The Freelance Rollercoaster: Navigating the Slow Times
Let’s face it, freelancing can feel like a wild ride sometimes. One minute you’re drowning in work, the next you’re staring at an empty calendar wondering if you’ll ever land another gig. Sound familiar?
I remember when I first started freelancing. There was this one summer where crickets seemed louder than my phone notifications. I was convinced I’d made a huge mistake leaving my 9-to-5. But here’s the thing: slow periods are just part of the game. The trick is knowing how to play it.
Diversify Your Skills (and Your Sanity)
Ever hear the saying don’t put all your eggs in one basket? Well, in freelancing, it’s more like don’t put all your skills in one portfolio. Here’s why:
- Different industries have different busy seasons
- You’ll appeal to a wider range of clients
- It keeps things interesting (because who wants to do the same thing all day, every day?)
For example, I started as a writer but picked up some basic design skills along the way. Now, when writing gigs are slow, I can whip up a logo or two to keep the cash flowing.
Network Like Your Paycheck Depends on It (Because It Does)
I know, I know. Networking can feel about as fun as a root canal. But here’s the secret: it doesn’t have to be all stuffy events and awkward small talk. Think of it more like making friends in your industry.
Try this: Next time you’re scrolling through social media, leave a thoughtful comment on someone’s post. Or better yet, share their work with your own audience. It’s like planting seeds – you never know which ones will grow into opportunities.
Upskill During Downtime
Remember that summer lull I mentioned? I used that time to take an online course in SEO. Not only did it make me more valuable to clients, but it also gave me something to talk about in pitches. Hey, check out this new skill I just learned! sounds a lot better than Please hire me, I’m desperate.
Create Your Own Projects
When client work is slow, why not become your own client? Start a blog, create a YouTube channel, or launch that podcast you’ve been thinking about. It keeps your skills sharp, gives you fresh portfolio pieces, and who knows? It might even turn into a passive income stream.
The Cold Pitch: It’s Not as Scary as You Think
Alright, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: cold pitching. I used to break out in a cold sweat just thinking about it. But here’s a little secret: most people are too scared to do it, which means less competition for you.
Try this approach: Instead of asking for work outright, offer value first. See a company with a terrible website? Send them a quick email with three easy fixes they could implement. No strings attached. You’d be surprised how often this leads to paid work down the line.
Leverage Past Clients (Without Being Annoying)
Your past clients are gold mines of potential work. But instead of just asking if they need anything, try this: Hey [Client Name], I was thinking about your project from last month and had an idea that could really boost your results. Mind if I share it with you?
This approach shows you’re still invested in their success, even after the project has ended. It’s a win-win: they get free advice, and you might land some extra work.
Embrace the Ebb and Flow
Here’s the thing about freelancing: the slow periods will come, no matter how good you are. The key is to see them not as setbacks, but as opportunities. Use this time to refine your skills, build your network, and set yourself up for future success.
Remember, every successful freelancer you admire has been through dry spells. The difference is, they used that time to become even better at what they do. So next time you’re staring at an empty calendar, don’t panic. Instead, ask yourself: How can I use this time to level up?
Freelancing isn’t just about the work you do for clients. It’s about constantly evolving, adapting, and growing. And sometimes, those slow periods are exactly what you need to take that next big leap forward.
