Define YOUR “better client” precisely. We all say we want better clients, but what does that actually mean? To define your "better client" you need to identify the projects, budgets, and business problems that represent a strong fit for your business.
Study YOUR past patterns. Look at the clients and projects you've enjoyed, the work you want to avoid and the recurring problems you have tolerated to better understand the direction you want to take your business.
Stop accepting work by default. This was probably the most common pattern... accepting everything that came through the door. The truth is, low value projects consume the time and energy needed to market your business, serve stronger clients and pursue better opportunities.
A useful question I ask before accepting any project is:
“If I say yes to this, what am I saying no to?”
Sell strategic value, not just deliverables. This one I am a big believer in and what we focus a lot on inside BBA and a few sessions inside the upcoming Brand Builders Summit. We need to focus on client conversations on business problems, outcomes and growth, rather than simply what you will produce.
Qualify prospects earlier. Ask about their goals, timing, budget and decision process before committing significant time. Also consider adding in a few pre-qualifying questions inside your calendar booking form.
Set and enforce clear boundaries. Consider minimum project values, realistic timelines, late payment policies, reactivation fees and paid add-ons. These all help protect your time and energy.
Next week, we're building a Pipeline Opportunity Map to uncover the warm leads, relationships, referrals and overlooked opportunities already within reach.
You can still join us for the remaining five live sessions and access the Session 1 replay and workbook:
BBA is the ultimate membership for brand builders. Get the support, guidance, and resources to master branding and grow a thriving creative business —together.
