The Art of Networking: The Blueprint to Freelancing Success


Freelance professionals focus much of their time finding new clients and building a network on them. Aside from that, freelancers need to connect with fellow professionals in order to build up a support system that will help them achieve success in this competitive and cutthroat business. Without a good network of clients and colleagues, freelancers won’t be able to showcase their skills and services to people that will need their help. Networking freelance services is one way to spread word to the general public on how their skills and expertise can help them achieve their business goals and objectives. Start networking by keeping in touch with clients and businesses in a freelance search site.

When people know a freelancer with a good reputation, they will provide work and necessary professional opportunities to keep their career work up and running. Since some people don’t have the specialised skills and extensive expertise that freelancers have, there is a huge market for freelancers who can work with clients on a part-time or full-time basis. Sometimes, a freelancer may outsource its work and refer clients to other freelancers. Without an extensive network of professional contacts and clientele, a freelancer won’t be able to capitalise such situation. Successful freelancing is dependent upon how many people you know and how well known and recognisable you are to the public. Here are important tips that freelancers should know when it comes to developing a freelance network:

It’s All About the Commitment

Never start freelance networking when you are thinking of short term financial gains. Consider the idea of developing meaningful relationships with your clientele because this is one way forging strong business partnerships.

Better to Give not to Get

Don’t expect too much on networking because it is all about investing your time and resources in building meaningful relationship with your existing clientele and would-be clients. Sales pitches may score you more people in your freelance network but you still have to talk to referrals and introduce yourself to people you have just met. Even with existing clients, you are still obligated to provide information and feedback.

Listen and Ask Questions

When talking to potential clients, listen attentively and ask the necessary questions that will help you sort out what you can do to help them. Being curious is all about getting to know the client and their business. Never hesitate to dig deeper and uncover certain aspects of the business setup. In a freelance network, clients always love freelance professionals who are interested in them.

The Art of Follow Up

Freelancers can perform rigorous follow up on clients but they should never go to the extent of becoming an annoying prick. In career networking, make sure that the potential client won’t forget you and make the necessary follow up before you lose the opportunity to get connected.

Don’t Be A Hero

Freelance professionals can achieve freelance success if they know when to ask for help from people they work with. Don’t portray yourself as a big shot expert in web development, content writing, or graphics design because clients want results and not accomplishments and big contracts you once had. Don’t boast by taking achievements that are not yours.

Be Updated

Clients appreciate working with freelance professionals who know the latest trends in the industry. Catch up with the current affairs and get along with clients’ needs and wants. If you can relate with the clients and fellow freelancers then it would be much easier to build a good network.

Know What To Do

Be prepared to speak to strangers if you really want to expand your contacts. Know what to do when promoting yourself and advertising your skills and expertise to potential clients. Freelance networking jobs and other career opportunities are out there and getting a network of contacts can help you achieve success. Learn to adjust to the ever-changing situation in the freelancing profession.

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