not knowing what to do. She explains that this ambiguity can stem from either lacking the necessary skills or failing to implement the strategies effectively.

Knowledge (Skillset) Gap:

• Definition: Missing specific skills or information required to perform business or marketing tasks effectively.
• Examples: Not knowing how to run Facebook ads, lacking content creation expertise, or being unsure how to identify and reach your target local audience.

Execution (Implementation) Gap:

• Definition: Possessing the necessary skills and knowledge but failing to apply them consistently due to psychological barriers.
• Examples: Procrastination, fear of sounding salesy, imposter syndrome, or perfectionism preventing action.

"Is it a knowledge problem where you're just missing skill sets or information... Or is it an execution gap where it wasn't executed or it wasn't implemented fully or at all..."
— Leslie Presnall [15:30]

Identifying Your Gap

Leslie provides a structured approach to help listeners determine whether they are facing a knowledge gap or an execution gap:

1. List Your Challenges: Start by listing all the reasons you believe you're not getting the results you want.
2. Categorize the Issues:
   • Knowledge Gap: Requires learning and developing new skills.
   • Execution Gap: Requires behavioral changes and consistent action.
3. Evaluate Each Point: Determine which category each challenge falls into to address them appropriately.

"When you aren't getting results you want in your business... Are there any skill sets or knowledge that I think I'm missing right now?"
— Leslie Presnall [25:00]

Strategies to Bridge the Knowledge Gap

For those identifying a knowledge gap, Leslie recommends the following strategies:

• Prioritize Learning: Focus on 1-3 essential skills that will have the most significant impact on your business.
• Create an Action Plan: Outline specific steps to acquire the necessary knowledge, such as:
  • Courses and Workshops: Enroll in relevant training programs.
  • Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced professionals.
  • Resources: Utilize books, online tutorials, and webinars.
• Implement Gradually: Avoid overwhelming yourself by mastering one skill before moving on to the next.

"Don't try to master them all at once... Focus on one of these skill sets at a time."
— Leslie Presnall [35:45]

Strategies to Bridge the Execution Gap

For those facing an execution gap, Leslie suggests the following tactics:

• Self-Awareness: Identify the thoughts and emotions that are preventing you from taking action.
• Mindset Shifts: Replace negative beliefs with empowering ones to foster consistent action.
  • Example: Change "I don't know what to say" to "I am learning how to connect with my audience more powerfully every time I post."
• Use Tools and Models: Implement frameworks like Leslie's "MODEL" to break down barriers and encourage action.
• Consistent Accountability: Set up systems to hold yourself accountable, such as regular check-ins or accountability partners.

"What am I thinking that's creating the feeling that's keeping me from following through... What would you need to believe instead to create a different feeling, one that drives you to take action?"
— Leslie Presnall [50:20]

The Five Essential Skill Sets for Getting Fully Booked

Leslie outlines five crucial skill sets that business owners must master to ensure a steady stream of local clients:

1. Stand Out Locally: Position yourself as the top choice in your local market.
2. Reach Your Local Audience: Implement marketing strategies that target people within your city.
3. Grow Your Local Following: Build and nurture a dedicated local audience.
4. Create Demand-Generating Content: Develop content that not only engages but also creates desire for your services.
5. Effective Selling Techniques: Convert your audience into paying clients through proven sales strategies.

"There are five essential skill sets that you need to get fully booked... stand out locally, reach people in your city, grow your local following, create content that creates demand, and sell effectively."
— Leslie Presnall [40:10]

Implementing Focused Growth Strategies

Leslie shares her personal experience of growing her business by focusing on one priority at a time, which led to a 200% growth in a year. She advises listeners to constrain their focus to a few key areas rather than spreading themselves too thin across multiple initiatives.

• Focus on Priorities: Concentrate on the most impactful skill sets first.
• Sequential Learning: Master one area before moving on to the next.
• Calm and Clarity: Maintain a clear and calm approach by avoiding overwhelm through multitasking.

"It's really not about trying to master all of these new skill sets at one at once... Results happen by just focusing on one of these skill sets at a time."
— Leslie Presnall [45:50]

Conclusion and Call to Action

Leslie concludes by reiterating the importance of identifying and bridging the gap between knowledge and execution. She invites listeners to join her LocalPreneur Academy, where they can receive structured coaching and tools to become the local go-to in their industry with a steady stream of clients.

"If you are ready to close the gap between the knowledge and the doing and finally get fully booked with local clients, come join us inside the LocalPreneur Academy and we will do it together."
— Leslie Presnall [60:05]

Key Takeaways

• Identify Your Gap: Determine whether you're struggling due to a lack of skills or inconsistent execution.
• Prioritize Learning and Action: Focus on essential skills first and implement them consistently.
• Structured Approach: Use actionable plans and mindset shifts to overcome barriers.
• Essential Skill Sets: Master foundational marketing and selling strategies tailored to local businesses.
• Seek Support: Consider joining programs like the LocalPreneur Academy for guided growth.

This episode provides valuable insights for local business owners seeking to overcome obstacles in their marketing and operational strategies. By distinguishing between knowledge and execution gaps, Leslie Presnall equips listeners with the tools and mindset necessary to achieve sustained business growth.