I want my company to be about building others up. I carefully choose clients I’m proud to represent and be an ambassador for. For me, networking is key. Positive word of mouth is more important for future client building.
When I started, I did a LOT of pro bono work. I lent my skills for free as both an advisor and implementer to anyone with an inquiry. I hoped my knowledge would impress enough to show I could add value to their businesses.
Slowly, (very slowly) to start, referrals began to come in. A potential client I hadn’t landed had still passed on my details to people they knew in need of digital marketing. I began to hear feedback that I was knowledgeable and helpful to those seeking advice. I built on that reputation more by continuing to give back to my community wherever I could.
I had to force myself to be more selective who I was helping in order to better focus my pro bono time. A few weeks ago, I took on my biggest pro bono case yet, as I became involved in a grass roots political movement. Originally, I had offered to support a potential candidate for an upcoming election. This has now grown in scope to building a website for the candidates team and overseeing the entire digital strategy. Again, I wholeheartedly believe in the candidate so its easy to promote their works. They always say if you love what you do, work doesn’t feel like work.
Your personal success needn’t come at the detriment of others. Every individual is on their own path and is incomparable. I have been a school governor, digital advisor for a charity, have recently become a charity trustee because of my digital experience and regular fundraiser for a cause close to my heart. Being able to give back time or expertise to others builds my brand in the community because people understand, Defiant’s growth will lift others around me.
Small companies and freelancers like myself can often be afraid of undertaking pro bono working with such slim profit margins. If you give out free advice, potential clients are getting what they need without payment. Instead identify where pro bono work could strengthen your business get involved!
Defiant Media & Marketing 