# Solo > Solopreneur business skill. Use when user needs to productize expertise, build audience, generate leads, close sales, manage clients, handle bookkeeping, or optimize their one-person business. Triggers on "solopreneur", "freelance", "one-person business", "productize", "client management", "solo business", or /solo commands. - Skill: `orbweva/solo` (Agent Skill) - Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add orbweva/solo` - Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/orbweva/solo/raw - Safety review: pending - Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex - Category: Coding & Dev Tools - Author: ORBWEVA (https://skillmd.com/u/orbweva) - Updated: 2026-09-17 - Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/orbweva/solo --- # Solo Business Skill Run a one-person company like a team of ten. Strategy, sales, operations, and finances — all without hiring. ## Commands | Command | Description | |---------|-------------| | `/solo:offer` | Productize expertise into sellable offers (service → product ladder) | | `/solo:revenue` | Revenue diversification (consulting + products + passive income) | | `/solo:audience` | Audience building system (newsletter, social, content flywheel) | | `/solo:content` | Content system (batching, repurposing, distribution calendar) | | `/solo:copy` | Sales copy frameworks (landing pages, emails, ads) | | `/solo:leads` | Lead generation (funnels, magnets, referrals, partnerships) | | `/solo:sales` | Solo sales playbook (proposals, follow-ups, closing) | | `/solo:onboard` | Client onboarding automation | | `/solo:clients` | Client management (communication, scope, deliverables) | | `/solo:support` | Customer support system (FAQ, templates, escalation) | | `/solo:books` | Bookkeeping + P&L + expense tracking | | `/solo:tax` | Tax prep checklist (quarterly estimates, deductions) | | `/solo:time` | Time audit + priority matrix (keep/cut/automate) | | `/solo:stack` | Tech stack builder (tools, costs, integrations) | | `/solo:help` | Command reference | ## Principles 1. Revenue before vanity metrics 2. Systems over hustle 3. Automate the repeatable, humanize the valuable 4. One person, ten systems 5. Profit margin > revenue --- ## Stage 1: Offer Design (`/solo:offer`) ### Purpose Transform your expertise into packaged, sellable offers that scale beyond trading hours for dollars. ### Step 1: Expertise Audit Map your skills across three dimensions. Score each 1-5. ``` +---------------------------+-----+------------+--------------+-------+ | Skill / Expertise | Joy | Market | Your Skill | Total | | | 1-5 | Demand 1-5 | Level 1-5 | /15 | +---------------------------+-----+------------+--------------+-------+ | [e.g. Web development] | | | | | | [e.g. Copywriting] | | | | | | [e.g. Strategy consulting]| | | | | | [e.g. Video production] | | | | | | [e.g. Data analysis] | | | | | +---------------------------+-----+------------+--------------+-------+ ``` **Scoring Guide:** - 12-15: Sweet spot — build your core offer here - 9-11: Strong secondary offer or upsell - 6-8: Only if market demand is 5/5 - Below 6: Drop it ### Step 2: Service-to-Product Ladder Build a ladder from high-touch to scalable. Every solopreneur needs at least 3 rungs. ``` LADDER RUNG | PRICE RANGE | YOUR TIME | SCALABILITY -------------------+--------------+------------+------------ 1:1 Done-for-you | $$$$$ | High | Low 1:1 Consulting | $$$$ | High | Low Group coaching | $$$ | Medium | Medium Online course | $$ | Low (after)| High Templates/tools | $ | Minimal | Very high SaaS product | $ recurring | Dev upfront| Maximum Free content | $0 | Medium | Infinite ``` **Action:** Place your current offers on this ladder. Identify the next rung to build. ### Step 3: Offer Packaging Template For each offer, complete this template: ``` OFFER NAME: _______________________________________________ TARGET BUYER: _____________________________________________ PROBLEM SOLVED: ___________________________________________ DELIVERABLES: 1. ____________________________________________________ 2. ____________________________________________________ 3. ____________________________________________________ TIMELINE: _________________________________________________ PRICE: ____________________________________________________ GUARANTEE: ________________________________________________ IDEAL NEXT STEP (upsell): _________________________________ ``` ### Step 4: Positioning Statement Fill in the blanks: > I help [TARGET AUDIENCE] achieve [SPECIFIC OUTCOME] through [YOUR METHOD/APPROACH], without [COMMON PAIN POINT THEY WANT TO AVOID]. **Anti-patterns:** - "I help everyone" — too broad, you help no one - "I do everything" — no positioning, no premium pricing - Missing the "without" — you need to name the pain you remove - No specific outcome — "grow their business" means nothing ### Offer Scoring Rubric ``` +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Criterion | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Clear target buyer | | | | | | | Specific outcome | | | | | | | Defined deliverables | | | | | | | Pricing justified | | | | | | | Has a guarantee | | | | | | | Leads to next offer | | | | | | | Can explain in 1 sentence| | | | | | +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ TOTAL: ___/35 ``` - 30-35: Ship it - 22-29: Needs tightening — sharpen the weakest area - 15-21: Rethink fundamentals before launching - Below 15: Start over with the expertise audit --- ## Stage 2: Revenue Diversification (`/solo:revenue`) ### Purpose Build multiple income streams so no single client or product can sink your business. ### Step 1: Revenue Stream Audit List every way you currently earn money. ``` +-------------------+--------+----------+-----------+--------+-----------+ | Revenue Stream | Type | Monthly | Recurring | Active | % of Total| | | A/P | Revenue | Y/N | Hours | Revenue | +-------------------+--------+----------+-----------+--------+-----------+ | | | | | | | +-------------------+--------+----------+-----------+--------+-----------+ ``` Type: A = Active (requires your time), P = Passive (runs without you) **Red flags:** - Any single stream > 50% of revenue - All streams are Active - No recurring revenue - Total hours > 40/week across all streams ### Step 2: Revenue Mix Targets by Stage ``` YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3+ Active services 70% 50% 30% Productized service 20% 25% 25% Digital products 10% 15% 20% Passive/recurring 0% 10% 25% ``` ### Step 3: Stream Evaluation Scorecard Score each potential new stream 1-5. ``` +-------------------+--------+--------+-------------+--------------+-------+ | Stream | Effort | Margin | Scalability | Predictabil. | Total | | | 1-5 | 1-5 | 1-5 | 1-5 | /20 | +-------------------+--------+--------+-------------+--------------+-------+ | | | | | | | +-------------------+--------+--------+-------------+--------------+-------+ ``` - 16-20: Build this next - 12-15: Queue it for next quarter - 8-11: Only if it complements existing streams - Below 8: Skip **Effort scoring (inverted — lower effort = higher score):** - 5 = Set up once, earns forever (templates, affiliate) - 4 = Monthly maintenance (membership, newsletter sponsorship) - 3 = Batch work quarterly (course updates, content) - 2 = Weekly time required (group coaching, retainers) - 1 = Per-project, heavy time (1:1 services, custom work) ### Step 4: Diversification Roadmap ``` QUARTER | NEW STREAM TO ADD | SETUP ACTIONS | TARGET MONTHLY $ --------+--------------------------+----------------------------+------------------ Q1 | | | Q2 | | | Q3 | | | Q4 | | | ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Adding 3+ streams at once — you will finish none - Chasing passive income before you have active income expertise - Ignoring margins — $10K/mo at 20% margin is worse than $5K at 80% - Diversifying before your core offer is proven --- ## Stage 3: Audience Building (`/solo:audience`) ### Purpose Build an owned audience that you can monetize independent of any platform. ### Step 1: Platform Selection Matrix Score each platform 1-5 for your situation. ``` +----------------+----------+----------+--------+--------------+-------+ | Platform | Audience | Content | Effort | Monetization | Total | | | Size 1-5 | Fit 1-5 | 1-5 | Potential 1-5| /20 | +----------------+----------+----------+--------+--------------+-------+ | Newsletter | | | | | | | LinkedIn | | | | | | | Twitter/X | | | | | | | YouTube | | | | | | | Podcast | | | | | | | Blog/SEO | | | | | | | Instagram | | | | | | | TikTok | | | | | | +----------------+----------+----------+--------+--------------+-------+ ``` **Rule: Pick 1 primary + 1 secondary. Newsletter is always primary (owned audience).