Ask twelve different freelancers what they do and the likelihood is that you’ll get twelve different answers. Freelancers are present in practically every industry, giving rise to a broad number of job descriptions. However, whatever it says on the business card, there is one job that freelancers all have in common: Senior Marketing Officer.
As a one-man band, freelancers are responsible for virtually every aspect of what they do, but they will all do it in their own way – until it comes to marketing. Whatever your approach to business, marketing has the same end result: a targeted appeal to the people you hope will give you their custom. So what are the secrets that no-one ever talks about; the freelancer’s black book of tips?
- It’s your call. The best jobs don’t always go to the best people. In truth, employers are more likely to look favorably upon people who make their lives easy. When you see a job advertised, make the call as soon as you can. If you get emails in response or a message asking you to call the office, return it as quickly as possible. There are those who think it makes you look desperate but, in truth, it makes you look efficient and super-responsive. Take the initiative and be the Callback Kid; you might find that your hit rate improves.
- It’s up to you to decide your worth and there’s nothing wrong with shooting for the stars. In the early days you might have found that lowering your price brings you more customers. However, you’re also likely to find that the quality of work you’re offered is lacking. People give cheap jobs to people who charge cheap rates; play the game and up your fee. You can decide what your bottom line fee is by looking at your accounts to see just how much money each job costs you in time and overheads.
Online accounting software will make the job much easier and give you an accurate breakdown of what your bottom line really is. Then consider what you need to make from that job. Then also consider what your competitors charge and contrast that against what you want to make. The assumption is always that a high price-tag means quality, which will be reflected in the work you’re offered.
- Remember that fee you worked out from using your online accounting software? Well, here’s another way to make it work for you. If you’re dealing with a new client, don’t do what the majority do and reduce your fees, because you’ve instantly reduced your worth. Instead, turn the tables, by suggesting that you are the one who is running the risk by working outside of your usual circle of high-end clients. Explain that you will require your fee up-front but, as an incentive to them, offer them a refundable guarantee. If they’re not satisfied with your service then they have the right to a refund, as long as they request it on the date of delivery. Not only does this communicate the idea that you value your own worth, but that you are so convinced of what you have to offer that you’ll put your money where your mouth is.
What are your tips for freelancers out there?
No comments yet.