Two days after I parted ways with my job, I had my first client as a solopreneur. How? Because of networking. Networking has been one of the biggest power boosts to my career as a Portland freelance writer. In fact, my current active client list is composed largely of referrals from my networking group, the Portland-based Northwest Networking Professionals.
So, if you’re a freelancer, how do you find a networking group? My advice is to get in touch with your local chamber of commerce. Another option is to poll businesses and vendors, especially financial planners, insurance agents, bank managers, Realtors, and any other businesspeople who rely heavily on referrals.
Keep in mind that once you find a networking group, it may take some time to build a good client base. I had a good start with my group, and I stayed steadily engaged with local and non-local gigs, but the bonanza really occurred this summer. Members of the group had the first part of the year to understand my skill set and how it could apply to people they knew.
If you’re a freelance writer, you’ll have an edge because many of these groups don’t have members who are writers or editors. This allows you to tap into a rich vein of clients.
Another benefit is that you will have several trustworthy service providers that you can retain for yourself. I found a better insurance agent and a reliable construction contractor through my group.
So, what are you waiting for?! Go forth and network!
3 thoughts on “Freelance Writers and Networking”
I completely agree with you. Too often, as writers, we’re used to being on our computer and doing everything online. While online networking is certainly an important part of my business, I wouldn’t rely on it solely. Some of the best connections are made when we have time to meet in person and simply get to know one another. And people are more likely to refer someone they’ve met in person than someone they’ve seen online.
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Hey Natalia, thank you for commenting and welcome to my (other) online space, :-) And I totally agree with the in-person human element. I think it helps to receive validation from a trusted source. Keep on rocking, InkyClean! :-)