How to Get More Freelance Work by Networking
Let’s face it: networking is awkward. It almost always involves going into a room full of strangers and approaching them with a line that is some variation on the question, “So what do you do?” The virtual version of that is constantly posting on networks like LinkedIn and hoping to get some engagement.
For a freelancer, this awkwardness is even greater. Whether using online networks or at an in-person networking event, you’re essentially selling yourself, which can be tough for some people, no matter how talented or even socially graceful they might be. However, networking is a key strategy for increasing your work and your income. Here are some tips for getting more work by networking as a freelancer.
Remember That Everyone is There for the Same Reason
A networking event or online network are places where professionals go to talk about work…so don’t feel bad talking about what you do! In more causal social settings, dwelling too much on the details of our jobs in conversation can be exhausting. But here, it’s the name of the game. So if you end up talking about something other than work at a networking event, that’s okay, but remember that you’re there to talk about work. So do it! You can make this easier by having a succinct description of your talents and specific skills that you use with everyone, and a list of three or four questions that will keep the conversation going and show your curiosity. Be ready to offer your services and remember that people are there for exactly that reason. Talk to everybody because you never know who might have a friend who needs exactly what you offer.
Name Your Clients
Always keep a mental list and a list on your networking profiles of clients that you have worked with in the past. This shows that you have happy customers and gives you a sense of credibility and professionalism. It’s best if these names are recognizable, but beyond that, they should also show the scope of what you can do. Additionally, it’s better to have happy “no-name” clients to show off than no professional background at all. So be sure to name the work you did for that big agency and the pro-bono work you did for a friend’s non-profit. When connecting with people, ask what kind of business they do and relate to them on their level by talking about work you’ve done in their field in the past. This will make them more likely to want to work with you.
How to Get More Freelance Work by Networking
Let’s face it: networking is awkward. It almost always involves going into a room full of strangers and approaching them with a line that is some variation on the question, “So what do you do?” The virtual version of that is constantly posting on networks like LinkedIn and hoping to get some engagement. For a freelancer, this awkwardness is even greater. Whether using online networks or at an in-person networking event, you’re essentially selling yourself, which can be tough for some people, no matter how talented or even socially graceful they might be. However, networking is a key strategy for increasing your work and your income. Here are some tips for getting more work by networking as a freelancer.
Remember That Everyone is There for the Same Reason
A networking event or online network are places where professionals go to talk about work…so don’t feel bad talking about what you do! In more causal social settings, dwelling too much on the details of our jobs in conversation can be exhausting. But here, it’s the name of the game. So if you end up talking about something other than work at a networking event, that’s ok, but remember that you’re there to talk about work. So do it! You can make this easier by having a succinct description of your talents and specific skills that you use with everyone, and a list of three or four questions that will keep the conversation going and show your curiosity. Be ready to offer your services and remember that people are there for exactly that reason. Talk to everybody because you never know who might have a friend who needs exactly what you offer.
Name Your Clients
Always keep a mental list and a list on your networking profiles of clients that you have worked with in the past. This shows that you have happy customers and lends you a sense of credibility and professionalism. It’s best if these names are recognizable, but beyond that they should also show the scope of what you can do. Additionally, it’s better to have happy “no-name” clients to show off than no professional background at all. So be sure to name the work you did for that big agency and the pro-bono work you did for a friend’s non-profit. When connecting with people, ask what kind of business they do and relate to them on their level by talking about work you’ve done in their field. This will make them more likely to want to work with you.
Show Your Stuff
Almost any freelance job can have a kind of “portfolio”. Whether it is logos you’ve designed, blog posts you’ve written, or websites you’ve created, you need to show what you’ve done in order to get more work. Most professional networking sites have a built-in way to do this. The easiest way to do this in real life is probably with a few photos or images saved to your phone. You can also get really creative and carry a business card or other item that shows off your design or other work. Whatever you do, keep it quick and to the point. When someone seems interested, ask questions about their business or project and explain what you would offer and what makes you different from others in the field.
Be Brave!
Yes, networking as a freelancer can be awkward, but the key to success is ignoring the awkwardness and putting on a brave face. Be sure to smile a lot and try to stifle any feelings of awkwardness you might have. Go up to people and strike up a conversation. Ask questions, listen to what people say, and put yourself out there in response. Most importantly, strive to make real, meaningful connections with the people you talk to. Give everyone your business card and follow up with people by email or even a phone call. That’s the best way to ensure they’ll remember you and improve the chance they will give you work.
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