How to Market Your Freelance Services

By: Carla Lopez of boomerbiz.org

Marketing is crucial for all businesses, regardless of size. As a freelancer, you must develop a strategy for promoting your skills to new clients. With many available options, you may not know where to start. However, you can become your own marketing department with some knowledge of the basics.

Which Marketing Channels Are Right for Your Needs?

There are many social media platforms where you can advertise your services. Whether you are a freelance writer, publisher, or editor, you can build your business through social sites. Adding your online portfolio to the right channels helps you connect to people interested in your skills.

It is vital to assess your goals and target audience before deciding which channels are best for your freelance business. Determine which sites your ideal customers frequent to create a high-impact marketing approach. If you do not detail an effective plan, you may waste time and money on your efforts.

What Is a Marketing Message?

You need to have a defined brand with a core statement that communicates why clients should choose your services. Your words express the heart of your value proposition, highlighting your company's advantage and telling potential customers what you provide. Deliver your message with your desired patron and selected marketing channel in mind. Make sure your calls-to-action deliver the same message across all channels, so people easily recognize what your services offer.

Should You Use Traditional Marketing Methods?

While online options are necessary in today's digital world, there is still a use for conventional advertising strategies. One study found that more people read print ads than digital ads, making print better for brand recognition and recall. Do not overlook the benefits of offline advertising in addition to digital efforts. Consider placing flyers on community bulletin boards in local coffee shops, recreation centers, bus stops, libraries, or other areas where your consumers spend time.

As a freelancer, a business card is a valuable tool to get your information to people who may need your services. It is easy to design a customized contact card online using a free business card maker. Simply insert your text and images in the font and color of your choice. Then, print and carry your cards with you to always have something concrete to hand to people. When potential clients have a tangible item to take home, it leaves a lasting impression.

How Do You Know If Your Advertising Works?

Determining if your marketing efforts work involves more than just counting sales. Make sure each of your advertising campaigns has a specific objective, such as:

• Increase awareness of your services

• Gain more clients

• Improve revenue

• Boost traffic to your website

• Expand social reach

• Acquire more email subscribers

By pinpointing one defined purpose, you can better measure an ad's success. Digital marketing platforms have built-in tools to help you identify which ads work efficiently. Over time you will see which techniques help you grow your business and give you the best return on your investment.

To track offline advertising efforts, include a specific way to identify how new clients heard of your services. Require an inquiry form that asks how someone learned of your business. Add a customized webpage, a QR code, or dedicated contact details for each campaign.

When you run a freelance operation, marketing is essential to your success. Utilizing print and online advertising methods together helps you achieve your goals, gain more clients and increase revenue.