5 Power Moves to Boost Your Freelance Writing Sales and Marketing
Let Clients Set the Stage—Then Own the Narrative for Bigger Wins
If You Build It, They Will Come
Sales and marketing are intertwined yet distinct: Marketing spreads the word about your services, while sales close deals and drive revenue. In essence, marketing incurs costs, while sales generate profits (beyond core expenses like salaries or overhead).
As a freelance writer, you’re often juggling both—plus the actual writing. It’s a triple role that can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to. Writing isn’t like slinging cars; it’s more like baking bread. The tough part is mixing the dough (researching and crafting content). Once it’s in the oven, the aroma draws in clients—like Marketing 101. Bake it (or write it), and they’ll come.
Now, with interest piqued, it’s sales time: Exchange value for payment, often including content rights or recurring gigs. Since we’re not running bakeries, here are five practical steps to supercharge your productivity, marketing, and sales. These aren’t exhaustive, but they’re a solid launchpad for freelancers.
Step 1: Forge Strong Relationships
Top marketing agencies excel by scaling with full-time and freelance talent. Partnering with them can land you overflow work during client surges—deliver quality, and it could evolve into steady gigs, especially with smaller firms.
Apply the same to direct businesses: Start local and small, avoiding tech-heavy sectors where clients might already grasp writing nuances. These folks often need education on content types, fostering loyal, mutually beneficial ties. Over time, this builds a robust portfolio to kickstart your career.
Step 2: Showcase Tangible Results
The best proof? Real client work. Leverage your writing skills to self-promote, blending copywriting’s brand-building power with professional writing’s reinforcement.
Tailor to needs: Some clients crave marketing flair; others, in-depth content—like adjusting recipe ingredients. Use clear, concise communication to set expectations, including timelines for results. This builds trust, earns your reputation, and secures repeat business.
Step 3: Skip the “Artist” Label (For Now)
Sure, great writers are artists, but businesses prioritize results over artistry. Only established pros can sell “art” upfront—think Leonardo da Vinci’s quirks (ear-cutting? Extreme coffee habits? Bathing aversion?). Until your work consistently drives profits, focus on delivery.
Do the job exceptionally without the drama. Save the eccentricities for when you’re famous; for now, moderate the coffee.
Step 4: Stay Professional—While Being Authentic
Obvious? Yes, but crucial. If a client suggests drinks, limit to one low-alcohol option (or politely decline). Avoid overindulging.
Don’t push favors—it can feel manipulative. You’re trading time fairly: They buy your expertise; you respect theirs. Honest clients value this.
Key ethics:
Confidentiality: Never discuss one client’s work with another—even anonymously. It erodes trust, as they’ll assume you gossip about them too.
Avoid Conflicts: Steer clear of same-industry clients to prevent interest clashes. Always consult existing clients before taking on competitors.
Step 5: Never Badmouth Others
Clients might share past work for your “honest opinion.” It’s a trap—testing integrity or seeking free critique.
If it’s solid, say so; honesty can win them over. If not, pivot: Explain your alternative approach and expected outcomes. If pressed, note, “It’s not how I’d handle it,” then highlight your strengths and differences—without critiquing theirs.
Why? Word spreads. Badmouthing could burn bridges or backfire if issues arise later, damaging your rep.
Turning a “No” Into Future Wins: A Real-World Example
Years ago, I interviewed for a documentation role at a top global law firm. The pay was stellar, and I had an inside connection—a friend climbing to partner.
I aced early chats, but the managing partner paused: “Honestly? You’re overqualified and too sharp for this long-term.” He offered a drink of water or soda as we wrapped up.
Key insights:
Rejection meant zero risk—prime time for boldness.
A top exec had just complimented my intellect and extended courtesy.
Seizing the moment, I thanked him and quipped, “Since we’re being honest and it’s late, is upgrading that drink into a rum and Coke out of the question?”
He laughed— a first in his career there. We shared a drink and casual chat. Later, the interviewer and I grabbed more; we’re still friends. Though I didn’t get the job, the firm refers high-profile clients my way to this day.
Moral: Blend professionalism with authenticity. Honesty sells better than anything. Stay alert for low-stakes opportunities to pivot— they can unlock unexpected doors.
Ready to Launch
Armed with these tools, integrate them into your website, LinkedIn, or freelance platforms. Investing in self-marketing yields a killer portfolio and ideal clients. Best of luck leveling up your writing game!