Before we dive into the specifics, let me hasten to advise that the information I am about to provide is highly subjective. There are several factors that will determine, where your client leads come from. As a matter of fact, one piece of information the internet often fails to offer is that leads also to a high degree depends on the individual knowing their strengths. Content is great, but there are so many content types out there, a person has no business neglecting areas of strength to follow the crowd. But, I digress.
I’ve mentioned before my lack of success with platforms like Upwork, Fiver and Freelancer. If you’re like me and chosen a brand building approach in your field, here’s some insight on where I find clients (or rather where clients find me.)
Depending on what industry you operate as a freelance professional, business leads will come from a wide range of sources. It just so happens, that my set of skill offerings and content curate leads primarily from the following sources.
4. FACEBOOK
It would seem like Facebook would drive more business, but in my case, it trails other platforms. To be honest, most inquiries on their don’t lead to conversion. Nevertheless, I maintain an active presence. You see, many people will share information on/from Facebook, even if they are not likely to use it themselves. In this way, it drives some traffic as we are about to discuss next.
3. WORD OF MOUTH
Yes, you heard (technically, saw, but you get the point) that right. A top contender for my services from the start has been and continues to be referrals. To refer back to Facebook, people will share the information by sharing the posts, or simply referring to someone else when the mention that the service is needed. Maintaining a presence is important for those who come into contact with your brand to recognize you as an authority in your field, whether or not they themselves are interested in what the brand offers.
Statistics show that a higher percentage of consumers trust the recommendations of other consumers over all forms of advertising.
2. INSTAGRAM
Interestingly, sharing visual content on Instagram is also another high contact point for client leads. With hundreds of millions of users, the noise level is very real. So how do you allow the people who need you need to find? Hashtags, hashtags, hashtags! I offer a niche service so if you’re looking for a #businessplanwriter, chances are you will find me in the top ten posts. In light of this, Instagram has high on the list of platforms that generate client lead that convert into business.
1. LINKEDIN
Without a doubt, LinkedIn is number one in terms of generating leads for me. As the most popular networking social media site for professionals, I find that it is much easier to block out the noise that is present on say for instance, Instagram.
Since most of my clients are entrepreneurs and/or aspiring business owners, it is easier for them to find me and vice versa, minus the mechanics of account building, for likes, follower, popularity, etc.
More contact points on LinkedIn turn into paying clients than anywhere else.
The fact is, when I track my client leads using a spreadsheet, these are the results. I would love to hear from you. How have you fared as an independent professional when it comes to clients leads? Share your experiences in the comments!
Find Me On;
Leave a Reply