Getting More Business As Freelancer
Written by bmlengel on July 28th, 2010
One of the perks of creating your own work schedule is the ability to work in your pearl izumi shorts, any time of the day. However, the tougher components of being responsible for your own business are actually getting clients. Self-promotion is tough for many people to deal with, but it’s part of owning your own business that you have to come to terms with.
Whether promoting a mongoose mountain bike, or any number of products or services, you have to reach out to potential clients. You want people to know that you are doing something (or selling something) of value. This requires getting over the fear of the dreaded salesperson technique. It doesn’t have to be like that at all, but you do have to have enough courage to talk about what you have to offer.
Too many freelancers have gotten caught up in promoting themselves and businesses solely online. While this should be a critical component for any marketing strategy, you shouldn’t forget traditional offline tactics as well. Leaving out the basics may mean you’re missing out on potential clients.
How do you introduce yourself and what you do when you meet new people? Do you simply say that you work from home? Well, its great that you work from home but that doesn’t mean anything to the people you’re meeting. However, if you explain that you are a freelance writer providing content and editing services, this clarifies exactly what you do. It may even help convert a new acquaintance with becoming a new client.
Do the people in your life know exactly what you do? When they know how to explain what you do to others, this may lead you to new potential clients as well. However, if your job description and what you do is vague they’re won’t be able to point any prospective clients your way.
Don’t forget the business card. It’s still very relevant, even with all of the easy and fast communication technology. A business card will help give you a professional image, make sure to include all of your relevant contact information. This includes your name, URL, cell and office numbers and email address. Regardless of whether you’re selling diamondback bikes or your services, this is an essential offline marketing technique.
Sometimes learning how to promote yourself and business may seem like a tough assignment. However, in order to be a successful freelancer you have to get over your shyness. This doesn’t mean you need to turn into a pushy sales person, but it does mean that you must implement a strong online and offline marketing strategy.
Tags: freelance marketing, freelance promotion, marketing offline, offline marketing
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