I know, I know, we’ve all said it at one point or another, “So I started my business. Now, where can I find clients?”
Believe it or not, this is not the first question to ask. Don’t put the cart before the horse.
First, be sure that you have a clear offer and that you understand who you’re looking for.
Let me explain.
In order to find the right clients, you need to know who you’re looking for because they’re not all hiding out in the same place. It’s likely they’re not hiding at all.
Here are three questions to ask yourself:
- Who is my ideal client? Tip: It’s not “everyone” or “someone.” Be as detailed a possible.
- How can I help them or what problem do I solve? Tip: Focus on the pain point – What do they fear, what are they struggling with, what are they looking to change, get, or be?
- And most importantly, why am I so committed to this work? Tip: It’s different for all of us – money, family, status, community, service, impact.
Once you have those answered, you’ll know where your clients are spending their time. But if your ideal client was standing right in front of you, struggling with the exact problem you solve, what do you say to her?
Essentially, what is your offer to her?
Now don’t worry if you’ve begun to panic. You’re not alone. Early in your business (or in a time of transition) it’s common to struggle with your offer, and it’s likely why you don’t have enough clients.
It’s important to not waste more time than needed. You must decide. Because to make money, to have clients, to do your work, you need to invite clients in. So when that magical opportunity presents itself, you know exactly what to say and she’ll be saying yes before you’ve even discussed the cost.
Taking action is key to success. Sitting in your office, hiding from your clients, is not fun – it’s safe. And safe doesn’t change the world. Safe doesn’t pay your bills. Safe doesn’t allow you to do great work with great people.
So, now I must ask, what is your next step? Post a comment to share your current offer and describe your ideal client. Or share what is holding you back from making these decisions.
You have within you a gift to create meaningful and purposeful work. Take action and let’s bring it to the world and make other people happy!
xo
