Entrepreneurs versus Freelancers: Cultivating or Hunting?

The cultivator is the entrepreneur

Entrepreneurs are often associated with the cultivator mentality. They are dedicated to developing their business over the long term, just as a cultivator tends to their crops and patiently waits for the harvest. Entrepreneurs invest in creating a strong foundation for their businesses, and they understand that this process takes time and dedication.

In the context of customer retention, entrepreneurs can focus on building sustainable relationships with their clients. They strive for long term partnerships and understand that retaining existing clients is often just as important as attracting new ones. They offer value and quality, which keeps clients coming back time and time again.

The cultivator entrepreneur can be compared to a farmer who cultivates his crops with care. He sows the seeds of collaboration and provides a fertile soil for growth. This can lead to a stable and predictable stream of income in the long term.

The hunter is the freelancer

On the other hand, we have the freelancer, who is often seen as the one chasing the agenda. Freelancers are independent professionals who are often looking for new opportunities and projects. They hunt for short term opportunities and are used to a more flexible way of working.

In the context of customer retention, the freelancer might emphasise bringing in as many projects and clients as possible in the short term. They are experts at attracting new business opportunities and might be less concerned with building long term relationships. For them, it is all about filling their agenda and achieving results in the short term.

The one chasing the agenda can be compared to a hunter who goes hunting every day to survive. They must constantly look for new prey to maintain their income stream. This approach can lead to quick profits, but it can also result in an unpredictable income stream.

The right approach for you

Now that we have reversed the roles, it is important to consider which approach best suits you and your business goals. Some entrepreneurs will still incorporate elements of the cultivator mentality into their strategy, while some freelancers can also see the benefits of long term relationships.

As an entrepreneur who embraces the cultivator mentality, you focus on developing your business over the long term and building strong relationships with your clients. This can lead to stable growth and sustainable success.

On the other hand, as a freelancer chasing the agenda, you are focused on maximising your income in the short term by seizing new opportunities and filling up your agenda. This can lead to quick profits, but it also requires continuous acquisition of new projects.

Conclusion

Whether you embrace the cultivator mentality of the entrepreneur or the hunter mentality of the one chasing the agenda as a freelancer, the most important thing is that you are aware of your approach and that you align it with your business goals and values. Both approaches have their place in the business world, and it is possible to combine elements of both to create a successful strategy.

Remember that customer retention is crucial, regardless of which approach you choose. Building strong relationships with your clients can lead to repeat business and growth, whether you are cultivating or hunting. Ensure that your clients are always central to your business strategy.

Source of the metaphor: Ben Crothers. Ben Crothers is an Australian fellow entrepreneur active in visual facilitation and coaching. He is also a successful author of several books and a keynote speaker. The inspiration for this blog came about after a regular informal exchange between Karl Mortier and Ben Crothers.

By Karl Mortier