5 Reasons Your Friends Don’t Buy Your Creations
Feeling disappointed by your friends? Consider this.
Cover photo by Tamara Budai on Unsplash.
One of the most common frustrations I've heard from founders and creators over the years is something like "my friends are so unhelpful, they've never bought anything from me". It's completely understandable that when our creative work is an expression of our unique vision and intimate self, we feel like we want the people who surround us to support us – and maybe we're also looking for some sort of praise or validation. While these feelings can be complex to explore, it's also fair to recognize that our friends and family can have legitimate reasons not to be our most loyal customers.
Here are 5 reasons your friends might not be buying your creations.
They are just not interested.
While you and your friends might have a lot in common, it's also possible that you have different tastes, needs, or lifestyles. For example, if you sell minimalistic jewelry, it's understandable that your extravagant friends don't aspire to wear a piece that doesn't reflect their personality. Instead, if this is the case, you might qualify for other situations, for example when your friends purchase a gift for someone else. If your creations can be gifted, make sure your friends think about this option.
2. They feel embarrassed.
Sometimes it's possible that your friends and family considered purchasing from you, but feel somewhat embarrassed about it. For example, if you sell coaching sessions or meal plans, it's possible that people in your private circle don't feel comfortable oversharing, being vulnerable in front of you, or crossing some boundaries. Different people have different privacy thresholds, and that doesn't mean they don't respect your work.
3. They are considering it, but they’re not ready yet.
What if your friends are actually considering a purchase, but they are not ready yet? Make sure they are aware of what you do and occasionally drop some news and updates to keep them informed. For example, when catching up over dinner, you might naturally mention that you are about to launch a new campaign or a new product for your collection. Keep them in the loop by sharing meaningful updates every now and then – like when you're particularly excited about a new design or when you've reached a milestone you're proud of, but always stay classy! They will buy from you when they feel ready.
4. They are not aware of the value you offer.
As surprising as it might feel, people in your private circle might not be completely aware of what you do. Sometimes, people have just a general idea of what others do so we simply cannot assume they know. Be mindful about how you project your professional image in your private life, and remember that it's your job to express your vision and proposition in a compelling way – not your friends' job to dig deeper!
5. You didn’t ask!
Some people are very reserved or shy. Others are just focused on their own lives. Maybe your friends just didn't think about championing your business. Try to gracefully ask them to support your creative journey if they feel like doing so, and always remember that there are plenty of ways to show up for you beyond purchasing. From engaging with your social media posts to amplifying your voice by reposting your important campaigns; from gifting your creations next Christmas to introducing you to the magazine that will land you your first feature, stay creative on all the possibilities you have to shape your future. They might become your most affectionate sponsor!
Whatever the reason your friends and family don't buy from you, what really matters is that you find your profitable niche in the market regardless of whether you know your clients personally or not. The world is full of people who can appreciate your work, so focus on them and leave your private relationships to your private space. Being found and chosen by people who don’t know you at all can be the ultimate form of flattery, after all!
Francesca – Armonica Studio
Francesca is the creator of Armonica Studio, a marketing consultancy focusing on strategy and communication. She is a Brand Strategist, a Communication Consultant, and the creator of The Armonica Blog: Marketing Insights And Actionable Tips For Creators And Makers. She currently lives in Berlin, Germany.
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