Freelance Writers: How Much Time Do You Spend Prospecting?
What if we added up all your hours prospecting as freelance writers? Just the thought of that is scary, am I right? The constant pitching mindset can be exhausting if you’re anything like me. From cold emails, job boards, calls for pitches, social media, and more, the options are overwhelming.
By 2027, over 86 million people will be freelancing in the United States – over half of the U.S. workforce. With more freelance content writers in the job market now than ever, you must ensure you are setting yourself up for success. Here are some tips on how to do just that on your own or with the help of a content creation agency like nDash.
Tip #1: Use Your Resources
Your community is valuable, so they must be up-to-date on your life. No, not about what you had for breakfast or your after-work plans, but if you transitioned to freelance writing, let them know! From Facebook friends to LinkedIn connections, the more people know about your newest career endeavor, the better.
As a freelance content writer, it is important to know how to manage your time (and manage it effectively). With 66% of freelancers only freelancing part-time, in addition to a regular job, time is of the essence. Ensuring your systems are automated, functional, and working for you means you can do more work for your clients.
Tip #2: Keep It Consistent
Thirty percent of freelance content writers spend less than eight hours per week writing. What? They are writers, yet spend such little time actually writing. That is usually because other tasks (marketing, pitching, prospecting, bookkeeping, engagement, etc.) buy their time.
The key is consistency – in your communication, pitching and prospecting efforts, and schedule. Consistent communication is gold, and clients will eat it up. Clients will respect and want to work with you because you communicate when you say you will.
You don’t have to go out and spend 8+ hours pitching and prospecting daily, but keep it consistent week-to-week. 2 hours each on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday work best? Keep it that way, and show up every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday to do just that. It will pay off. Think that prospecting doesn’t matter if you’re fully booked? Think again. A freelancer’s consistent schedule always includes some form of pitching and prospecting. Never put all your eggs in one basket – a consistent prospecting schedule helps you to avoid that.
Tip #3: Don’t Stop Pitching
You often hear the cliche saying, “Just Keep Swimming,” and probably roll your eyes. When you apply it to pitching, your opportunities are endless. Now, the typical “Hi, I’m a writer” message might work for some, but we are taking it to the next level. By pitching specific content ideas and personalizing your pitches, you showcase your specific expertise (and bump your chances of success way up!).
At the end of the day, pitching and prospecting as a freelance writer may feel like a numbers game. When you feel like you’re on the losing end, it can be hard to wake up daily with the motivation to keep hitting send. I’ve been there, so I get it. Making the intentional choice to be consistent will be the difference between whether you are on the losing or winning end (winning end for me, please!).
Tip #4: Expand Your Services
If the prospecting game cuts your motivation, remember the value you offer your clients. Despite the initial services you offer, there are several other ways you add value – from social media, proofreading and editing, content updating, and keyword research. Broadening your horizons could be the icing on the cake for your current clients and what seals the deal for your prospective ones. Don’t sell yourself short!
Only Profits for Freelance Writers Here!
With an understanding of time management, the importance of community, consistency, personalized pitching, and expanding services, it’s only up from here. Say “see ya later” to the painful days of prospecting and “hello” to the profits. With motivation, confidence, and the right knowledge, you now have the tools to win the battle and write for the clients you want to write for. What are you waiting on – hit send!
About the author
Sarah Wilkerson writes B2B, B2C, and SEO-optimized content for those in need of blogs, long-form articles, infographics, newsletters, and more. Check out her profile today to see how she can level up your content strategy: Sarah Wilkerson.
