Virtual events are fast becoming one of the main ways that freelancers can network and market their services. With the ability to connect with a much wider audience, without the need for travel expenses and time commitments, virtual events are an ideal platform for freelancers to showcase themselves.
Freelancers have never had more digital tools at their disposal to make the freelancing life possible. From revolutionary eSIMs technology, to FinTech that makes freelance finances a breeze, there are myriad ways to succeed as a freelancer right now.
One of those ways is undoubtedly the power of the virtual event.
Here are 10 ways that freelancers can leverage the power of virtual events.
Attending virtual events
There are basically two ways that freelancers can leverage the power of virtual events: they can either attend ones that are being hosted by others, or they can host their own. Below are some of the ways that attending virtual events can help boost your career as a freelancer.
Connect with potential clients
By attending virtual events, freelancers can connect with potential clients from all over the world and build relationships that could lead to lucrative partnerships. You never know who you’re going to meet at a virtual event.
Maybe someone sees a question or comment that you make during a Q&A period and reaches out to you after because they found it insightful. Perhaps someone has a project that your skillset fits perfectly and offers you the job. Virtual events provide a great platform for networking, and it pays to take advantage of them.
Network with other professionals
Virtual events are also great for networking with other professionals in your field. This can help you gain valuable insight into industry trends, best practices, and the latest technologies. Even if you don’t connect directly with someone who could end up being a client, these professional relationships can be just as beneficial.
For example, let’s say you’re a web designer who is looking for ways to improve your UX/UI skills. By attending virtual events, you could potentially meet another web designer who has a lot of experience in that area. This person can be someone you can bounce ideas off or just ask questions about the latest tools and techniques.
Stay cutting-edge in your niche or industry
When you attend virtual events, you can also stay up-to-date on the latest trends in your niche or industry. This will help you offer more competitive services to potential clients and stand out from your competition.
You’ll have a better understanding of where the market is headed and what skill sets are most in demand. This can be particularly useful when it comes to pricing your services or reaching out to potential clients.
This is because virtual events usually have panels that include people who are at the forefront of their respective fields. They can provide valuable insight into what’s hot, what’s not, and how you can stay competitive in your niche or industry.
Expand your knowledge and skills
Attending virtual events also provides an opportunity for freelancers to learn new things. This could be anything from attending a seminar on the latest programming language to learning how to better manage your finances.
No matter what topics are covered, you’re sure to walk away with some useful insight that will help you in your freelance career. And if you’re feeling ambitious, many virtual events also offer certifications or badges of completion that you can use as a resume booster.
The benefits of hosting your own virtual events
Freelancers can also take their careers to the next level by harnessing the power of virtual events for themselves.
Take advantage of opportunities for branding and marketing
One of the best ways that freelancers can leverage the power of virtual events is by taking advantage of all the opportunities for branding and marketing. Many virtual event platforms feature chatrooms, discussion boards, and other interactive elements that can help get your name out there.
By hosting your own virtual event, you can reach a much larger audience than if you just attended someone else’s event. And if it’s successful, it could lead to even more opportunities for networking and marketing yourself down the line.
Grow and expand your online presence
Hosting a virtual event can also be one of the best ways to grow and expand your online presence. You’ll be able to reach a much wider audience than you could with just your typical social media or website campaigns.
Plus, if the event is successful, it will give you more opportunities to spread awareness about your services and build relationships with potential clients. This can be a great way to expand your business and potentially increase your income.
An especially powerful part of a virtual event is the potential for multi and cross-channel marketing that it provides. You can easily promote your event on social media, in newsletters, and even through other virtual events.
Position yourself as a thought leader
Hosting a virtual event is also a great way to position yourself as a thought leader in your niche or industry. Not only can it give you the chance to show off your expertise and knowledge, but it can also help build credibility for your business.
By hosting your own virtual events, you’ll be able to reach an even larger audience and create an even bigger impact. This can help you attract more clients, increase your income, and even open up doors to larger projects down the line.
Conclusion
Whether you’re attending them or hosting them, virtual events can be a great way for freelancers to leverage the power of networking and marketing. They can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends, network with other professionals, brand yourself, expand your online presence, and even position yourself as a thought leader in your field. So if you’re looking for ways to further your career as a freelancer, virtual events can be a great way to do so.
Take the time to research and find virtual events that match your skill set and industry, and don’t be afraid to reach out and make connections. Who knows – the next big opportunity could be just around the corner.