Communication is key for every freelancer. Although it may not be the most enjoyable aspect of your job (perhaps one of the reasons you went freelance in the first place), it is important to maintain professional, open communication with clients and potential clients. Good communication leads to a better working relationship with people- this means more money and more jobs for you.
1. Respond quickly
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been praised by people just because I responded to their request quickly. It shows that you care about their question and that their business is important to you. Waiting a few days to get back to them isn’t going to get you far. Most likely they either took their business elsewhere or felt snubbed and won’t work with you anyway.
2. Be available
Sure, being a freelancer gives you the freedom to set your own hours. But sales calls aren’t going to answer themselves. Make sure you adhere to a reasonable schedule so you can catch those important requests during the workday. Most business requests are made between 9-5 because that’s their normal routine. If you work from 5pm – 2am, you won’t be answering those vital calls, and you will be losing business.
3. Always identify the next step
When dealing with a client or potential client, be very clear on what the next step of the processes is. The last thing you want them to be doing is waiting for a phone-call from you, when you’re waiting on artwork from them. Tell them the order in which things need to proceed.
4. Be honest
Honesty is crucial in making a working relationship with clients. Be honest about the time-frame, or about delays. The most important thing is that you keep them updated as to what has changed. I’ve overcome many obstacles by honestly explaining the problem, and keeping communication open. People respond to honesty and don’t feel like they’re being led on.
5. Be professional
This can be hard for freelancers. It may be part of the reason you started freelancing in the first place. Still, the importance of professionalism cannot be stressed enough. I know the desire to fire off a quick un-proofed message is strong, but make sure it really says what it needs to. Re-read it, then send it. Check your website for typos. If you’re like me, you’ve made a bunch and unless your mom is there to check them for you, your visitors won’t say a word. Make sure your voicemail has a professional message, and always treat the client with respect.
Do you think I missed anything out? Comment below and let me know.
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August 17th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
Great tips! I found myself getting upset at a freelancer I sued because she didn’t follow any of the suggestions you mention here. We had communication issues; she was late on her dead line and so on.
We managed to get the work done but it was still stressful.
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August 17th, 2009 at 9:43 pm
Great tips, thanks for sharing!
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August 18th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Useful tips when dealing with clients, good article as always. ;)
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August 18th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Thanks for the kind comments. I figured I’d share some of the things that helped me out along the way… ;)
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August 18th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
Awesome tips that make you stand out from the rest. Good article!
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August 19th, 2009 at 6:25 pm
Hey, this is my first time over here at FreelanceApple,great article! Very efficient and valuable. Another really important tip (kind of part of being professional) is showing organization. I’ve found that showing that you’re well organized and on top of things makes a huge impression on people. Anyways, thanks, I’ll be subscribing here before I leave!
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August 21st, 2009 at 1:25 am
Hi, I found your blog via Google while searching for make real money fast and your post regarding looks very interesting for me
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November 23rd, 2009 at 3:49 pm
I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.
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November 23rd, 2009 at 8:04 pm
lol, nice one ;)
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