Print ArticleLet's face it - when you're just starting out, you'll take on just about any client or contact in an attempt to boost sales and start the buzz about yourself rolling. However, once you're past merely surviving, try thriving by developing clients of influence.
Look at the Web sites of advertising firms, venture capital companies, and computer service providers. It's likely that these companies will have devoted an entire Web page to Our Clients. And if you're out looking for a product or service that is going to cost you a hefty chunk of your budget, you better believe that you will be researching the client list of providers you consider.
It only makes sense that we seek out referrals from people or companies that do business with companies that we are thinking about hiring. However, if you have a Client of Influence as part of your client base, it's not only likely that you will add more to your roster - it's a fact.
Human nature dictates that we aspire to be like those we admire. For that reason, fashion designers give dresses worth tens of thousands of dollars to celebrities in order to be "seen" on the red carpet, artists strive to win patrons who can influence other art buyers, and technology companies produce products that are not only functional but also stylish and market them as lifestyle accoutrements.
Once you've got your business up and running, it's time to start seeking out clients that can win you more business - just by being part of your client base. Having important clients - clients who are known spenders, trend spotters, and moneymakers - will pull new customers to you and your company, with almost no effort on your part.
Buyers want to buy. Let's face it - acquisition is a big draw for our species. All they need is the right reason. And if you are offering the right product, the right message, and a client list of other influential companies or individuals, you are going to be chosen - possibly without a bid, a proposal, or any other marketing.
The best way to win a Client of Influence is to woo them. Join their organizations. Try to get to know them through networking. While it's always easiest to go in through the top - the chief executive officer or president - don't underestimate the power of meeting a talented vice president or department manager. These people can get you the meeting you need, and if you win the job and do terrific work, these middle managers are going to remember you and be grateful for making them look knowledgeable.
If you work for a non-profit, remember these same rules for Sponsors of Influence. There is a lot of money out there for charity purposes, but you really have to make your case to get it. Having a Sponsor of Influence will benefit you when you go looking for additional financial aid - all you'll have to do is drop the right name.
Look at the Web sites of advertising firms, venture capital companies, and computer service providers. It's likely that these companies will have devoted an entire Web page to Our Clients. And if you're out looking for a product or service that is going to cost you a hefty chunk of your budget, you better believe that you will be researching the client list of providers you consider.
It only makes sense that we seek out referrals from people or companies that do business with companies that we are thinking about hiring. However, if you have a Client of Influence as part of your client base, it's not only likely that you will add more to your roster - it's a fact.
Human nature dictates that we aspire to be like those we admire. For that reason, fashion designers give dresses worth tens of thousands of dollars to celebrities in order to be "seen" on the red carpet, artists strive to win patrons who can influence other art buyers, and technology companies produce products that are not only functional but also stylish and market them as lifestyle accoutrements.
Once you've got your business up and running, it's time to start seeking out clients that can win you more business - just by being part of your client base. Having important clients - clients who are known spenders, trend spotters, and moneymakers - will pull new customers to you and your company, with almost no effort on your part.
Buyers want to buy. Let's face it - acquisition is a big draw for our species. All they need is the right reason. And if you are offering the right product, the right message, and a client list of other influential companies or individuals, you are going to be chosen - possibly without a bid, a proposal, or any other marketing.
The best way to win a Client of Influence is to woo them. Join their organizations. Try to get to know them through networking. While it's always easiest to go in through the top - the chief executive officer or president - don't underestimate the power of meeting a talented vice president or department manager. These people can get you the meeting you need, and if you win the job and do terrific work, these middle managers are going to remember you and be grateful for making them look knowledgeable.
If you work for a non-profit, remember these same rules for Sponsors of Influence. There is a lot of money out there for charity purposes, but you really have to make your case to get it. Having a Sponsor of Influence will benefit you when you go looking for additional financial aid - all you'll have to do is drop the right name.
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