Gone are the days when you had to go from door to door selling a hoover (thank goodness!!). Those times were hard and either you were ready to cover many kilometers, or your business was doomed to stay VERY local. But that’s not our fight anymore, right? We now have Internet, smartphones, social media, online chats… So, why not use them to get customers??

Be honest: How often do you meet your people? Apart from your nearest family and neighbors or coworkers, chances are that you stay in touch thanks to your mobile devices. And what a difference does it make if that friend you’re texting to is a couple of streets away – or in Paris, right?? Well, it would be a huge difference for your friend, but I mean for you 😛

Anyway, your location doesn’t matter, right? We’re all connected now. And it works exactly the same for the business world: You can start sending letters, leaflets or emails to potential customers who live in your zone. You can definitely also do that, but make sure that you create such a strong online presence that customers come your way. And not (only) the other way round 😉

6 Steps to get customers with a strong online presence

1. Launch a website or a blog
   If just the thought of this lets you feeling overwhelmed, you can start with an online portfolio (have a look at step #6) – or, at least, an online CV. Check out this post about creating a strong online presence for more practical tips.
2. Get familiar with SEO techniques
   I’m sure you’ve heard about it, but Search Engine Optimization (SEO) will let you get customers by making yourself “visible”. Your goal should be this: When a potential customer looks for a service you’re offering, your name should pop up 😉 Go for Google, Bing and Pinterest.
3. Create an online business profile on every important social media platform
   Start a business page at least on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.
4. Join those Facebook groups where your target clients spend their time
   Offer them as much value as you can. Help them with their struggles – but without being spammy. You won’t only let them think of you as an expert, but you’ll also get to know what needs they have. Participate actively, but be careful: Don’t spend too much time there!
5. Register yourself on all kinds of directories or associations relevant for your profession
   Take the time to let it look as thorough and professional as possible.
6. Create a profile on job sites where freelance work is offered
   Feel free to download this free list of the most relevant job platforms to freelancers, and use it to enhance your online presence. This last step is probably the most important one to get customers, so take your time to do it accurately 😉

You’ll see, in less time than expected, you’ll have customers knocking on your (online) door. Have fun rejecting some of them 😛

xoxo,
Alicia
Are you born to freelance?

PS. It sounds like a lot to do – it is! -, but it’s much easier than having to look for customers yourself, don’t you think?