Not getting the gigs? Here are 3 reasons you aren’t winning the freelancing game (and how to change it)
There are some (arguably deluded) people out there who want to become freelancers because they think it will be easy. No manager breathing down your neck, swapping out your uniform and desk for PJs and your bed — who wouldn’t want to be a solopreneur? But once people throw their hat into the oversaturated freelancing ring, they realise that being your own boss is *a lot* harder than it seems.
While permanent work offers a level of security and stability, as a freelancer you need to be organised, professional, proactive and have a love — or at least tolerance — of admin. If you feel that you meet the above criteria but it still isn’t reflecting in your workload and bank account, here are three things you might be failing at, and how to change them so that you can start winning the freelancing game. You’re welcome!
1. You aren’t being proactive
Think that by simply putting your name out there into the freelancing universe that clients will magically come to you? Think again. Even well-seasoned solopreneurs regularly reach out to and form new relationships with prospective clients in order to keep their workload full and their purses lined. Reach out to people both in and out of your network and let them know of your unique skills and availability.
2. Your CV or portfolio doesn’t impress
You might talk the talk, but can you walk it, too? That’s why having an up-to-date, eye-catching CV or portfolio is so important. This allows you to show off your abilities as well as highlight any notable projects you have been #blessed to be a part of. It should be concise, error-free and tailored to suit the client you want to win over, so that in just one glance they will see that you are the best person for the job.
3. Your pitches aren’t blowing them away
In order to land new and exciting contracts, you need to impress prospective clients. And while your portfolio, references and CV can do a lot of that for you, your pitch is just as — if not more — important. In order to stand out from the crowd, you must make sure that you explain what you do and how you can use that skill set and knowledge to solve their problems. People like solutions, and you might just be the answer.