** ### Step 2: Newsletter Growth Playbook ``` PHASE 1 (0-500 subscribers): - Lead magnet on your website (checklist, template, swipe file) - Share in every social bio - Cross-promote in communities you already belong to - Ask every client/contact to subscribe - Goal: 50 subscribers/month PHASE 2 (500-2,000 subscribers): - Guest posts with CTA to newsletter - Newsletter swaps with similar-sized creators - Paid social ads to lead magnet ($5-10/day) - Referral program (3 referrals = bonus content) - Goal: 150 subscribers/month PHASE 3 (2,000-10,000 subscribers): - Sponsorships (sell or buy) - Webinar partnerships - Product launches to the list - Segmentation and personalization - Goal: 500 subscribers/month ``` **Welcome sequence (5 emails):** 1. Deliver the lead magnet + set expectations 2. Your story + why you do this (day 2) 3. Best piece of content / quick win (day 4) 4. Social proof / case study (day 7) 5. Soft pitch to lowest-priced offer (day 10) ### Step 3: Content Flywheel ``` CREATE (long-form) | v DISTRIBUTE -----> ENGAGE (repurpose) (comments, DMs) ^ | | v +--- CONVERT ----+ (offer CTA) ``` Every piece of content should: 1. Demonstrate expertise (not just inform) 2. Include one actionable takeaway 3. End with a next step (follow, subscribe, buy) ### Step 4: 1000 True Fans Framework ``` YOUR TARGET: 1,000 fans x $____ average annual spend = $_______ annual revenue DEFINE A "TRUE FAN": - Buys everything you release - Shares your content unprompted - Would pay for early/premium access HOW TO FIND THEM: - They comment consistently - They reply to emails - They refer others - They buy within 24 hours of a launch HOW TO KEEP THEM: - Reply to every message - Give them exclusive access - Ask for their input on new offers - Surprise them (bonus content, handwritten notes) ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Optimizing for followers instead of subscribers - Being on 5 platforms, consistent on none - Never asking for the sale - Ignoring DMs and comments (engagement is the algorithm) --- ## Stage 4: Content System (`/solo:content`) ### Purpose Create a repeatable content system that produces consistent output without daily creative decisions. ### Step 1: Content Batching Workflow ``` MONTHLY (1 day): - Choose 4 weekly themes aligned with your offers - Outline 4 long-form pieces (blog, video, podcast) - Identify key points for repurposing WEEKLY (2 hours): - Write/record 1 long-form piece - Extract 5-7 short-form pieces from it - Schedule everything for the week DAILY (15 minutes): - Post scheduled content - Reply to comments/DMs - Save ideas to swipe file ``` ### Step 2: Repurposing Chain ``` LONG-FORM CONTENT (1 piece) | +---> Newsletter edition +---> 3-5 social posts (key points) +---> 1 thread (step-by-step breakdown) +---> 2-3 stories (behind the scenes, polls) +---> 1 email to list (different angle) +---> Quote graphics (pull best lines) +---> Comment responses (expand on points) ``` **1 piece of content = 10-15 pieces of distribution.** ### Step 3: Content Calendar Template (4-Week Rolling) ``` +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ | Week | Theme | Long-Form | Social | Email | CTA | +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ | 1 | Problem | Blog: | 5 posts | Pain | Free | | | aware | [topic] | | point | resource | +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ | 2 | Solution | Video: | 5 posts | How-to | Lead | | | aware | [topic] | | | magnet | +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ | 3 | Social | Case | 5 posts | Results/ | Consult | | | proof | study | | story | call | +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ | 4 | Offer | Tutorial | 5 posts | Launch/ | Buy | | | launch | [topic] | | pitch | now | +------+----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+-----------+ ``` ### Step 4: Content Types by Funnel Stage ``` AWARENESS (top): - How-to guides - Industry hot takes - Data/research breakdowns - "Myth vs reality" posts CONSIDERATION (middle): - Case studies - Behind-the-scenes process - Comparison guides - "What I learned" stories DECISION (bottom): - Client testimonials - Before/after showcases - FAQ content - "Here's what working with me looks like" ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Creating only top-of-funnel content (lots of likes, no sales) - Perfectionism delaying publishing (done > perfect) - No repurposing (creating from scratch every time) - Random topics with no connection to your offers --- ## Stage 5: Sales Copy (`/solo:copy`) ### Purpose Write copy that converts visitors into buyers using proven frameworks. ### Step 1: Landing Page Formula (PAS) ``` SECTION 1 — PROBLEM Headline: Name the painful problem they recognize Subheadline: Agitate with specifics ("You've tried X but still...") Bullet points: 3-5 symptoms they're experiencing SECTION 2 — AGITATE Story/scenario: Paint the picture of what happens if they don't solve this Stakes: What they're losing (money, time, opportunity) Empathy: Show you understand ("I've been there") SECTION 3 — SOLVE Your offer: What it is and what it does for them Benefits (not features): 3-5 outcomes they'll get Social proof: Testimonials, logos, numbers CTA: Clear, specific, low-friction SECTION 4 — PROOF + CLOSE FAQ: Handle top 3-5 objections Guarantee: Remove risk Final CTA: Repeat with urgency ``` ### Step 2: Email Copy Frameworks **AIDA (Awareness, Interest, Desire, Action):** ``` Subject line: Grab attention (curiosity, benefit, or urgency) Line 1: Hook — open loop or bold claim Body: Build interest with story or data Desire: Paint the outcome they want CTA: One clear action (reply, click, buy) ``` **Before-After-Bridge:** ``` BEFORE: "Right now you're dealing with [pain]..." AFTER: "Imagine if [desired outcome]..." BRIDGE: "Here's how to get there: [your offer]" ``` ### Step 3: Ad Copy Templates **Headline Formulas:** ``` 1. How to [achieve outcome] without [pain point] 2. [Number] ways to [achieve outcome] in [timeframe] 3. Stop [bad habit]. Start [good habit]. Here's how. 4. The [adjective] guide to [topic] for [audience] 5. Why [common approach] is costing you [loss] ``` **CTA Patterns:** ``` LOW COMMITMENT: "Get the free guide" / "See how it works" MEDIUM: "Book a free call" / "Start your trial" HIGH: "Buy now" / "Enroll today" / "Hire me" ``` ### Step 4: Copy Scoring Rubric ``` +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Criterion | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Clarity (no jargon) | | | | | | | Urgency (why now) | | | | | | | Proof (social evidence) | | | | | | | Benefit-led (not feature)| | | | | | | Single clear CTA | | | | | | | Reads at 8th grade level| | | | | | | Addresses objections | | | | | | +-------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ TOTAL: ___/35 ``` - 30-35: Publish it - 22-29: Tighten the weak spots - 15-21: Rewrite with a specific framework - Below 15: You are describing features, not selling outcomes **Anti-patterns:** - Writing about yourself instead of the reader's problem - Multiple CTAs competing for attention - No social proof anywhere on the page - "Click here" as your CTA text (say what they get) --- ## Stage 6: Lead Generation (`/solo:leads`) ### Purpose Build repeatable systems that bring qualified prospects to you. ### Step 1: Lead Magnet Types (Ranked by Conversion) ``` RANK | TYPE | AVG CONVERSION | EFFORT TO CREATE | BEST FOR -----+-----------------+----------------+------------------+--------- 1 | Checklist/cheat | 20-30% | Low | B2B, services | sheet | | | 2 | Template/swipe | 15-25% | Low-Medium | Creators, agencies | file | | | 3 | Mini course | 10-20% | Medium | Coaches, educators | (email) | | | 4 | Webinar/workshop| 10-15% | Medium-High | High-ticket offers 5 | Ebook/guide | 5-10% | High | Thought leadership 6 | Quiz/assessment | 10-20% | Medium | Personalized offers ``` ### Step 2: Funnel Architecture ``` AWARENESS CAPTURE NURTURE CONVERT (find you) (opt in) (build trust) (buy) Blog/SEO ---> Lead ---> Email ---> Sales Social post magnet sequence page Podcast landing (5-7 emails) Discovery Referral page call Ad Proposal ``` **Key metrics per stage:** - Awareness: impressions, clicks, traffic - Capture: opt-in rate (target: 20%+) - Nurture: open rate (30%+), click rate (3%+) - Convert: close rate (varies by price point) ### Step 3: Referral System Design ``` PROGRAM STRUCTURE: Trigger: Client completes project / achieves result Ask: "Who else do you know dealing with [problem]?" Incentive: [discount / bonus / gift card / commission] Process: Warm intro via email (template below) Follow-up: Thank referrer regardless of outcome REFERRAL EMAIL TEMPLATE: Subject: [Referrer name] suggested we connect Body: Hi [Name], [Referrer] mentioned you're working on [problem area]. I help [target audience] achieve [outcome] through [method]. [Referrer] thought it might be worth a quick conversation. Would a 15-minute call this week