After 3 years, I finally managed to get a client to agree to a website. The free demo I built for them wasn't good enough, so we rebuilt it from the ground up. In the end, they didn't really care about the website. They paid for the development, but they kept pushing for social media.
A while later, we realized they didn't actually need social media or a website. They needed SALES. They're probably under the impression that's what social media is for. You pay someone, and they magically bring you paying customers. Trying to explain the difference is almost impossible. They never seem to understand the concept. In the end, they'll blame you because the business isn't making more sales, and somehow it's your fault. Social media content is not the same thing as targeted, paid social media advertising. Just because someone liked your post doesn't mean they're going to run to your shop and yell, "TAKE MY MONEY!!!"
Now, beggars can't be choosers. We're stuck with this client and the low monthly retainer they pay, which covers about 18% of our monthly expenses. Even that's not guaranteed because one day they could just decide, "No sales, no more monthly."
How do you operate in Namibia with clients like this?! How and where do you find "good clients" who not only value what you do, but actually understand what you do when you explain it? And BTW, this is for those who don't have family, friends, or a massive network that's OP and plays carry 24/7.
What digital industry even makes sense these days? I mean, web design is dead, right? Spin up a website in 5 minutes with AI, and anyone with internet access can make their own AI flyers and social media posts. People barely cared about art, creative fields, hiring designers, or getting a website 5 years ago. Today they seem to care even less.
I guess all that's left is cold/warm outreach and sales. That's probably the only thing people are actually willing to pay for these days. Probably commission only too, haha.
