Aptly named Good Wrighting, Amanda Wright started her freelancing journey in search of more flexibility for her growing family. Amanda thoroughly loves the art of words, and you can feel this in the way she writes.
So have a kit kat and a brew, and dig in to Amanda’s interview.
What is your name and what do you do?
My name is Amanda Wright, and I’m a freelance content writer and proofreader. I help clients pull their bullet points, ideas, and thoughts together into something that makes sense and does precisely what they need it to! From web copy to blogs and e-shots, I like to think I keep clients’ content calendars full and flowing.
How long have you been freelancing and why did you decide to become a freelancer?
I’ve been freelancing for an incredible six years now. At the time, deciding to become a freelancer was a no-brainer….I had just had my second daughter, and the company I worked for tried to be as flexible as possible, but for me, it still wasn’t enough, and I knew my heart wasn’t in it. I wanted to be around the kids (I know, crazy, right?!) and still be me – so Good Wrighting was born, and I jumped headfirst into the freelancing arena.
What strategy do you find most effective for attracting new clients?
Obviously, being good at what you do helps, but I find being friendly and being you is the most effective and best way to attract new clients.
In the world of freelancing, word of mouth and personal referrals can be everything. And it is 100% true that people buy from people, turning to those that have been recommended by people they trust, so building up relationships with clients and showing them how great your work is and how good you are is the best way to land more work.
But you have to ask for referrals, testimonials, and reviews. I’ve learnt that you really can’t be a shy freelancer, and for all, it is completely out of my comfort zone; asking for that testimonial or referral is a must if you want repeat and new business.
What app or social media platform could you not run your business without, and why?
LinkedIn is a great platform to connect, stay in touch, and stay up to date. It provides a lot of food for thought and some great groups of like-minded people to join and be part of the conversation. I also find it a great place to learn and pick up new ideas.
(I’m also very nosy, so LinkedIn is a great distraction sometimes).
Do you research prospects before a call or meeting? If so, what information do you look for?
A little. I like to know who it is I’m talking to. Do they have similar interests and values to me? This is really important as I need to know we’re going to get along, that the client feels they can be open and honest with me, and I can get the information I need to create great copy.
I’ll look at how they run their business, will I be working with them or their team members. What problems are they currently facing, and how can I help to plug the gap.
What do you do to help maintain positive mental wellbeing?
I run! Whenever I feel slightly overwhelmed, or I just can’t find the words, and staring at a blank page for too long is driving me crazy, I go for a run. Well, it’s more like a slow jog, but it gets me out and completely changes my mood and thinking.
I also walk my dogs and, if I’m honest, find dog walkers to be some of the friendliest and chattiest people around, so there is always someone to talk to about something completely unrelated to work. This distraction is often just what I need and can sometimes provide clarity and a solution to the problem I have been struggling with!
Is being a freelancer what you expected? Do you work more hours (or less) than you had first anticipated?
Yes and no.
Now there’s a definitive answer for you!
It is what I expected in that I get to work with some great people, and I can work the hours that best suit my family and me. However, what I sometimes fail to remember is, as well as the content writer and proofreader, I am also the accountant, marketing executive, sales team, administrator, finance department, and more. There is a lot more to being a freelancer than simply doing the parts you love.
I also work more hours than I first anticipated, but it never feels like more as I still manage my time flexibly, achieving everything I want to do that day and sometimes more.
What are the most common objections you’ve had from potential clients? How did/do you overcome them?
Pricing. Some clients always try to knock you down on price, and in the beginning, I would let them, believing that it was a way to get my foot in the door, secure further work, etc. But that should never be the case. I’ve learnt my value and stick to my guns (a little) when it comes to fees. Don’t get me wrong; it’s still always hard when a client chooses not to work with you over price, but stand firm and know your worth!
Have you ever turned a prospect away? If so, why and how did you do it?
Yes, and it was awful. Not because they wouldn’t accept no for an answer but because I’m a people pleaser, so I hate saying no. However, on this occasion, I knew what was being asked I didn’t feel comfortable working on, and I wouldn’t have given it my all as a result, and then no one would be happy. So I simply replied to the person in question, explaining that I didn’t think I was the right fit for the job, and pointed them toward a couple of agencies who might be better suited to meet their needs. They thanked me, and we moved on!
What do (would) you do when a client ghosts you?!
Cry. Ha-ha. No, obviously, being ghosted isn’t nice, but unfortunately, it is part of freelancing, and for some reason, businesses and clients think it is acceptable to do. I think you have to drop a polite final email and close it off on your end. That way, you haven’t been rude, you have acknowledged the fact you have been ghosted, and you can move on. I mean, if a client does ghost you, they’re not really a good client for you.
Are your motivations now the same as they were when you started freelancing?
Yes, 100%. My motivation for freelancing was to continue doing what I love and help people who don’t have the time, skill, or patience to produce high-quality content regularly. So whether I’m creating copy so a client’s website can go live, writing blogs and posts to help keep content flowing online, or maybe I’m there to plug the content writing gap during a hectic period (or holiday season), and you need another pair of hands, my motivation to help others has never changed.
What is it about being a freelancer that you most enjoy?
The freedom. I’m not tied or bound to a desk or set hours; I don’t have to put holiday forms in or ring my boss and peg my nose to pull a sicky (I’ve never really done this if you’re reading this, Tim….honest). Instead, if I don’t feel up to it that morning, I can go for a walk, pop out for some retail therapy and then come back to it when I’m ready and feeling more creative and productive.
I also get to meet and work alongside some incredible creatives and like-minded people.
What do you enjoy the least about being a freelancer?
The admin side. Keeping on top of invoicing, accounts, and chasing payments is always a side that I will never enjoy, but it is a necessary must!
What one thing do you wish you had known before you became a freelancer?
There are clients/people out there who will take advantage of your services, and there are people out there just like you who will support you and help build you up. You have to find your people – like Freelance Heroes!
What is your ONE top tip or piece of advice you would offer to other freelancers?
Be you.
You can connect with Amanda on LinkedIn and by email: [email protected]
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