Where Is Your Ideal Client Hiding?
Have you ever thought, I know who my ideal client is but where in the world are they hiding? I have so much knowledge and experience to share with them that I know will help them but where are they? Don't worry, this is common. Many small business owners have asked themselves those same questions. Now it's time to discover where your ideal client is spending their time and their preferred method of communication.
Let's look at this from a generational perspective...
If your ideal client is a baby boomer, born 1946 to 1960, studies show they have the characteristics of being hard working, team players, optimistic and competitive.
They will prefer to communicate face-to-face but may also enjoy email communication when necessary.
This generation likely needs help with workplace politics, how to balance life while taking care of their aging parents and dealing with their kids and grandkids.
You will likely find this generation out in public places such as networking events, markets or fitness and wellness classes or having dinner with friends or family. They may do a little shopping online but will likely prefer to learn and buy products and services form people who they have a face-to-face connection with.
If your ideal client is from Generation X, born 1961 to 1981, studies show they are self-reliant, pragmatic, skeptical and like to challenge others.
It is important to be clear and concise in your communication with this generation and save meetings for issues that require face-to-face communication, otherwise email, phone or text may be preferred.
This generation likely seeks help to find a healthy work-life balance as they pursue their careers but also want to keep their health.
You will likely find this generation at professional networking events or personal and professional development workshops and seminars. You might even gain the attention of this generation from posting flyers at local markets or grocery stores and some online marketing.
If your ideal client is a Millennial, born 1982 to 2001, studies show they prefer to multi-task, love extreme fun working and personal environments, are technologically savvy and have a sense of social responsibility.
When working with a millennial is it important to have fun, be open to new and different ways of thinking and be able to use technology as the main form of communication such as text and social media.
You will likely find millennials in online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Snap Chat or out doing extreme sports, having a good time with friends and hanging out in trendy places.
Notice how different each of the generation are and within each generation you will find a variety of different personalities and needs. Spend some time doing research on your ideal client and start spending time where they are to develop relationships with them and build trust. Only then will your ideal client make the decision to purchase your products and services.
Hope this helps!
Rachel Joy Olsen, BSc., MBA
