This week, we’re going to cover the basics of building your own niche notebook.
Your notebook should be customized to your niche(s) but should still feature a few general points. That’s because a niche notebook is really just a profile of a certain corner of a market, and just like a dating profile, every good market profile needs certain bases covered.
Niche Notebook Basics
Here’s a look at the categories I include in the BlackFreelance Niche Notebooks along with the reasons why. I’d suggest copying and pasting these directly to start your own.
Overview
A high-level rundown of what your niche is like, what sets it apart, and who’s
in it.
Valuation
A (large) number that gives you an idea of how much money is flowing around between the businesses you’re considering as prospects. (If you don’t know, try
searching the name of your niche and “market size”.)
Sub/Cross-Niches
Either niches that
nest under yours, or intersect (like tech, law, health, etc.) This section is a great place to store ideas around new ways to specialize and branch out.
B2B/B2C Notes
Most niches will have both B2B and B2C facets. They typically function VERY differently, and you’ll want to be aware of what those differences are.
Skillsets
Needed
Each niches uses freelance skillsets in its own way. If you’re aware of what skillsets are big as freelance work in your niche, it’s easier to find partners and inspiration.
Prospect Ideas
It’s ALWAYS a good idea to keep track of where you find your prospects. This might mean conferences, magazines, reports…whatever they are, keep track of them here so you can refer back when you’re in a dry
spell.
Making Contact
There’s a lot of niche-specific nuance around approaching cold (or
even warm) prospects. You’ll be learning insights as you grow, and it’s worth keeping track of them here.
Remember that you’re not trying to fill these out right this second. Your notebook is just that…a place to jot notes as you find them.
IF you have trouble filling any of these out on your own, don’t hesitate to hit me up for some help.
Megan
Here are the resources that you’ll want to check out this month…