I’ve run my own business successfully for 30 years. Luckily there have been very few times, (maybe three or four?), when I’ve seriously lacked clients.
However, the few times I did hit a Client drought were highly, highly unsettling. But each time I eventually managed to get my head straight, face my fears, find my footing and forge a way through. And each time I learned a lot.
So, here’s 7 Things I recommend to get back into Client Flow:
1. Fix your Head
Even though it may not seem logical, even if it feels like you’re already doing everything you can, this is the first place to look. Dig deep to find out if you have any mental blocks around any areas of your business. Having coached hundreds of entrepreneurs, I find this is usually the root cause of any under-performance. It can be the tiniest little thing like, you dislike the admin work that comes when you make sales so you unconsciously avoid being ‘too successful’ (true story). Or it can be a big thing like, the pain of a divorce which is sapping your joy and drive but you’re still thinking, “That was over 3 years ago and it has nothing to do with my Sales”.
2. Tweak your Game Plan
Work out where the leak is in your marketing and sales funnels. If you don’t know what a funnel is, that that may be your first leak! In simple terms a funnel is the value-based relationship you build with your potential (and existing) clients over time. It’s a journey you take them on where they get to know, like and trust you. There’s a million and one ways to develop that relationship to the point of a sale but equally there’s sadly many ways that entrepreneurs miss the multiple relationship-building opportunities available along the way. See Point 6 below for a FREE resource to help you with this.
3. Grow your Hive
With less clients, you often have more time on your hands. Instead of falling into despair, use that valuable time to get ready for future client flow by growing your mailing list. There are umpteen ways to grow your list such as co-promoting with a business friend, running a competition or offering something for free in return for joining your list. Get used to this as it’s really something you should do all the time so that you don’t have to hit another client flow slump.
4. Connect with Past Clients
I bet you have previous clients who absolutely love you but they haven’t heard from you in years. Why not get back in touch and ask them if they need any more support. Or simply give them a little nudge by contacting them to say hello and express appreciation to them for being your first or loyal clients back in the day.
5. Batch now, Build later
Batch-create content such as blog posts, videos, or social media posts that you can use any time. The ‘future-you’ will thank you during your next busy season. With ChatGPT as your handy brainstorming partner, there’s now no excuse for not getting it done.
6. Learn so you Earn
You can also use all that unscheduled ‘free time’ to boost your skills and maximise your knowledge. There’s always something new to learn about marketing and tons of free info out there to help you. Check out one of my popular FREE resources that gives you a quick and easy framework for more Clients, Income & Impact: The Wealthy Changemaker Checklist
7. Book a Magic Holiday!
I can almost guarantee that the minute you think “F**k it, I’m going on a round-the world trip while I can” or “I’m going budget wild camping for a week” and get it all booked, someone will contact you with a dream work offer. This has happened to me so many times. Works a charm. The Universe really does have a sense of humour. And if nothing happens, at least you’ll come back feeling refreshed with a more positive mindset.
So those are just 7 actions you could consider taking. In truth there are many, many things you can do during a quiet spell to get things moving again, so don’t despair and don’t give up. Just keep taking action and things will eventually change for the better.
