How Video Can Help You Promote Your Freelance Services

The freelance world is becoming increasingly competitive. As more and more people go into business for themselves, it's harder than ever to make yourself stand out above the crowd. It's not enough to have the talent — you have to know how to market yourself. Not just to draw in clients, but to grow a loyal audience.

But, creating an effective marketing strategy can take time. Your marketing strategy must be impactful and distinctive enough to position you as an industry expert in your niche. While it may be tempting to just copy what other freelancers are doing, that can actually do more harm than good.

Instead of following the crowd, determine what sets you apart from other freelancers, and use it to your advantage. How you promote your freelance services plays a role in this. Most freelancers, no matter their industry or niche, rely on a few key things to showcase their business:

• referrals
• content marketing
• social media
• testimonials

With the exception of referrals, these things are commonly done through written content. Video content for freelancers is still underused, even though it's a highly effective method.

Sure, video content seems like it works best for certain kinds of freelance businesses, most of which fall into the “creative” category. Think photographers, filmmakers, graphic designers, etc.

The truth is, there are no limits to what you can do with video, and your imagination is the only thing holding you back. No matter what your profession, video content is a fantastic way to promote your services, find job opportunities, and distinguish yourself in a crowded marketplace. Here are five ways to use video to promote your freelance services.

Create a Video Reel

One of the key elements of finding success as a freelancer is to have a website and portfolio that showcases your business. A well-curated portfolio highlights their best and most successful work.

For freelance writers, it contains print and digital written content. Photographers share photo galleries. Graphic designers often use design packets coupled with case studies.

Portfolios are rarely in video form. Find a way to use video to your advantage to create a unique portfolio that showcases your talent and stands out from other freelancers.

Go Behind the Scenes

Film a short video taking your audience behind the scenes of your day-to-day life as a freelancer. This shows potential clients the brilliant work you do, as well as the hard work and planning that goes into it. In turn, you become more credible in their eyes because it shows your dedication to what you do. It also shows a bit of personality and does wonders in distinguishing you from other freelancers.

Personalized Outreach

In addition to attracting new leads, video content for freelancers can be used to nurture existing client relationships. It also allows you to take traditional marketing methods, like email, to a new level. Embed a video in an email to your list, offering a tip or even an industry update. When pitching a client, a video proposal can create a visual connection and make it easier for them to see the big picture or think long term.

Whether sending personalized content to a current client or using it to reel in a new one, video content is a great way for freelancers to make a lasting impression.

Live Q&A Sessions

Increase your exposure and establish yourself as an expert in your field by hosting a live Q&A session about your industry or niche. This can be done very simply on services like YouTube or Instagram Live. Another option is to utilize Instagram's story feature to share tips and messages with your audience. Freelance writers that do a really great job of this are Ashlyn Carter and Kat Boogaard.

Record Video Testimonials

When a client is happy with the work you’ve produced, don’t just grab a snappy quote to put on your website. Take it one step further and ask them if they'd be willing to make a quick, 30-second testimonial video. Not every client will want to, but if you can get one or two to share the value your work has brought to them in a video that's great.

If your clients are local, consider working with a video production company to take some of the pressure off of them or compile content to create a professional-looking video.

Parting Thoughts

Video content for freelancers can be pretty valuable when used correctly. When it comes to promoting your freelance services, video creates an additional way to share your expertise and tell your brand story — both of which resonate with potential clients. To recap, here is how freelancers can use video to promote their services:

1. Create a video reel to give your portfolio an edge.
2. Share behind the scenes content that gives your audience a glimpse of your day-to-day.
3. Use video to hook new clients and improve your existing client's experience through personalized video messages.
4. Host live Q&A sessions to establish yourself as an industry authority and engage with your audience.
5. Create compelling video testimonials to boost your credibility.

At the end of the day, there are so many ways to use video to promote your freelance services. Whatever method you use, you will undoubtedly find that it helps you stand out, build exposure, and land new business opportunities.

Adding video to your marketing strategy doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg either. Most modern smartphones have high-quality cameras that are more than up to the task.

Have you tried using video to promote your freelance services? Share your experience and tips in the comments!