Female Creative Entrepreneur: Embracing Your Flow
In the fast-paced world of web design and marketing, freelancers are constantly faced with the challenge of standing out in a crowded marketplace. Whether you're operating in a small town or catering to an international clientele, collaboration can be the key to success. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of collaboration and how it can benefit both freelancers and their clients.
I've experienced the stark difference between working for an agency focused on earning and embracing the collaborative spirit that defines freelancing. This journey has not only transformed my approach to work but has also deepened my understanding of what it truly means to serve clients to the best of my abilities.
If I were to present you with a graph detailing how I allocate my working hours (an unveiling I eagerly anticipate after this year's wrap-up), a single glance would reveal the focus of my professional commitments. The chart distinctly outlines the percentage distribution between billable client work and the time spent on non-billable internal tasks. It would clearly reveal that a large part of my time is spent networking and fostering social dynamics. Working within a small community as well as internationally comes with it's own challenges.
Just yesterday I hopped on a call with a Vancouver Island based Web Agency, while sitting in my mom's kitchen in Germany - why? Because we already have common clients. And if i'm going to touch a website he built - you bet I'll chat with him first. If i'm going to start a research project on our client, you bet I'll make sure that he's in on it and we grasp all the data together - will I share my work before my client has to? ABSOLUTELY.
This other internal categories are administrative duties, project management, and one that t I affectionately term "whoopsis" – the corner where unforeseen and unbudgeted challenges in client projects find their remedy. Yes, I've playfully named this category to capture the essence of those unexpected hiccups - we're human, it happens. And we stand for that and we do the whoopsi fixes. :D
Working as a freelancer in a small town comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. While the market might be smaller, the relationships you build can be more intimate and lasting. One way to thrive in such an environment is by collaborating with fellow freelancers and web agencies who specialize in complementary services.
Consider forming partnerships with graphic designers, copywriters, or even social media experts. By creating a network of freelancers, you can offer your clients a full suite of services without spreading yourself too thin. This collaboration not only enhances the quality of your work but also provides a seamless experience for your clients. They benefit from a team of specialists, each contributing their expertise to deliver a comprehensive solution.
Remember, the success of one freelancer in a small town can positively impact the entire community. Collaborating instead of competing can lead to a thriving ecosystem where clients receive the best possible service.
I have a lasting work relationship with Caelan - a very talented Graphic Designer and ads specialist and Alexa from Swvl Visuals. We back eachother, encourage eachother and collaborate in many different ways.
I am currently active in Canada, Switzerland and Germany
In the digital age, freelancers have the opportunity to serve clients from around the globe. However, catering to an international clientele requires a different approach. Instead of limiting yourself to your own skill set, embrace collaboration on a global scale.
Partnering with freelancers from different regions allows you to tap into their local expertise. For example, if you're designing a website for a client targeting a specific market, collaborating with a local marketing specialist can provide valuable insights. It ensures that your work is not only visually appealing but also culturally relevant and strategically positioned.
Moreover, having a global network of freelancers allows you to provide your clients with access to specialists in various fields. Whether it's SEO optimization, content creation, or e-commerce integration, offering a diverse range of services enhances your value proposition and establishes you as a one-stop solution for your clients.
No matter the scale or location, the primary focus should always be on the client. Collaborating with other freelancers is not just about expanding your services but about putting the client's best interests at the forefront.
When you collaborate, you're essentially assembling a team dedicated to achieving the client's goals. It's about leveraging collective expertise to deliver results that go beyond what an individual freelancer can achieve. Clients appreciate the dedication to their success and the seamless integration of various skills to create a holistic solution.
In conclusion, the freelancing landscape in web design and marketing is evolving, and collaboration is becoming increasingly essential. Whether you're navigating the intimate settings of a small town or catering to clients worldwide, putting clients first and embracing collaboration will set you apart in this competitive field. Build strong partnerships, provide comprehensive solutions, and watch your freelancing career thrive as you contribute to the success of your clients.