work? [Your name] ``` ### Step 4: Partnership/JV Framework ``` PARTNER EVALUATION: +---------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Criterion | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | +---------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ | Audience overlap | | | | | | | Complementary (not rival) | | | | | | | Similar audience size | | | | | | | Professional reputation | | | | | | | Responsive/easy to work | | | | | | +---------------------------+---+---+---+---+---+ PARTNERSHIP TYPES: - Newsletter swap (promote each other) - Co-created content (webinar, guide) - Affiliate/referral commission - Bundle deal (your product + theirs) - Guest expert in each other's programs ``` **Anti-patterns:** - No lead magnet on your website (biggest missed opportunity) - Nurture sequence that never sells (just "value" forever) - Asking for referrals before delivering results - Partnering with competitors instead of complements --- ## Stage 7: Sales (`/solo:sales`) ### Purpose Close deals consistently without feeling salesy. Structured process beats improvisation. ### Step 1: Discovery Call Script ``` OPEN (2 min): "Thanks for taking the time. To make sure this is a good fit, I'll ask a few questions, share how I might help, and we'll decide together if it makes sense to move forward. Sound good?" QUALIFY (5 min): 1. "What's the main challenge you're trying to solve?" 2. "How long has this been a problem?" 3. "What have you tried so far?" 4. "What happens if you don't solve this in the next 3-6 months?" DIAGNOSE (5 min): 5. "What does success look like for you?" 6. "What's your timeline?" 7. "Is there a budget range you're working within?" 8. "Who else is involved in this decision?" PRESCRIBE (5 min): "Based on what you've shared, here's what I'd recommend..." [Explain your approach — not a full proposal, just the framework] "I'll put together a detailed proposal by [date]. Does that work?" CLOSE (3 min): "Any questions before we wrap up?" "I'll send the proposal by [date]. If it looks good, we can kick off as early as [date]." ``` ### Step 2: Proposal Template ``` 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY - Problem: [their words, not yours] - Goal: [specific outcome] - Approach: [your method in 2-3 sentences] 2. SCOPE OF WORK - Deliverable 1: [description] — [timeline] - Deliverable 2: [description] — [timeline] - Deliverable 3: [description] — [timeline] - Out of scope: [explicitly list what's NOT included] 3. INVESTMENT - Option A: [base package] — $X - Option B: [recommended] — $Y (includes Z) - Option C: [premium] — $Z (includes everything + bonus) - Payment terms: [50% upfront, 50% on completion / monthly] 4. TIMELINE - Start: [date] - Milestones: [key dates] - Completion: [date] 5. NEXT STEPS - Sign this proposal - Submit deposit - Complete onboarding questionnaire ``` ### Step 3: Follow-Up Sequence (5-Touch Framework) ``` TOUCH | TIMING | CHANNEL | MESSAGE ------+---------------+---------+------------------------------------------ 1 | Same day | Email | "Great call — here's the proposal" 2 | Day 3 | Email | "Any questions about the proposal?" 3 | Day 7 | Phone | Quick voicemail or text 4 | Day 14 | Email | Share relevant case study or resource 5 | Day 21 | Email | "Closing the loop" — final check-in ``` **After touch 5 with no response:** Move to nurture list. Do not chase. ### Step 4: Objection Handling ``` OBJECTION | RESPONSE FRAMEWORK -----------------+------------------------------------------------------ "Too expensive" | "I understand. Can I ask what budget you had in mind? | [Then: adjust scope, offer payment plan, or show ROI]" | "Bad timing" | "When would be better? I'll follow up then. | [Book a specific date — don't say 'whenever']" | "Need to think" | "Of course. What specifically do you want to think | through? [Identify the real objection underneath]" | "Can do it myself"| "You absolutely could. Most of my clients could too. | They hire me for speed and to avoid costly mistakes." | "Need approval" | "Happy to help. Want me to join a call with [person] | or prepare a summary they can review?" ``` ### Step 5: Close Rate Benchmarks ``` OFFER TYPE | HEALTHY CLOSE RATE | RED FLAG --------------------+--------------------+--------- Free discovery call | 20-30% → paid | < 10% Low-ticket ($50-500)| 5-15% of visitors | < 2% Mid-ticket ($1-5K) | 15-25% of calls | < 10% High-ticket ($5K+) | 25-40% of