I’ve really been trying hard to set aside more time to work ON my business versus IN my business. Copywriter guru Nick Usborne addresses this freelancer challenge and consistently talks about the importance of freelancers putting their business ahead of their clients’ business.
That crazy Nick – now I don’t know if I’m ready to go that extreme yet. But as part of this commitment to my business, I’ve dedicated myself to reviewing really good information that resonated with me at one time but that I’ve failed to act upon because work and life got in the way.
Don’t you hate it when that happens? I pay to attend an event or pay for a webinar, take lots of notes, get inspired and write down a few ideas…but ultimately fail to ever act on the information or inspiration. So instead of trying to consume everything I can get my hands on, I’m really trying to delve deeper into the things I have.
One teleseminar I paid to attend recently was put on by The Wealthy Freelancer guys. I was re-reviewing the audio and going through the transcript when a challenge in it caught my eye: it asked me to take a hard look at how I’ve been attracting prospects to my business. So I actually went back through every single one of my projects from the last 8 months and listed how I got the client. Here are some of the findings from that analysis:
- Networking events *** far and away my best source of leads. I got my very first client from a networking event and I’ve met several agency owners at networking events
- Partnering with web designers, agencies and independent marketing consultants (every single one of whom I’ve met at networking events) to work on their end clients’ projects
- I’ve developed my SEO strategy well and landed in Google searches for Copywriters
- Through my website and my blog attracting traffic
- Twitter: yes – I got a REAL client who saw one of my tweets. A direct link proving social media does work!
- LinkedIn: someone saw my new job title and referred me
This interesting exercise was very insightful and made me realize that I have been neglecting the two things that bring me the most business: face-to-face networking and SEO/Internet Marketing.
I’d like to know from you—what tips do you have for bringing in business or getting new clients?
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Hi Jenny,
I so agree with you about in-person networking. When people meet you in person, they’re able to get a “feel” for you. If the chemistry is there, the battle is half-won. I’ve tried direct mail and cold calls (yuck!); I’ve gotten clients through email marketing, referrals, LinkedIn, and even Twitter, but networking beats them all, hands-down!
Nichole – absolutely! Especially as a freelancer who works from home, there’s nothing like escaping the office and getting out for socializing and professional development. Thanks so much for your comment!