If you are a contractor that over-relies on recruiters to get your next project or client, you could be limiting your options – and theirs – to put your best foot forward. Try out these expert strategies to build your brand and expand your professional network through a standout social media presence
GUIDE TO CREATING A FREELANCER SOCIAL MEDIA PROFILE THAT WORKS
The flexibility and independence that comes with freelancing can be appealing, however, attracting new clients can be a major time squeeze.
In an increasingly crowded market, standing out as a freelancer can seem like an insurmountable task, so you may opt to rely heavily on recruitment firms or a basic LinkedIn profile to land your next project or client. You may be thinking you don’t need to dedicate a considerable amount of time to your social media presence or personal brand if someone else is doing the heavy lifting for you. That mindset could in fact be minimising your access to exciting new and even higher-paying opportunities.
According to a recent study, over 80% of freelancers use social media to promote their services. But simply having a presence on social media is not enough. To truly make an impact and attract new clients, freelancers need to take a strategic approach to their social media marketing efforts.
Where do you even start to build a successful social media presence?
Create a dream client persona
If you haven’t sorted out what your dream client looks like then create a “dream client persona”. Are they a startup or big corporate? What are their pain points? What makes them your ideal client? How do they treat you as a person? What motivates them? What is their budget? What could you do for them?
Identify social media platforms based on your target client persona
The second step is to identify the platforms where your dream clients are most likely to be active. For many freelancers, LinkedIn is a natural choice, as it is a professional networking platform that can help to establish credibility and showcase expertise. However, depending on the type of services being offered, other platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, or even TikTok may be more appropriate.
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Create your USP profile and define your brand
Once the appropriate platform(s) have been identified, the next step is to create a compelling profile that clearly communicates your unique value proposition. Define your niche, identify your target audience (who can you help), and craft a cohesive brand identity that resonates with your desired clientele. From your profile description and visuals to the content you share, ensure that every element aligns with your brand’s values and objectives. This means including:
- A professional headshot
- A brief description of services offered both general and niche
- High-quality images, infographics and/or videos in your posts and on your social media pages
- Client testimonials
- Examples of previous work
- Client logos to show who you have worked with (get permission first)
- Use keywords and hashtags that potential clients may be searching for to increase visibility
Set aside time every day to engage with your followers and target clients
Engagement
The real key to success on social media, however, is engagement. This means actively participating in conversations, sharing valuable insights, and connecting with other professionals in the industry. By demonstrating expertise and providing value to others, freelancers can establish themselves as thought leaders and build a following of potential clients.
How do you go about doing this?
For one, you can share informative articles, thought-provoking insights, and visually appealing examples of your work. It’s usually good to have a balance between original content and curated industry-related posts that can position you as a trusted authority in your field.
Experiment with different strategies
Of course, social media is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Freelancers should experiment with different strategies and tactics to determine what works best for them. This may involve testing different types of content, engaging with different audiences, or leveraging paid advertising to increase visibility.
Use keywords and hashtags
Research relevant keywords and popular hashtags in your industry, and incorporate them strategically into your posts. This will enhance your visibility, attract a targeted audience, and improve your chances of being found by potential clients.
Collaborate to build your network and resources
Collaborating with other freelancers or complementary businesses can be a game-changer. By partnering with professionals in your industry or related fields, you can tap into each other’s audiences, cross-promote content, and expand your reach. Look for opportunities to guest post, participate in interviews or webinars, and contribute to collaborative projects that showcase your skills.
Dedicate the time to creating a social media profile that works for you – and enjoy the process!
At the end of the day, building a successful freelance business requires your time. But if you are engaging with followers on your area of expertise it shouldn’t feel like work if you love what you do and get good vibes by educating others.
By taking a strategic approach to social media marketing, you will have a better chance of attracting new clients that work in industries you are passionate about or have a great deal of interest in. Building a following can only help you thrive in an increasingly competitive market by expanding your career to new industries and client opportunities.