The Problem With Calling Yourself a Freelancer
Whenever you search for information for designers who’ve gone out on their own, you usually use the term “freelancer” or “freelancing”. The problem is that I think this attributes to a lot of the disrespect and skepticism we receive from clients. Let’s take a look at why you might want to stop calling yourself a freelancer.
When people think of the tem freelancer, it is almost synonymous with the term rogue, or loosely related to hobbyist. Let’s switch industries and go to photography for a second. When I think of a freelance photographer, I instantly think of Peter Parker, A.K.A. Spiderman, who runs around town taking pictures in hopes of selling them to the newspaper.
If you go on this premise, businesses might look at freelance designers the same way. They may have the misconception that you’re hoping to pitch your designs to them, and that they can tell you how much they will pay for them, which is not how it works.
Sometimes It’s All In The Title
I hate to say it, but most people are superficial. Titles mean everything, with the idea that your title encompasses what you do. You want something that establishes authority and expertise. You wouldn’t call yourself “Designer that kinda knows what I’m doing”. No one would ever call you to handle design or marketing for their business.
So What Should You Call Yourself?
Really, you can get as descriptive as you’d like. You could call yourself an Independent Design Consultant, a design expert, design guru, design expert, or anything else that establishes your level of prowess. Whatever you choose, business owners need to easily understand what it is that you do. Your title should give them confidence about hiring you.
Will Your Title Stop Hagglers?
Probably not, but it may reduce it. Just like when you carefully craft the right message for your clients, your own title should send the right message to potential clients. However, clients will be less likely to haggle you if you mean business. If you present yourself with confidence, combined with your title, will give the impression that you’re established, and that your rates are non-negotiable.
It’s All About Impressions
I attended a local business networking meeting this morning. I was invited by a client who is a regular attendee. She told me that I could show up in khakis and a polo and I would be fine. Even so, I showed up in my best suit, dressed to impress. Why? This morning was going to be my first impression to 30 fellow small business owners. We each get a 1-2 minute pitch session to the group, when you tell about who you are and what you do. Guess what happened when the official meeting was over? When it was time to meet and greet, people couldn’t wait to come up and grab a business card. It turns out I must have made quite an impression. Do you think that I would have gotten the same results from wearing khakis and a polo? I doubt it.
Conclusion
Everything you do should be done with a strategy in mind. Your biggest weapon is your first impression and your expertise. Dressing to impress and a professional title not only helps build your own confidence, it builds confidence in your abilities with other businesses.
Did you stop calling yourself a freelancer? Did you receive better results and more respect from clients? I’d love to hear what you think. Please share your stories in the comments section below.
