What are the best networking strategies for freelancers?

Without specific goals, networking can become overwhelming and inefficient. It takes time on your calendar to schedule virtual coffees or in-person meetings/ events so it's essential that you have a purpose in scheduling them. - Who are the types of people you are looking to meet? - How many networking events/ calls do you want to have per week? - How will you use the time productively? -What is your intention with these opportunities? It can be very easy to fill your calendar which is why it's extremely important to plan with intention and purpose.

When it comes to freelancing and putting your name out there, there's one helpful question to kick things off: Where does my target audience hang out online? Once you've got that figured out, it's time to define a content strategy to connect with them. The key here is to make sure what you're sharing (1) provides value, and (2) matches the user's expectations of what they see on that platform. This helps to maximize visibility and engagement. By committing to a long-term strategy, you demonstrate consistency to your audience and that leads to deeper levels of trust - the foundational currency of all relationships.

First, ensure you get their contact information so the power to follow up is in YOUR court. If they don’t have work for you right now, play the long game! Think about the information they shared with you during your exchange and how you could help them. For example, let’s say you’re a copywriter, and the person mentioned they’re currently looking for an art director. Follow up with the names of some art directors you like and check if they’re available. Providing candidates positions you as an altruistic, valuable contact who goes the extra mile to solve problems and get people to work. By helping others, you’ll be top of mind next time a role you’d be great for comes up! ???? ??

Follow up and follow through can be the difference between building a relationship and ending one. If you offered to make an introduction or send a resource, do it and do it right away. It makes a great impression and sets the stage to build meaningful relationships.

Mastering the art of the follow-up is arguably as important as making a great first impression. It's a delicate balance between being clear and direct about your intentions for the relationship while also considering the other person's needs and timelines to avoid coming across too aggressively. With seasonal ebbs and flows in how busy someone might be, and the countless variables that impact a business' strategy and decision making - it's crucial not to let your own needs create unnecessary urgency that could harm trust in the relationship Instead, the key to generating business relationships through effective follow ups is to maintain a sense of patience, persistence, and boundaries that prevent you from becoming overly pushy.