Happy New Year!
Happy New Year! You’re back at your desk and it’s that time of year again: your Christmas dinner is a distant memory, you’ve scoffed the last mince pie, and you’ve already ditched those half-baked resolutions.
But before you dive into another January of “same old, same old,” let me pitch an idea to ya: why not make 2025 the year you bin clients who make you want to scream into a cushion, and replace them with the ones who get you? I mean, really get you!
You know, the ones who pay on time, respect your boundaries, and don’t treat you like an unpaid psychic.
This isn’t just about ditching the awkward gigs; it’s about building a business that works for you.
So, if you’re ready to review your current lineup and start attracting your dream clients, grab a cuppa, and let’s crack on.
Step 1: The Great Client Audit
First things first, let’s take stock of who you’re working with right now. Yep, I know it’s a bit like cleaning out your sock drawer – dull but necessary. But you can’t make room for the sparkly new ones until you’ve binned the ones with holes in them.
Ask yourself:
- Do I actually enjoy working with this client, or do I dread every email from them?
- Are they paying me what I’m worth, or am I essentially subbing their lifestyle while I eat beans on toast?
- Do they respect my boundaries, or are they texting me at 10 p.m. about “just one quick thing”?
- Are they aligned with my values, or am I helping a biz I secretly despise?
If your answers are leaning towards “arrgh” rather than “yay,” it might be time to show them the door.
Step 2: Dreaming Up Your Ideal Clients
Picture your perfect client. No, not someone who pays you a squillion quid to knit jumpers for their cat (although, if that’s a niche, sign me up). I mean someone who values your work, respects your process, and makes you excited to log in on a Monday morning.
Here’s how to nail it down:
- Who are they? Are they small business owners? Creatives? Dog-walking empire builders?
- What are they like? Are they laid-back and collaborative, or do they prefer a strict plan?
- What do they need from you? Think about the kind of projects you’d be chuffed to take on.
- How much are they willing to pay? Spoiler alert: your dream client isn’t the one asking for a discount on your already-discounted services.
Get as specific as possible. If your dream client is a quirky plant shop owner who needs regular social media content, write that down. The clearer your vision, the easier it’ll be to spot them in the wild.
Step 3: Spot the Gaps
Now that you’ve sketched out your dream client, let’s compare them to your current lot. Are you seeing some major differences?
Maybe you’re attracting clients who haggle like they’re at a car boot sale, but your dream clients value quality and expertise.
Or perhaps your ideal gigs are creative and collaborative, but your inbox is full of tedious admin tasks.
Whatever the issue, pinpoint the gaps so you can figure out how to bridge them. Sometimes it’s a simple fix – like tweaking your messaging – and sometimes it’s a matter of being brave enough to say “no” to work that doesn’t serve you.
Step 4: Declutter Your Client List
Letting go of clients can feel a bit like breaking up with someone. There’s guilt, awkwardness, and the inevitable “it’s not you, it’s me” moment. But trust me, it’s worth it.
Here’s how to do it without burning bridges:
- Be Professional: Thank them for the opportunity and explain why you’re moving on. No need to list their sins – just keep it polite and to the point.
- Give Notice: If you’re on a retainer or have unfinished work, offer a clear timeline for wrapping things up.
- Recommend Alternatives: If possible, suggest someone else who might be a better fit for their needs.
Example script: “Hi [Client Name], thanks so much for the opportunity to work together. I’ve had a rethink about the type of projects I’m focusing on for 2025, and I don’t think I’m the best fit for what you’re looking for anymore. I’d love to recommend [Alternative Freelancer/Business] who might be able to help. Wishing you all the best!”
Step 5: Attracting Your Dream Clients
Right, you’ve done the hard part – now let’s get those dream clients banging down your door. The key here is to make sure everything about your brand screams “this is who I am, and I’m bloody brillliant at it!”.
Here’s your hit list:
- Spruce Up Your Branding: Your website, social media, and portfolio should showcase the kind of work you want more of. If you’re a neurospicy creative, lean into that uniqueness. Let potential clients know why your perspective is a superpower.
- Tailor Your Messaging: Speak directly to your dream clients. Highlight their pain points and how you solve them.
- Show Off a Bit: Share testimonials, case studies, and success stories that reflect the kind of projects you want to attract.
- Network Smarter: Find out where your dream clients hang out – whether it’s industry events, LinkedIn groups, or online communities – and be visible. No awkward, cringy cold pitching, just genuine relationship-building.
Step 6: Build Systems That Work for You
You’ve got the clients, now make sure you’re managing them without losing your marbles. For neurodiverse business owners, having clear systems can be a lifesaver.
- Screen Potential Clients: Use discovery calls or intake forms to weed out the nightmare ones before they get a chance to wreck your week.
- Set Boundaries: Contracts, timelines, and communication guidelines aren’t just for show – they’re your safety net.
- Automate the Boring Bits: Whether it’s invoicing or scheduling, find tools that take the admin off your plate.
Step 7: Tackle the Wobbles
Look, no matter how bloody awesome your dream clients are, there’ll still be moments of doubt or overwhelm. Here’s how to keep things manageable:
- Imposter Syndrome, Who? Remind yourself that you deserve great clients. Write it on a post-it note if you must.
- Break It Down: Don’t try to overhaul your business in one weekend. Focus on one step at a time.
- Get Help: Whether it’s outsourcing, hiring a VA, or joining a support group, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Your Homework
So, there you have it – your roadmap to swapping so-so clients for the dream ones. It’s not an overnight transformation, but with a bit of effort and a lot of clarity, you’ll be well on your way to a business that feels like it was made for you.
Now, here’s your homework:
- Audit your current clients this week.
- Write down your dream client profile.
- Take one small step to refine your messaging or reach out to a potential dream client.
And don’t forget to celebrate every win – even if it’s just ditching that one client who turned your inbox into a daily horror show. Happy New Year (again) and here’s to a cracking 2025!
How can I help?
Once you’ve nailed who you really want to work with in 2025, I can help attract them to you with perhaps beautiful blogs, engaging emails, a compelling case study, or even some wonderful words on your website.
Give me a shout when you’re ready and let’s get cracking on bringing those brand spanking new clients onboard this year!