How Many Services Should You Provide?
Many beginning freelance writers feel the need to be the Swiss Army Knife of the writing world in order to snag clients. And it’s also tempting - especially when the economy takes
a downturn - to add more to our capabilities in the hopes that the wider net will catch us a few customers.
I was checking out a few sites and blogs tonight when I ran across a writer who lists no less than 23 services she provides. Her abilities run the gamut from writing to logo creation to FAQs. I’m guessing that if you need a list of frequently asked questions, she’ll provide it.
The point is that - while you might think you look more professional by promoting all those services - you probably look desperate in the eyes of many people.
Think about it: If you’re transmission needed fixing would you rather go to a company that specializes in transmission repair or to a hairstylist who sells cell phones and fixes transmissions? (I actually once saw a hair salon/tanning/cell phone business all in one).
While it’s certainly to your benefit to be able to do many things, you ought to be careful about how you promote yourself. If I were this writer, I’d take my three or four best abilities and market myself accordingly. Then, if I’m engaged with a client who mentions he needs a logo designed, I’d offer to tackle that project too.
What’s your opinion? Does the Jack of All Trades approach work? Or should we narrow our focus in order to better market ourselves?
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Monday, February 25th, 2008 at 6:16 pm under
