As a freelancer, establishing a unique personal brand is crucial to your success.
A strong freelance identity not only sets you apart from the competition but also communicates your unique value proposition to potential clients. As humans, we’re naturally drawn to things that we find interesting - so a brand that doesn’t look the same as the others, is well polished and gives the confidence of professionalism is key.
Let’s dive into the things that can help you nail a strong freelance brand.
Establish your visual identity
First impressions matter. It’s reported that we make up our minds about something within the first five seconds of seeing it. So if your brand isn’t there - you’re potentially losing out on potentially hundreds of clients.
Consider your color palette, typography and overall design aesthetic. Are they consistent with your personal brand? If not, it may be time to revisit your brand identity and make some updates. Incorporate your visual elements across all of your platforms, from social media and scheduling tools to your website. Reinforce your personal brand.
As a freelancer, who you are is the core of your brand. Unlike when you work for a large company, your career history, life experiences and personality are far more on show. Be sure to reflect that in your business. People buy people, not products.
Finding your niche
It’s essential to have a well-defined niche as a freelancer. You’ll find lots of people can do the basics, so what is your USP?
Identify your unique skills and strengths and tailor your services to meet the needs of your ideal client. Research your niche thoroughly to stay up-to-date on market trends and anticipate the needs of your target audience.
Having the ability to handle the general stuff is great, but focusing on something specific also allows you to hone your skills and become an expert in your field.