Strategists are example seekers.
We find things that work and store them in our mental and digital databases to borrow inspiration from later on.
The examples we find inform our unique combinations of tactics and strategies to be used in our client work.
Whether it’s landing page structure, pre-selling methods, or design inspiration, great strategists constantly source, gather, and reference the best materials in their work.
That’s why swipe files are so important. We can borrow inspiration from a variety of sources in a few short minutes—without having to go hunting every time we need good ideas.
The goal is never to copy but instead to combine inspiration into something new that fits our client’s specific needs.
We are curators and combiners. Our taste matters (a lot). So does our ability to combine concepts in unique ways to solve problems for our clients.
If you’re into the strategy world, whether as a marketing strategist, freelancer, or consultant, keep a place to store your best finds. I like Trello and Apple Notes for this (they’re easy to save from on my phone).
Use it in your client work. Share what you find and teach what inspired you as your marketing.
Heck, you can even sell access to your swipe file later on if it’s good enough.
No need to reinvent the wheel every time. Be the example seeker. The archeologist. The observer. The combiner.
Then share what you find as part of your own marketing. Teach what makes your discoveries interesting. People will seek out your “in-the-know” curation style and strategic thinking.
Create your own well of inspiration and insight.
Your clients (and you) will benefit greatly.
—kw
P.S. My Swipe File for marketing consultants is included in the membership. It includes things like landing pages, websites, emails, ads, strategies, manifestos, About pages, service pages, and more. If you want to get notified when doors open, be sure to get on the waiting list here: https://howtoselladvice.com/membership/