Being a freelance writer is a great job. Actually, it’s not a job because it’s so much fun! The perks of the business are setting your own hours; working with clients from diverse industries, working with clients around the world, and helping clients gain new business through word-of-mouth referrals. Most small business owners are backwards about being forward when it comes to referrals. This is where a freelance writer comes in handy.
Word-of-mouth referrals are a great way to grow your business. The use of words on your print materials such as business cards, brochures, and postcards can make the world of difference. Think of a freelance writer as your muse who can bring your business of out the deep, dark forest and into the bright world of small businesses.
Networking events are the most popular way to obtain word-of-mouth referrals. When you had out your business card make sure it stands out by using a catchy headline or quote. A skilled freelance writer can whip up a snappy headline and tagline in no time. For example, if you’re a health and wellness coach you may have a headline such as “Health Equals Wealth” and a tagline such as “Investing in Yourself Today will Yield a High Return Tomorrow.” This eye-catching headline and tagline is sure to spark interest.
Most small business owners don’t know how to get word-of-mouth referrals or they’re too shy to ask. Don’t be shy about promoting your business. Stand by your business and be confident. Even if you stumble at first, you’ll find your footing. It may help to write out a note card to take with you to ensure that you hit all of the key points. Remember, you’ll only have about 5-minutes to speak about your business.
Using the services of a freelance writer to get word-of-mouth referrals is a step in the right direction. After all, these are people who write for a living and enjoy it. They’ve written countless blogs, articles, headlines and taglines, and other materials they’ll be able to get your message across.
It’s important to communicate with your freelance writer to ensure they convey your message to your audience. You’ll have to spend some time meeting either in person or over the phone if you want to receive plenty of word-of-mouth referrals.
Business referrals can come from anyone. You could be at the grocery store and strike up a conversation with the person in front of you in the checkout line. He or she may require your services. When you present your business card, give the person two or three cards. Ask for referrals. You have nothing to lose.
You may consider giving clients an incentive to give your business referrals. You could give them a discount on their services, provide them with a gift card, or give them a gift certificate to a restaurant. There are many ways to say ‘Thank You’ for the referral.
A freelance writer can assist you with referrals. If your current marketing materials are not working, contact your freelance writer to see what revisions are necessary. Perhaps it’s time to hire a new freelance writer, one with a multitude of experience and creative ideas that seem to go on forever!
Rebecca
How’s your word-of-mouth referrals?
Pingback: Healing Arts Professionals Touch More People with a Blog - Savvy-Writer
Thanks for this article. I’ve been trying to get word-of-mouth referrals, Oy! Been attending some networking meetings but I do my best to mention to people what I do no matter where I’m at. You never know who’ll be interested in your business 🙂
Jill,
I’m glad you enjoyed this post. Many people are too scare to ask for referrals. I think it has to do with rejection which most people don’t handle very well. You just have to put your best foot forward and if someone doesn’t want to do business with you so what. It could be a blessing in disguise!