I often give my clients the assignment of defining their ideal client. While on vacation I read a few chapters in The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, the author is Mike Michalowicz.
He has an exercise that proved a little daunting for me - making a simple list of 100 words or phrases that identify my ideal client. This was challenging and I truly realize that this helps define the type of clients I need to market to, and who I want in my business, saving me time, energy and resources by focusing my scope.
Here's a portion of my list:
My Ideal Client is
• willingly to pay my premium prices
• often refers us
• values our expertise
• gets why we're "worth it"
• is focused and passionate about their art
• is committed
• talented
• able to follow instructions
• respects the process
• passionate
• displays a commitment to excellence
• has or desires to have balanced lives
• lives, loves, for their art
• self taught or schooled
• is current on the industry
• upbeat and has a zest for life and career
• has the resources to afford our services
• wants a trusting relationship with us - their coach/consultant/manager
• genuinely likeable
• a creative thinker
• future oriented
• decisive
• ready for action
• fearless
• wiling to invest in themselves
• may be a member of organizations ex: ASMP, APA, SOI, etc.
• open to new ideas
• willing to create new art for their portfolio
• can make smart decisions about their career
• wants to have fun while learning
• desires the freedom to pursue a higher quality career, art and life
• has a clear sense of what’s important to them
• gives us "energy" - emotionally and financially!
• wants to create multiple streams of income from their knowledge & expertise
I challenge you to come up with 100 words or phrases to define your ideal client - it's fun.
If you find yourself struggling then it's likely you're feeling unfocused on your business, a bit insecure about your expertise or value, or are afraid to narrow your niche, to name a few reasons.
If this is the case, I invite you to get in touch for your FREE 1/2 hr. consult. I'd love to discuss this challenge with you. It can make all the difference between surviving in business vs. thriving in business. Send me an email at info@fotoprojx.com
Best ~ Angela
