The art of networking benefits workers in many fields. While networking comes easy to some people, others can struggle. Networking means promoting yourself to potential clients or customers and self-promotion makes many people feel uncomfortable. But networking when you’re a freelance worker, particularly a writer, can gain you much more work and experience, helping you advance in your career.
Networking 101
Having a good network means you have connections to others in your field, giving you chances to find projects and clients that you may have not otherwise known about. Networking means reaching out both in-person and online. Be sure to have your social media accounts up-to-date, especially professional accounts that list your previous work accomplishments. Networking events can also be a great opportunity to connect with others.
Know how to pitch your work
Not everyone enjoys talking about themselves, but in networking, having a good sales pitch for yourself is essential. You can sound confident without being cocky by taking a humble approach. Be brief, but consistent when selling your abilities to others. Talk about some of your proudest accomplishments but avoid lengthy speeches about all your credentials going back throughout your entire career. If you’re new to the world of freelance writing and don’t have much experience, be sure to provide information to potential clients that shows why you would be a good fit for their projects. This means doing some research ahead of time so that you’re prepared.
Networking as a freelance writer can be intimidating since you’re on your own and solely responsible for finding projects and clients to work with. But you know yourself and your abilities better than anyone else, which means you have the best chance of pitching your talents to others. A successful freelancer is always networking both online and in person. You never know when you’ll make a connection that turns out to be career-changing.
