Choosing the right market can make or break your freelancing journey, especially when you’re just starting out. With so many potential clients out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But here’s the good news: by focusing on two simple criteria—Proximity and Volume—you can greatly increase your chances of success. Let’s break down how these criteria work and how you can apply them to find the perfect market for your skills.
Proximity: The Power of Being Nearby
Proximity is all about nearness. In freelancing, this means focusing on clients that you can easily find and access. These could be people you know directly or those within your extended network. Think about the connections you already have—friends, family, acquaintances, and even former colleagues. These individuals are easier to approach and engage because you already share a relationship or have common ground.
Why Proximity Matters:
- Ease of Access: It’s easier to reach out to people you already know or have some connection with. Cold emailing or messaging strangers can be daunting, but when you start with your existing network, you have a higher chance of getting a positive response.
- Trust Factor: People who know you are more likely to trust your abilities and give you a chance. This trust can lead to quicker deals and more referrals.
- Lower Costs: Since you’re not spending time and resources on extensive marketing or outreach efforts, you can focus more on delivering quality work.
How to Identify Proximity Opportunities:
- Friends and Family: Start with your immediate circle. Is there anyone who could use your services? Even if they don’t need them directly, they might know someone who does.
- Extended Network: Think about acquaintances or people you’ve worked with in the past. Reach out and let them know about your freelancing services.
- Local Community: Don’t underestimate the power of local connections. Look for local businesses or community groups that might need your skills.
Volume: Ensuring There’s Enough Demand
Once you’ve identified clients within your proximity, the next step is to ensure there’s enough demand—or volume—in your chosen market. Volume refers to the number of potential clients who need your services. Even if you have great proximity, you won’t be successful if there aren’t enough clients in your chosen market.
Why Volume Matters:
- Sustainable Business: A market with a high volume of potential clients ensures that you have enough opportunities to keep your freelancing business afloat.
- Room for Growth: More clients mean more chances to expand your business and increase your income. You’re not limited by a small pool of opportunities.
- Reduced Risk: If one client drops off, having a high-volume market means there are plenty of others to take their place.
How to Identify Volume Opportunities:
- Facebook Groups and LinkedIn: These platforms are goldmines for finding large groups of potential clients. Join groups related to your industry and start engaging with members.
- Freelancing Sites: Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, or OnlineJobs.ph can give you insights into what services are in high demand. Check the number of job postings and see where the volume is.
- Industry Trends: Stay updated on industry trends. If a particular service or skill is in high demand, you’ll see a surge in job postings and client requests in that area.
Making It Easier: Steps to Choose Your Market
Now that you understand the importance of proximity and volume, let’s look at some actionable steps to make choosing your market easier.
- Choose a Market That Needs Your Skill the Most:
Focus on a market where your skills are in high demand. For example, if you specialize in Microsoft 365 administration, target businesses that heavily rely on Microsoft tools for their operations. - Check Your Client Inventory:
Review your existing or past clients to identify any patterns. Are there industries or types of businesses that consistently need your services? This can help you focus on markets where you’ve already had success. - Choose Where Your Friends or Connections Are:
Leverage your network. If you have friends or connections in a particular industry, that’s a great place to start. Their introductions can open doors to new opportunities. - Copy What Others Have Succeeded At:
Look at what other freelancers in your field are doing. If certain markets or niches are working for them, they might work for you too. Don’t be afraid to follow in the footsteps of success. - See What’s Being Actively Sought on Freelancing Sites:
Browse through freelancing platforms to see what skills and services are in high demand. If you see a consistent need for a particular service, that’s a good indicator of a viable market.
Conclusion: Finding Your Market
Choosing the right market doesn’t have to be complicated. By focusing on proximity and volume, you can streamline the process and find clients who are both easy to reach and in need of your services. Start with your network, ensure there’s enough demand, and take actionable steps to position yourself in the right market. With these criteria in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful freelancing career.
Remember, finding your market is just the beginning. Once you’ve identified the right market, it’s about consistently delivering value and building relationships that last. Good luck!