Networking is important for freelance success, but it can be daunting for new ones. After all, engaging with others isn’t always the easiest thing to do — but in the world of freelancing, you can’t be an island. You’ll find, not only clients to work with, but also opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and even a great support circle.
To help you get started, we’ve put together a selection of top tips to help you to create a network of value. Have a read, and before you know it, you’ll be on the road to networking paradise.
Conduct your Research.
As in any other aspect of business, if you do not do your homework, you will not make the most of your situation. So, before you go to an event or informal gathering, do some research on the setup. Who will be there? What is the event’s format? Is there time set aside to talk with other attendees?
With the details you’ve gathered, you’ll be able to prepare your approach to the situation. Being organized can also help with nerves, and you can even go so far as taking mental notes who you may want to approach on the day.
Make sure you’ve practiced your elevator pitch.
Okay, writing and rehearsing an elevator pitch might sound a little cringy, but it doesn’t have to be. Everything you have to think about is how to better market your skills to someone who has no idea what you do. Set a time limit of one minute (hence the term “elevator pitch”) and remember to keep it conversational.
If you’ve decided on what you want to say in your pitch, go over it a few times in your head before a networking event to refresh your memory. It’s even easier if you say it aloud to yourself. It sounds strange, but it works.
Prioritize quality over quantity.
Once you made the decision to dive into the world of networking, you may be tempted to attend any business lunch, SME coffee morning, and mentoring session that comes your way.
While there are numerous networking opportunities available, keep in mind that your time is important. Attend events that you believe would be beneficial to you. Whether it’s meeting potential customers or learning about the business from like-minded professionals, focus your efforts on the best results.
Keep your business cards handy.
Something as old-fashioned as a business card can seem quaint in the digital era. They do, however, have a place in a networking environment.
Your business card does not need to be flashy, just something that concisely states what you do and how to reach you. The essential thing, of course, is that they are in your pocket and not in a desk drawer!
Break through the ‘hello’ barrier.
The most intimidating aspect of any networking event is approaching a stranger and starting up a conversation. However, guess what? After you’ve completed it, you’ll wonder why you were so worried in the first place.
The key to networking is to think of it as a marketing strategy. The ultimate aim is to create new business for you or to acquire additional industry knowledge. It’s not as if you need to find a new best friend or romantic partner. After all, what could go wrong?
Take your networking Online.
So far, we’ve just covered in-person cases. However, no business networking article will be complete without a discussion of online options. Networking resources abound on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
As previously stated, it is essential to prioritize quality over quantity when it comes to networking – and the online space is no exception. It can be overwhelming at first, so start with a few LinkedIn groups to ease into it. You’ll find yourself interacting with the right people in no time if you post frequently, and engage on content posted by others.
Now you’re all set to go out into the world of networking and grow your business. Just don’t forget those business cards!
This may be a great time to invite you to the Kreek Africa ‘Dissecting Africa Tech Startup Exits. What’s in it for VCs, Startup and the continent at large’ webinar.
Register here and join the conversation on Tuesday, May 11 2021, at 10am WAT.
Thank you.