calls | < 15% ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Sending proposals without a discovery call - Not following up (80% of sales happen after touch 5) - Discounting instead of adjusting scope - Talking more than listening on calls --- ## Stage 8: Client Onboarding (`/solo:onboard`) ### Purpose Set the tone for a successful engagement from day one. Good onboarding prevents 90% of client problems. ### Step 1: Onboarding Checklist Template ``` [ ] Contract/agreement signed [ ] Payment received (deposit or first invoice) [ ] Onboarding questionnaire sent and completed [ ] Welcome packet delivered [ ] Kickoff call scheduled [ ] Project management access shared (if applicable) [ ] Communication channels established [ ] First milestone defined and confirmed [ ] Internal project setup (files, folders, tracking) ``` ### Step 2: Welcome Packet Contents ``` 1. Welcome message (personal, enthusiastic) 2. What to expect (process overview, timeline) 3. Communication guidelines: - Preferred channel: [email / Slack / portal] - Response time: [24 hours on weekdays] - Meeting cadence: [weekly / biweekly] 4. Your role vs. their role (who does what) 5. Key dates and milestones 6. FAQ (top 5 questions new clients ask) 7. How to share feedback 8. Emergency contact process ``` ### Step 3: Expectation Setting ``` COVER THESE IN THE KICKOFF CALL: SCOPE: "Here's exactly what's included: [list deliverables] And here's what's outside scope: [list exclusions] If you need something not listed, we'll discuss it as a change request with a separate quote." COMMUNICATION: "I check messages [frequency]. Expect responses within [timeframe]. For urgent items, [method]." TIMELINE: "Here's our milestone schedule: [dates] I'll need [specific inputs] from you by [dates] to stay on track. Delays on inputs shift the timeline equally." REVISIONS: "This engagement includes [N] rounds of revisions. Additional rounds are billed at [rate]." ``` ### Step 4: Automation Opportunities ``` TASK | MANUAL TIME | TOOL TO AUTOMATE ------------------------+--------------+------------------ Scheduling calls | 15 min each | Calendly / Cal.com Sending contracts | 20 min | HelloSign / PandaDoc Collecting info | 30 min | Typeform / Google Form Sending welcome packet | 15 min | Email template + CRM Payment collection | 10 min | Stripe / invoice auto Project setup | 30 min | Template in PM tool Status updates | 20 min/week | Automated from PM tool ``` **Total time saved per client: 2-3 hours.** **Anti-patterns:** - No written scope (guaranteed scope creep) - Skipping the kickoff call (misaligned expectations) - Manual processes for every new client (doesn't scale) - Not defining revision limits upfront --- ## Stage 9: Client Management (`/solo:clients`) ### Purpose Deliver great work while maintaining boundaries. Happy clients who respect your time are the goal. ### Step 1: Communication Cadence ``` ENGAGEMENT TYPE | CHECK-IN | STATUS UPDATE | FULL REVIEW -----------------+--------------+---------------+------------- Retainer | Weekly async | Weekly email | Monthly call Project (short) | As needed | Per milestone | At completion Project (long) | Weekly call | Weekly email | Monthly call Coaching | Per session | Per session | Quarterly ``` **Status update template:** ``` Subject: [Project Name] — Week [N] Update COMPLETED THIS WEEK: - [deliverable/milestone] - [deliverable/milestone] IN PROGRESS: - [task] — expected by [date] BLOCKERS / NEEDS FROM YOU: - [specific request with deadline] NEXT WEEK: - [planned work] ``` ### Step 2: Scope Management ``` CHANGE REQUEST PROCESS: 1. Client requests something outside scope 2. Acknowledge: "Great idea. Let me scope that out." 3. Assess: Time, cost, impact on timeline 4. Respond with: "That would take approximately [time] and cost [$amount]. It would push [milestone] by [days]. Want me to proceed, or keep it for a future phase?" 