They say that “Google is your friend,” but for a freelancer, social networks can be a BEST friend. The life of an independent contractor demands that, in order to survive financially, he must be visible to the general public within the confines of the Internet, and what better way to achieve this than to go “social” and join a network?
Sites like Facebook, Google+, MySpace and others have become household names not only around the Web but also in the real world, utilized by common folk who seem to depend on them more than they care to admit. Yet despite the sophistication and savvy that is typical to many freelance professionals, there are still a few who remain wary of this so-called phenomenon. Fact is, social networking is good for any freelancer’s business, and although there are indeed privacy issues, they are things that one can work around or even live with, and the benefits earned are priceless.
Here’s a list of reasons why social networks can be a freelancer’s best friend:
1. Advertising at Low Cost
For a freelancer, social networking can mean more than just friends, clients and connections.
Spread the word – at next to nothing! This is probably the best thing about social networking. Simply become a member of the social network of your choice, and you’re on your way to marketing your business. You can tell everybody who you are, what you can do and how you can connect. Aside from that, there’s no limit to the creativity you can put into how you sell yourself and your services.
2. Builds Credibility and Brand Awareness
Establish a unique brand for yourself and start standing out from the rest! By highlighting your skills, talents and achievements – and updating that information regularly – you make your presence known. And with consistent and continued existence in the social network circles, you’re sure to be recognized. People will start taking you seriously, and have faith in your abilities and what you can deliver – and, most importantly, that you can deliver.
3. Maintains Connections
You get to keep in touch with clients and business associates alike – all in one easily accessible venue. It’s a great way to expand your business, because word of mouth works a lot more than most types of advertising.
4. Helps to Stay on Top of Things
At a glance, you know what people are up to. It becomes easier to negotiate on projects and bid on prices even before anyone actually ever mentions that there is a need to get some work done. At the same time, you can show your viewing public the latest goings on in your business; news of promotions, discounts, special offers and the like will be easier to spread around.
This is also a great way to find out what aspects of your business need improvement. People will criticize, praise or share their views on your services. This type of feedback should be welcomed, because it is naturally instrumental to your success. Seeing all this in one page is an added benefit, and spells more than just simple convenience.
5. Cost and Time Efficient
And the reason why all this should mean more than just simple convenience for you? A social networking site is basically a one stop shop where you can find everything you need right at your fingertips. While it helps you save time and money, you also earn from it. It increases marketing effectiveness, has a broader reach, takes less keystrokes and gives out more information – at less time and even lesser cost. This makes it perfect for every busy freelancer!
Social networking can do a lot more good than harm. Make it work for you.
