We’re talking with WordPress freelancers in a new series on how to improve your business and client process.
Today we hear from Tamala Huntley. She helps coaches, experts, creatives and fellow entrepreneurs implement digital strategy with marketing funnels, online systems and automation. Tamala does the digital dirty work so her clients don’t have to.
“I don’t like ‘chasing’ people for money, so I’ve always let my systems and processes get my money for me.” -Tamala Huntley
The conversation covers vital processes, contracts and the importance of finding your niche.
What are the most important systems and processes for a freelancer to have in place?
Marketing Funnel – Freelancers should always be finding new targeted prospects and converting them into leads (which can be done on autopilot with the right marketing funnels). This helps avoid feast-or-famine mode and provides consistent cashflow. Once in the funnel they should have a follow-up process in place to turn those leads into clients.
Client Intake Process – Put this in place to make onboarding smoother and less stressful for both the freelancer and their clients. Also it makes getting paid easy and automatic. I don’t like “chasing” people for money, so I’ve always let my systems and processes get my money for me.
I know there are others, however to me, these are two of the most important because without them you have no clients and/or you’re not getting paid.
What are some lessons about working with clients that you’ve had to learn the hard way?
Always have standard procedures and a contract and stick to them. Every time I’ve gone away from my procedures or contract it’s bitten me in the butt. And I remind myself of why I had the procedures in the first place.
What do WordPress freelancers need to be doing differently today?
I would say staying true to who they are and becoming a true expert at what they do. Mastering the thing that makes them unique in a sea of “WordPress developers/designers” is what sets you apart from everyone else. So being clear about what you do differently and making sure that this is what people know about you.
Also to go along with that, not being afraid to serve a specific niche. More is not always better. Targeted, focused clients know exactly what you do and who you serve—you’ll get “found” more and you’ll get referred more.
For more from Tamala, check out our get practical interview, where she talks about her favorite tools and why she loves WordPress.