We recently connected with Lynne Door and have shared our conversation below.

Lynne, appreciate you joining us today. Alright, so we’d love to hear about how you got your first client or customer. What’s the story?

Thank you so much for having me! When I started my business in 2009, social media was just starting to take off, so I reached out to potential clients the old fashion way… I mailed hundreds of large envelopes with an intro letter, resume and samples of my work to creative directors, agencies, and anyone I thought I might be able to collaborate with. Sounds crazy right? But I had several people who needed of a freelancer and hired me for small jobs. I wasn’t entirely sure I would be able to make it on my own, but I worked hard, met deadlines, and the referrals started coming in. And now 15 years later, I’m incredibly grateful to say I’ve helped 400+ entrepreneurs and small business owners carve out a niche and make their dream of being a business owner a reality!

Lynne, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

After getting my BFA in Graphic Design, I worked for a brand agency in Laguna Beach, California for 6 years. I learned an incredible amount about the branding process and how important brand strategy was for a business to succeed! While I enjoyed working with a team of people, I had a desire to work with owners of small businesses directly and help them understand the importance of branding. So many entrepreneurs need help and/or don’t have the budget for creative agencies. So I decided to start my own business and fill that gap! I don’t believe the branding process should be overwhelming or complicated. My process is focused on making sure businesses get super clear on who they are and who they help, so they can deliver a consistent message, attract the right audience, and differentiate themselves from the competition. With Brand Strategy and Design, clients aren’t just getting a logo, they’re getting a comprehensive Brand Strategy Roadmap so they know how to show up in their business every day, increase growth and create a sustainable business! I’m also passionate about helping established businesses who need a little refresh, want to elevate their brand, or simply need some guidance, and offer Brand Audits, Brand & Business Coaching, and Website Design.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Without a doubt being responsive! Being responsive and communicating is key when you’re an entrepreneur, but being responsive has established me as someone clients can count on. Over the years I’ve heard numerous people say they were ghosted by designers/freelancers and that’s a huge problem for the industry because there are many, many hard working designers that don’t do that. Building a positive reputation is based on giving clients the best experience from the moment they contact you!

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

For me, there have been two things. Number 1: Understanding my clients’ root problems has been essential. When you understand what struggles and challenges your clients have, you can provide the solutions they need. People don’t just buy a product or service, they buy results! Number 2: When you provide the right solution, there’s a domino effect! People will talk about their experience with others and how your value impacted their life/business. The growth of my clientele is solely based on how I’ve been able to strategically and uniquely solve challenges for each client, then showcase the process and project results on social media. These days I’m not sending out envelopes anymore lol, social platforms have helped me reach a wider audience. And I have to say it’s pretty darn cool to connect and work with people across the globe!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lynnedoor.com
• Instagram: @lynnedoordesign
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynne-door-68a761122/

Image Credits

Brand Photography by @camrynclairphoto based in Southern California.