It’s a scary thought, isn’t it?
The thought of getting ALL of your freelance writing shoppers drop you in a single day.
No extra initiatives. No extra deadlines. And no extra shopper earnings coming in.
Yikes!
This nearly happend to me so I’ve been enthusiastic about this recently, particularly with all of the modifications occurring within the content material writing business.
Between AI, shrinking content material budgets, and firms utterly rethinking how they create content material, it’s laborious to not surprise what would occur in case your total shopper roster disappeared in a single day.
And though I’ve been freelance writing since 2014, I can let you know that dropping all my shoppers would undoubtedly sting.
I’d most likely panic a bit, query every part for about 5 minutes, after which make myself one other cup of espresso….and get to work.
However right here’s the factor.
I wouldn’t be ranging from scratch.
Again once I began, I used to be a stay-at-home mother with one-year-old twins, attempting to determine how you can earn a living from residence.
I had no portfolio, no testimonials, no connections, and completely NO concept how you can discover freelance writing shoppers.
I spent hours studying blogs, studying how you can pitch, creating writing samples, and determining how this complete freelance writing factor labored.
And slowly, I constructed a enterprise.
Quick-forward greater than a decade, and I’ve labored with manufacturers like GoDaddy, Zapier, and Wordtune, constructed relationships with editors and advertising and marketing managers, and discovered a factor or two about discovering shoppers when work slows down.
So, if I awakened tomorrow and each single freelance writing shopper was gone, what would I do?
Effectively, I actually wouldn’t begin making use of to 50 random writing jobs or slash my charges simply to get work.
Right here’s precisely how I’d discover freelance writing shoppers once more, what I’d keep away from doing, and the way you need to use these similar methods to construct a extra dependable freelance writing enterprise.
1. I’d Attain Out to Each Previous Freelance Writing Shopper
This could be my first transfer since I’ve constructed a contract writing enterprise, I can lean on previous relationships. I wouldn’t essentially begin at job boards and even with chilly pitching.
I’d open my electronic mail and begin reconnecting with folks I’ve already labored with.
Why?
As a result of I’ve discovered that simply because a shopper stops working with you doesn’t imply they’re gone without end.
I’ve had a number of shoppers return after YEARS of not working collectively so I do know it is a good technique when issues run dry.
One shopper got here again after practically three years! And I’ve had different previous shoppers attain out with new initiatives just because they remembered working with me.
Take into consideration that.
You already know their model and perceive their content material.
They know your writing fashion and what it’s wish to work with you. That’s a a lot simpler dialog than attempting to persuade an entire stranger to rent you.
How I’d reconnect with previous shoppers
First, I’d make an inventory of everybody I’ve labored with over the previous couple of years.
I’d embody:
- Previous SaaS shoppers
- Advertising businesses I’ve written for
- Editors who moved to new firms
- Content material managers who beforehand employed me
- Manufacturers that paused initiatives due to finances modifications
Then I’d ship a brief, pleasant electronic mail.
One thing like this:
Hey [Name],
It’s been some time! I used to be enthusiastic about the content material we labored on collectively and needed to verify in to see how issues are going.
I’ve been taking up extra SaaS content material and thought I’d attain out to see if in case you have any upcoming initiatives that would use an additional author.
Would love to listen to what you’re engaged on!
That’s it.
No sophisticated pitch or three-paragraph rationalization about my providers.
Only a pleasant check-in.
And in the event that they don’t reply? I’d comply with up a couple of week later.
I wouldn’t hold emailing each few days, however I additionally wouldn’t assume silence means they’re not .
Advertising groups are busy!
My recommendation: In the event you’ve labored with even three or 4 shoppers, begin there earlier than on the lookout for utterly new alternatives.
And if you’re a brand new freelance author with out previous shoppers, don’t fear. The subsequent few methods will make it easier to construct these relationships.
2. I’d Use LinkedIn to Discover Freelance Writing Shoppers
LinkedIn has develop into one in all my favourite locations to search out freelance writing work.
And no, I don’t imply scrolling by means of the Jobs tab and making use of to each freelance author itemizing I see.
I imply really utilizing LinkedIn to attach with the individuals who rent writers.
Currently, I’ve been way more lively on LinkedIn, and I’ve landed a number of writing alternatives due to it.
However right here’s one thing I’ve seen.
One of the best freelance writing alternatives aren’t all the time marketed as jobs.
Generally they’re buried in a put up from a content material supervisor.
Different instances, a advertising and marketing director casually mentions that their group is ramping up content material manufacturing.
And generally, a founder shares that they’re launching a brand new product and wish to enhance their content material advertising and marketing.
These are the conversations I’d take note of.
