How Cooperation Beats Competition Any Day
It’s Janice Sakata-Schultze again, back with more freelance motivation lessons from my favorite TV show, “The Amazing Race.”
In the earlier seasons, cutthroat competition ruled. But now the teams cooperate more because they realize you can get further along in a goal if you can work with others, even if they’re competitors.
I’ve discovered something very similar in the freelancing world: how helpful your fellow copywriters – including highly successful “A-listers” – are.
What’s the takeaway here? If you’re feeling stuck, forming relationships with your supposed “competitors” (in truth, copywriting is more like a big happy family) might provide a much-needed catalyst to your career.
And few alliances are more powerful than those with writers who’ve been where you’re at now … and enjoy the success you’re aiming for.
If you attend conferences, network with more seasoned writers and ask them to share their secrets of success. If they have a blog or newsletter, offer to write guest posts or articles (an easy way to get exposure for your business).
Cultivate relationships in the industry. Or better yet, find a mentor. There’s knowledge you can gain, and you never know when they’ll send work your way.
Here are some other ways you can form alliances that can speed up your success:
Look up business groups in your hometown and join them. Give a talk, even if it’s just five to 10 minutes, on the benefits of great copywriting or web marketing. You’ll likely be perceived as an expert, which can then lead to more leads and work.
Know a freelance graphic designer? Establish a turnkey service package where you can both offer what you do best to potential clients.
Go to social media outlets and frequent groups where your fellow writers and potential clients are. Answer questions members post with the knowledge you’ve learned from your AWAI programs. You’ll develop an expert reputation, which could lead to a potential client coming to you, not the other way around.
Share freely what you know with your niche audience. You’ll soon be rewarded for your cooperative approach.
Do you have a way to form strategic alliances in your freelance business? I’d love to hear about them.
Come back tomorrow, where I’ll share with you how prospecting is far less scary than bungee jumping … or eating fried scorpions.
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Great advice, Janice.
I've used LinkedIn and found a local photographer and two graphic designers that I can partner with.
Got some gaps? Fill them in with other freelancers.
Thanks for sharing, Janice!
Steve Maurer - Maurer Copywriting
Steve Maurer – October 8, 2013 at 11:39 am
Hi Steve - thanks for reading this and your comments! I'm learning LinkedIn is a fantastic resource for potential partnership, and definitely great for propsecting, better than most, IMO.
Janice S – October 8, 2013 at 6:55 pm
I love your attitude Janice! I meet a lot of cool people (like YOU!) on social, but lately I've been more active on Google Plus. I believe this network has the most potential for writers.
Guest (Katherine Tattersfield) – October 8, 2013 at 10:39 pm
Hi Katherine - thanks for reading and commenting here! I've yet to take full advantage of Google+, but what you've said, I'm going to explore it more.
Janice S – October 9, 2013 at 1:59 pm