I thought I had this figured out
So I thought growing my graphic design business as my sole income once unemployment and severance ran out would be easy. All I had to do was to find more clients! I had a few already while I was still in the day job and doing the business nights and weekends. I could tell everyone I knew who had referred me and more clients would come pouring in. Only… they didn’t. Not cool. What was missing? In my case, it’s because I hadn’t become clear on my ideal client. You know, the one who is the person…
- Who is a joy to work with
- Who really needs my help
- Who recognizes that working with me is worthwhile
- That will pay what I’m worth, without too much negotiating
- Who will gain results from working with me (and will write testimonials to prove it)
- Who will tell others about me and send me referrals
Before I isolated who that person is I would get people that were hard to work with, sure they could get it done cheaper online, not sure they even needed decent design and were unreliable in getting back to me. It’s been a lot easier to get the sort of client I love working with and to describe them to my friends and associates once I had a clear idea of who they were.
To sum up, my ideal client is a business owner or entrepreneur who likes having a relaxed yet business-like, jargon-free graphic designer they can work one to one with as a trusted design resource. Who loves to meet over coffee (if they are in this area, which they don’t need to be) and works well via email and calls. They understand the need for graphic design for all their branding and marketing materials. They see that by having a reliable, creative designer to work with their communications will improve and look more professional. They have no problem with my prices because they know it’s a great investment in their business. They love the results they get. They write testimonials and they tell others about me. If you are or know anyone fitting that description, send them my way. I’d love to meet them.
Who do you describe as your ideal client? Add your comments here!