3 Tips To Choose The Right Clients
For Your High-End Program
© 2006 - 2009 Kendall SummerHawk
Every time I hear someone lamenting about a "client from hell" I think, "Yep, been there, done that."
This is where mo-ney doesn't matter. Because no matter HOW much a client is paying you, if they're no fun to work with, the expense of maintaining such a client will rob you of time, energy and motivation. Plus, I believe it energetically "taints" your bank account, making it more difficult to prosper and thrive.
Believe me, I learned the hard way that not having a system in place to help you get clear on who's a great fit for your high-end programs can cost you a ton in aggravation and time (yes, I have my own "client from hell" story, and it isn't pretty!).
Luckily, screening for ideal clients is actually really easy. All it takes is knowing three things:
1. WHO is your ideal client PERSONALITY
2. WHY this type of personality GELS with you best
3. WHAT to SAY when you don't have a fit
Figuring out what to say so you don't feel guilty when someone isn't a fit is probably the toughest thing for most women entrepreneurs. We don't want to hurt anyone's' feelings or come off like Meryl Streep in The Devil Wears Prada.
That's why it's critical to get super clear on the personality you gel with the best.
Let me make this easy for you with three quick tips on how to create your "platinum filter" that only lets in the cream of the crop clients, and gently keeps out those that aren't quite your style.
Tip #1. WHO is your ideal client PERSONALITY
Think of someone you LOVED working with. I bet you can tell me in just 60 seconds what it was about them that made them such an awesome client. Jot those qualities down now. My list includes decisive, loves to learn, stable home life, is smart yet doubts herself, takes action, is willing to try new things.
Keep your list handy when you’re interviewing your high-end clients and make sure you don’t compromise your standards just because “you like them” or they “seem so nice.” Trust me, you’ll regret it later!
Tip #2. WHY this type of personality GELS with you best
Knowing why your ideal client personality is the perfect fit for you is a critical step in filling your programs with people you love working with. Now when you’re tempted to relax your standards, you’ll know you’re not doing them, or you, a favor.
For example, the reason WHY I gel best with my ideal client personality is because to get the best results, I KNOW my clients must take action fast, even if they’re a little unsure, so that they move forward quickly. Someone who ponders for a long time, takes tiny steps, and has to know ahead of time exactly how something will work out, will not get the kind of results I’m known for, or get the kind of results they’re paying for. Plus, they won’t be fun for me to coach.
Tip #3. WHAT to SAY when you don’t have a fit
This is actually easier than you think. Especially when you believe, as I do, that if the client isn’t right for you, you’re not right for them. With that belief held in your heart, you can say, with grace and authenticity,
“I’m glad we’ve had this time for me to understand who you are and what you’re looking for. Based on what I’m hearing, I don’t think I’m the right (coach, consultant, healer, etc.) for you. You wouldn’t end up getting what you wanted and of course, I wouldn’t feel good about that. Let me recommend an alternative for you, okay?”
When you speak from a place of holding their best interests at heart, you can comfortably uphold your standards in a kind, loving way that is full of grace and power. Your prospective client will thank you!
Offering Platinum Style coaching programs provides an amazing opportunity for you to not only make phenomenal income (it’s how I quickly grew my business to 7-figures, working less than I ever have), it’s also an opportunity to create life-long, high-quality client relationships you’ll treasure for life!
Do you have a question you ask your clients to make sure they are the right fit for you? If so, I’d love to hear it so please post it in the comments section.
About the author:
Kendall SummerHawk, Million Dollar Marketing Coach, delivers smart, savvy ways entrepreneurs can turn their hectic business into a smooth-running, fun, 6-figure money-making dream. To learn more about her book, Brilliance Unbridled, and sign up for more FREE tips like these, visit her site at http://www.kendallsummerhawk.com
NOTE: You are welcome to “reprint” this article online as long as it remains complete and unaltered (including the “about the author” info at the end). I would also appreciate a copy of your reprint sent to kendall@kendallsummerhawk.com