In 2018, when I started LETS, I struggled to identify my ideal client. Fear of narrowing down led to confusion in my business plan, marketing, and strategy. It wasn't until 2020, when writing my book, that I created a niche, making it easier to target a specific audience. This book niche then became my business's ideal client, leading to greater success once I clarified my target audience.

Initially, I struggled with assumptions about the risks of niche client focus, fearing missed opportunities and scarcity within my chosen niche. Yet, I soon realized that having a niche brought focus and improved communication about my business. Moreover, it empowered me to discern between opportunities within and outside my niche, granting me the freedom to pursue or decline as needed.

Ultimately, having a niche is more about defining your identity and business scope. Clarity attracts the right clients, although they may not always align precisely with your niche. This flexibility allows you to make informed decisions about which opportunities to pursue.  

There are various methods to develop your ideal client, and my preferred approach is creating a Client Persona. This entails crafting a semi-fictional representation of your ideal client. To begin, determine the type of business you aim to serve, considering factors such as industry, company size, and location.

For instance, my Ideal Business Client is solopreneurs providing business consulting to small to mid-size companies in the Midwest. Once you've identified your ideal business, pinpointing your ideal client within it is crucial. Who is the person you want to target to showcase your business and offerings?

Conduct research to understand the typical characteristics of individuals in that role, including gender, age, job title, education, and location. After identifying your target persona, delve deeper to understand their job responsibilities, preferred sources of information, and the challenges they face. By gaining insights into their needs and offering solutions, you can effectively tailor your approach to resonate with your ideal client.

Your ideal client may evolve as you progress on your entrepreneurial journey. If you opt to introduce new services or venture into different business areas, it's essential to reassess and identify your ideal client. Doing so ensures that your focus remains aligned with the needs of the right audience.