FAQ: Do I have to turn down business that doesn’t fall into my niche?

Of course not. The key here is that you take on work for which you can meet the needs of the client profitably. The downside of taking on work that is not in your niche could lead to a loss of focus of your business. Chasing after revenue instead of marketing to your ideal client is dangerous. Depending on who you’re doing the work for, you may inadvertently send the message that you’re not the expert you really are. The client won’t value you as much and your rate will likely be lower than if you had put the effort into attracting your ideal client.

It’s important thing to note that all of your marketing materials should be focused on reaching and appealing to your ideal client. If in the course of your marketing you happen to attract a client who doesn’t fit that exactly, it’s okay.

Have you ever turned down business so that you could maintain focus or your niche? If so, tell me about it.