Bridget, Jessica, Maia – thank you for sharing these valuable insights!

I really like the angle from Bridget of considering the big picture landscape of the client (overall goals / mission and priority of the work you can provide, financial priorities) before you even step in to that first contract. Then you get a sense of 1-off vs repeat client potential. Great tips for identifying and cultivating relationships.

Jessica, awesome that you collect data on this, review it annually, and (sounds like) use it to build strategy and direction in the year ahead. I’m impressed that you’ve grown a successful business (8 years + employees!) while being “terrible” at marketing. Clearly you’ve found a client base that deeply values your skills and products. As for me – yes, I see a lot of potential for long-term relationships with healthcare orgs, large and small, and individual care providers. The key for me is cracking in to these new environments. Healthcare tends to be very insular, sort of head in the sand. Hence the disconnect with patients around how to communicate and make their messaging accessible.

Maia, sounds like you’ve been in a sweet spot of repeat clients that keep your business steady and stable. I can see how that might be a little scary as you said. But also encouraging that you’ve found your niche, and your work is valued.