301: How To Set Yourself Apart From The Other 500,000,000 Freelancers In The World | Part 2

Summary

In this podcast episode, the host Brian Hood emphasizes the importance of differentiation for freelancers offering creative services. He argues that while passion is the starting point, it's crucial to identify and communicate what sets one apart from competitors. Hood outlines five 'Brute Force' differentiators: being better than competitors, having superior gear or facilities, being more efficient, having a larger network, and maintaining longevity in the industry. He advises against using price as a differentiator and stresses the need for freelancers to stand out through unique, tangible factors that add value for clients.

Takeaways

• 🎯 Passion is the starting point for freelancing, but to succeed professionally, one must go beyond and consider additional important factors.
• 💡 The cornerstone question for freelancers is 'Why should someone hire you instead of others offering similar creative services?' It's crucial to have a compelling answer.
• 🚫 Lowering prices should not be a freelancer's strategy for differentiation; it's not a sustainable or effective way to attract clients.
• 🌟 Differentiators should be apparent to potential clients before they hire you, not revealed only after the working relationship has begun.
• 📌 Focus on one differentiator at a time to effectively stand out from the competition and not overwhelm yourself with too many strategies.
• 🔨 Brute force differentiators include being better than competitors, having superior gear or facilities, being more efficient, having a larger network, and maintaining longevity in the industry.
• 💼 Building a larger network through word of mouth, referrals, and community engagement can significantly impact a freelancer's success.
• ⏱️ Being faster and more efficient in your work process can lead to competitive pricing and a strong differentiator in a crowded market.
• 📈 Having a long-term presence and staying top of mind with potential clients can lead to more opportunities and hires over time.
• 🛠️ Utilizing tools like CRM systems can help in staying organized and consistent with follow-ups, leading to increased client acquisition.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the Six Figure Creative Podcast?

The main focus of the Six Figure Creative Podcast is to help freelancers offering creative services to make more money without compromising their values or passion.

What is the significance of the custom neon sign mentioned in the podcast?

The custom neon sign signifies the importance of going beyond just passion in the freelancing profession. It serves as a reminder that success in freelancing requires more than just being passionate about one's work.

What is the 'Cornerstone question' that freelancers should be able to answer?

The 'Cornerstone question' is 'Why should someone hire you instead of all the other options they have?' It challenges freelancers to identify and communicate their unique value proposition to potential clients.

Why is it important for freelancers to have a good answer to the 'Cornerstone question'?

Having a good answer to the 'Cornerstone question' is crucial because it helps freelancers stand out from their competition. Without a clear differentiator, freelancers risk being overlooked in favor of others who can better articulate their unique value.

What are the three differentiation rules mentioned in the podcast?

The three differentiation rules are: 1) Lowering price will never be your differentiator, 2) Differentiators need to be apparent before they hire you, and 3) Choose one at a time to focus on.

Why should freelancers avoid using price as a differentiator?

Using price as a differentiator is discouraged because it can lead to a race to the bottom, where freelancers underbid each other, reducing their income and potentially devaluing their services.

What is the 'E8 framework' mentioned in the context of efficiency?

The 'E8 framework' stands for Eliminate, Automate, Delegate, and Mitigate. It is a strategy to improve efficiency by reducing or eliminating unnecessary tasks, automating processes, delegating tasks to others, and mitigating the impact of time-consuming activities.

How can freelancers expand their network and increase their surface area?

Freelancers can expand their network and increase their surface area by attending community events, social gatherings, and entrepreneurial meetups. They can also build a referral network with professionals offering different services to the same client base.

What is the significance of staying top of mind for a long time in the context of freelancing?

Staying top of mind for a long time ensures that freelancers remain in the consideration set of potential clients. Over time, they may become the only option that clients remember, increasing the likelihood of being hired once the need arises.

How can freelancers implement an effective follow-up process?

Freelancers can implement an effective follow-up process by using a CRM system to set reminders and structure their outreach. They should maintain consistent, non-intrusive communication with potential clients, providing value and checking in on their needs over an extended period.