As a freelancer, you’re used to working independently and on your own time. You can come and go as you please, and tackle your daily tasks in any order or manner that suits you. There’s no one to tell you what to do or how to do it—you design your own day, every day.
But networking is also a vital part of being a freelancer, especially when you’re just starting out. And we’re not talking about networking with potential clients—we mean networking with other freelancers!
| Takeaways |
|---|
| Networking helps freelancers expand their professional connections and open doors to new opportunities. |
| By networking, freelancers can gain access to potential clients, collaboration opportunities, and industry insights. |
| Effective networking can enhance a freelancer’s career by providing job leads, referrals, and recommendations. |
| Online networking platforms offer virtual opportunities for freelancers to connect with professionals worldwide. |
| Maintaining and nurturing professional relationships through networking is crucial for long-term success as a freelancer. |
Why Networking With Freelancers Is Important
There are lots of reasons why networking with other freelancers is important. Unlike networking with potential clients (which can be stressful and scary), networking with other freelancers is fun, easy, and full of benefits for both parties involved.
Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people who are in the same boat as you—they’ve got the same fears and concerns as you do, they face the same challenges as you do, and they want the same things out of life that you do.
Here are just a few reasons why freelancer-to-freelancer networking is so important:
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1. Get Perspective
You might find yourself getting stuck on a particular project if you’re not careful. Talking with other writers about it can give you insight into how others would break up the work to meet deadlines.
2. Get Recommendations
Other freelancers might be able to recommend editors or clients that they’ve worked with successfully in the past, which means that you don’t have to spend time vetting them on your own.
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3. Make Friends (And Enemies)
People who do what you do can understand what you go through better than anyone else, so it’s great to know someone who can commiserate or celebrate with you when the need arises. Additionally, if someone is proving themselves to be toxic—if they’re always late or if they never pay up—it’s good to know that other
4. They Might Have Skills That Complement Yours
Maybe your best friend is a killer photographer, and she’d love to help out but doesn’t know how to contact anyone in the industry. It might be up to you to make those connections for her—and then one day when you need photos for a client, maybe she can return the favor.
5. You Might Find Ways To Collaborate With Them On Projects
Sometimes you need someone else who has different skills than yours on a project because they have something special to contribute.
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6. You Can Share Resources
Do you know the best place to get business cards printed? What about the best tax advisor for small businesses? A lot of people don’t realize just how many resources you can share and keep track of when you pool knowledge with your fellow freelancers.
7. You Can Help Each Other Out In Emergencies
If someone gets sick or has a family emergency and needs a few days off, their clients shouldn’t suffer just because they can’t get their work done on time.
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How To Network As A Freelancer
Luckily, there are some easy ways for freelancers to network with each other. Here are just a few ideas:
Join some local meetups in your area that cater to the type of work you do. For example, if you’re a graphic designer, search for a local group dedicated to designing professionals or creatives in your area. You might also look into joining groups like these online to find others who share your interests and skillset.
Attend conferences or conventions related to your industry, even if they aren’t specifically for freelancers or creative professionals. You’ll get to meet like-minded people and learn something new while doing so!
Get involved with freelancer groups on social media—they’re all over LinkedIn and Facebook, so look around until you find one that suits your needs best. You can network with other freelancers in these groups by asking questions or sharing advice about working
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Final Thoughts
Networking is one of the best ways for freelancers to get exposure, gain leads, and build a name for themselves. By expanding their scope of work and exploring outside of their comfort zones, freelancers can make incredible strides in their business that will essentially pay off dividends later on down the road. A healthy network of other freelancers can also provide you with insights, advice, and support.
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources to explore the importance of networking for freelancers:
Importance of Networking for Freelancers: Discover why networking is crucial for freelancers and how it can help in building connections, finding clients, and expanding opportunities.
Networking Tips for Freelancers: Learn valuable tips and strategies to enhance your networking skills as a freelancer, including online and offline networking techniques.
Networking: The Key to Success for Freelancers: Dive into the importance of networking and how it can contribute to the success of freelancers. Explore effective networking methods and how to leverage them in your freelance career.
FAQs
What is the benefit of having a LinkedIn community for freelancers?
We wanted to create an online space for freelancers to share their stories, expertise, and enthusiasm for this growing career opportunity. We believe in supporting the global freelance workforce, and we see our LinkedIn community as a place where we can get to know and understand our customers better.
What is a freelancer?
A freelancer is an independent worker who takes on different jobs, clients, or projects.
Why should a freelance network with other freelancers?
Freelancing means you take on new projects and clients as they come up. It can be scary to be alone because you’re always starting fresh. Networking with other freelancers helps you build relationships to lean on when times get tough.
What are some types of networks?
You can network online through social media groups or in-person at conferences and local meetups.
Can’t I just network online?
You could, but it’s not quite the same thing as meeting someone in person. That said, LinkedIn is a great place to start building your network. Join a couple of LinkedIn groups that are relevant to your work and start getting involved in discussions.
What’s the best way to manage my money as a freelancer?
The best way to manage your money as a freelancer is to create a budget and stick to it. You should also set aside some savings for emergencies or unexpected expenses like travel costs or medical bills.
What’s the best way to start networking?
It’s good to network with your peers and other freelancers because they can help you learn how to find work and provide support during your career. You can attend networking events or join online groups.
Do I need a website?
A website is a helpful tool that helps potential clients find out about your services and decide if they want to hire you. It’s also a great way to keep your name out there and advertise your services as a freelancer.
Costantine Edward is a digital marketing expert, freelance writer, and entrepreneur who helps people attain financial freedom. I’ve been working in marketing since I was 18 years old and have managed to build a successful career doing what I love.