Before investing in content or advertising, you need to know how you make money and why your clients should choose you. This guide sums up the key points: business model, value proposition and brand identity.
1. Understand your business model
A business model describes how you generate revenue. To map it out quickly:
- Download the Business Model Canvas (Strategyzer) and fill in:
customer segments, value proposition, channels, revenue streams, costs… - Focus on 1 to 2 revenue streams (e.g. website design + Shopify apps).
- Write down your variable costs (hosting, software, time) to set consistent pricing.
2. Jobs To Be Done: why clients “hire” you
Ask yourself: “What exact problem does my service solve?” Examples:
- Ultra-fast business websites → reassure prospects and generate calls.
- Automated Shopify tools → save 3 hours a day on order management.
Key formula: “My clients pay me to [verbe] so that they can [measurable result].”
3. Position your brand
Your brand lives in your client's mind. Clarify:
- Promise: “Fast websites and apps, made in Île-de-France.”
- Tone: approachable expertise, no unnecessary jargon.
- Proof: local case studies (see Versailles projects).
4. A minimal visual identity
No need for a €10,000 rebrand; just make sure everything is consistent:
- A simple logo (monogram or icon);
- Primary color #0057B9 (Île-de-France blue) + dark gray;
- The same web font (Inter/Roboto) across your whole site and your quotes.
5. Online business models suited to freelancers
| Model | For what? | Example in practice |
|---|---|---|
| Service | One-off project | “5-page business website” package |
| Subscription | Recurring revenue | Monthly WordPress maintenance |
| Freemium | Lead magnet | Free version of GTMail Verif |
6. KPIs to track your brand
- Awareness: number of searches for “GT Applications” (Google Search Console).
- Loyalty: % of clients who come back for a second project.
- Engagement: newsletter response rate.
7. 24-hour checklist
- Fill in a one-page Business Model Canvas.
- Write a JTBD statement and add it to your home page.
- Standardize colors and fonts across your résumé, quotes and website.
A clear business model + a consistent brand = solid foundations for your future content and SEO strategies.