Freelancing has become more common and this is a trend that is set to continue to grow. Competition for clients can be tough, so how do you go about expanding your customer base? In this guide, we’ll discuss some steps you can take to attract new clients.
Creating a professional portfolio
One of the first things clients will ask you when you pitch for a project or a job is to view examples of previous work. People want to see what you can do and get an insight into the kinds of clients you work with and the experience you have.
Make sure your portfolio is up to date, ensure that it looks professional and smart and provide detailed information about each project. Be prepared to answer questions, provide more information and show clients photographs, cuttings, plans or galleries to enable them to make a well-informed decision. Your portfolio should demonstrate your skills and showcase your talents.
Social Media
Choose a couple of social media platforms and focus on them. For products it is better to use visual platforms like Instagram or Facebook – but you can get lost in the crowd. Fans bring fans, so consider if you want to buy IG followers in order to boost your following and engagement on the platform and encourage an organic following to come your way.
Post consistently, and keep what you post of high-quality too. You are more likely to be seen by people who want and need your products and services if you have a team of loyal and engaged fans giving you more visibility.
Reviews, testimonials and recommendations
Reviews have never been more influential. As a freelancer looking to take on new clients, it is hugely beneficial to encourage your existing customers to leave feedback and share reviews and testimonials. It is also important to incentivise recommendations and referrals. Word of mouth, whether it’s through face-to-face conversation or online reviews or chat, is incredibly powerful and it can often make the difference between a client choosing your business over another.
Digital marketing
Freelancers are responsible for finding their own clients and ensuring they have a steady flow of work and a stable income. If you are eager to take on new customers, it’s an excellent idea to use the reach and popularity of the Internet to attract attention. Digital marketing methods and outsourced lead generation can help you turn heads, get noticed and forge relationships with prospective clients. Use social media and email marketing to engage with clients, build a following and promote services.
Make sure you have an accessible, mobile-friendly, professional-looking website and drive traffic using search engine optimisation. Your site should look the business, but it should also provide useful, valuable information for customers and an enjoyable, seamless user experience. Include different types of content, such as images, video clips and infographics and use clear calls to action.
Add your contact details and an FAQ section. Check your emails regularly and respond to queries and questions promptly.
Networking
Networking is essential for freelancers who want to take on new clients and broaden their customer base. There are various ways to meet new people, including networking events, industry events and virtual conferences, exhibitions and social gatherings. If you are new to networking, it can be beneficial to write down a list of talking points or questions to start and maintain conversation and to prepare in advance so that you have facts and figures to hand when you talk to prospective clients.
Freelancing has become more popular and this means that competition for new clients is becoming more intense. If you’re looking to expand your customer base, take these tips on board to set your business apart.
