Are you a freelancer looking for clients? Here are 5 ways to find them
As a freelancer, you are nothing without your clients. Those who have been living the lifestyle for a while might already have a number of contacts on their books. But being complacent — especially as the market continues to become increasingly more saturated — is never a good idea. So whether you are a rookie looking to find the right customer for the services you offer, or if you are an old hand who wants to attract new clients and opportunities, here are five ways to find them.
1. Get social
Yes, you will still have time to socialise as a solopreneur. In fact, one of the best places to find new clients is at industry networking events. This will also give people the chance to connect with you face-to-face and get a feel for your interests and expertise. Freelancing is all about building relationships, and these events allow you to do just that. And with a drink in hand, too!
2. Network online
One of the most effective ways of getting noticed and landing gigs in 2020 is by promoting yourself online. This means keeping your business profiles up to date, and making sure that your references, skills and availability are clearly visible. Start following peers and leaders in your industry so that your name comes to mind when they are seeking freelancers for projects.
3. Create content
It won’t help to have a good-looking online business profile if there is no content on it to show off your skills. Make sure that you are creating content relevant to your field and populating not just online portfolios and business profiles with it but your personal social media accounts as well. This will let your network know of your abilities and can help to expand your client base.
4. Start communicating
It’s important as a freelancer to know your personal brand and to know who your skillset can best serve. Once you have established this, reach out to companies that would be a good match by sending an email pitch to the relevant person along with your portfolio and rate card, and express your interest in working for them should an opportunity become available.
5. Get together
Many freelancers work from home, and it is difficult to find new clients when you are cooped up in your WFH office/bed. This is where joining a co-working space can be beneficial. It will allow you to meet other freelancers across various fields, and nurturing these relationships could potentially yield lucrative collaborations in the future. Time to embrace those water-cooler chats!
