How to Use Social Media to Find New Contracts
<p><em>We know that one of the main concerns of self-employed people and freelancers is finding contracts and clients. Of course, you can do some networking and use word-of-mouth to your advantage. What about more modern tools like social media? Here are a few tips on how to use social media to find new contracts. </em></p>
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<h3>What are the most relevant social media platforms?</h3>
<p>Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok… Before you start anything, it is important to take a moment to find which social media platforms are the most relevant to your target audience and field. Indeed, one of the most common mistakes new entrepreneurs make is trying to be active on all social media. Unfortunately, with time they often realize that they do not have enough time to create content for all platforms; some will have better results than others. </p>
<p>Consequently, ask yourself what would be the most relevant social media platforms. First, who is your target audience? Is it young professionals or artists? The more you know about your target audience, the more you will know which platforms to be active on.</p>
<p>Then, there is your field of activity. Some social media work better with some domains. Let us say that you are a photographer. It could be interesting to be active on social media where pictures are used, like Pinterest or Instagram. Most of the time, it is recommended to focus on only one or two platforms simultaneously.</p>
<h3>Create a professional-looking account</h3>
<p>Once you have found which social media platforms you want to use to promote your business, it is time to create professional-looking accounts and pages. Whether it is a LinkedIn or TikTok account, you must show your credibility and professionalism. </p>
<p>First, there is the profile picture. If you already have a business logo, it would be relevant to use it. If your business has your name or if you are a consultant, it could be even better to use a <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/why-do-you-need-professional-photos" target="_blank">professional photo</a> to show that you are a real person. If you decide to use a picture of yourself, remember not to use a photo with friends or from your latest vacations. </p>
<p>Furthermore, every social media platform has its specificities. For example, if you want to create an Instagram account, you must write a bio and choose a link to your website. On LinkedIn, you will have to add a cover page, while on Pinterest, you will have to create boards and write a description of your offers.</p>
<p>In sum, all social media platforms are different and need different things. Do not hesitate to work with social media strategists if you want to stand out and ensure that your accounts have everything you need to work and look professional. It is not because you use social media every day that you are an expert!</p>
<h3><strong>Share interesting content</strong></h3>
<p>You can have the best bio or the most beautiful profile picture, but without any content, it is nearly impossible to stand out and find new business opportunities. But what should you publish? In summary, try to be useful and relevant. It is not necessary to post something every day; it is better to be constant and have a specific strategy.</p>
<p>Above, we mentioned the importance of knowing your target audience well. It is even more critical when it comes to creating content. If you want to stand out from the crowd on social media, you need to be helpful or funny. Consequently, do not hesitate to share things your potential customers should find interesting.</p>
<p>If we take back our example from earlier, as a photographer, you could share your best pictures to show your know-how. You could also share tips on how to take great photos. For example, you could share different results to explain that a professional photographer will likely take better pictures than someone with a smartphone. Do not hesitate to follow other people in your field of expertise to see if there are any new trends. </p>
<h3>Be active in groups related to your field</h3>
<p>Finally, it would be a mistake to say that social media can only be used to publish content. Indeed, you need to be smart. To use platforms like Facebook, TikTok, or LinkedIn to your advantage, you also need to be active in groups related to your field. Do not hesitate to ask and answer questions, like, comment, and share content from others. Besides displaying your credibility and knowledge, you will be able to build a valuable network with time.</p>
<p>For example, there are a lot of freelancer groups on Facebook. Join them and do not hesitate to be active and help other community members. And when someone is looking for a photographer for a special event or professional photos, you can offer your services. You can do the same in groups made up of your target clientele.</p>
<p>Spending a few hours per week or month <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/5-ways-to-find-new-contracts" target="_blank">to find new contracts</a> is always important. By monitoring social media regularly, you increase your chances of understanding the needs of your potential clients better while working on your notoriety. </p>
<p>In conclusion, social media can help you find new contracts and clients. Start by targeting which platforms are most relevant for you, and then create professional-looking accounts. Following this, show what you can do and be active in different social groups. You might not have time to manage your social media. If it is the case, you can hire a <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/interview-with-a-virtual-assistant" target="_blank">virtual assistant</a> or a community manager to help you. </p>
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