5. If approved: Update scope document, get written confirmation 6. If declined: Document it for future reference ``` **The golden phrase:** "I'd love to include that. Here's what it would look like as an add-on." ### Step 3: Deliverable Tracking Template ``` +----+------------------+----------+--------+----------+--------+ | # | Deliverable | Due Date | Status | Feedback | Final | | | | | | Round | Approved| +----+------------------+----------+--------+----------+--------+ | 1 | | | [ ] | | [ ] | | 2 | | | [ ] | | [ ] | | 3 | | | [ ] | | [ ] | +----+------------------+----------+--------+----------+--------+ ``` Status: Not started / In progress / In review / Approved / Delivered ### Step 4: Difficult Client Playbook ``` SITUATION | RESPONSE ---------------------+--------------------------------------------------- SCOPE CREEP | "That sounds like a Phase 2 item. Let me add it | to the backlog and we can scope it after this | phase wraps up." | LATE PAYMENT | Day 1: Friendly reminder email | Day 7: Direct email with updated invoice | Day 14: Phone call + pause work notice | Day 30: Final notice + late fee applied | Day 45: Collections process / small claims | UNREASONABLE DEMANDS | "I want to make sure we're aligned on what's | realistic within [timeline/budget]. Here are | our options: [A, B, or C]." | CONSTANT CHANGES | "We've used [N] of [N] revision rounds. Additional | revisions are [rate]. Want to proceed?" | DISRESPECTFUL | "I value our working relationship. This kind of | communication makes it hard to do my best work. | Can we reset expectations?" | FIRING A CLIENT | "After reflecting, I don't think I'm the right | fit for this project going forward. I'll wrap up | [current deliverables] by [date] and help with | a smooth transition." ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Responding to messages at all hours (trains bad expectations) - Verbal scope changes without written confirmation - Avoiding difficult conversations until they escalate - Never firing a bad client (one toxic client poisons everything) --- ## Stage 10: Customer Support (`/solo:support`) ### Purpose Handle support efficiently so it doesn't consume your entire week. Self-service first, personal touch when it matters. ### Step 1: FAQ Template Design ``` FAQ STRUCTURE (aim for 10-20 questions): BEFORE BUYING: Q: What's included in [offer]? Q: How long does [process] take? Q: What results can I expect? Q: Do you offer refunds? DURING ENGAGEMENT: Q: How do I contact you? Q: What if I need changes? Q: What if I'm not happy with the work? AFTER DELIVERY: Q: Do you offer ongoing support? Q: Can I hire you again for [next thing]? Q: How do I leave a review/testimonial? ``` ### Step 2: Response Templates (Common Scenarios) ``` NEW INQUIRY: "Thanks for reaching out! I'd love to learn more about your project. Could you share: 1. What you're looking to accomplish 2. Your timeline 3. Your budget range I'll get back to you within 24 hours." SCOPE QUESTION: "Great question. [Answer]. This is covered in the [package/tier]. If you need [additional thing], we can discuss that as an add-on." DELAY NOTIFICATION: "I wanted to give you a heads up — [deliverable] will be [N days] behind schedule due to [reason]. The new delivery date is [date]. I'm [action to minimize impact]." TESTIMONIAL REQUEST: "It's been great working with you! Would you be open to sharing a brief testimonial? A few sentences about [specific result] would be incredibly helpful. Here's a quick form: [link]" REFUND REQUEST: "I'm sorry to hear that. I want to make this right. [If within policy: Here's how the refund process works.] [If outside policy: Let me see what I can do. Could you share more about what didn't meet your expectations?]" ``` ### Step 3: Escalation Matrix ``` LEVEL 1 — SELF-SERVICE (no time cost): FAQ page, knowledge base, automated emails Example: "How do I access my course?" LEVEL 2 — ASYNC (5 min per ticket): Email response using templates Example: "My download link isn't working" LEVEL 3 — SYNC (15-30 min): Video call or screen share Example: "I don't understand how to implement step 3" LEVEL 4 — RESOLUTION (varies): Refund, redo, or escalation to external help Example: "This isn't what I expected at all" ``` **Route as many requests as possible to Level 1.