Networking: A simple word that, oddly enough, highlights many freelancers. Freelance networking can be frustrating, but it is also extremely important. Having the right contacts can open doors that would otherwise stay closed, especially for freelancers.
As you connect with prospects and anyone who might be interested in your work, these connections can be accessed when needed. The lonely wolf aspect of the freelancer can make these relationships difficult to build, but it doesn’t have to be as difficult as it sounds.
What exactly is the secret of proper networking to help you in your freelance career? Here are eight non-intimidating freelance networking tips, tricks, and suggestions that you can use.
- Start small
- Don’t leave out other freelancers
- Contribute to freelance content
- Professional online networks
- Go to local events
- Always have a business card in hand
- Be real
- Follow up
Network tips
1) start small
Approaching strangers can be a daunting aspect, so it’s best to do so Start with the people you know. Start slowly with yours Friends and relationship and when you get a little better at the idea of networking, move on with yours Alumni network.
The people you already know know other people who know other people and so on. Stick with the people you know and ask them for an introduction to the people you want to meet.
2) Don’t leave out other freelancers
A general tip that applies to both online and offline networks is not to leave out other freelancers. As you build your network, Help other freelancers If you can. Sure, relationships with corporations and potential large customers seem more productive and lucrative, but hanging out with the freelance crowd can prove just as effective.
Think of it as having good, reliable colleagues. When the workload is too heavy, the project is too big, or just too difficult, freelancers need others to count on. Make yourself that other person. If you lend a hand, you can rely on them later for help.
3) Contributing to freelance content
Contributions to online forums, Comment on article and Write blog pieces can help Boost Your Freelance Career enormous. All you have to do is discuss what your career is about.
When people stumble upon your content, they might see you as a expert in your field and can even hire you or recommend you to others. By contributing to articles, you can also connect with other members of your industry and increase your numbers Visibility as a freelancer.
4) Professional online networks
People often think that professionals like networks LinkedIn or Xing are often only used when looking for a job. This is an over-simplification. Professional networks like this one are among the best resources Available to freelancers for online networking. Keep your profile up to date and include projects you’re working on, but also actively seek out people working on similar things.
You may also want to connect to people or organizations Twitter. Take part in the posts they share and reach out to them directly when you’re ready.
Professional networks are also a great way to connect with contacts that you’ve lost touch with. Remember that you are a freelancer and that you are almost always either actively or passively looking for new opportunities. Don’t let them slip by.
5) Go to local events
Support your online network with a Offline network strategy. Still in play with the pandemic local personal events may be difficult, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of it local virtual. If there are in-person events in your area, it might be a good idea to attend some of them.
Your city is Chamber of Commerce could Host events for people in your industry. Trade shows, social events, master classes, career fairsThese are all options that you may want to consider.
You can reach an incredible number of people through the internet, but meeting them in real life is a whole different world for you to be a part of. From small talk to heated discussions, every small conversation can lead to something big.
6) Always have a business card in hand
You may think that business cards are a thing of the past, but that’s not necessarily true. Sure, a lot of your cards are likely to be in a trash can or in a wallet never to be looked at again, but it is one small investment that plays with people’s forgetfulness.
A name can be difficult to remember even when a person makes a great impression. ON Business card with your name, your website and your work area will ensure that your first impression is not only memorable, but also linked to the information needed to follow up with you.
7) Be real
Networking doesn’t ask people you know for jobs. Don’t just focus on what type of job your networking efforts will land you. Instead, focus on Present yourself in a real way and hear what others have to say. This leads to much better results.
And remember, never be too pushy when selling yourself. Have a normal conversation with your connections as you would with people you meet at a bar, but let it go about your work instead. Real passion Your job is the most important aspect that potential clients will remember when considering you for a future job.
8) Follow up
Finally, remember that Track your connections. Freelance networking is about building relationships maintain your network. Always find a reason to keep up with your connections.
Sharing articles, sending emails about industry-relevant things, asking questions regularly, or even inviting you to (virtual) events are great and non-intimidating ways for you to maintain your freelance network. The aim is to get in touch a a few times a year.
How do you network? Share your ideas and tips in the comments below!