How I’d discover shoppers on LinkedIn
Since I concentrate on B2B SaaS content material writing, I’d begin by on the lookout for folks with titles like:
- Head of Content material
- Content material Advertising Supervisor
- Director of Content material Advertising
- Head of Natural Development
- search engine optimisation Supervisor
- Editorial Director
Then I’d slim my search to SaaS firms in industries I get pleasure from writing about, like advertising and marketing expertise, creator platforms, and eCommerce.
For instance, let’s say I discover a content material advertising and marketing supervisor at a SaaS firm who not too long ago posted about bettering their weblog technique.
I wouldn’t instantly ship them a message asking in the event that they want a contract author.
As an alternative, I’d learn their put up. Possibly they’re speaking about how troublesome it’s to show product information into helpful content material.
That’s one thing I do know so much about! So, I’d depart a considerate remark sharing a selected concept or expertise.
And I’d hold exhibiting up once I had one thing related to contribute.
Over time, that particular person begins recognizing my title.
After they’re prepared to rent a author, I’m not an entire stranger.
I’d additionally search for author callouts
These are GOLD. A author callout is when somebody posts that they’re on the lookout for freelance writers.
It’d say:
“We’re increasing our content material group and on the lookout for skilled B2B SaaS writers.”
Or:
“Does anybody know a contract author who understands ecommerce?”
I’d search LinkedIn for phrases like “on the lookout for freelance writers,” “hiring content material writers,” and “freelance SaaS author.”
I’d additionally verify posts from folks already in my community.
If the chance matched my expertise, I’d reply rapidly with a brief introduction and a hyperlink to related work.
I wouldn’t direct them to my total portfolio as that is only a LOI (letter of introduction) and must be succient.
Simply two or three examples that present I can write the type of content material they’re on the lookout for.
My recommendation: Spend 20–half-hour a day discovering and interesting with potential shoppers on LinkedIn. Don’t simply put up about being out there for work. Present folks what you realize in regards to the issues they’re attempting to resolve.
3. I’d Replace My Freelance Writing Portfolio (However Not How You Assume)
If I misplaced all my shoppers tomorrow, I’d undoubtedly take a look at my freelance writing portfolio.
However I wouldn’t spend weeks redesigning it. I’ve been freelancing lengthy sufficient to know {that a} fairly web site doesn’t mechanically herald shoppers.
What issues is whether or not a possible shopper can rapidly perceive what I do and why they need to rent me.
And that’s the place I’d focus.
I’d lead with outcomes, not simply writing samples
Once I first began freelance writing, I wanted samples to show I might write.
So, I created them!
However at the moment, my portfolio has one thing way more helpful.
It exhibits my expertise.
I’ve labored with recognizable manufacturers, written content material throughout completely different phases of the advertising and marketing funnel, and helped firms create content material for his or her audiences.
That’s what I’d spotlight.
For instance, as an alternative of merely itemizing a weblog put up I wrote for a SaaS firm, I’d clarify:
- Who the content material was written for
- What downside the article addressed
- How I approached the subject
- What the completed content material helped the shopper accomplish
If I had entry to efficiency knowledge, I’d embody that too.
Possibly an article attracted certified natural site visitors.
Possibly a comparability put up helped potential clients perceive which product was proper for them.
Or perhaps I interviewed an skilled and turned an advanced technical subject into one thing clients might really perceive.
These particulars inform a a lot stronger story than a hyperlink to a printed article. And also you don’t must have labored with massive manufacturers to do that.
What in case you’re a newbie with no shopper outcomes?
Let’s say you wish to write for electronic mail advertising and marketing software program firms.
You possibly can create a pattern article referred to as:
Learn how to Construct a Welcome E-mail Sequence That Converts New Subscribers
As an alternative of writing a generic article crammed with suggestions everybody already is aware of, you possibly can clarify how you can construct a five-email sequence.
Present what every electronic mail ought to accomplish. Go forward and embody instance topic traces after which clarify when to ship every electronic mail.
You may then show how the sequence strikes a subscriber nearer to creating a purchase order.
Now you’ve created a writing pattern that exhibits potential shoppers the way you suppose, analysis, and remedy issues.
That’s what I’d need my portfolio to speak.
My recommendation: Select three to 5 sturdy writing samples that match the shoppers you wish to entice. Add context round every one so potential shoppers perceive what you contributed.
4. I’d Begin Pitching SaaS Firms Once more
I do know chilly pitching isn’t everybody’s favourite factor.
And I get it!
Once I began freelance writing, pitching was one of many fundamental methods I discovered shoppers.
Again in 2014, freelance marketplaces like oDesk and Guru had been in style locations to search out writing work.
