How to Effectively Define Your Ideal Client

By: Kathleen Ries-Jubenville   |    Read time: 3 minutes

Defining your ideal client is a KEY component of developing and growing a successful business. If you haven't done it yet, now's the time!

This can sometimes be a difficult process and you may be hesitant to narrow down a pool of potential clients. 

But know that there are more than enough potential clients in the world, even with a narrowed scope. Also know that your ideal client may change over time, so just do the best you can with the information you have now and be prepared to revisit this exercise as you learn and your company grows!

Here are 4 things to consider to effectively define your ideal client:

1. Your ideal client will be someone who's problem you can solve. 

Start with listing the problems your products or services solve for your clients. On this list, include their external problems, internal frustrations, and the results they want to achieve. Use this information to imagine what your potential clients are doing and thinking and needing and how your sales offerings can help them succeed.

2. Your ideal client will be someone you will enjoy working with.

This is an important part of creating a business you enjoy. Don't underestimate how happy you will feel helping the people you love to serve! And don't underestimate how unhappy the wrong clients will make you feel. Your business should serve your lifestyle. Make it one filled with joy!  In addition, when you help the right people, you are usually more effective in solving their problems, so you will feel more fulfilled in your work. This will will make it easier for you to persevere in creating your own business success.

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3. Your ideal client will help you limit the products or services you offer.

 As a business owner, the easiest thing is to come up with new ideas. And, as we market and network and build connections with people, we will also be offered lots of opportunities. This is both wonderful and dangerous. Our resources are limited. We only have so much time, energy, and money to pursue ideas or opportunities. It's especially important in the early stages of a business to strategically develop a short list of services to offer or products to sell. Knowing your ideal client gives your the information you need to develop the right solutions to their problems.

4. Your ideal client will help you determine your marketing message.

To speak to and attract your ideal clients, you need to put it all together: you must understand their problem, how it makes them feel, what their goals are, and what motivates them. And, you must be clear about what you offer and how it helps them get what they want. If your marketing message leads with a focus on your client - instead of on you - you will find it easier to create a profitable and enjoyable business!