Freelancing is an excellent opportunity to work from anywhere and be your own boss. For many, it’s a rewarding career that offers much flexibility. That’s why it’s no wonder that there are about 1.1 billion freelancers in the whole world, and 57 million are from the US, according to a study by Upwork and Freelancers Union.
However, freelancing also comes with its challenges. One of them is building an online presence. In this article, you will learn why having a strong online presence is essential for freelancers and get tips on boosting your own.
Why is having an online presence significant for freelancers?
Your online presence is your bread and butter when you’re a freelancer. It’s what helps you get found by potential clients and land work. In fact, according to a study by Contently, nearly 60% of freelancers say that a strong online presence is essential to their success.
There are several reasons why having an online presence is crucial for freelancers. First, it allows you to showcase your work and build a portfolio. This is one of the best ways to demonstrate your skills and attract clients. Also, an online presence helps you network and connect with other professionals in your field. This is important for finding collaborators, getting referrals, and staying up-to-date with industry trends. Lastly, an online presence can help you build credibility and trust with potential clients. In today’s digital world, people are more likely to work with someone they feel they know and can trust.
Building your online presence
While it may seem daunting, building an online presence is quite simple. Here are some tips to get you started:
Get professional support
For freelancers, building an online presence is essential for getting noticed and landing clients. But knowing where to start or how to stand out from the crowd can be challenging. That’s where professional support comes in. Working with a freelancer coach or mentor can help you fine-tune your online presence to appeal to potential clients more effectively. They can also provide guidance on other aspects of freelancing, such as time management, marketing, and networking.
Furthermore, some platforms offer professional help for specific careers. For instance, if you are a freelance real estate agent, you can look for a real estate listing platform that will offer you marketing solutions to get you noticed in the industry. This is particularly helpful for agents who are just starting their careers and wants to get their name out there.
Start a blog
One of the best things you can do as a freelancer is to start a blog. A blog gives you a great platform to showcase your work, connect with other professionals, and attract new clients. When creating a blog, choose a catchy name and design that reflects your personal brand.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can hire a web designer to help create a professional-looking blog. Once your blog is up and running, post regularly and promote your content across social media. If you put in the effort, a blog can be a powerful tool for growing your freelance business.
Be active on social media
If you’re a freelancer, one of the best ways to build an online presence is to be active on social media. This doesn’t mean that you need to constantly post updates about your work – although that can certainly help – it does mean engaging with other users, sharing relevant content, and being present.
Social media is all about building relationships, and as a freelancer, it’s crucial to establish yourself as a respected community member. When potential clients see you’re active and engaged on social media, they’ll be more likely to consider working with you. So get out there and start building your online presence today!
Engage with your audience
Engaging with your audience will help you build a strong online presence. Platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn offer excellent opportunities to engage with others in your field, share relevant content, and connect with potential clients. When engaging with your audience, it’s essential to be respectful and professional.
The main objective of engaging with your audience is to build relationships and connect with others. But it’s also important to remember that your online presence reflects your personal brand. So be sure to present yourself positively and avoid any controversial or offensive topics.
The bottom line
A strong online presence is essential for any freelancer who wants to be successful. It combines having an active social media presence, a well-designed blog or website, and engaging with your audience. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to building a strong online presence that will help you attract new clients and grow your business.