As more people are looking to work remotely, it only makes sense that those who used to work in traditional offices look to work to their own schedule. For marketers, this means they can work on a freelance schedule, and enjoy an exciting and rewarding career.
However, like any job, there are certain tools and resources that are needed in order for you to find success. Continue reading to learn of at least nine things that you will need to be a successful freelance marketer.
A Strong Portfolio
As a freelance marketer, your portfolio is your calling card, and it’s the best way to showcase your skills and experience to potential clients. Before you start advertising your services to potential clients, you should ensure your portfolio is up-to-date and includes a variety of projects that showcase your range of skills.
If done right, then you should be able to accurately advertise your services, and showcase what you have managed before. This will help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your ability to deliver results. If you have never worked as a professional marketer before, you may have to think of other ways to showcase your skills.
You could sign up to work experience opportunities and find volunteering events that allow you to show what you can do.
A Professional Website
In addition to your portfolio, you’ll need a professional website that showcases your services, experience, and portfolio. For those who find your website, they should have a smooth experience. This means the website should be easy to navigate and visually appealing. It will also be best to include all the necessary information about your services.
It’s also a good idea to include testimonials from previous clients to build trust and credibility, if you have any. Essentially the more you can include onto your website that details you and what you do, then the more trustworthy you sound. Your website should be all about trying to sell you to your client!
Marketing Tools
In order to find success in this industry, especially when operating freelance, you’ll need access to a variety of marketing tools. In an office space, you may have been given access to these tools, but since you’re working freelance, you will need to source access to these tools yourself.
Some of the tools you’ll need include a marketing automation platform, social media management tools, and analytics tools, but they can all vary. These tools will help you streamline your workflow, stay organised, and measure your results. There are also general computer tools that will enhance any work that you do.
For example, you will likely have to use PDFs at some point during certain marketing campaigns, and being able to compress your PDF files will allow you to save space and work more confidently.
A Strong Network
Networking is essential for any freelance marketer. Networking involves you building relationships with other professionals in your industry, which has many benefits. For example, networking can allow you to find new clients.
Networking also offers you the chance to connect with others to collaborate on projects, and just generally stay up-to-date on industry trends. There are multiple ways for you to network, from joining industry groups to straight out attending conferences. You can also use platforms such as LinkedIn to network and build relationships online, too.
Time Management Skills
No matter what industry you’re working in and operating freelance, being able to manage your workload and manage your time will be useful. This is no different to when you’re working as a freelance marketer.
You’ll likely be juggling multiple clients and projects at once, so it’s important to prioritise your workload and stay organised. There are many different ways for you to manage your time more accurately. For example, you personally can use a project management tool to help you stay on top of deadlines and manage your workload.
Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication is essential for any freelancer, but especially for marketers. Being able to communicate clearly and effectively with clients will serve you well in several different ways. Good communication skills will help you build strong relationships with clients and also help you build up trust going forward, which can lead to re-orders!
A positive attitude can also help here. Stay focused on your goals, be persistent, and maintain a positive outlook even when faced with challenges. A positive attitude will help you stay motivated and focused on delivering the best results for your clients. It also helps clients to just like working with you more!
A Clear Plan
How can we talk about operating as a freelance operator without mentioning the clear benefits that come by having a plan. You are effectively your own boss, and operating your own business, so you need to have a clear plan on what you’re doing, or wanting to do.
A clear plan in place can help you achieve your goals and grow your business, if you get it right. You will be able to work with business experts who can assist, but in general, your business plan should include your financial goals, marketing strategies, and plans for growth.
Financial Management Skills
While you don’t need to be a maths wizard, being good with numbers won’t hurt. Effectively, this means you should be capable of managing your finances. You’ll need to be able to manage your income and expenses, track your expenses, and pay your taxes.
Consider using accounting software to help you manage your finances and stay on top of your taxes, or at least work with a financial advisor. There will also be freelance accountants that you can hire to help out from time to time, if that’s something that you feel you will benefit from.
A Growth Mindset
Finally, to succeed as a freelance marketer, you’ll need to have a growth mindset. Be open to learning new skills, trying new approaches, and taking risks when applicable. You should always be prepared to embrace challenges, and treat them as opportunities for growth.
You should be willing to learn at all times, and be in a position to educate yourself. You’re unlikely to ever be in a position that you know everything, as no one does! All in all, learn to forgive yourself, and remember that it will take time to get started.
