Hola, Unfxcked Freelancer👋🏼!
Welcome to another week of getting unstuck, taking control, and going pro as a freelancer. In case you missed my last newsletter, see the full archive of previous issues here.
I was scrolling through my emails on Sunday afternoon when I came across a message from LinkedIn, congratulating me for my six-year anniversary on the platform.
I thought, “Wow, six years! 2017 to 2023 is such a long time!”
But then it hit me. Despite my long presence on LinkedIn, I hadn’t really figured out how to use LinkedIn effectively to land freelance clients until just a couple of years ago.
Initially, my LinkedIn profile was just like a normal social media profile.
Later, I made it just an online resume and made connections with a few old classmates.
It wasn’t until 2021 that I decided to take it more seriously, to see it as more than just a digital CV.
That’s when I started experimenting with networking, and guess what? It started paying off.
Now, I don’t want you to wait six years to figure this out like I did.
So, how do you build a strong connection on LinkedIn and land clients with it like thriving freelancers out there?
Grab your favorite drink, find a comfortable spot, and let’s dive right in.
5 Steps to Land Clients Through Networking
Step 1: Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital business card. Make sure it’s up-to-date, professional, and engaging. Use a high-quality photo, write a compelling headline, and craft an engaging summary. Showcase your skills, projects, and endorsements to build credibility.
Step 2: Connect and Engage
Start connecting with people in your niche. Don’t just connect with anyone; be strategic. Connect with potential clients, peers, and industry leaders. Engage with their content by commenting, sharing, and liking. This helps you stay on their radar.
Step 3: Share Your Expertise
Don’t be shy about sharing your knowledge. Write articles, share insights, and create valuable content that showcases your expertise. This not only positions you as an authority in your niche but also attracts potential clients who are looking for your services.
Step 4: Join Relevant Groups and Communities
LinkedIn offers several groups and communities related to various industries. Join those that align with your niche. Engage in discussions, answer questions, and provide value. This is an excellent way to network with like-minded professionals.
Step 5: Reach Out Personally
Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you. Actively reach out to potential clients or collaborators. Craft personalized messages that explain how you can solve their problems or fulfill their needs. Building one-on-one relationships can lead to fruitful partnerships.
You might be bad at networking, but with these steps, you can start leveraging it effectively. In most cases, it’s not about the number of connections you have, but the quality of relationships you build. It’s never too late to start networking, whether you’ve been on LinkedIn for six years or six days.
That’s a wrap, Unfxcked Freelancer!
Catch you on the flip side,
Temidayo – Chief Unfxcker