How To Get New Clients As A Freelancer
If you’re looking for new work as a freelancer, you have two options.
Either prove the value, or find someone who already values what you do.
Proving the value is a bit riskier, but it’s a great place to start if you don’t have a big portfolio or a robust network. This looks like doing projects on spec, interning, adding on services for free, and delivering extras. You can do this with current connections and clients, or you can do it with new clients.
People who value what you do are easier to find, but more difficult to work with. If someone values the kind of work you do, they’re likely already paying someone more experienced to do it better than you can. This doesn’t mean you can’t get in with them, it’s just a little tricker.
The best approach when you’re looking for more work? Diversify.
If you’re proving the value, you need to have the resources to do so. Find a part-time job that lets you pay your rent and necessary expenses. Then, allocate as much free time as you can to doing work on spec. Prove the value until you have enough people who value you enough to pay for it. Meanwhile, find and connect with people who already value what you do. They’ll keep their eyes on you as you progress. Then, when an opening arises, they’ll give you a call. Don’t bank on this happening quickly–I’ve had connections go cold for years, but they gave me a call when they needed me because I kept good rapport with them, and kept progressing on my own.
Having a full roster of clients that respect you, pay you well, and give you flexibility is the dream as a freelancer. And since it’s the dream, more people would do it if it were easy. But it’s difficult, and takes time. It takes perseverance. So make a long-term plan, diversify your approach, and keep going.
Just keep going.
Good luck out there.
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