One of the toughest things about freelancing is getting clients. Whether you’re just starting a freelance business, or looking to grow your existing client base. Some days, the life of a freelancer can feel like you’re spending more time client-hunting than actually working. Time is money, and you owe it to yourself to use it wisely. However, you don’t have to resort to spending money on advertising campaigns or being overly “sales-y” (which can come off as desperate). There are other, easier ways to get clients and instead of you searching for them, they’ll come to you. Here are the 6 freelancing tips for the client relationship.
- Word of Mouth
This is probably the best way to land clients without doing any work to get them. When someone recommends you to a person they know, it means a lot more than a polished resume.
People trust personal recommendations more than a portfolio, killer resume/LinkedIn profile, or blog. It all comes down to that age-old saying: “It’s not what you know, but who.”
So, do good work, and get referred to others people who own their own business probably know others who do, too. And those connections just may need a new website, video editing, new logo, etc.
- Less but detailed Email
When you are working on a freelancer project you need to update work progress to the client, so send project details through email. When you are sending emails to clients avoid other activities when you are interacting with clients.
- Delayed project status
Last week in India, we were celebrating Diwali, which is one of the biggest festivals here. At the same time, I was dealing with 5 projects. Since I knew I won’t be able to work for next 4-5 days, I dropped an Email to the client stating the same. I also explained them a little about Diwali (Festival) and also mentioned when we can resume the project. It’s always a good idea to let your client know if you are not going to be available.
- Voice Call/Video Call
Depending upon the kind of client you are dealing with, video or voice chat could make things easier. You can connect with your client on Skype. Ensure that your client is reasonable enough, else you might get bombarded with messages from him all the time.
- Understand your client
Every person is not same people with the unique idea in the freelancer world. I deal with people, who are highly professional, and the only thing they want to talk about is work and there are few clients who prefer talking in the more friendly way and would like to know what’s going around. You need to understand every individual and give them the treatment they deserve. This way you can make your one-time client a returning client.
- Take the pain of educating your client
There are chances that your clients might not be so up to date with the latest trends, and they might ask for something which is outdated. You should consider explaining to the client why they should not consider selecting the particular product and instead should consider another latest one. This might not be an easy task, but if you accomplish it properly, you will buy an extra coffee and trust. other than the freelancer the client will appreciate for you convincing methods, explain very gently to the client regarding the latest trends. The client should be convinced by the way how you are convincing techniques according to your blog consultancy charges.
While dealing with the client, try to keep yourself in their shoes and you will understand their need in better ways. One satisfied client can get you lot of referral clients.
Must read articles:
