As a freelancer it’s almost impossible to achieve any significant level of success by hiding behind your desk all the time.
You need to build a network of people to connect with, a group of business friends who can help and support you. (And you’ll do the same for them.)
Build a strong enough network, and you’ll find you no longer have to spend much time looking for work, because most of your work will come to you through referrals, via your network.
Who are these magical people?
– People you have worked with in the past
– People you engage with through social media
– People you have met at events
– People you have specifically targeted, because you really want to be able to reach out to them
I’ll be writing more about building a network for your freelance business some time soon. But in this post I just want to make the point that you can and should enjoy networking.
This shouldn’t be a chore. Unless you are a total Grinch, you should be able to get some pleasure from keeping in touch with people and enjoying your correspondence and conversations with them.
These conversations are not all about work and business. These are all business friends you like to keep in touch with. And having them in your life can give you a lift when you need it most.
It’s tough to work totally alone. Just you and your keyboard. It’s solitary. And if you work in total solitude for too long, it can become a bit of a downer.
Enjoy your network. Take pleasure from the social aspect of it. And know that this group of people will contribute to your future success, not only by being there for you, but also through referrals and introductions.
Working for yourself is good. But that doesn’t mean you have to work in total solitude.
Related Resources:
My coaching service for freelancers…
My ebook – Affirmations for Freelancers
About the author: Nick Usborne is an online writer, copywriter, author and coach. Read more…