Know-How Exchange : Student Questions

Dear maleek25,

First of all, please turn off your caps lock button.

Great question: how do you attract new clients? There are lots
of ways you can do this but the best way is to simply take risks.
You've got to become known for offering things that people want, of for offering things that people value.

You're never going to be able to please everyone and the sooner you come to terms with this the better. Why? Because there are simply some client relationships that are not worth the hassle!
(I did not say this ... you were no here!)

Until you can do this (take risks) you'll be trapped by fear.

You take risks be either offer outstanding value—that is, you offer evidence that you know what the heck you're talking about, or your you show people what you can do, what you know, and what you've done for other people.

To attract new relationships you must prove you're worth approaching and you, in turn, must be approachable. No one will buy from you or hire you until they feel they know you, like you, and trust you.

Believe me, this whole risk taking thing ISN'T easy, but it's worth it. You must be consistent, you must offer benefits, value, and social proof, and over time, the more you do this the more you'll establish yourself as the logical "go to" person.

Until you have done these things or can or are willing to do these things no, you won't get anywhere.

Forget searching. Take action.

You've got to just take that leap of faith and put yourself out there. I did this when I joined this forum back in late April or early May of this year. When I answered my first few posts on this forum I was scared to death, really I was.

But gradually, people have begun to take notice and now, I'm helping people, I'm building a modest list, and I'm attracting clients.

Has EVERYONE embraced my opinions with open arms? Hell no.
Nor do I expect them to: I know I've upset a few people, but I've always told people what I thought would be BEST for them based on my opinions and experiences, not what I thought they wanted to hear.

So, is this method right for you? Perhaps not. And whatever you do it's vital you listen to the other opinions you'll read. I just hope my opinion helps. Good luck to you.

Gary Bloomer
Wilmington, DE, USA

Where are you hoping to get your clients? Zero in on a specific area, do your research, get on a plane and fly there, and then start knocking on the doors of the people who might benefit from your services.

You need to bring samples of your work, discuss how you'd work with them, what's in it for them to hire you, what steps you'll take to make sure they're 100% satisfied with your work, and all the other questions and issues on their minds.

This won't be easy, but it's been done by others just this way ... and it's not likely you'll land any significant clients by sitting at your desk. Get out there and meet your prospective clients face-to-face. Just be sure to do your research before each meeting so you are not giving anyone a "generic" presentation.

You need to demonstrate that you understand THEIR needs and are geared to helping THEM. Don't talk about what you want to do; talk about what they need and how you know you can provide it.