Build A Sandbox to Level Up Faster⠀

Today, I spent a couple of hours working with my bestie on her business. She’s going through my Growth and Profit program and I’m the lucky recipient of her brand strategy program.

Every week, I meet with my other client. One week, we meet about her business and the next, we meet about mine.⠀

The very first time I delivered my program was to a peer, in exchange for services.⠀

You see, my sandbox clients help me level up. Not only do we get to help each other out, but we get to practice the delivery of our programs on each other, in real life but with open feedback. And because it’s not one-sided, there’s no awkward misalignment in who’s getting what value.⠀

I can tell you that having these “sandbox” opportunities has been invaluable to me, but also to my current and future clients, because I get honest feedback and space to say “Hmm, I think this would work better this way, what do you think?”. No pressure and no agenda.⠀

The other beauty of having sandbox clients is that just delivering your program gives you confidence, especially if it’s the first time. I see many business owners freeze with anxiety over an undetermined outcome.⠀

If that’s you, get a practice client. Ask them to behave as if they were a paying client but invite them to ask questions, make suggestions and participate in earnest. Treat them as if they are a paying client and don’t skimp on anything.⠀

Just getting started will make your confidence grow, and you’ll feel ready for your first client for realsies.⠀

Who are the best candidates for sandbox clients? Well, your potential clients, of course. Look for friends, colleagues, peers or those who truly can benefit from your service. Look for target clients who offer something that you need as well. More than likely they will see value in the trade for services.⠀

How long should you keep sandbox clients? I always have at least one. They can speak from real experience and can be a great sounding board for new ideas. I kind of consider my sandbox clients to be my own little advisory board.⠀
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Tell me in the comments…

Name two friends or peers that you would like in your sandbox.