** ### Step 4: Support Metrics ``` METRIC | TARGET | MEASURE HOW --------------------+---------------+------------------------------ Response time | < 24 hours | Time from request to first reply Resolution time | < 48 hours | Time from request to resolved First-contact fix | > 70% | Resolved without follow-up CSAT | > 4.5/5 | Post-resolution survey Support volume | Decreasing | Tickets per month (track trend) Self-service rate | > 50% | FAQ views / total requests ``` **Anti-patterns:** - No FAQ (answering the same question 50 times) - No templates (writing every response from scratch) - Responding to support instead of building self-service - No escalation path (everything gets a 30-min call) --- ## Stage 11: Bookkeeping (`/solo:books`) ### Purpose Know your numbers. You can't optimize what you don't measure. Simple systems, reviewed monthly. ### Step 1: P&L Template (Monthly) ``` REVENUE Service income: $________ Product income: $________ Recurring/subscription income: $________ Affiliate/referral income: $________ Other income: $________ --------- TOTAL REVENUE: $________ COST OF GOODS SOLD (COGS) Contractor/freelancer payments: $________ Software directly tied to delivery:$________ Materials/supplies for delivery: $________ --------- TOTAL COGS: $________ GROSS PROFIT: $________ GROSS MARGIN: ________% OPERATING EXPENSES Software/subscriptions: $________ Marketing/advertising: $________ Professional services (legal/acct):$________ Insurance: $________ Education/training: $________ Travel: $________ Home office: $________ Meals/entertainment: $________ Miscellaneous: $________ --------- TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES: $________ NET PROFIT: $________ NET MARGIN: ________% ``` ### Step 2: Expense Categories for Solopreneurs ``` CATEGORY | EXAMPLES | TAX DEDUCTIBLE --------------------+-----------------------------------+--------------- Software | Hosting, email, design tools | Yes Marketing | Ads, sponsorships, PR | Yes Professional | Accountant, lawyer, coach | Yes Education | Courses, books, conferences | Yes (if related) Travel | Client visits, conferences | Yes (business %) Home office | Rent %, utilities %, internet % | Yes (calculated) Equipment | Computer, monitor, desk | Yes (depreciate) Insurance | Liability, E&O, health | Varies Banking | Merchant fees, wire fees | Yes Meals | Client meals, working lunches | Partial (50-100%) ``` ### Step 3: Invoice Template ``` INVOICE #[number] DATE: [date] FROM: [Your business name] DUE: [date] [Your address] [Your email] TO: [Client name] [Client company] [Client address] +----+---------------------------+------+-----------+ | # | Description | Qty | Amount | +----+---------------------------+------+-----------+ | 1 | [Service/product] | | $ | | 2 | [Service/product] | | $ | +----+---------------------------+------+-----------+ SUBTOTAL: $ TAX (___%): $ TOTAL DUE: $ PAYMENT TERMS: [Net 15 / Net 30 / Due on receipt] PAYMENT METHOD: [Bank transfer / Stripe / PayPal] LATE FEE: [1.5% per month after due date] ``` ### Step 4: Cash Flow Tracker ``` +-------+----------+----------+---------+---------+ | Month | Opening | Income | Expenses| Closing | | | Balance | | | Balance | +-------+----------+----------+---------+---------+ | Jan | | | | | | Feb | | | | | | ... | | | | | | Dec | | | | | +-------+----------+----------+---------+---------+ ``` ### Step 5: Financial Health Metrics ``` METRIC | FORMULA | HEALTHY TARGET --------------------+----------------------------+--------------- Gross margin | (Revenue - COGS) / Revenue | > 70% Net profit margin | Net Profit / Revenue | > 30% Monthly runway | Cash / Monthly expenses | > 3 months Savings rate | Savings / Net profit | > 20% Revenue per hour | Revenue / Hours worked | Increasing QoQ Client concentration| Largest client / Revenue | < 30% ``` **Anti-patterns:** - Not tracking expenses until tax time (panic and missed deductions) - Mixing personal and business accounts - Not knowing your profit margin (busy but broke) - No emergency fund / runway buffer --- ## Stage 12: Tax Prep (`/solo:tax`) ### Purpose Stay on top of tax obligations throughout the year. No scrambling in April. **IMPORTANT: This is general guidance, not tax advice. Always consult a qualified accountant for your specific situation.** ### Step 1: Quarterly Tax Estimate Checklist ``` EACH QUARTER, COMPLETE: [ ] Calculate gross income for the quarter [ ] Subtract estimated deductions [ ] Calculate estimated tax owed (income + self-employment) [ ] Compare to prior quarter's estimate [ ] Set aside payment in dedicated tax savings account [ ] File quarterly estimated payment (if required) [ ] Update year-to-date tax projection [ ] Review upcoming deductible expenses ``` ### Step 2: Common Deductions for Solopreneurs ``` DEDUCTION | HOW TO CALCULATE | DOCUMENTATION -----------------------+-------------------------------+--------------- Home office | Sq ft of office / total sq ft | Floor plan, bills | x (rent + utilities + ins.) | Equipment | Full cost or depreciated | Receipts Software | Monthly/ann …(truncated)