I’m A Freelancer. How Can I Learn To Be A Better Networker And Maintain Contacts?
I’ve never been very good at making and keeping contacts. But now that I’m freelancing I depend on it. What are some good tips on staying in touch and maintaining good rapport with people I work with, and without sounding desperate for work?
Thanks!
I freelanced in advertising design for several decades. Looking back, the best clients ($$$) were those with whom I developed a relationship not entirely based on work.
It is said that many business deals are done at the golf course.
Just making the point that you need to try to find something in common with the folks with the power to hire you, and, use that common interest to your benefit. Take interest in the people you meet and take notes about them… their kid’s names, their favorite fishing lake, etc. Then, you have something to talk to them about when you call or email. Oh, you don’t have to ask for work every time you contact. Just keep your name in front of them, and they will remember you as that really friendly free-lancer the next time they need work done.
There is nothing better than a well thought out spreadsheet that contains all the information about the client as well as comments and a history of contact times. You will be able to use this when creating mailings and emails and will be able to devise a great sort system as well.
You can buy a very sophisticated contact system called “Goldmine” that is designed to do exactly what you want. It is somewhat costly, but definately professional contact management at its best.
If you are somewhat of a computer geek you can do it on your own by constructing a database that will do the same thing, but allow you to pull up various fields you design for follow up. Doesn’t do it for me though as I’m too old school to do that.