The start period
Spread the word
You will need a name for your company, a logo, and business cards. With regard to which methods of communication you should use for your business – websites, blogs, leaflets or flyers – choose to communicate using the method that you’re most comfortable with and/or are the most effective in your line of business. Always think about making the most of your completed projects – they are your references and are essential for winning new projects.
Want to let the general public know about your references… and please your clients at the same time? Why not suggest circulating a press release to open access sources, detailing your collaborative project – there are lots of them, e.g. Categorynet.com
Have your own blog
Every self-respecting freelance should have a blog that will help them to be recognised as well as showcasing their skills. So, what to put in it? The simplest thing is to talk about your work, your projects and the environment in which you’re working. Take an interest in other freelancers who work in the same area as you and interview them. Use your blog to share what you’ve discovered on the internet, what you’ve read recently, or what your favourite things are. Help those people who ask you questions – basically, reveal your expertise by being human and approachable.
Develop your network
Linkedin, Facebook, Viadeo, Twitter… If you’re already on a social network update your profile, check your key words… Look for your friends online. Take part. Choose some forums, hubs and other groups on the networking sites and take part in discussions on them. Don’t sell your expertise, but demonstrate it to other people by taking part in debates. Set off discussions – be active and relevant in your participation.
And don’t forget to meet other freelances face to face to keep you motivated. Go to networking evenings : the aim of these events is to facilitate meetings between professionals from the same sector, same region and so on.
Set your rates
Your rates must be in line with the market’s rates, be high enough to motivate you, but not so high so that you put off clients. The rates must also relate to your experience and expertise.
Seek customers
If you choose to actively seek customers by telephone then be certain that you have a client information file with you and that your target is “potentially ready” to listen to you. Prepare an outline of the conversation – be polite, firm, pro-active…and smile! The other way of seeking is…to register at freelance.com ;-).
However, you also need to have an online presence and be active on social networking sites; go to where business people have their meetings and go to fairs.
Devote your time
You have to bear in mind that you will have to work hard – at least in the beginning. Always be on the lookout for work, even when you have projects on the go, and never count your hours. Just be patient and stay motivated.
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December 25, 2015 at 04:15AM
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