Looking back on three years of running an independent business, I have lots to be proud of and much that I’ve learned from. In 2025, I am looking at 25 values that I promise to keep to you, the reader, the prospect, and the client.
1. Clear Communication
I promise to maintain open, honest, and regular communication at all stages of the project or service. If you know me or you’ve read this blog at any point, you’re aware this has always been a value of mine.
2. Transparency
I will be upfront about pricing, timelines, and potential challenges. I will keep you informed about the progress of the project or the status of services. If scope creep happens or we uncover some additional needs, I will have that conversation with you directly and discuss your options.
3. Respect for Deadlines
I promise to meet deadlines and, if delays arise, communicate proactively and provide a revised timeline. Furthermore, I promise to work with YOU on deadlines. When there have been delays in the past, it’s been because the client had changes or discovered additional needs. That’s normal. It’s expected, in many cases. Let’s work together in a way that best benefits you.
4. Quality of Work
I promise to deliver high-quality work that meets or exceeds expectations. The quality of my work will beat that of your current or previous partner.
5. Customer-Centered Solutions
I will always put your needs and goals at the center of my approach, ensuring our solutions align with your vision. I will not provide you a cookie-cutter solution like agencies do.
6. Consistency
I promise to deliver consistent results across all touchpoints of the relationship—whether that’s service quality, communication, or performance.
7. Confidentiality
I will ensure your sensitive information is protected and promise to keep all client data confidential. This should be obvious, but needs to be said!
8. Proactive Problem Solving
I promise to identify potential issues early and propose proactive solutions to prevent problems before they arise. In fact, this is my favorite part of my job!
9. Value for Money
I will continue to offer you value, and I ensure that my services provide a return on your investment. In fact, the minimum return I can promise you is 7x. Yes, you read that right. If you are guaranteed to 7x your money or more, why wouldn’t you do that?
10. Flexibility
I am willing to adapt to your changing needs or adjustments that may be necessary during the course of our work together. Re-scoping projects is super common. If we need to kick things down the road or pick up the pace, it’s highly likely I can be amenable. By the way, I am highly flexible when it comes to payment structures, too.
11. Collaboration
I commit to being a collaborative partner, actively engaging in the process to ensure the best outcomes.
12. Availability
I promise to be accessible when you need me, and I’ll offer reasonable response times and availability for consultations or support. I am also fully transparent with my calendar.
13. Timely Responses
I will always respond to inquiries promptly, addressing concerns or questions within an agreed-upon timeframe.
14. Respect for Their Vision
I promise to understand and respect your long-term vision, and aim to align my efforts with your larger goals. If we need to steer a different direction to make it happen, I am not afraid to have that conversation with you.
15. Post-Project Support
I will provide ongoing support or maintenance after a project is completed, ensuring continued satisfaction. This isn’t something you pay for, either. I feel strongly that post-project support is a moral necessity.
16. Ethical Practices
I promise to conduct business in an ethical and responsible manner, adhering to industry best practices and standards.
17. Innovation
I will always stay on top of trends and offer creative, innovative solutions that can help drive success in a competitive market. Yes, I love this part, as well.
18. Customization
I promise to offer customized solutions tailored to your specific needs, not generic or one-size-fits-all options. See point 5. You won’t get this with an agency!
19. Accountability
I will hold myself accountable for the quality and results of my work, addressing any issues or shortcomings promptly.
20. Commitment to Continuous Improvement
I promise to continuously improve my skills, processes, and offerings to serve you better. By the way, I have not increased my prices in three years, but I will always continue to improve my offerings.
21. Honesty About Challenges
I will be honest when challenges arise, and let you know early about any obstacles I encounter. I will explain issues as plainly as possible, and often via illustration, to the humor of many clients.
22. Mutual Respect
I will treat you with respect at all times, understanding that a positive relationship is built on mutual respect.
23. Expert Guidance
I promise to provide expert advice and insights that can help you make informed decisions.
24. Long-Term Partnership
I will offer long-term value, showing that I am genuinely interested in building an ongoing, lasting relationship beyond just a one-time transaction.
25. Tailored Reports & Analytics
I promise to provide clear and actionable reports, metrics, or analytics at the agreed upon cadence, that will keep you in the loop and help you understand the impact of my work.
My hope is that these commitments to you show not only how serious I am about your business and generating success, but how much I love my business, as well. If you’re interested in working together or would like clarity on any of my blog content, please reach out. I’d love to chat with you.