How to Source For Clients as an Artisan
Knowing where to source for clients to build steady income can sometimes be a hard nut to crack. Below are a few tips on how to build a steady pipeline of clients.
1. Referrals
One of the most common ways to obtain new clients is through referrals. When working with clients, politely request that they refer you to family or friends who may require your services. Remember that in order for your existing clients to refer you, your work and character must be right. It is not always enough to be good at what you do; your personality is also important. Many artisans have lost customers due to poor behavior. This is why it's a good idea to supplement your technical skills with soft skills like effective communication, emotional intelligence, managing customer expectations, and so on. Institutions like OPL Academy provide these soft skills training. Clients will only recommend you to a friend or family member if they are pleased with the quality of your work and the manner in which you treat them. Furthermore, if a client's family or friends see your work, they may contact you to request for the same job.
2. Use Social Media Wisely
Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and others are excellent places to market your service. Post photos or videos of your work or work processes to demonstrate your capacity to potential clients. Make use of social media to build your portfolio.
3. Offer discounts
Learn to appreciate your current or first-time customers by providing a discount on your service. Despite the fact that the economy is bad and inflation is on the rise, offering small discounts to your clients and other potential customers can go a long way toward retaining them and attracting new customers. Many people like “awoof” so you can use that to your advantage.
4. Networking
Connect with artisans from a variety of trades. Clients of these artisans may occasionally request that they refer an artisan of a different trade to get a job done. Additionally, take advantage of events to market your services. Introduce yourself and what you do to start a conversation. For instance, "Hello, my name is Bolaji, and I am a plumber." This way, if that person has a plumbing problem, you will be remembered. Learn to interact with a variety of people, whether they are gatekeepers, drivers, or gardeners. You never know where your next referral is going to come from.
5. Partnerships
Some organizations, such as LaborHack, hire artisans for gig jobs and construction projects. Joining platforms like LaborHack can provide you with more job opportunities. You can also collaborate with artisans from various trades. For instance, as a mason, you can collaborate with a plumber. If the plumber needs to break through a wall to get to a leaking pipe, he might ask you, the mason, to rebuild it.
Keep in mind that sourcing for clients is a continuous process that demands consistency.
References
Photo source: Photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash