The Word Wrangler

As freelance copywriters we’re always on the hunt for new clients and projects. For many of us, the Internet is our primary source for getting work. Whether it’s through job boards, bidding sites or ads posted on sites like Craigslist, it’s easy to forget that there’s a whole world of potential clients out there in our own communities.

If you’re not into spending a few hours cold calling businesses for work, consider hitting up a job fair when it’s in town.

For those who aren’t familiar, job fairs are where employers gather to scout for talent. Many job fairs, or career expos, are populated by hundreds of employers from a wide range of industries.

This is a huge advantage over other marketing efforts where you’re going in cold because these folks are not only more receptive to hearing what you have to offer (they’re often marketing and PR folks), but they’re basically a captive audience.

Tips for finding success at job expos.

• Be prepared. Take plenty of business cards, brochures, resume´s and any other marketing materials you have that clearly convey what you do and what experience you have.
• Do your research. Most job expos are heavily advertised with a list of employers that are setting up. Do some checking up on these companies to see what marketing materials they normally produce that you could work on. Then target those people at the expo and give them specific examples of where your services could be used.
• Don’t overstay your welcome. The last thing you want to be remembered for is being “that guy who wouldn’t leave me alone.” Get in, give them your pitch and get out. If they want to continue the discussion, that’s fine, just don’t put on the pressure.
• Offer a meeting. Job expos are almost always a zoo that’s filled with people looking for work. If it’s particularly crowded, offer to meet the employer at a better time to discuss the possibility of getting some freelance work. Employers love a go-getter - especially if they’re willing to meet them on their own turf.
• Follow Up. Ask for the employer’s business card and then follow up in a few days. These people meet hundreds of potential employees during these expos and your name might get lost in the shuffle. Call them up, thank them for their time at the expo and remind them that you’re a top notch freelancer who’s ready to work.

Getting work off the web is great, but nothing beats hitting the street now and again. Those personal connections can easily lead to long-term business relationships and referrals.

Michael Sieber - The Word Wrangler