Someone once said that “the richest people in the world look for and build networks, everyone else looks for work.”
This was American businessman and author Robert Kiyosaki, one of the most successful book writers of the millennium. His meaning? That building a successful business (and earning a good income as your own boss) starts with finding opportunities, not just jobs.
So if you’re new to freelancing, it’s important to keep your mind open about where and when you might be able to make meaningful business connections with others. Because you never know where you might stumble upon your next big break.
Here are five unusual places to find copywriting clients that you shouldn’t knock until you’ve tried…
1. Local Farmers’ Markets
It may seem like an odd place to go hunting for copywriting jobs but local events like farmers’ markets are great for making connections. Most businesses in the agriculture industry don’t have their own marketing teams, and quite often require help with their websites but just don’t know where to look. While client budgets may be smaller in this sector, these clients offer a fantastic opportunity for experience and portfolio building.
2. Craft Fairs / Vintage Fairs
Craft fairs and vintage markets are excellent networking hot spots for copywriters looking to contract with new businesses and independents.
Many sellers at craft fairs use auction sites to sell their products, and would likely be interested in having their own website in the future. And because events are such as a big part of their sales strategy, you will get repeat business for print collateral such as flyers, brochures or signage.
3. Fundraising Events
Fundraisers are a good opportunity for freelance writers as they are often repeat events, giving you the chance to build long-lasting business relationships with all the organizers and creatives involved.
Plus, fundraising events rely heavily on marketing and promotion to be successful so, when you do an excellent job, they will likely contract you again. The fundraising event itself also presents the chance to network with owners of local businesses who have been invited, so arrive armed with business cards!
4. Bar / Restaurant Launches
If you’ve been invited to an exciting new restaurant launch, chances are the venue already has a solid marketing strategy in place and will already have a team working at promoting the business.
But it’s always worth leaving your business card in case they need a specialist copywriter in the future. Local influencers are always invited to launch events, so take the opportunity to network. You never know who you might meet there.
5. Friend and Family Events
Never underestimate the power of personal contacts – a friend of a friend of a friend will almost always know someone who needs website help, SEO copywriting, or assistance with drafting a press release. And it’s very possible that these small jobs and word-of-mouth recommendations can land you bigger contracts and invaluable connections for the rest of your career.
Your turn! Do you have any ideas for other unusual places to find clients? Let us know in the comments below!
About the Author:
Morgan Franklin is a copywriter, journalist and content marketer who works for Fusewave digital agency. Morgan is based in the UK and loves writing so much that he even scribbles dubious fiction in his spare time.
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