Whether you are thinking of starting your own business or if you want to work as a freelancer or contractor, seeking out potential business opportunities is not always an easy or simple task. Finding the right business opportunities for you can be done with a bit of preparation while also putting both local and online resources to use.
Consider Your Skills and Your Industry
Before you can begin working as a contractor or even as a freelancer on your own and with a business, it’s important to consider the skill you have and the industry you are interested in working in. Before diving headfirst into any new business venture or freelance gig, it is essential to have a strong grasp on the type of work you are most interested in and qualified for professionally.
Build a Portfolio
Building a portfolio is essential when you want to promote your freelance work and skills, whether you’re a writer, programmer or even an engineer, showcasing work, designs and your abilities is a must. You have the option of building a portfolio with the use of your own website, social media or even an online community dedicated to helping others with building their portfolios to easily share and showcase to potential customers and future clients. Any time you complete a new project, sharing the project with others is possible with an online portfolio site or service.
Create an Online Presence
According to Restore 24/7 Franchise, developing an online presence is always necessary when working to contract or if you are interested in working as a full-time freelancer. They said, “Having an online presence is possible by launching an official domain name for yourself and your business in addition to registering on social media networks. Social media communities such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Tumblr Instagram and even Vine are all ideal for promoting businesses and sharing your website, skills and current projects you are working on or have already completed.”
The more you craft and update your online presence, the easier it is to keep visitors, customers, fans and potential clients interested in the type of work you do and the projects you are planning to complete in the future. When you use social media to share published projects, it is also another way to ensure you are maximizing exposure in attempt to gain more traction and build the number of fans and followers you have as a freelance professional altogether.
Use the Right Marketing Materials
Whether you want to meet new potential clients in person or if you plan to do so online, choosing the right marketing materials is essential at all times. Creating your own business cards that are modern, relevant and branded to your official website is not only a way to make yourself more memorable, but it is also a method of boosting your professional reputation and credibility within the industry or market you are representing.
Referrals From Business Associates and Those You Know
Obtaining new clients and customers can be done by simply reaching out and asking for potential referrals. Using social networking, sending private messages and even giving an old business partner a call can help with generating leads you need for new work, regardless of the type of skills and expertise you have. Whether you want to contract out as a designer, programmer, writer, translator or even a tutor, the opportunities and possibilities are endless when putting all of the resources you have available around you to good use.
The more prepared you are when you are interested in working as a contractor or freelancer, the less likely you are to feel overwhelmed and out of options when you first begin gaining traction on your own time each day. Utilizing both local and online resources is a way to ensure you have work whether you prefer working with those near you or if you enjoy traveling and moving anywhere in the world as a contractor.
References:
http://www.sba.gov/
http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/79088
