I met with a new client the other day, they are very clear on what they can do and what they need to outsource. Multiple times they asked “Is this something you can do for me?” Which is GREAT.

I love a client who knows what they can and can’t do. And I love that I know what I can and can’t (or won’t) do. I am grateful to have a fantastic network of resources so when I’m not the right fit, 9 times out of 10, I can refer them to the perfect person to help.

I’m participating in a program with the City of Hillsboro right now and we’re talking about what services and resources are available to the startup community. I’m amazed at the variety of services and resources in our town. Did you know the Hillsboro Library has a Makers Space? Yeah, it’s awesome!

Too often I see people with specific needs not getting access to the resources that would be perfect for them. It’s frustrating. From what I’ve found, it seems to happen for a few of reasons…

1. People Don’t Know What They Need – “I need someone to setup and manage my social media and keep it on brand and in my voice” can be a different request than “I need social media help.”
2. People Don’t Know What’s Available – Did I mention the Makers Space? I just learned there’s a new co-working space in town too which might be perfect over the holidays when my house is over run with people and I need some quiet work time and to get out of the house for a few hours.
3. Services/Resources aren’t Promoting in the Right Places – Okay so you ofter the exact perfect service that small business owners needs. That’s GREAT. But how do they find you? Is it through referral partners? Is it through networking? Is it through your online presence? Don’t network just where it’s comfortable for YOU, network and spend time where your target market is hanging out.
4. Inconsistent or Unclear Messaging – Jargon doesn’t help when someone isn’t sure what they’re looking for. If you work with doctors then you should use medical terms. If you work with patients then you should STOP USING ACRONYMS I WILL NEVER UNDERSTAND. Make sure that your messaging is clear for your target market and that you aren’t alienating them by using too much jargon or have a message that’s not clear and straight to the point.

So how do you find the resources you need?

Ask

I can’t help you if I don’t know what you need. When I started my business over 6 years ago, I met with a friend who had recently started their business to figure out what logistics I needed to consider. I asked a lot of questions of friends and business owners to figure out where to find the resources I needed.

How do you connect with the people who need your services?

Talk to People

Again, I can’t help you if I don’t know what you need or what you’re up to. Make sure that people know what services you have available that work well with a specific audience. For some clients, they need a website right away, and for others they want to wait 6 months while they make some money to pay for said site.

As a business owner, how do you connect with the right clients or find the right resources to help your business grow?