Land Your First Client In 5 Steps

Freelance Writers:

• Tired of getting paid per hour (or worse, per word?)

• Still relying on inconsistent word-of-mouth referrals?

• Ready to step off the freelancer hamster wheel?

Then you’re in luck! 

This FREE 5-day email course will help you:

• Craft an irresistible offer

• Charge premium prices

• Land your first $5,000 client

Click here to get instant access.

What’s up, Creator’s Circle!

In 2018, I created content for the sake of it. Honestly, it wasn’t very good either, and I didn’t stick with it, which is tough because everyone out there will be like CONSISTENCY. But yeah, I didn’t even listen to that. This was on LinkedIn, too, back in 2018.

I was mostly hitting repost on things that my company page shared. That was another rookie move on my part.

It wasn’t until February 2020, when I was in Laguna Beach at a Revenue Kickoff with my company, Clari, that my boss at the time, Kyle Coleman, put out a contest to his direct reports about the power of LinkedIn for personal branding.

My passion fueled my craft, and I was content with growing my followership—until I realized there was more to gain from it than lose!

I came across a guide on monetizing YouTube Videos around late 2019—and that’s when it hit me! All types of content can be monetized—not just videos. Out of curiosity, I did some digging and discovered that creators in my niche were creating content like me but were actually making a living. That was the turning point for my creative journey. Over the next couple of weeks, I researched tons of guides to finally understand my work’s worth. 

Before I share how to find your works’ worth, you need to know what sets a creator apart from a professional creator. 

The main difference is the crucial shift in mindset and intention. While creators pour their hearts and souls into their work, professional creators take it a step further—they value their craft, understand its worth, and make a living from it.

So, how do you know the worth of your work? 

Ah, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? It's about understanding your audience, recognizing the value you bring to the table, and having the confidence to stand behind your work. Remember, your creativity has value – never underestimate its power.

• Research Comparable Work: 

Look at similar content or creations within your niche or industry. What are others charging for similar products, services, or content? This can give you a benchmark to gauge the market value of your work.

• Assess Your Expertise and Experience: 

Consider your level of expertise and experience in your field. Are you a seasoned veteran with years of experience or just starting out? Your expertise and experience can influence the value of your work.

• Consider the Time and Effort Invested: 

Reflect on the time, effort, and resources you used to create your work. Did it require specialized skills, extensive research, or significant production costs? The more time and effort you invest, the more valuable your work may be.

• Evaluate Audience Engagement and Feedback: 

Pay attention to how your audience engages with your work. Are they sharing, commenting, and expressing appreciation for your content or creations? Positive audience feedback and engagement can indicate the value and impact of your work.

• Factor in Unique Value Proposition: 

What sets your work apart from others in your field? Identify your unique value proposition – whether it's your distinctive style, innovative approach, or specialized expertise. Highlighting your unique value can justify a higher price point for your work.

• Test Pricing and Monitor Results: 

Experiment with different pricing strategies and monitor the results. Track sales, conversion rates, and customer feedback to determine the optimal pricing for your work. Don't be afraid to adjust your pricing based on market dynamics and customer response.

Let's talk monetization. 

Why do creators need to monetize their content? Well, my friends, it's not just about making a quick buck; it's about sustainability, turning your passion into a profession, and creating a sustainable future for yourself and your craft.

Here are a few practical tips and personal learnings to help you navigate the monetization maze:

• Know Your Audience: 

Understanding your audience is key to monetization success. What are their pain points? What solutions can you offer? Listen, engage, and tailor your offerings to meet their needs.

• Value Your Work: 

Don't sell yourself short. Your creativity has value, and it's up to you to recognize it. Set fair prices, communicate your worth, and don't hesitate to negotiate.

• Diversify Your Revenue Streams: 

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Explore different monetization avenues – from sponsorships and affiliate marketing to merchandise and digital products.

Diversification is the name of the game.

So, as you navigate the exhilarating journey from creator to professional creator, remember this: your creativity has value, your work matters, and there's a world of opportunity waiting for you on the other side.

Here's to valuing your craft, embracing monetization, and creating a future where creativity knows no bounds.

Want to know more about how to diversify your content across different channels? Get the step-by-step content monetization guide from my course here. 

Keep Creating!

Nick

PS: Next week, I’ll drop some big news on Creator’s Circle and tell you what’s next for the newsletter. Hint: It has to do with people-first. 🙂 

Resources

1. Catch up on previous newsletters here

2. Check out ClubPF - We have a free version and a paid version with tons of resources, templates, masterclasses, and an active Slack community.