One of the perks of creating your own work schedule is the ability to work in your pearl izumi shorts, any time of the day. However, the tougher components of being responsible for your own business are actually getting clients. Self-promotion is tough for many people to deal with, but it’s part of owning your own business that you have to come to terms with.

Are you promoting a mongoose mountain bike, or any other product or service? If you have a product or service that is useful to others, you can get your message across without sounding like an overly eager salesperson. Getting over your fears of marketing, with a few helpful steps can help your business and your bottom line.

Too many freelancers have gotten caught up in promoting themselves and businesses solely online. While this should be a critical component for any marketing strategy, you shouldn’t forget traditional offline tactics as well. Leaving out the basics may mean you’re missing out on potential clients.

Pay attention to your real world interactions. You want to be clear about how you introduce yourself and your business to people that you meet. If you are a writer, telling someone that you work from home, or are a writer, leaves open the image of a hundred different possibilities. The person you’re talking to won’t think twice about it. However, if you’re concise with a statement like, I own my own content business, providing writing and editing services for all different types of companies. This is a much clearer picture of what you do. They are also much more likely to remember you if they need such a service!

Make sure your friends and family know exactly what you do. In their daily interactions with other people, they may come into contact with someone that may require your services. However, if they can’t explain exactly what you do, how can they recommend your services to others?

Remember the business card? It may sound like an old practice compared to all the new savvy technology you may be accustomed too - but this is still an essential practice. It’s important if you’re selling diamondback bikes, or promoting your freelance business. Always have some on hand to give to new acquaintances. Include your name, URL, relevant telephone numbers and email address.

Learning how to promote yourself, and simultaneously your business, may mean coming out of your comfort zone. However, this is something you have to do in order to become a successful freelancer. In time, and with a lot of practice, it will start coming naturally to you.

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