Starting as a freelance digital marketer may be both exciting and challenging. One of the most important steps is to secure your first client, which will serve as the cornerstone of your freelance career. Today we will walk you through the steps needed to land your first freelance digital marketing customer with straightforward explanations and realistic examples.
Step 1: Determine Your Interests and Services
Digital marketing encompasses various services, including social media management, content creation, and email marketing. Begin by determining what you like doing and what you are skilled at. Your specialty may be “Helping Local Businesses with Social Media.”
Example:
Let’s say you enjoy creating engaging social media posts. You may focus on helping a small local bakery improve its online presence through innovative social media content. You can do the following:
Behind-the-Scenes Series:
Showcase the baking process, introduce the bakers, and share insights into the day-to-day operations of the bakery.
Interactive Polls and Quizzes:
Engage your audience with fun and interactive polls and quizzes related to baking, desserts, or even trivia about the bakery. For example, “Guess the Mystery Ingredient,” “Which Pastry Are You?” or “Vote for the Next Flavor.”
Recipe Reveals:
Share simplified versions of your recipes, giving followers a taste of what goes into making signature items. This builds anticipation and encourages engagement as customers might try the recipes at home and share their creations.
Step 2: Establish an Online Presence
Before reaching out to potential clients, you must have a solid online presence. You can go about this in many ways:
building your website. You can use WordPress or Squarespace. They both offer visually appealing templates that allow you to create a professional-looking portfolio. Also, social media accounts can significantly support and enhance your website portfolio as a freelance digital marketer. They can help you showcase your expertise, connect with your audience, and drive traffic to your portfolio.
Example:
Let’s say you’re a freelance content writer just starting. You can start by creating a basic website showcasing your writing examples. To support your website, you’ll need an Instagram account where you provide people with writing ideas and work samples.
Step 3: Connect and Network
Begin interacting with other members of the digital marketing community. Participate in online groups, webinars, and conversations. Ask questions and express your ideas with confidence. You never know who you’ll meet or what possibilities may present themselves.
Example:
Imagine yourself as a new email marketer joining a Facebook community for small business owners. You can earn notoriety as an authority by providing free email marketing advice. This results in contacts and possible clients.
Step 4: Develop Your Pitch
When approaching new clients, make your pitch brief and to the point. Explain how you can help them address their challenges and add value to their company. Make your message relevant to their requirements.
Example:
Let’s say you’re new to freelancing with social media management, and you send a personalized message to a neighborhood coffee business. You can emphasize how your social media methods may bring more clients to your store. Some methods may include:
- Creating Engaging Content
- Hosting Giveaways and Contests
- Collaborating with Influencers
- Offering Exclusive Promotions
- Using Stories and Live Streams
- Creating Shareable Content
- Running Targeted Ads
Step 5: Present a Minor Project
Consider presenting a modest project or trial term to gain trust. This lets the customer get a feel for your work without making a significant investment. It’s an excellent technique to demonstrate your abilities and demonstrate your worth.
Example:
Let’s say you’re a PPC expert; you can agree to set up and handle a brief Google Ads campaign for a friend’s online business. The rise in website visits impresses your friend, who decides to continue working with you.
Step 6: Effective Communication
Communication is critical throughout your freelancing career. Keep your clients informed of your work, respond to their inquiries quickly, and be open to comments. Trust is built via effective communication.
Example:
If you’re a content creator, speaking with your first customer honestly and checking in frequently to verify that their needs are addressed can help your work improve in response to their feedback.
Step 7: Request Testimonials and Feedback
After finishing a job successfully, request feedback and a testimonial from your customer. Positive reviews and testimonials boost your profile’s reputation and help you attract new clients.
Example:
After working with a customer on email marketing, you get a fantastic recommendation because they were thrilled with the open rates of their email campaign. This can enhance your reputation and attract new prospects.
Step 8: Continue to Learn and Grow
Digital marketing is constantly changing, so be interested and keep learning. Attend online classes, read blogs, and remain current on industry developments. The more information you have, the more valuable you become to your clients.
Example:
If you are a social media manager, schedule a weekly time of day to research the latest social media algorithms and methods. This can provide unique perspectives that keep your clients interested.
Finding your first customer as a freelance digital marketer may require some work. It is, however, fully attainable with commitment and an intelligent approach. You’ll be well on your way to developing a successful freelance digital marketing profession from the ground up if you follow these steps.
Remember that every master began as a rookie, and your perseverance and enthusiasm will set you apart on this fascinating path.
