#87: How to Turn Content Into Clients (By Building in Public)
How do you actually turn content into clients—especially when you’re just starting out?
In this episode, we unpack what it really looks like to build in public and use content as more than just a visibility play. Not polished. Not hindsight. Real-time.
Preston recently left corporate and is building his business from the ground up, documenting the process as he goes. That means sharing what’s working, what’s not, and how his approach to content has shifted from “just posting” to something much more intentional.
We talk about how content evolves from a side project into a true business driver, what “building in public” actually means in practice, and where to draw the line between transparency and oversharing. You’ll also hear what types of content are gaining traction right now, what’s falling flat, and how to connect what you post back to real opportunities—without feeling salesy.
It’s an honest look at figuring things out as you go, including the mental and financial side of making the leap.
If you’ve been showing up online and wondering if it’s ever going to lead to something… this is the episode that connects the dots.
What You'll Learn:
- Why waiting until you feel ready to build in public is still delay — and what actually gets you started
- How to use memes and infographics to educate your professional niche on LinkedIn without being generic
- The financial runway strategy Preston used to safely leave a decade-long corporate career
- Why content creation is the cheat code for introverts who hate networking
- The difference between posting to educate and posting with a business development strategy
- How to be selective with sponsorships in a way that protects your credibility and your audience's trust
- What building in public looks like when you're still mid-pivot and haven't nailed your niche yet
Resources Mentioned:
- Visit Preston's website: https://www.guidelinetalent.com
- If you've been wanting to post more consistently on LinkedIn, try Stanley for FREE - https://workfluencerpodcast.com/stanley
- Subscribe to Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/newsletter2
Connect with Us:
- Connect with Preston: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prestonsharpston
- Connect with Rhona https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/
Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
