9 Ways to Find Killer Ideas for Your Next Pitch

Here’s the number one question I hear—even from seasoned business owners: “How do I find a good idea?” 

What they really mean, of course, is “How do I find an idea that will get “picked up”?” No one wants to spend days or more planning, developing, and pitching an idea only to hear crickets. You want to know you’ll have at least some measure of success. 

But don’t overthink it. The answer is simple. Just give the audience what they are asking for. 

Check out the competition.

Where are they showing up? If you serve a similar audience, then what works for them will very likely sell for you. Now, before you break out the “But it’s already been done!” line, keep this in mind: No two people are alike. You may have similar idea, but your voice, your experience, your teaching style, and your personality are all very different. No one else is you, and for some customers, YOU are the only one who will resonate with them. 

Pay attention to your ideal client.

What questions does she ask in private groups, what are the struggles? What is she reading online? Remeber, you are still talking to that ideal clients no matter what platform you are on. What is IDC watching/reading/listening to that you can add value? These are all valuable sources of intel about exactly what she needs and wants from you. 

Ask.

Still not sure what your dream client is looking for? Ask them. Create a survey and ask them to tell you what she struggles with, what keeps her from realizing her success, and even what she’s tried before in an effort to solve her issues. PLUS where they are looking for answers to those questions.

Check the bestsellers list.

Which books in your niche are outperforming others? These are the ones that offer answers your clients are seeking. Flip through the table of contents and read the online reviews to dig deep into the topics that really resonate with your audience. There is a pitch to write from every encounter with information.

Read the FAQs.

Check the frequently asked questions section on competitor blogs and in forums and Facebook groups. Also check blogs for “Start Here,” and “Quickstart” pages. Many times the most common questions and concerns are addressed here. 

Check your email.

If you’ve been in business for more than a few months, chances are you receive questions from friends, clients, and even strangers on a daily basis. What are they asking about? Look for common themes and trends.  Go on a media platform and answer those questions. That is the strategy, get you in front of the right people adding value and answering their struggles. 

Revisit your keyword research.

Review the terms and phrases that your community most frequently searches on, and use them as a basis for your own research. 

Check your own media.

What posts are getting the most engagement? What are your people talking about in their posts? Ideas are everywhere. Your potential buyers are sharing them with you each and every day if you just know where to look. So don’t let your insecurities hold you back. Develop ideas they are asking you for.