#342: Freelancers: 8 Things You’re Too Afraid To Ask For
Dec 24, 2024
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Freelancers often miss out on opportunities simply because they hesitate to ask. Discover eight empowering requests that can elevate your income and relationships with clients. Learn the importance of maintaining communication for repeat business and how leveraging testimonials can enhance your credibility. Dive into the value of seeking help from peers to combat loneliness in the freelance world, fostering a supportive culture while ensuring your business thrives.
Freelancers often underachieve not due to lack of talent but because they fear asking for higher pay and additional opportunities.
Proactively requesting referrals and feedback from satisfied clients can significantly enhance a freelancer's business relationships and growth potential.
Deep dives
The Power of Asking
Many freelancers miss out on opportunities due to a reluctance to ask for what they want, such as higher pay, additional clients, or essential resources. This fear often stems from a fear of rejection or a belief that they do not deserve what they desire. By not asking, freelancers risk remaining in a state of underachievement, lacking clients and income, which ultimately leads to unfulfilling careers. Emphasizing that asking can lead to increased earnings and better job satisfaction, it is crucial for freelancers to overcome these hesitations and advocate for their own needs.
Eight Essential Requests for Freelancers
The podcast outlines eight critical areas where freelancers should not hesitate to ask for more, starting with raising their rates. Many freelancers remain stuck at the same fee levels, and by simply requesting a rate increase for existing clients or new ones, they increase their revenue potential significantly. The second essential ask is for referrals; rather than waiting for clients to offer recommendations, freelancers should strategically ask satisfied clients for referrals when their work has just been completed. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on exploring other services that could benefit clients, ensuring freelancers are not just providing what is requested but also identifying and offering what the client actually needs.
Maintaining Relationships and Sustaining Growth
Successful freelancers routinely check in with past clients to see if they need additional services, which helps maintain relationships and keeps them top of mind for future projects. Regularly asking for feedback also provides valuable insights for improving work and maintaining high standards, as it encourages a culture of growth and excellence. Gathering testimonials and positive reviews from satisfied clients should not be overlooked, as they serve as essential social proof for attracting new clients; positive feedback can easily be transformed into valuable marketing tools. Lastly, creating a supportive network through collaboration and mutual assistance can foster a more fulfilling freelance experience, reinforcing the importance of giving and receiving help within the freelance community.
In this week's podcast episode, I’m diving into the single most overlooked skill that can unlock more clients, more money, and more freedom in your business.