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These days, it’s becoming easier than ever to turn your hobby or skill into a profession as a freelancer. The Internet allows you to land gigs from high-profile clients around the world. With freelancing becoming easier, though, it opens the door to more competition. Freelancers now make up over a third of the US workforce, and the numbers are expected to continue rising over the next few years. If you work for yourself, it’s up to you to figure out a way to sell your skills to the top clients in your field. Here are a couple of ways that you can make yourself stand out from the crowd as a freelancer.
Build Your Own Website or Blog
These days, it’s essential that any freelancer has his or her own business site. Your website is where you can show off both your personal and professional side. You can include an “About Me” page to help potential clients get to know you better and post a portfolio of past work to showcase your skill sets. You should also be able to ensure that all of your contact information is easy for clients to access.
When designing a website, keep in mind who your target audience is. It’s important that the aesthetics of your site reflect the unique goals and values of your companies. Tech-based freelancers, for example, might want to opt for a minimalistic or futuristic design. Graphic artists, on the other hand, may want to create a site with more color and visuals.
Market Through Social Media
In addition to a website, most freelancers these days operate active social media pages. Sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and more offer an easy way to keep in touch with current clients and connect with new ones. You can advertise your work through posts and updates, contact clients through messages, and encourage shares and likes. Social media can also help you to bond with potential clients on a personal level and establish a stronger repertoire.
Attend Networking Events
One of the best ways to attract new clients is by meeting them in person. Networking events in your area give you the opportunity to meet potential new clients and learn the big names in your field. You can also reach out to other freelancers for advice, tips, and tricks on how to succeed in the business.
Getting your foot in the door as a freelancer can be tough, but it’s far from impossible. With the right marketing strategy, you can make yourself stand out to potential new clients. You can connect with customers both online and in person to make a lasting first impression.
