Mistake #1: Marketing On the Wrong Platform

It’s tempting to gravitate towards the social media platforms we love. Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn—are like comfort zones, where creating content seems effortless and engaging. However, choosing a platform based on personal preference rather than client presence can be a costly mistake. Success begins with understanding where your ideal clients hang out and choosing platforms they frequent.

For instance, realtors are commonly active in Facebook groups, while professionals like HVAC specialists might be more accessible through direct phone calls. Course creators, on the other hand, tend to hangout on Instagram and in Facebook groups. Knowing exactly where your ideal client likes to hangout will help you find potential clients quicker and make strong connections.

Mistake #2: Not Playing The Numbers

Numbers don’t lie, and they certainly don’t carry emotional weights like words often do. There’s a world of difference between saying you’ve done “a lot” of outreach and being able to quantify that statement with precise numbers. A critical component many freelancers overlook is actually tracking your metrics.

Whether it’s tracking the number of emails sent, open rates on your emails, or the response rate to touch points, these figures provide essential insights into what’s working and what’s not in your marketing efforts. Make it a habit to track your numbers, make clear targets, and evaluate them each month, and be willing to pivot after 90 days if the data shows that what you’re doing isn’t working. Remember, the number you don’t know is a number that can’t grow.

Mistake #3: Spending Too Much Time On Passive Over Active Marketing

Passive marketing might seem like writing blog posts, updating your portfolio, or routinely posting a reel on Instagram. Yet, without active strategies, you’re bound to feel the sluggish burn of slow progress. Active marketing means stepping out of your comfort zone and initiating direct contacts; it’s about creating opportunities rather than waiting for them to come to you.

From cold calling and emailing to hands-on networking at local events and engaging in online communities, be proactive. This approach puts you in the driver seat of your marketing efforts and helps you make personal connections with potential clients. 80% of your marketing minutes should be spent on active marketing with only 20% being used towards passive. When you make this shift you’ll see your whole business shift.

Mistake #4: Not Standing Out in a Crowded Market

Imagine a school of fish, all uniformly gray; now picture a rainbow fish amongst all those other fish. You want to be the rainbow fish. In a competitive freelance market, it’s crucial to differentiate yourself similarly: dare to stand out. Many freelancers default to generic responses like sharing their websites in job threads. To attract attention, however, requires creativity and a willingness to stray from the “normal”.

Utilizing methods like the Risk Reversal Method involves offering value confidently and showing potential clients you’re worth investing in, even if it’s your first experience with certain roles or tasks. We dive deep into the risk reversal method and how it applies to landing clients in our program Booked and Banked. Videos, creative proposals, or follow-ups that show genuine interest can distinctively mark you as an innovative and eager participant in your niche. Think about ways to infuse your personality, strategic thinking, and unique positioning into your outreach efforts. It will pay off!

Conclusion

As we talked about today, overcoming these mistakes can set the stage for a thriving freelance career. Selecting the correct platform, embracing the importance of numbers in your strategy, choosing active over passive methods, and standing out in a crowd—all contribute significantly to ensuring you’re landing clients each and every single month so you can hit your revenue goals.

If you want support in landing clients check out one of our programs. All of these programs dive deep in landing clients because at the end of the day that’s the bread and butter of our freelance business Booked and Banked, Conversions for Clients, or Strategist Society. Remember that effective marketing starts with strategic actions. So, what are you waiting for? Look at your marketing, apply these strategies, and watch as your marketing efforts bring not just more clients, but the right kind of clients for your business goals.