Yesterday, I shared a real step-by-step example of lifting IP from a 1:1 conversation (between me and my former client Kristina).

So how do you start getting your IP out of your head and into a form that will work for you?

The simple answer is collaboration.

Think of it like a haircut. You can probably do it yourself, but you won’t have the benefit of seeing all the angles.

Here are some collaboration options:

Starting solo

• Solo is a good place to start. Jot down some notes on the following questions:
  • What’s your differentiated point of view on your industry/function or area of expertise?
  • What is the biggest pain point or misconception for people in my domain?
  • What are the biggest traps that lead people/teams/companies there?

With a friend/peer

• Ask a friend or peer to coffee (in person or virtual), and ask them to review what you wrote and talk about it
• Even better if this friend is not in your industry/domain - listen to the questions they ask, and the context you’ll need to provide to sustain the conversation. This will often preview the conversations you’ll have with decision-makers

With a coach

• Through discovery/working sessions, a positioning coach can act as a thought partner to challenge your POV of your domain and together you can start to triangulate and formalize unique frameworks, mental models, playbooks
• **Note: I try to keep💡 The Lightbulb a sales-free zone, but yes, 1:1 IP collaborations are the cornerstone of my coaching service and my main differentiator vs. other business coaches.

With a designer

• For those more visually oriented, if you know a graphic designer in your network, inquire what they might charge for a session where you describe what you want to get across and they come back with a few options

With an audience

• Scary, I know - but draw out a draft framework on an index card and take a picture of it. Share it on LinkedIn and ask for feedback. You might be surprised at the level of engagement. People love chiming in especially when something is in draft form!

Your approach to IP development will likely include a combination of these collab partners, but the overarching message here is:

• Don’t do it alone
• Just get started
• Iterate over time

💡

-Wes