I’ve found that 99% of my new clients come to me via either (1) word of mouth from other clients or friends or (2) through my websites or e-newsletters. They either find me through people we both know or through a web search that connects us online.
Early in my career, I listed my freelance writing business on several different directory sites. For example, many writing associations offer directories of members and some nonprofit associations offer directories of service providers. But as far as I could tell, these listings didn’t do much to generate work.
Have you found directories like these useful in bringing clients to you? If so, which directories or associations do you like best?
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Directories haven’t done much for me either. Prior to Google they might have had more value, but they rarely offer us a chance to truly differentiate our work.
Now I target the markets where I want to work instead of counting on a steady stream of unqualified (or uninteresting) clients.
Still, years ago I did experience success using Sean Pecor’s Marketing Tools directory, but wasn’t always thrilled with the quality of the leads.
Hi, I generally don’t spend a lot of time and $$ in writer-centric directories. Like Willie Sutton, famous bank robber, I spend time in areas where my best prospective clients hang-out because “that’s where the $$ is.”
I have found a couple of jobs through LinkedIn. It is where you build your network and link to other’s networks. You want to link to people who have a huge network and also do work that is complimentary to yours such as graphic designers or videographers.
As the Working Writer’s Coach, my job is to help people like you become “Working” freelance writers and earn a living – a GOOD living – from what you enjoy most – writing!
With my Working Writer’s Coaching Program you’ll learn how to:
1) Make MORE money from your writing.
2) SAVE money since you’ll learn what to spend your money on when creating your writing career.
3) SAVE time creating the writing career of your dreams.
4) Work SMARTER not harder to earn a living from your writing.
>