TAGS: GROW IN YOUR EXPERTISE
A constant inflow of quality assignments. With artistic freedom. Useful work that makes you happy. And with repeat clients.
As a freelancer or entrepreneur, it is a bit like doing a job interview every day. We are often looking for recurring income, but part of our job is that uncertainty. We love freedom but we also want certainty. The constant battle.
It doesn't have to be a battle. With these insights, I'd like to help you find out how your portfolio can help you appeal to new target groups. Devise an internal system whereby you appeal to potential customers (again & again). Even if it is not necessary at the moment.
I hear that sending out a portfolio causes stress. To a potential customer or open call. Your inner voice says: "I need to get this kind of order first, and then, then, then..." Don't wait for it, dear reader. Are you afraid to click 'send'? Then think, what is the worst that can happen? Nothing.
How do you stand out from the crowd? And how can you approach new clients?
1/ A logical structure of your portfolio
The designation, the titles, the photos or the extra files you send in, create a structure that is logical and possibly has a catchy title. A structure that fits the story you want to tell and is tailored to the target group.
2/ Know who your CLIENTS (can) be and what you can help them with
Determine that target group. Seth Godin, the marketing guru, writes in his book '‘Purple Cow’: Find the smallest niche. The smallest valuable audience' and that is how you can start. Are you an illustrator and would you like to work for magazines? Choose a niche within that market.
All clients have fears, dreams, and desires. You are not them and they are not you. You can research what they are like and estimate what they want. Find out if that's it or not. And yes, that is a lot of work 😉 . But it will teach you to see the world you want to influence.
3/ How to approach them?
Think about why that target group appeals to you so much and try to approach them in an original way. Look for contact names within the company via LinkedIn or Google and speak to them personally.
4/ Follow up
Sending one e-mail will not get you (new) clients. The tip here is, be consistent in following up on the emails you send. Follow-up can be with a reminder, or sending something physical, or making a phone call?
5/ Prepare your pitch
If you get a phone call from a new client who would like to take a closer look at your portfolio, make sure you are prepared. Introduce yourself and know why you want to work with them. You only get one chance!
Be proactive. Even when things are going well. So that when things get less busy, you can return to the research you did. And the network you have expanded.
Would you like to go through this process together and can you use my help in fine-tuning your actions? Do not hesitate to schedule an introductory meeting via link.
I also studied what makes a good portfolio. You can find additional information here (in Dutch):
Hoe ga ik aan de slag met mijn eigen portfolio (video)
10 tips voor een goed portfolio (artikel)