How to Network as a Freelancer – My Top Tips

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Networking can be very overwhelming. The thought of walking into a room of people you don’t know – and talking to them about yourself – is a daunting idea.

However, over the past year or so I’ve really tried to throw myself into networking. I’ve tried out a lot of different events and I’ve met some great freelancers and business owners.

Going to your first event is very scary, but it only gets easier from there – and there are a few ways to ease yourself into the networking process.

So, exactly how should you network as a freelancer? Let’s take a look!

How to network as a freelancer – my story

In 2024, I’ve made more of an effort to network with other business owners and professionals. I’ve met some great businesses, worked on some fun projects, and even made friends!

It was scary at first, but it’s all about trial and error. You might try out an event that’s not for you – and that’s okay. All events or groups will have a slightly different style, so you’ll need to find the right fit for you.

For example, I go to an event called Sheffield Young Professionals every month or so. This is a very casual networking group. I get to meet other people in the local area, usually with a drink or some food.

In comparison, at a Growth Community networking event, I had to give a 30-second pitch about my services – and the format was a little more formal (although just as friendly).

It’s okay to try out different events or chop and change depending on what you need. I’m still learning as I go!

My tips to network as a freelancer

Let’s take a look at how to network yourself as a freelancer, including a few tips and tricks for your first networking event.

1. Don’t sell yourself

It can be a bit offputting if someone constantly sells themselves when others are just trying to get to know each other.

Yes, you may be there to find work or get a new opportunity, but people want to connect with other humans first and foremost. Be friendly to make lasting connections with people both inside and outside your industry.

This advice will differ depending on the event, as some networking events may ask you to give a pitch, for example. However, in general, it’s best to come as a human first and a business owner second.

If you go in with the hard sell, I think people are less likely to recommend you or refer you for work. You might be great at what you do, but these conversations need to be natural and two-sided.

2. Discuss a current project

Just because you’re not giving someone a direct pitch, that doesn’t mean you can’t show off about you and your business!

Discuss a current project to show the value of your work. You could talk about a few of the things you learned from the project or why you enjoyed it so much.

This will help people see that you know what you’re doing and leave an impression on other business owners at the event. You can also show potential work contacts exactly what kind of work you’re after.

3. Go with someone else

If you’re nervous about going to a networking event – especially if it’s your first one – why not go along with someone else?

The first time I went to a meetup for writers, I spoke to another member online beforehand. I knew he would be there, and so I felt a little less nervous about walking into the room.

It’s always nice to know there’s a friendly face waiting for you. Whether you’re a translator or content writer, you can connect with people on social media platforms like LinkedIn beforehand or go to your first event with a friend.

You’ll find it gets easier and easier to walk into that room!

4. Set up 1-to-1 meetups

If you’ve spoken to someone interesting at a networking event, set up a 1-to-1 meeting with them (either straight after the event or at a later date).

This is a great chance to further discuss your businesses – and it’s a good way to get freelance work or referrals. You can properly chat with your new contact and find out how you can help each other.

If you don’t get a chance to set up a meeting in person, make sure to take their contact details or hand out business cards. That leads to my next point…

5. Send follow-up messages

Your job doesn’t end when the networking finishes! Make sure to send follow-up messages to anyone you meet – especially if you want to stay in touch. This could be as simple as:

“Hey [name], it was lovely to meet you at the [event] earlier today. I really enjoyed chatting about [topic]. I hope you have a great rest of your week.”

It’s a good idea to add something unique to each message. Maybe you talked about a shared hobby or problem? Maybe you both do the same job? Mention it in the message to make sure your connection has a clear image of you in their head.

At busy events, you might meet 20+ people in one night. Sending a quick follow-up message can remind a contact of you and your services. It gets the conversation started and guarantees they’ll think of you for any future opportunities.

A list of places to network as a freelancer

The best networking events for you will depend on your location or industry. However, I’ve put together a list of great events to check out:

• Chamber of Commerce – your local chamber of commerce may offer helpful business networking events
• Growth Community – for business owners in all sectors
• Sheffield Young Professionals – look on Eventbrite for similar groups in your city
• The Marketing Meetup – in-person and online events

Try out a new event or join a networking group to meet like-minded business owners, freelancers and professionals!

Do you like going to networking events as a freelancer? Do you have any networking tips? What is the best way to sell your services?

Let me know all your thoughts in the comments 🙂

Happy reading x