You Could’ve Solved That Problem . . .

The worst has happened. You land a DREAM client, but a few months later the client cuts ties due to an unforeseen issue that could have been prevented.

Have you ever had a client end your services due to a problem you could have solved?

I meet with solopreneurs who share stories like this all the time. Nine times out of ten their stories end with, “And I knew that such-and-such issue would probably crop up. I’m so frustrated with myself!” I have to bite my tongue to keep from saying, “Oh no! If only you had solved that problem before it happened!” 

It’s easy to get caught up in having a product or service to offer and neglect to project possible issues. This happens when we see our products or services as “THE” solution. It’s the answer to the question. Once it’s released you’re done, right? 

Not if you want to build lasting relationships with clients.

A quality business owner not only knows how to provide a product or service—they know how to identify potential client problems before they arise. They do this by offering tailored solutions that reinforce value and trust (and prevent churn).

Clients don’t just pay for services, they also pay for peace of mind. A solopreneur who proactively addresses potential problems becomes indispensable.

Today, we’re exploring a simple problem-solution process to identify, analyze, and solve client problems preemptively. Plus, I’ll throw in actionable tips to implement this approach.

The Value of Preemptive Problem-Solving

As a solopreneur you are a problem solving machine. You develop deep client relationships, take on direct accountability, and you're perceptive. Solopreneurs don’t have layers of employees clouding their connection to the client.

Anticipating problems demonstrates expertise and care. This fosters stronger client relationships, which mitigates client turnover. 

What are examples of preemptive problem solving?

In my role as a coach it’s things like recognizing when there’s incongruity between a client’s goals and actions, and understanding where that will lead in the future. My job is to correct their actions in real time to keep them on track to reach their goals.

Other examples are:

• Noticing a client’s website load time slowing down before it impacts SEO, proactively optimizing it, and earning long-term loyalty

• Guiding a special event client towards products or services better suited to their vision when they initially ask for something else. Your expertise will get them the results they are seeking.

• Conducting a walk-through of a housing project with a client to point out issues they didn’t notice and clearly communicating how you will solve those problems.

Your knowledge and experience lend themselves to providing insight the client doesn’t have. The approach I’m taking you through is targeting one-on-one clients but can be tweaked to address groups, if your business is not geared toward single client interactions.

A Simple Problem-Solution Process for Solopreneurs 

Our process is broken down into four steps:

1. Identify the problem.

2. Anticipate potential issues.

3. Brainstorm possible solutions.

4. Solidify a simple solution.

The goal is for this process to become ingrained in your thinking process, so you always anticipate problems (and resolve them) before the client encounters them.

You are your client’s hero!

Identify the Problem

• Adopt a “macro view” to assess the client’s business or needs holistically. Look for patterns or vulnerabilities (e.g., outdated systems, inconsistent branding, seasonal demand fluctuations, a gap in knowledge as they learn a new skill).

• Be curious. Ask the client open-ended questions during check-ins: “What’s been challenging lately?” or “Where do you see growth opportunities?”

• Pinpoint potential issues before they escalate (e.g., a graphic designer noticing a client’s social media visuals lack cohesion, risking brand dilution).

Anticipate Potential Issues

• Zoom in on the “micro view” to list specific risks if the problem goes unaddressed (e.g., reduced engagement, lower conversions). Ask yourself, “What would frustrate my client if this issue arises?”

• Don’t assume you know everything. Research industry trends or consult peers to uncover blind spots. Consider using AI to help you identify potential problems, too, by having it review your analysis for any gaps (i.e., “Based on the information I have, what are potential issues I’m not addressing/identifying?”).

• Create a clear list of consequences (e.g., inconsistent visuals could weaken customer trust and reduce sales). 

Brainstorm Possible Solutions

• Ask, “What are the ways I can . . . [create a cohesive, branded message for this client, keeping their goals in mind]?” to generate multiple solutions. List options like creating a brand style guide, scheduling a training session, or automating a task.

• Weigh pros and cons for each solution to ensure feasibility for both you and the client. Which solution fits best?

• Form a shortlist of tailored solutions (e.g., a style guide plus monthly template updates to maintain brand consistency).

Solidify a Simple Solution

• Choose one solution that’s easy to explain and implement. Package it as a clear, client-friendly offer (e.g., “I’ll create a custom brand style guide for $X, ensuring your visuals stay cohesive across platforms.”). 

  • Remember, you are taking care of these problems preemptively so any offer is part of your initial proposal, not an add-on.

• Emphasize benefits over features (e.g., “This saves you time and boosts customer trust.”).

• This presents a proactive pitch that positions you as a problem-solver, delivered before the client even notices the issue.

Implementing Preemptive Problem-Solving

Preemptive problem-solving is more of a thought process than a time-hoarding written plan. 

View yourself as a consultant, not just a service provider. You’re training your brain to “predict” likely problems. Note that I said “likely” problems. You’re not inventing issues that could happen without proof for thinking they will. 

You’re scanning the landscape for conditions that make a problem more likely to present itself. You’re looking for the accident up ahead and redirecting the client’s vehicle to a clear path. In other words, you’re being proactive.

Practical Tips:

• Schedule quarterly “health checks” with clients to spot potential issues.

• Use tools like analytics dashboards or client feedback surveys to gather data proactively.

• Practice seeing issues from the client’s perspective by role-playing their concerns.

Invest 10 minutes a week to connect with clients/customers to ascertain needs (e.g., a check-in text or phone call). As I point out on the regular, small, consistent actions are what lead to big impacts.

My Final Word

Preemptive problem-solving sets exceptional solopreneurs apart from the rest, building trust and preventing client turnover.

Make preemptive problem-solving a part of your thinking process to ensure you’re resolving issues even before clients know they exist. This is why they hire you.

What’s one potential client issue you’ve spotted recently?  Try this problem-solution process with one client this week and experience a stronger relationship built on trust, expertise, and excellence.

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Sending you all Peace, Love, & Harmony!

-Michele

Do You Need Help Tapping Into Your Potential?

Are you struggling to meet your goals and wish you had support? Have you ever considered working with a coach? You may not know what a coach does.

One-on-One Coaching:

• You and I develop an individualized plan targeting your specific goals

• You receive individualized support from me

• Answers to your specific questions

• Guidance on your specific issues and blocks

• Accessibility to me outside coaching sessions for added support (individual texts and emails to check in)

• Your plan leads to learning how your personal growth is in your control

Are you ready to take action but are at a loss on what step to take next? 

I can teach you how to get started and accelerate your growth by using repeatable methods. Need the tools? I’ve got them. The goal is always to make you independent. I should be working myself out of a job. Once you take off, you may want to have a session from time to time, especially if you are scaling your goals. A good coach teaches you how to stand on your own two feet. Contact me today. Are you ready to CONNECT?