A Beginner's Guide to Freelance Marketing
How and Where an Aspiring Freelance Marketer Should Start
May 29, 2009
Taking any career toward a pervasive course is certainly not an overnight decision, but a life-changing choice that should involve a strong will to succeed and a brave character to meet challenges. Let it be known that the weakest of hearts is the least candidate to get involved in freelancing, for it is truly no easy task in the beginning.
Nonetheless, what some people may not be aware of is how freelance marketing can be a rewarding career, after all the pressures of working independently. Still, if joining the pool of freelance marketers is a very difficult option for any aspiring freelance marketer, then take a quick peek at these basic guides prior to saying no to it.
Create a Winning Portfolio
Everyone, not only freelancers, needs to create a winning portfolio. A portfolio displays the expertise and experience, speaks of the person's credibility, and initially sells the person's services. It should be updated and in tiptop shape, if not, a freelance marketer who slacks in creating a great portfolio will never make it even to first base. Besides stating previous work experiences and achievements, clarity of language and good grammar should not be overlooked as well, as these things always add a winning edge to a portfolio.
A Catchy Business Card that Sells
A catchy business card can be simple, plain, yet striking at first glance that eventually leaves a lasting good impression. However, freelance marketers can opt to be elaborate, loud, or colorful in design to display the freelancer's sense of creativity, but learn not to overdo it as well. Clearly, the design and text depend on the freelancer's way of expressing the services offered and the freelancer's personality. Blending the two factors should make for an excellent business card.
Research and Do Homework
Make an intensive research on target client's business prior to approaching them, whether the company employs or doesn't employ marketing staff. Observe the client's business and its competitors, to see what could be improved. Having a good deal of information about the business will help a freelance marketer understand how to approach and convince possible clients to seek marketing services, or for a freelance marketer to simply realize if it's not necessary to approach the company anymore. In other cases, an aspiring freelance marketer can ask referrals from friends and colleagues who might have other probable clients to approach for marketing services.
Client Calls, Meetings, and More
After having organized the initial plans, it's time to make that call. Don't come on too strong on that first call, too, for the client may compare the approach to a know-it-all jerk. When making that call, instead try to be as courteous as possible, while letting them know of the possibility to boost their business through an alternative marketing service. Set up a meeting, and think of convincing strategies beforehand, to win them over. Don't forget to develop a sample marketing plan for the company, to present a better view of how their operations could be enhanced.
Be Visible and Socialize More
Being sociable is part of marketing. Go out and meet people to spread the word about the service, or just to make new friends. Word-of-mouth marketing is a cheap and effective strategy for any business. So a freelance marketer should know how and when to pitch the marketing service during conversations, but, of course, without sounding too much like a desperate sales man.
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