Summary:
Let’s be real—networking can feel awkward, right? But if you’re a freelancer, it’s EVERYTHING! Your network determines your net worth! The problem? Most freelancers either aren't doing it at all, or they just spam LinkedIn with desperate job posts.
I’ve been there. When I first started freelancing, I thought my skills alone would get me clients. I soon realised that talent means nothing if no one knows you exist. So, in this guide, I’ll break down practical networking strategies that actually work—without making you feel like a used car salesperson. And if you're looking for more tips or tools for stepping up your freelancing game, click the link below and get the help you need to set you apart from the crowd!
Why Networking Matters More Than You Think
Freelancing can be lonely, but it’s also an industry built on relationships. According to Hubspot, 85% of jobs are filled through networking. And for freelancers, word-of-mouth referrals account for a significant chunk of income.
Here’s what a strong network can do for you:
- Consistent Clients:
☑️ Clients trust referrals more than cold applications. - Higher Rates:
☑️ A strong reputation means people are willing to pay a premium for your services. - Less Hustle, More Work:
☑️ Instead of constantly pitching, opportunities come to you. - Collaborations & Growth:
☑️ Working with others can lead to bigger projects, skill expansion, and even passive income streams.
How to Network Like a Pro (Without Being Pushy)
1. Give Before You Take
When I first started networking, I made the classic mistake of asking for work right away. Bad move. Networking isn’t about taking—it’s about giving first.
Think about it: Who are you more likely to help—the person who only reaches out when they need something, or the one who’s been supporting your work all along?
Action Tip
Start by offering value. Engage with people’s content on LinkedIn. Share their work. Recommend them to others. Helping first builds goodwill, and people will naturally return the favour.
2. Leverage “Weak Ties” (They’re More Valuable Than You Think)
We tend to think our closest contacts will bring us opportunities. But research shows that weak ties—those loose acquaintances you haven’t spoken to in a while—are actually more likely to connect you to new opportunities.
I landed my first high-ticket freelance gig because an old uni classmate randomly saw my LinkedIn post and referred me to a client. We hadn’t talked in years, but that one connection changed my career.
Action Tip
Reconnect with old colleagues, classmates, or past clients. A simple, “Hey, hope you’re doing well! Just wanted to check in and see what you’ve been working on” can spark unexpected opportunities.
3. Join (and Engage in) the Right Communities
Freelancers often join Facebook groups, Slack communities, or Discord servers, but they make the mistake of lurking. If you want to get noticed, you need to participate.
I once answered a simple “Anyone know a good project manager?” post in a LinkedIn group, and it led to a R15,000 project. Just by being present in the right places, you create opportunities.
Action Tip
Pick two communities in your niche and actively engage. Answer questions, share insights, and be helpful. I've found people prefer the guy who is eager to help rather than the smartest guy in the room. Consistency is key.
4. Master the Art of the Casual Check-In
Networking isn’t just about making new connections—it’s about maintaining them. The best networkers regularly check in with their contacts without an agenda.
I have a simple rule: Every month, I reach out to 3 people in my network just to say hi. No pitch, no ask—just a friendly check-in. This keeps relationships warm and makes it easy to reach out when opportunities arise.
Action Tip
Set a reminder to check in with three people every month. A quick “Hope you’re doing great! Let’s catch up soon” goes a long way.
5. Attend Events (But Don’t Just Collect Business Cards)
Conferences, meetups, and webinars are great for networking—but only if you do it right. The goal isn’t to collect as many business cards as possible. It’s to make meaningful connections.
I used to think handing out business cards was the key to success. Now? I’d rather leave an event with three solid connections than 50 meaningless ones.
Action Tip
Focus on quality over quantity. Instead of trying to meet everyone, aim for three deep conversations at each event. Follow up with them afterward.
6. Use LinkedIn the Right Way (Hint: It’s Not Just for Job Seekers)
LinkedIn isn’t just a job-hunting site—it’s a networking goldmine. But most freelancers use it wrong. They either:
❌ Spam people with “I’m available for work” posts, or
❌ Send cold DMs asking for gigs.
Instead, treat LinkedIn like a content platform. Share insights, lessons learned, and industry trends. The more you position yourself as an expert, the more people will come to you.
Action Tip
Post once a week with a mix of industry insights, personal stories, and valuable tips. Engage with others’ posts to boost visibility.
Networking Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Only reaching out when you need something. 🚫
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- People see through it. Build relationships before you need them.
🚫 Trying to network with everyone. 🚫
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- Focus on quality connections, not quantity.
🚫 Not following up. 🚫
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- A simple “Great meeting you! Let’s stay in touch” message makes all the difference.
🚫 Over-promoting yourself. 🚫
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- Talk less about what you do and more about how you can help.
Wrapping Up: Your Networking Action Plan
Offer Value First
Engage, share, and support others.
Reconnect with weak ties
Old connections can lead to new opportunities.
Join and participate in communities
Don’t just lurk.
Check in regularly
Maintain relationships over time.
Prioritize quality over quantity
Deep connections matter more than numbers.
Use LinkedIn wisely
Position yourself as an expert, not a job-seeker.
Networking doesn’t have to feel fake or transactional. When done right, it’s just about building genuine relationships.
So, which of these tips are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments—or better yet, send a message to someone in your network today!
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