10 Tips You Can Use to Get More Clients as a Freelancer
As a freelancer, you'll agree that finding new clients and starting a new freelance gig has become increasingly difficult. The freelance business is now at the booming phase. Still, gig-workers buddying up with clients face many challenges.
You may be a member of many paid websites that promise you clients, but with no actionable results. However, you can get a continuous flow of clients free of cost.
Read on to learn how to devise a strategy that will blend apps, tools, and creativity to increase your client base.
1. Referral From a Client or Anyone You Know
So, it is vital that you ask your existing clients to refer you to other businesses. Your best chance of finding clients is to ask around among your friends.
They could also be your family members, mentors, former colleagues, managers at previous employment, etc. Let them know that you’re looking for referrals.
2. Publish Marketing Blog Contents
Maintaining a blog site with a marketing objective is the most cost-effective way of spreading brand awareness among prospective clients. You can start blogging from websites like WordPress, Blogger, Medium, Hexo, etc., for free.
When you’ll post content, make sure that the writing tone has a sales outlook. If you’re a WordPress developer/designer, publish content that appeals to the target audience to recruit you. For example, write how responsive websites increase sales up to a certain percentage and that you’re an expert in delivering such websites.
3. Start Guest Posting in Reputable Websites
Answerout.com for freelance SEO gigs.
Content Marketing Institute for content writers.
HubSpot Blog for general marketing.
AllBusiness.com for small business gigs.
Mashable for social media marketing gigs.
GetResponse Blog for email marketers.
Slashdot for technology gigs.
Hongkiat for website designers and developers.
4. Maintain an Updated and Versatile Portfolio
Graphic Artists Guild
Coroflot
Hireillo
Sortfolio
SolidGigs
Upwork
PeoplePerHour
Fiverr
5. Focus on LinkedIn Networking
Put a link to your portfolio website or upload a video or PDF as a portfolio.
You should link your freelance brand’s website.
Add a professional-looking profile photograph.
Craft a summary that displays your skills and achievements.
Keep the skills and experience section updated.
Add completed projects in the work samples section.
Add recommendations and skill endorsements to your LinkedIn profile.
6. Utilize Social Media for Business Marketing
You need to try any of the following social media platforms depending on your freelance gig:
Content writers and authors: Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and APSense.
Graphic and motion designers: Behance, Dribbble, Instagram, and YouTube.
Software developers: GitHub, Reddit, HackerNews, and Stack Overflow.
Freelance photographers: Photo Critique, Tumblr, Instagram, Behance, Vero, and Steller.
UI/UX designers: YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, and Figma Community.
Website designer and developers: Dribbble, Pixel Groovy, Pinterest, Designmoo, and Behance.
7. Start Sending Marketing Emails and Newsletters
Email or newsletter marketing is a highly successful method that can increase your client pool. It’s highly lucrative for both new and existing freelancers. You can create appealing marketing emails from the below-mentioned websites. Some of these websites will also allow you to send marketing emails for free.
Moosend to create and edit email/newsletter templates.
Mailchimp for email templates, online CRM, newsletters, and landing pages.
Sendinblue for email/newsletter templates, sending marketing emails, storing client contacts, etc.