One app that has been particularly instrumental in helping individuals build their freelance businesses is NextDoor, a social networking platform designed specifically for neighbourhoods and local businesses.
What is NextDoor?
NextDoor is essentially a community-based platform that allows users to connect with people in their neighbourhoods, exchange information, and engage in discussions on a variety of topics. It’s become a hub for local businesses to connect with potential customers in their area, making it an ideal platform for freelancers looking to promote their services.
How are people building their freelance businesses on local apps?
Whether you’re a graphic designer, a dog walker, or self-employed domestic carer, the platform offers a unique opportunity to connect with potential clients in your local area and build a strong, reliable client base.
So if you’re looking to grow your freelance business, it’s definitely worth considering as one of your marketing strategies.
One such individual who has found success using NextDoor to build their freelance business is James, a graphic designer based in London. James began using NextDoor a few years ago and quickly found that the platform was an excellent way to connect with potential clients in his local area.
“NextDoor is great because it’s hyper-local,” explains James. “You’re connecting with people who live in your immediate area, which means you can build up a strong client base without having to travel too far.”
James started by posting about his services on NextDoor, offering his graphic design skills to local businesses and individuals. He found that by including examples of his work and offering competitive rates, he was able to attract a steady stream of clients.
“I think the key to success on NextDoor is to be very specific about what you’re offering,” says James. “People want to know exactly what you can do for them and how much it’s going to cost.”
Another freelancer who has found NextDoor to be an excellent platform for building their business is Sarah, a dog walker based in Bristol. Sarah had been struggling to find clients through traditional advertising methods, but as soon as she joined NextDoor, she began to see results.
“I was amazed at how quickly I started to get inquiries,” says Sarah. “Within the first week, I had several people asking about my dog-walking services, and I ended up getting several long-term clients from NextDoor.”
Sarah believes that the reason NextDoor works so well for her business is that it allows her to build a personal connection with potential clients.
“When people are looking for a dog walker, they want to know that they can trust the person they’re leaving their pet with,” Sarah explains. “Being able to connect with people in my local area and build a relationship with them has been really beneficial for my business.”
What are the NextDoor community guidelines?
While NextDoor has been invaluable for many freelancers looking to build their businesses, there are a few things to keep in mind when using the platform.
For example, it’s important to be mindful of the community guidelines and avoid spamming or using overly aggressive sales tactics. Instead, freelancers should aim to build genuine connections with potential clients by offering helpful advice, engaging in conversations, and providing value to the community.
Types of freelance services being promoted through local social media apps like NextDoor
- Photographers: Photographers can use NextDoor to promote their services to local businesses and individuals looking for professional photography services. They can showcase their portfolio and offer competitive rates to attract potential clients.
- Personal Trainers: Personal trainers can use NextDoor to connect with potential clients in their local area who are looking for fitness services. They can offer advice and tips on exercise and healthy living to build a following and attract clients.
- Gardeners: Gardeners can use NextDoor to promote their services to homeowners in their local area. They can offer gardening advice and showcase their portfolio to attract potential clients.
- Tutors: Tutors can use NextDoor to connect with parents and students in their local area who are looking for academic assistance. They can offer their services and provide helpful advice on studying and exam preparation.
- Event Planners: Event planners can use NextDoor to connect with local businesses and individuals looking to plan events. They can showcase their experience and provide helpful tips on event planning to attract potential clients.
- Writers: Writers can use NextDoor to connect with businesses and individuals who require writing services. They can showcase their portfolio and offer their services at competitive rates to attract potential clients.
- Cleaners: Cleaners can use NextDoor to promote their cleaning services to homeowners and businesses in their local area. They can offer their services at competitive rates and build a reputation as a reliable and trustworthy cleaner.
- Accountants: Accountants can use NextDoor to connect with local businesses and individuals who require accounting services. They can showcase their experience and offer advice on financial matters to build a following and attract potential clients.