Claim Freedom: How To Network At Events Without Feeling Mad Weird

Bimma Williams | April 15th, 2024

It's Claim Freedom Monday Y'all!

Here's some wisdom to help you attract paying clients.

Listen, I get it – "networking" might sound about as appealing as a root canal. But here's the deal: building solid connections is crucial for your freelance career. Let's ditch the awkwardness and turn this into a way to actually meet people who can level up your business.

Find Events That Matter

Time is money, so don’t waste it on random meetups. Here’s how to zero in on the good stuff:

• Niche is key: Focus on events that directly relate to your type of work (writing, design, marketing, etc.)
• Follow the clients: Where do your ideal clients spend their time? Conferences, industry events, restaurants, even related interest groups? Get in their orbit.
• Tap into social: Most events have some kind of online presence. Check out the attendee list – anyone you absolutely want to connect with?

Prep for Success

A little prep work goes a long way in boosting your confidence:

• Set your intention: What do you want to achieve? New clients? Potential collaborators? Learning the ropes? This guides your strategy.
• Know your audience: Use that attendee list and do a bit of research on the folks you wanna chat up.
• Nail your pitch: A short, sharp intro about who you are and what you do beats a vague “I’m a freelancer”. Think: “I’m a web developer who helps tech startups build high traffic websites.”

Your Wing Person: The Networking Secret Weapon

Got a friend willing to navigate this with you? That’s a major advantage:

• Confidence boost: Sometimes just having a familiar face can ease those first-step jitters.
• Strategic coverage: Split up and conquer! Maybe you both have a “must-meet” list and can introduce each other.
• Smooth introductions: Your wing person might have connections you don’t and vice versa. Play connector!
• Watching your back: They can point out interesting people to approach or offer feedback on your interactions later.
• Escape artist: Need an out from a long-winded conversation? A pre-arranged signal lets them swoop in to help you exit gracefully.

Own Your Approach

• Seek approachable folks: Look for people standing alone or those who seem open to conversation.
• Project confidence: A smile and good eye contact go a long way.
• Start strong: ”Hey, I’m [Your Name]. Really dug your talk on [topic] – mind if I introduce myself?”
• Genuine interest is key: Focus on them, not just selling yourself.

The Follow-Up

This is where those connections solidify:

• LinkedIn connect: Send a personalized message referencing your chat ("Great talking to you at the event about [that thing]!").
• Offer value, not pitches: Share something relevant to them, demonstrate your expertise without being salesy.

Networking is about building relationships with folks who see your potential. You've got the skills, now go find the people who need them. Grab your wing person, get into the right mindset, and make some powerful connections.

Join My Claim Freedom Accelerator: Attract Paying Clients And Become A Full-Time Freelance Creative - Beginning May 28th, 2024

Learn more here.

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See you next week,

Bimma Williams

Co-creator / Host of The Claima Stories Podcast & Freelance Host​