Four Ways to Build Your Network As A New Freelancer

Your network is your net worth.

Not sure where I first heard that phrase, but I never forgot it. It resonated initially because I never really thought about "net worth." It was always some term that only rich folks used.

Am I right?

Then I thought about it a lot more because I didn't really pay much attention to my network. Maybe like you, I always kinda placed my focus on my work, not so much on the people in my circle. My network just seemed kinda secondary.

Until the day it didn't...know what I mean?

You must network if you want to legitimize your brand or business and stand out against your competition. You must build a network. Networking is key to finding your target audience and growing a sustainable freelance business. Finding your target audience and the people you surround yourself with is a never-ending job as a freelancer and entrepreneur.

Thankfully, networking can make this job more manageable and less demanding.

Here are four ways to improve your freelancer networking skills.

Join social media groups

Facebook and LinkedIn offer many different groups within just about any industry or niche you can think about.

Being active in these groups helps you learn more about the individuals that make up the industry and what types of problems they need help with. Not only that, but it also fosters new relationships and helps to find connections you can use to collaborate with to share even more valuable and powerful content.

And look, you don't need to find groups on these platforms necessarily.

Sometimes you can find the people who then lead you to niche or specific groups.

Attend relevant events

Look at your local community college to see if there are any events in your industry to attend.

Another great way is to seek out co-working spaces. Sure, many folks have gone the work-from-home route, but slowly and surely, folks are migrating back to shared spaces. These shared spaces, co-working environments, and incubators may provide super unique opportunities to meet new folks.

This is especially easy for those within the arts and cultural sector as many cities host events downtown to support local artists and small businesses.

Facebook has an option to search for local or virtual events as well.

Have something to offer

Ever gone to a party empty-handed?

Even if the host says not to bring gifts, you almost always bring a little something. Even if it's just a quick, pull into the store and grab a bottle of wine gift. You don't arrive empty-handed.

In other words, if you are only there to take from them, you won't be able to grow an authentic network.

People attract others because they have something valuable to offer.

However, you must be careful not to offer too much, or you might simply be taken advantage of. It would be best if you found the right balance. If you give too much, they will likely start expecting it. Be sure the relationships you see are genuine before spending too much time and effort.

Unfortunately, many relationships are just business, so it is always best to protect yourself first.

Maintain the connection

I have a friend whose goal is never to eat lunch alone.

He also runs a $25 million company now.

Coincidence?

Hard to say, but I can say that when he lakes connections, he also makes an effort to nurture them. It's a great lesson to learn. Especially if you're new to the game of freelancing and entrepreneurship.

Once you find the proper networks, you must work to keep the relationship going and strong.

The stronger the connection with your network, the more likely they will collaborate with you and introduce you to more people within the industry. You also must be prepared to do the same. This can also look like commenting on other creator content as soon as it goes live or sharing their information through your email marketing campaign without expecting anything in return.

Or something as simple as lunch.

The final word

Networking is essential for freelancers and entrepreneurs.

You can improve your networking skills by joining social media groups, attending relevant events, and having something to offer. Maintaining the connection with your network is also massively important.

As you can see, networking is a lot easier than you think.

All it takes is being active within the right communities and fostering a genuine and beneficial relationship between you and the other person.

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