However in case you needed to maneuver past low-paying initiatives, you wanted to discover ways to discover companies keen to spend money on high quality content material.
That’s once I began studying how you can pitch.
And though the freelance writing panorama has modified, pitching continues to be one thing I’d do if I wanted shoppers.
Simply not the way in which some folks train it. I wouldn’t ship 100 an identical emails to random firms.
I’d give attention to companies which are actively investing in content material.
How I’d discover SaaS firms price pitching
First, I’d create an inventory of 20 firms in my most popular industries. Then I’d take a look at their web sites and ask:
- Are they publishing weblog content material frequently?
- Have they not too long ago launched a brand new product or function?
- Are they hiring content material entrepreneurs?
- Have they got a useful resource heart crammed with guides, comparisons, or academic articles?
- Are their rivals publishing content material they’re not protecting?
These are all clues that an organization would possibly want content material help.
For instance, think about I discover a undertaking administration SaaS firm that’s publishing a number of weblog posts each month.
However once I look by means of its content material, I discover it has loads of newbie articles and only a few product comparability guides.
That’s a chance. I might attain out to the content material supervisor and clarify how comparability content material might assist potential patrons consider their choices.
I’d even counsel a couple of subjects.
One thing like:
“I seen your weblog has some nice academic content material round undertaking administration, however I didn’t see many comparability guides for groups evaluating completely different instruments. I concentrate on SaaS content material and thought there is likely to be a chance to construct out that a part of your content material technique.”
See the distinction?
I’m not simply saying, “Hello, I’m a contract author. Do you want content material?”
I’m exhibiting that I’ve checked out their enterprise and have an concept that would assist.
In fact, I’d be sure the suggestion suits their viewers and advertising and marketing targets earlier than pitching it.
My recommendation: Earlier than pitching an organization, spend 10–quarter-hour researching its content material. Discover one particular alternative and clarify how your writing might help it.
A considerate pitch to the suitable firm is price way over dozens of generic emails.
5. I’d Faucet Into My Freelance Writing Community
Right here’s one thing I didn’t perceive once I began freelance writing.
Your community can develop into one in all your greatest sources of labor.
And I’m not simply speaking about potential shoppers.
I’m speaking about different freelance writers, editors, content material strategists, and entrepreneurs.
Over time, I’ve linked with writers who concentrate on completely different industries and providers. A few of them write technical documentation. Others give attention to electronic mail advertising and marketing.
We’re not all competing for the very same initiatives.
Generally a shopper wants a service you don’t supply. Otherwise you’re booked and might’t tackle one other undertaking.
Possibly an organization wants somebody with expertise in a distinct area of interest.
That’s the place referrals are available in.
What I’d do with my community
I’d begin by reaching out to a handful of writers and entrepreneurs I already know.
I’d say:
“Hey! I’m opening up some house for brand spanking new SaaS writing initiatives and needed to let you realize. In the event you hear of any content material groups on the lookout for an skilled author, I’d love to attach.”
I’d additionally verify in with editors I’ve labored with who’ve moved to completely different firms.
That is one thing freelance writers generally neglect.
Your contact at an organization could be extra helpful than the corporate itself.
Give it some thought.
A content material supervisor would possibly depart one SaaS firm and be a part of one other.
In the event you constructed relationship with that particular person, they already know what you possibly can ship.
And if their new group wants content material help, you is likely to be one of many first writers they consider.
That’s why I all the time encourage freelance writers to construct relationships, not simply gather shopper names.
6. I’d Market Myself Even Once I Didn’t Really feel Like It
You may’t cease advertising and marketing your self simply since you’re busy with shopper work.
And sure, I’m nonetheless studying this!
When you’ve deadlines, conferences, revisions, and invoices to handle, it’s straightforward to push advertising and marketing to the underside of your record.
Why spend time discovering new shoppers when you have already got sufficient work?
Effectively, as a result of shoppers don’t all the time keep without end.
Advertising budgets get lower or initiatives finish, and firms change route.
And generally, a shopper who appeared like a long-term partnership all of the sudden doesn’t want content material anymore.
That’s why I’d make advertising and marketing half of my common workweek.
Not one thing I solely do once I’m determined for shoppers.
My easy freelance author advertising and marketing routine
If I had been rebuilding my shopper roster, right here’s how I’d manage my week.
Monday: Discover potential shoppers
I’d analysis 5 SaaS firms that publish content material frequently and determine the folks accountable for their content material advertising and marketing.
Tuesday: Reconnect with my community
I’d electronic mail two or three previous shoppers, editors, or advertising and marketing contacts.
Wednesday: Get seen on LinkedIn
I’d publish a put up sharing one thing I’ve discovered from writing SaaS content material and depart considerate feedback on posts from potential shoppers.
