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FreelanceCampNiche

Page history last edited by Margaret 15 years, 7 months ago

Finding/marketing your niche

Bonnie Chambers and Renee Chin

 

STRATEGIES FOR FINDING

  • Know yourself and what you’re interested in
  • Know the people you want to work with
  • Realize that what you’re offering is your unique viewpoint about your niche
  • Defining your niche can be done by your customers – how you are filling their needs. Are you the cheapest or fastest in your price range. Where do you resonate in your customer’s buying decision-making?

 

STRATEGIES FOR MARKETING

Todd: graphic design – join leads clubs, direct mail, cold calls, standard web marketing tools, chamber of commerce. Business networking groups like SC Business Connect (he is founder/owner). Always 1st & 3rd Thursdays.

Marketing is a consequence of an opportunity to have a conversation with a potential client.

 

Other methods

  • Client referrals.
  • Trade magazines.
  • Tradeshows and conferences.
  • Do your homework on a company and submit a plan to capitalize on an unperceived need.
  • Find a way to tie an interest in to generate subsidiary interest in your main niche. For example, network with other railroad enthusiasts.
  • Merchant Circle – online local business community
  • Consider sponsoring events for your target audience like FreelanceCamp.org or events/talks/seminars by recognizable experts in your area of expertise
  • Find a way to communicate your investment in your area – what you’re interested and committed to. Offer value besides your service.
  • Be as specialized as possible if you want to own your niche.
  • Figure out what triggers a customer’s action (like a new marriage might result in a new refrigerator purchase, so making friends with wedding photographers/planners might result in leads).
  • Offer your product free for viral marketing.

 

Recommended Reading:

  • Read “Attracting Your Perfect Customer”
  • Read “Made to Stick”
  • Read “The 4-hour workweek”