What if you are open for business but no one shows up?
I recently had several conversations with coaches who are dealing with this same issue.
The downside of having an online business is that the internet is your competition.
Just because you build it doesn’t mean they’ll come. And just because they came, doesn’t mean they’ll invest – right away.
It generally takes about 7 interactions with your business before someone will make a purchasing decision.
And not every ‘interested’ prospect is your ideal client. They have to have the ability and willingness to invest in your services.
So how do you show up consistently in front of the right people?
1 – Redo your research.
You may need to dig a little deeper to understand who your ideal client is. If you’ve already done this, it doesn’t hurt to reevaluate.
Here are some questions you should ask yourself:
- Who is that person who recognizes his or her need for your services – and are willing to make the investment?
- Is there a particular problem that is preventing them from getting to where they want to be?
- What have they tried in the past that didn’t work?
- Are you solving this problem with your services?
- And would they be eager to invest in your services to have their problems solved?
2 – Build relationships and partnerships.
Create a warmer pool of prospects by getting people to know, like, and trust you.
When was the last time that you contributed to the success of your ideal client without asking them to buy from you? There is a lot of information that you can glean from just a simple conversation.
Are their business owners with complementary services to yours? Why not ask if you could contribute to their program (or vice versa) to fill any gaps in service. It’s a true win-win.
3 – Just go offline.
This is the simplest thing to do. Try to look for in-person events to attend. From the live event, you will have the benefit of an in-person interaction (which is worth far more than a virtual one)
Of course, you still need a solid online presence because it strengthens your brand and allows those whom you’ve just met to get to know you further.
4 – Join groups.
Groups – either virtual – or in-person help you build relationships. Unlike a ‘one and done’ event, you can use recurring interactions to strengthen relationships through an organized channel.
If you are an introvert, well-structured groups provide a great way to ‘jump in’ and participate without having to break the ice yourself.
5 – Leave your friends and family alone.
I’m going to get myself in trouble here. Please don’t use your family and friends to validate your offer. Often, they are likely more interested in YOU than your offer and are not the people who will ultimately pay you.
You need to get uncomfortable and talk to strangers.
