If you’re marketing to direct clients, setting up a “touch point” system –where you “touch” them in multiple ways, on multiple platforms — can help you contact them in a structured way, while gathering information about them, and without feeling like you’re pestering. Here’s an example: –Let’s say my dream client is a large NGO. […]
Continue ReadingMarketing
How to handle a sudden downturn in work
When things fall apart Since the pandemic began, I’ve heard from a number of translators and interpreters who’ve had a sudden downturn in their work volume. In some cases–such as conference interpreting–their work volume went literally to zero overnight. What’s the best way to handle this very stressful situation? I have a few ideas, and […]
Continue ReadingUsing job sites to tell who might need a freelancer
One of my favorite ways to identify potential new direct clients is by using job search websites, and it’s an especially helpful tool in the age of COVID-19 when it’s hard to tell if a company or entity is surviving, much less hiring. This technique applies even though a) these entities are unlikely to be […]
Continue ReadingHow do you nudge a dormant client?
A reader asks: “How do you nudge a dormant client? How can I get back in touch with a client who’s gone totally silent?” Why nudge dormant clients? In my experience and opinion, nudging dormant clients–rekindling the flame with a client you worked with in the past–is one of the most successful and most overlooked […]
Continue ReadingMarketing a multi-pronged business
Prongs and how to use them As entrepreneurs, many of us have multi-pronged businesses. Some of us work both as agencies and as freelancers. Some of us have lots of slashes in our job titles (“translator-slash-copywriter-slash-editor-slash-language teacher”). I know a freelancer who does dog massage and translation (no kidding). Many of us work in disparate […]
Continue Reading