Struggling to find a steady stream of freelance work? Learn from successful freelancers who have landed new clients through networking, reconnecting with former colleagues, attending business events, and leveraging social media. Discover innovative methods to stand out in a crowded market and attract new clients today.
Four Innovative Approaches to Finding New Freelance Clients
The gig economy and the rise of trendy coworking spaces have enabled more people to pursue projects they are passionate about. According to research, by 2020, independent contractors will make up 40% of the American workforce. However, one of the downsides of being a freelancer is that it can be challenging to secure a steady stream of work. Simply relying on job boards and cold pitches is often insufficient. Here are four unconventional yet effective methods employed by five successful freelancers to attract new clients.
- Networking: One freelancer, Michelle Miller, found a new client by sharing her experience as a new freelance writer during a conversation with a friend. She was soon hired as a ghostwriter and content creator.
- Reconnecting with former colleagues: Another freelancer, Ann Loynd Burton, reconnected with her former magazine coworkers and discovered that one of them had recently started her own PR firm. Ann offered her services as a writer, and she has been working with the firm ever since.
- Attending business events: Kelsey Mulvey, a writer and editor, recommends attending industry gatherings and press conferences to expand your professional network. She landed a gig by casually mentioning her side hustle as a freelancer to a publicist at an event.
- Social media: Elyssa Goodman, a photographer and writer, was approached on Twitter by someone who saw her work on a friend’s post. They ended up hiring her for a photoshoot. Similarly, Kelsey Mulvey got a writing assignment after responding to a Facebook post seeking a writer for the Royal Wedding.
In addition, Jon Youshaei, a Fiverr Pro and instructor, suggests that every entrepreneur needs to find a way to stand out in today’s crowded market. He recommends focusing on marketing, no matter how good your product is.
In conclusion, while job boards and cold pitches are still necessary, employing innovative methods and developing a personal brand can also be effective ways to find new freelance clients.