Thursday: Ship pitches
I’d ship two or three personalised pitches to firms I’ve researched.
Friday: Observe up and replace my pipeline
I’d verify which emails want follow-ups, report any responses, and plan my outreach for the next week.
Nothing sophisticated.
And I wouldn’t spend hours doing this each day. Even 30–45 minutes of targeted advertising and marketing may also help construct momentum.
The aim isn’t to land a shopper each single day.
It’s to create a gradual stream of conversations so that you’re not ranging from zero each time a undertaking ends.
7. I’d Search for Alternatives Past Conventional Freelance Writing Jobs
One factor that’s develop into clear to me is that the way in which firms rent freelance writers has modified.
Years in the past, I spent lots of time taking a look at freelance writing job boards.
And whereas job boards can nonetheless be helpful, I wouldn’t depend on them completely at the moment.
I’d take a look at firm profession pages, LinkedIn posts, advertising and marketing newsletters, {and professional} communities.
I’d additionally take note of firms increasing their advertising and marketing groups.
For instance, if a SaaS firm is hiring a Head of Content material, that may sign plans to speculate extra in content material.
It doesn’t assure they’ll rent freelancers.
But it surely offers me a motive to be taught extra in regards to the firm.
I’d additionally take a look at manufacturers launching new merchandise, coming into new markets, or increasing their academic sources.
These companies might have writers who may also help clarify their merchandise, interview material consultants, and create content material that helps clients all through the shopping for journey.
And that’s precisely the type of work I get pleasure from.
I’d give attention to content material that companies really want
I wouldn’t restrict myself to writing primary informational weblog posts.
I’d search for alternatives to jot down:
- Product comparability articles that assist patrons consider software program
- Case research that present how clients use a product
- Thought management articles constructed round skilled insights
- Backside-of-funnel content material for folks researching a purchase order
- Govt LinkedIn posts that talk a frontrunner’s expertise and concepts
- Academic content material that solutions particular buyer questions
For instance, a SaaS firm won’t want one other article explaining “What’s undertaking administration?”
But it surely would possibly want an in depth comparability of two undertaking administration instruments for small advertising and marketing groups.
That article requires product information, analysis, and an understanding of what potential patrons care about.
It’s a distinct sort of writing alternative.
And one I’d completely pursue.
8. I’d Preserve Studying Abilities That Make My Writing Extra Worthwhile
Now, right here’s the place I feel freelance writers have to be cautious.
With AI altering the content material business, it’s tempting so as to add each new service you hear about.
- AI content material modifying
- search engine optimisation technique
- E-mail advertising and marketing
- Social media administration
- LinkedIn ghostwriting
The record goes on!
However I wouldn’t all of the sudden supply ten completely different providers simply because I misplaced my shoppers.
I do know what I’m good at and I do know what sort of writing I get pleasure from.
That doesn’t imply I’d cease studying.
Removed from it!
I’ve been freelancing since 2014, and I’m STILL studying new abilities.
Just lately, I’ve been increasing my information of AEO (Reply Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization).
I’m studying extra about how content material could be structured to reply questions clearly, present authentic insights, and develop into helpful to readers who uncover info by means of AI-powered search.
I’ve additionally been growing government LinkedIn ghostwriting as a further service.
Why?
As a result of it builds on abilities I already use as a contract author.
- Analysis
- Interviewing
- Storytelling
- Understanding an viewers
- Turning sophisticated concepts into clear, participating content material
I’m not changing into a very completely different sort of freelancer.
I’m increasing what I can supply shoppers primarily based on what they really want.
How I’d resolve which abilities to be taught
I’d ask myself three questions:
1. Are my ideally suited shoppers asking for this?
If SaaS advertising and marketing groups are investing in government thought management, studying how you can write sturdy LinkedIn posts could possibly be helpful.
2. Does it construct on one thing I already do effectively?
Writing government posts is a pure extension of interviewing consultants and creating thought management content material.
3. Can I realistically ship this service at a excessive customary?
I wouldn’t add a service to my web site simply because I watched a YouTube video about it.
I’d follow, create samples, perceive the method, and ensure I might ship skilled work.
That’s how I’d strategy including new abilities.
Not out of panic.
However as a result of they make sense for my freelance writing enterprise.
Freelance Writing Jobs are EVERYWHERE!
Imagine it or not, however writing jobs are in all places and they’re plentiful.
I really feel the AI bubble has burst and lots of firms NOW see that utilizing AI for content material isn’t getting them far. And meaning they nonetheless must depend on us, the skilled freelance author!
I hope the following tips helped you. Inform me within the feedback in case you had this occur to you and what you probably did to repair it!