For most freelancers, work can go from all to nothing very quickly. One week you’re working flat out, the next week there’s just tumbleweed in your inbox. So, what can you do to ensure the work and the money continues to roll in?
Get yourself noticed
Whether it is adding some more micro jobs on Techlancer, updating your website or perhaps sending out a newsletter to your existing client base, you can let everyone know that you are available for work and ready for hire.
It can help to update your portfolio and have a handy link to an online portfolio so you can showcase what you do best. It also can save on admin as there will be clients that will always email you for examples of work. Save yourself some time by directing them to your portfolio.
Don’t forget to update all of the sites you use to advertise your services and say that you are available for work in your byline and bio. Many freelancers forget to do this and often clients will assume you’re always going to be booked up in advance.
Promote yourself
Attend co-working events and networking sessions armed with memorable business cards. While you may not meet clients, the people you meet at events may connect you to others that they know. As well as face-to-face promotion, think digital. You do not have to bombard people with the hard sell. Instead, reach out to your base or let people know about a new skill you have, a new service you can provide or a new special offer they can make the most off.
It can help to show your expertise in your industry, so try to demonstrate this expertise through discussions, interviews and thought-provoking articles.
Make your pricing visible
For clients who may be browsing your website, they’re likely to be searching for your prices. So many freelancers will ask people to get in touch for a quote, but you can be proactive and state your ballpark costs, so at least clients have some idea of whether you are within their budget. If you ask people to email for prices, you can expect at least half of these will not bother and will look for someone that is open about their pricing.
Consider promoting special offers too, but don’t price yourself out of profit. Some clients will not work with you if they think you are too cheap.
Boost your reviews
Whether it’s on Google, Trustpilot or Techlancer, positive client reviews can make all the difference to your business. Don’t forget to share your latest positive feedback on your site through testimonials and on social media too. The more endorsements, the more buzz there is about your work, the more likely it is that people will want to work with you.
