My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
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Relationship-Based Business Development
Work for free initially to prove value, then negotiate percentage-based compensation
Why It Works
Removes risk for client, demonstrates confidence in your abilities, aligns incentives for long-term relationship
Prerequisites
Proven track record in specific skill areaFinancial cushion to work without immediate incomeStrong existing relationships in target market
How to Execute
1
Identify specific value you can provide
2
Offer 3-month free trial period
3
Set clear success metrics upfront
4
Document results meticulously
5
Negotiate ongoing percentage after proving value
When It Fails
When you don't have enough financial runway, when value is not clearly measurable, when client takes advantage without intent to pay later
Real Example
“Finance professional offers to do business development for asset manager for free for 3 months, raises $50M in capital, then negotiates ongoing percentage of future assets raised.”