“What Can I Do For You”
by Jenna Clark

How one simple question reshaped the way I work, connect, and grow.

We’ve all been told to “know our value,” “market our strengths,” and “go after what we want.” And while I believe in confidence, strategy, and knowing your worth, I’ve found that the most powerful question in both business and life isn’t “what can I get?” It’s:

 What can I do for you?

It’s a question that has opened doors, sparked real connection, and grown my business more than any perfectly-crafted elevator pitch ever could. It’s less of a literal question and more of a mindset.

But first, some context.

This blog post is written for professionals with a passion for growth. Maybe you’re just starting out on your entrepreneurial journey, running a profitable business and seeking the next level, or already successful and looking to connect with like-minded people. 

Who is Jenna (the author) and why does her advice matter? 

Six years ago, Jenna took the leap to leave her job and start her own SEM (search engine marketing) business. Over the past six years she’s become a successful entrepreneur, friend, hype woman and dog mom. She owns three properties, works with clients across the US and is launching her first commercial brick and mortar business in Milton NY. She’s worked hard to reach her goals and, reflecting on her past, this is her greatest advice she wanted to share with others.

If you’re here for some search engine marketing advice from Jenna, rather than mindset advice – scroll to the bottom for free helpful resources on SEM. 

The turning point

When I started my search engine marketing business, I hustled. I pitched, networked, and tried to prove myself. But the shift happened when I stopped showing up with a list of services and started showing up with curiosity.

Instead of:

“Here’s what I do…”
I started asking:
“What’s working for you right now?”
“Where are you stuck?”
“What can I do to help?”

That shift changed everything.

One of my biggest clients I have today originally told me no thank you. We’re not interested. But instead of walking away, I emailed them back and offered a different option. My email back sounded something like this “Hi, I know you said no thanks but just a heads up that I do XYZ and that might also work for you”. After our call, I understood what they actually needed – not just what I assumed they needed. I came back with a solution that worked for them, and after that follow up email? They hired me. That relationship has lasted years and turned into one of the most meaningful collaborations of my career.

The ripple effect

That mindset, “What can I do for you?” extends far beyond client work. It applies in every room, every conversation, every relationship.

In a coffee chat with another entrepreneur? Ask what they’re excited about. What’s hard? What’s next? Listen before you offer. Even with friends and family—sometimes they don’t need advice. They just need presence.

People remember how you make them feel, and this question creates safety, care, and connection.

A lot of my professional career isn’t showing up to be the “serious business woman” who will make you tons of money. It’s about being human, honest and reliable ….. (and in my case; who also happens to be an expert at giving clients a return on their paid media investment) ;)

Let’s be clear: it’s not about people-pleasing

This is important. The “what can I do for you” mindset doesn’t mean ignoring your own needs or saying yes to everything.

It means:

• Leading with service, not ego.

• Being helpful, not performative.

• Offering something real, not overextending.

It’s generosity with boundaries. Curiosity with direction. Helping when and where it matters.

Why it works (especially in business)

• It builds trust.

• It reveals real needs (not just surface-level ones).

• It positions you as someone who’s here to partner, not push.

• It helps you stand out because in a world full of “look at me”, showing up with “what do you need?” is rare and refreshing.

Try it this week

In your next email, networking event, or conversation—try it.
Shift your mentality to, “What can I do for you?” and “What do you need?”

You don’t have to ask the question literally. Start by listening and asking relevant, curious questions.
Not because you’re trying to land something. But because you care. 

Then make your own decision on if you can help that person based on what you’ve learned. Curiosity & adaptability are some of life’s most precious traits. 

Let people experience what it’s like to be met with real curiosity and support.
You never know what doors it might open—for them, and for you.

A cheeky book rec to close out the read 

Bonus: Free SEM Resources

If you came here for the search stuff:

Business Owners Guide – Created for friends just getting started running their own businesse

The art of looking better and bigger than you are – Created for freelancers and SMBs who want to snag bigger clients and close bigger deals 

What is the difference between SEO & SEM – Created for SMBs who want to understand Google and what it takes to show up on the search results page. 

Technical search tips

STAY CONNECTED

• Instagram: @jenna_plz
• Website: jennaclark.com / ddmgen.com
• Email: [email protected]