Like it or not, getting hired as a solo professional is as much about how you’re positioned as it is about how capable you are.
With that in mind, today’s (fabulous) video has a simple message: spend less time trying to prove how you’re better; spend more time making it clear how you’re different. (Tweet this)
Want to know more? Watch the video below.
(Want to know less? Unwatch the video below.)
(Move slider at bottom of video to adjust volume!)
Excellent advice. And funny, too!
Thanks Claudine! It was fun to make!
Nice perspective on defining who you are so your ideal client can find you.
I think that’s a great way to put it. We tend to think of us finding them. But I think it works even better when our ideal client finds us!
I’m not a freelance writer — I’m a freelance writer specializing in business and finance. Narrowing my niche like this enabled me to SEO my website and rank #1 for very specific keyword phrases that are actually used quite often. This has resulted in a steady stream of leads from people using these phrases and finding me!
That’s a great story, Don. I find it also allows you to narrow the things you speak/write about, making all the other good inbound stuff work even more efficiently.
Solid advice delivered in your fun way (as usual). I simplified my life and stopped wasting time when I decided to rep photographers who specialize in corporate shoots–really turning my back on advertising clients (of which I had none anyway!). It really made a difference in my bottom line.
Wow, that’s great Debby. I recommend the book, The Pumpkin Plan, for those who want to dig a bit deeper on the topic of narrowing.
Thanks! It’s refreshing to be welcomed with humor and schooled without hype! I ordered the Pumpkin Plan per your suggestion. I still trying to redefine who I am and what I want to offer
Great to have you along, Bud. Let me know what you think about the Pumpkin Plan. I found his writing took a little getting used to, but the examples and concepts very accessible!
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You got ROBBED, Michael. Those people with fuzz on their heads ain’t got nuthin’ on you.
As proof to back up my grammatical thuggery, I offer this guy:
http://blog.headblade.com/blog/headblade-promotions/headblade-inc-my-business-story-sponsored-by-google-and-american-express
Hello Sunni!
And funny you mention HeadBlade. For a guy I’ve never met, Todd Greene is someone I know well. We’ve bonded over the years in shaved headedness and yes, I am a headblade user!
Michael
Oh wow, cool coincidence.
I smiled when I first saw him and Headblade on a CNBC documentary. Such a great example of succeeding by serving a targeted audience. The Gillettes and Schicks of the world completely ignored you guys (and, err, all the bald gals).
Michael that was a great video. Now I have to sit down and really figure out how I am different. For some reason your words really sank in my head tonight. You are right, it’s not about bein better, but different and adding value. Thanks again! Dede
My pleasure, Dede! Glad it hit the spot for you.
Michael
So how do we find that uniqueness, Michael?
Liz!
If I had a simple answer for that I’d be a rich man. But I do believe that is the key to a happy career as a solo professional – selling the things we are each uniquely good at.
Michael
Great stuff, again!!!
Hello Edgar! Thanks for checking in. Please post a link to your hot off the presses book so everyone can check it out.