Today more and more individuals are jumping at the opportunities to earn freelance. This “influx” brings with it a plethora of individuals with unique ideas and qualities. Naturally, the results are more freelancers competing for opportunities to work with clients.
Freelancers are not much different from entrepreneurs. They usually do everything from top to bottom to deliver for the client. So starting at point A with all the competition may be difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Let’s take a step back and look at entrepreneurs. What are they doing with their business? Maybe they strive to build a brand? Now think, why can’t freelancers do the same?
Let’s look at how you can get started on your freelance brand and make your freelancing journey a bit easier.
What makes YOU unique? How to speak the same language with your audience?
Our advice – be yourself. Many people set different expectations that differ from their values and principles. Let yourself guide your decisions. Throw out the idea of creating new versions for each customer. Having uniformity in approach & niche is the first step to becoming recognizable. Think about your superpower. What’s your expertise? What is your value proposition?
Also, think about one or two words. These should instantly associate your future client with you. Once you get this done, you’re already halfway there.
Be present
Once you establish the basis of your brand, the hard work begins. Your identity is everything. Protect your brand by being consistent and positive. Engage and be proactive on social media. Pay attention to social media, especially LinkedIn. Apart from finding new clients, these can help you build relations with existing ones.
Nothing is better than having a solid basis of happy customers who will act as brand ambassadors.
Set your presence on the world wide web. A website will enhance your image even more.
Thankfully, today, having a website is not a luxury anymore. You can quickly learn how to set up a website on open source platforms like WordPress. It may take some time. However, the internet is flourishing with information that can help you develop a website faster.
You can make your web presence attractive and interactive by centering it on industry-related news, blogging, testimonials, and many more. Your web should be user and SEO-friendly. Many free additions can help you with this. If you’re using WordPress, then Yoast SEO and WPForms should be your best friends.
Discover and test new options to determine what works best. Branding is not a “set & forget” type of work. Encourage and monitor feedback, and keep learning as you go.
Become proficient in developing relations
Have you seen many clients engaging in different networking events? Yes? Then take every opportunity to expand your business. Regardless if your competition is there. You can’t always rely on digital conversion. Promoting a brand in person can make a difference. And even if your prospect is not looking to hire, another opportunity may arise. Review your track record and know your pitch. Remember, your brand is what promises your client that the expected result will be delivered in a certain way.
Take pride in your brand
Remember, your brand is what will make you memorable. Resilience and hard work are the backbones of success. Your brand may not get noticed overnight. But perseverance is recognizable in the eyes of those who will be the first to put their trust in you.
It’s never too late to ask for help. Many freelancers search for mentors on their path to career success. Learn how a mentor can help you achieve success.
