I can hear you asking: Isn’t there some easier way to get freelance writing gigs?
Actually, there is.
You could get other people to do your marketing for you.
As a solopreneur, you probably can’t afford to hire a sales staff.
The good news is, you don’t have to.
In many freelance writing projects, the writing is just one aspect of what needs to be done. Among the other skills that may be needed:
Each of these service providers are in a good position to refer you or partner with you on a project.
I highly recommend getting to know at least a few professionals in these related niches, in case a client wants you to provide a complete package and you need to hire a visual or SEO pro.
Even better, they may do the same, and send you a client who needs writing in their project.
To line up marketing partners, you need to get out and do a lot of networking, to make connections with related service providers.
I’ve met designers at big networking events, and at more intimate ones. I’ve also looked them up in my local Chamber directory and taken them out to lunch.
I take a look at their samples and they do the same. If we like each others’ style, we agree to stay in touch about possible gigs. It’s just that simple.
Well-Fed Writer author Peter Bowerman likes partnering with graphic designers so much, he wrote a whole book on it — Profitable by Design.
Partnering is a proven way to grow your income — while you kick back and relax. After all, how much work is it to bring up that designer’s name next time a prospect asks if you if you could refer them to someone talented?
At one point, my husband got a ton of referrals for his videography business, because he connected with a Website designer who’s pitching his clients that they need to add video to their sites.
This technique may not pay off instantly. But it’s really worthwhile to line up some partners. It can pay off handsomely down the line, as you build those relationships and keep referring each other.
–Carol
Homework: Hit your local Chamber of Commerce and check their directory to find freelancers in related niches, with whom you might be able to form referral partnerships. Call them. Take them to lunch. Stay in touch. And watch the referrals roll in.
P.S. Next time on Marketing 101: No one does this…which is why it works.
