FFN #36: Tired of not being able to find clients? We've got you! 👇🏽

🎨 Create a Standout Portfolio

When you first start freelancing, you may need to be open to a wide range of opportunities to boost your portfolio and increase your chances of landing your first few clients. When creating your portfolio be aware of your competitors, their services, and pricing. Use this knowledge to differentiate yourself and highlight your unique selling points. Even if you haven’t gotten any clients yet, make sure your profile showcases your skills and any previous work you have done including case studies. Tailor your proposals to each project to demonstrate your understanding of the client’s needs. Optimizing your online presence via a professional website, portfolio or our Freelance Directory showcases your work and can attract clients organically too. A trap we often fall into is not updating our website with our latest skills or case studies, because who really has the time? But trust us, you never know who’s looking. So carve out some time to continuously update all your marketing materials.

👯‍♀️ Sometimes Your Network Is Your Net-worth

Community in freelancing is so important, especially when dealing with finding clients. We suggest tapping into freelance marketplaces or Facebook groups, Slack channels (like our FF one) and job boards to help you find projects and clients looking for freelancers. These platforms can be good places to find out what companies are consistently looking for freelancers, from there we like to connect with people on LinkedIn in our industry departments. That way you can send them an outreach, as most freelance gigs go unadvertised, you never know who might need your help! Attend Industry events and conferences, these can be great opportunities to network, learn about the latest trends, and meet potential clients. We’ve come to realise that saying your network is your net worth holds a lot of truth in the freelance game. You can connect with people in your industry through social media, forums, and local events too, so there’s no shortage of ways to grow your network. Your personal network can also be a valuable resource, as referrals from friends and family can lead to new opportunities too!

🔑 Your Existing Clients Hold the Key

It can get really easy to forget your current clients could be the key to your next new project. By offering high-quality services and excellent customer service your clients could put you on a retainer (a freelancer’s dream) or refer you to a friend. Keeping your current clients happy will also lead to better more detailed testimonials which you can use for marketing collateral.

BelliWelli

I am the type of person who always needs a sweet treat after dinner but I don’t want to feel bloated and gross afterwards. A friend put me onto BelliWelli’s choc chip bars that taste like cookies but are made with all-natural ingredients that don’t hurt my belly. I love that they’re full of protein, fibre and probiotics so they’re great for throwing in my bag when I’m trotting around town too.