The Top 2 Ways To Market Your Web Writing Service
Marketing your web writing service is a huge part of a
successful freelance business. Online marketing, networking,
publicity, and advertising are such valuable tools, it's
critical to know what works best.
Here are two No-Fail methods to advertise yourself as a web
writer: Develop your own web site that is optimized for search
engines, and network!
- YOUR WEBSITE SHOULD MAKE YOU MONEY, NOT TAKE YOUR MONEY -
As an Internet writer, it's important to have your own web site.
Most writers create web sites to use as a point of referral for
potential clients. Their sites include detailed listings of
services, a list of previous projects and clients, and the site
itself displays their writing talents.
Writers will display their web site address in collateral and
promotional material, which is good, but not enough!
Many writers new to web writing don't realize what a web site
can do. They simply don't expect that a potential client will
stumble across their web site and call with a major job.
Writers experienced in the art of SEO web content understand the
true value of a website. A search engine optimized (SEO) website
can be extremely effective for attracting new clients. This
should be number one on your list of online marketing strategies.
When you understand and master SEO writing, not only will you be
found by the very people that wish to hire a writer, but you
will also increase your value and credentials as a web writer
ten-fold.
Just as important, participation in writers' forums and other
online activities helps produce business. Although you can spend
a great deal of time wandering from web site to web site, it is
valuable to communicate online with other writers and web
designers. You gain professional knowledge (which you must never
stop doing) and you may get referrals and assignments.
- NETWORKING... IT'S EASIER THAN YOU THINK! -
Now let's go offline. Sales authorities will tell you that
without a referral or previous contact, it can take five to ten
sales approaches (such as a phone call or a mailing) to get an
actual business meeting with a potential client. Networking
establishes relationships that can last the lifetime of your
career.
Contribute articles to select professional and trade groups that
you admire and care about. Volunteer to serve on a board or a
committee. Attend workshops or seminars; even better, offer to
speak at them.
Participate actively within professional workshops, and just as
important, during the breaks. Instead of mingling or talking
with people you know, sit with new faces and make contact.
Prepare a short but memorable description of your business in
the event a public introduction is called for.
Develop a relationship when it naturally fits, and follow up
with a lunch invitation or an appropriate email or phone call.
True professionals understand the value of networking and
referrals, and are usually happy to help when they can. Just one
strong alliance with the right person can open the door to
untold opportunities for success.
Copyright 2006 Trish Andrews