How to Stay Competitive in the Freelance World

Many freelancers struggle to stand out in the crowd. Without an employer to back you up, you're on your own when it comes to every aspect of running your business. Here are some tips to keep yourself at a competitive edge!

Things You'll Need

• Computer

Instructions

1. 

   Make your marketing collateral flawless. These days, a simple click to your website by a prospective employer could mean the difference between getting the gig and getting passed up--so make sure that your logo is solid and your branding carries across things like your brochure, business card and website. Content matters just as much as design, and you've got to have both to compete against others.

2. 

   Keep learning. It's vital to stay on top of your game--and that means staying on top of your industry too. Whether you read books or attend seminars, it's always great to learn the newest techniques, tricks and players that affect your industry. This is especially true if you're in a more technology-based field, as that's always changing. Even writers that only use Firefox and MS Word to get by can still learn new tricks and make new connections.

3. Enhance your services. As a writer, there is still plenty of ways for me to improve. Because I do mostly Web collateral, I try to make an effort for more print work. I also try to complement my book writing with magazine writing. I'm always looking for more to give my clients, and always looking to make things easier on both parties. Staying competitive means constantly taking stock of what you can improve--and your services offer direct benefits to your clients, so exploring this area of your business is worth the time.

4. 

   Refrain from bad-mouthing the competition. This should be a given, but I feel the need to say it. Because some freelancers don't insult others on purpose--that doesn't mean they don't do it. When clients ask why they should use you over a competitor, it's important to highlight your advantages rather than the competition's shortcomings. This saves you from burning bridges and also helps you appear more practical.

Tips & Warnings

• Be polite at networking events, even if you're meeting others in your industry.

• Don't ask colleagues for specific referrals. It's OK to request a mentor--not to take another person's leads!