As a freelance how I build relationships with clients

Of course it is a 2-way process

Working remotely is already a barrier that is difficult to overcome for any freelance writer. When long distant love rarely functions how can it be successful on a professional level? To be honest, in my case it clicks both personally and professionally… not always but most of the time. I lost two clients in December 2019 after 12 years. Yet, I know how important it is to develop remote relationships.  

I look forward to serving clients with a virtual human touch. Let me explain how it can be successful in the business of freelancing in the long run. 

Need to develop bonds

It is critical to nurture a professional relationship. I did it unknowingly with the clients who are now lost. We had taken each other for granted perhaps and became familiar with methodology of work. Earlier I chased work, ignoring clients. Today I chase clients and assignments automatically follow. I am presently working for companies where people come and go, but my contribution is steady. It is not surprising; it is true; people leave bosses, not companies. I have established bonds that keep me busy. Of course it has taken time and energy to build the trust factor. There is no need for early morning hangovers or strong coffees to meet deadlines of day before yesterday.

A relationship works both ways

If I submit an assignment on time, and the payment does not come as promised, it leaves me with a feeling of sadness. Those who have supported me:

1. Do not spar over paisa per word but promptly pay what I ask for. No questions asked!
2. Payment schedule for each month is fixed via e-transfer. 
3. Do not send back endless drafts to be revised. 
4. The brief is clear for the job. 
5. Respect for the time and energy put in an urgent job.
6. Quick turnaround time for delivery of content.
7. Allow me to develop titles and ideas for the keywords.

Upgrading skills

All full-time freelancers have to improve their writing skills periodically. Ideally on the job I have learnt to:

1. Edit and proof, earlier I had an editor.
2. Spot errors; yes, I do commit mistakes even though I am a professional!
3. Run spell check with different software.
4. Provide reference links when required.
5. Do long form of writing other than the blogs and pillar articles. 
6. Research and share bullet points with the client.
7. Develop alternative styles other than UK and US English.
8. Be organized and disciplined.
9. Avoid networking on social networking sites and Whatapp.
10. Work with other freelance writers. 

I have established my writing business using these data points as a lone wolf. Today, there are many other writers, designers, and clients who prefer my services regularly. I do hope it continues this way. When 2 doors closed, it saddened me, but this year I have three new clients. Hopefully, these new relationships will help us to bond.