Gather Testimonials
In your journey to becoming a successful freelancer, never overlook testimonials. You might not initially see the necessity for this. However, I must emphasize that a potential client will be thrilled and eager to see what your past customers have to say about you and your work. Choose a platform: social media, your website, or a freelance marketplace. Feel free to request feedback from your clients at the end of each project. Make sure you showcase these reviews on your preferred platform. Let them know you will share their feed with the public. Give them the option to stay anonymous. People who appreciate your work will be delighted to add their reviews.
As much as possible, stick to authenticity and avoid faking reviews.
Market your Services
Every successful freelancer will tell you that they wear many hats. You’re an independent contractor, consultant, manager, secretary, accountant, and publicist. Freelancers are Marketers. You will be selling your skills, services, and brand as a whole throughout your freelancing career.
When it comes to marketing your business, you take on the roles of the advertiser, publicist, and digital marketer. Seize every opportunity to promote your business. Some good assets are virtual or hard copies of your complimentary cards and flyers.
What information should you include in your business card or flyer?
Your business card should include:
- your name,
- professional title,
- phone number,
- email,
- website address,
- Links to your primary social handle (optional)
Your flyers will carry a list of the services you offer, your logo if any, and your contact information. Share them on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter, and any other social platform you use regularly.
Better still, hire a professional designer to create these collaterals for you.
You will market your services to your customer base in the same way that business owners or companies do. As a freelancer, you must make it a habit to keep people engaged at all times. Be persistent, and consistent, and convey the right message. Those who aren’t fans of social media should aim for three times per week or more. This isn’t compulsory, but I’ve learned that, regardless of your personality traits, using social media to promote your business is a sure way to secure clients.
Create time for yourself
Freelancers! I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to make time for yourself. I know what it means to work from morning to morning, with little for myself. You might even find yourself thinking about work while you’re relaxing or trying to.
That’s the downside of freelancing. You are constantly tempted to go back to work since you pick your working hours and place.
Sleep deprivation, twelve or more hours of work per day, and little rest are all recipes for burnout and poor performance.
You don’t need to go through this. Take walks and watch a movie or two. Binge-watch a Netflix TV show. Make a reservation at your favorite restaurant or bar. Do you understand what I mean? Just unwind.
Make work a priority yet relaxation a routine. Anything that causes you stress should be avoided at this time. Put your phone away. A buzzing phone, with numerous messages from clients, will only add to your stress.
