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  • Writer's pictureJeanne and James Bellew

The Do’s and Don’ts of Client-Centric Writing for Freelancers (and any business communication)



Hi!


In online talent marketplaces, your profile and proposals are your primary tools for attracting and engaging clients.

 

Adopting a client-centric approach in your writing can make all the difference. Here's how you can master the dos and don'ts of client-centric writing to stand out and secure more projects.



The Importance of Client-Centric Writing

 

Being client-centric means focusing on the client's needs, preferences, and goals. It means not writing about yourself because nobody is interested in you—they're interested in how you can help them—brutal honesty.

 

The opportunity to help is the beginning of building a connection and trust for continued work. Without the connection and trust, there is no future.

 

Thinking from a client-centric perspective involves understanding their concerns (for the sake of what), challenges, and desired outcomes and showing how you can provide the help they need.

 

This approach builds trust, fosters long-term relationships, and increases client satisfaction.



The Don'ts of Client-Centric Writing

 

To avoid common mistakes in your profile, proposals, or any written communication, steer clear of these mistakes:

 

 

Starting a sentence with "I."

 

Don't: Begin sentences with "I" or focus excessively on yourself.

 

Example: 

 

"I am an experienced …"

"I have a strong background…"

"I have extensive knowledge in…"

"I am skilled in…"

"I am proficient in…"

 

 

✅ Boasting Without Context

 

Don't: List your achievements without connecting them to the client's needs.

 

Examples: 

 

"I have won several..."

"I am an expert in…"

"I have completed numerous successful projects…"

"I have extensive experience in…"

 

 

✅ Ignoring Client's Keywords

 

Don't: Fail to use the keywords and phrases that the client uses in their job description.

 

Example: Overlooking the client's mention of "SEO optimization" in their job post.

 

  • Don't: "I will write engaging content for your website."


  • Do: "Enhancing your website's visibility with SEO-optimized content that attracts more visitors is my goal."

 

Example: Overlooking the client's focus on "social media strategy."

 

  • Don't: "I can help you with your online presence."


  • Do: "Boost your brand's online presence with a tailored social media strategy designed to engage your audience."

 

Example: Disregarding the client's emphasis on "user-friendly design."

 

  • Don't: "I will design your website."


  • Do: "Create an engaging user experience with a user-friendly design that keeps visitors returning."



✅ Overlooking Client's Needs

 

Don't: Ignore the job post's specific needs and pain points.

 

Example: Not addressing the client's need for a quick turnaround time.

 

  • Don't: "I can start working on your project soon."


  • Do: "The urgency of your project is clear, and I can deliver high-quality results within the required timeframe."

 

Example: Disregarding the client's mention of budget constraints.

 

  • Don't: "Here is my standard rate for this project."


  • Do: "Excellent results will be delivered within your budget without compromising quality."


Example: Ignoring the client's request for a collaborative approach.


  • Don't: "I will handle everything and let you know once it's done."


  • Do: "Collaboration is my strong suit, and I ensure the project will align with your vision and goals."



The Do's of Client-Centric Writing

 

To engage clients effectively, focus on these best practices:

 

 

✅ Use Client-Focused Language

 

  • Do: Highlight what you can do for the client.


  • Example: "With my ability to build engaging, responsive websites, businesses attract and retain more customers."

 

 

✅ Connect Your Skills to Client's Needs

 

  • Do: Demonstrate how your skills and experience can solve the client's problems.


  • Example: "My experience in SEO optimization will improve your website's visibility and drive more traffic."

 

 

✅ Reflect the Client's Language and Keywords

 

Do: Mirror the language and keywords used in the job description to show understanding.

 

  • Example: If the client mentions "boosting user engagement," use this phrase in your proposal, not what you think they're saying.


  • Do: My writing will be tailored to your voice and audience to meet your desired outcome of boosting user engagement.

 

*Note on Algorithms: Using the right keywords shows the client you understand their needs and helps you appear in search results.

 

Online platforms use algorithms to match freelancers with clients, and using the right keywords increases your chances of being seen.



✅ Provide Specific Solutions

 

Do: Tailor your proposal to address the specific requirements and pain points mentioned in the job post.

 

  • Example: If the client mentions their deadline, address it.


  • Do: "You can count on me to complete your website redesign within two weeks, ensuring a quick turnaround time as requested."

 

 

✅ Use Relevant Case Studies

 

  • Do: Share examples of past work directly relevant to the client's project (a proof point).


  • Example: "In my previous project, my client's website traffic increased by 50% through targeted SEO strategies."

 

Using relevant case studies demonstrates your expertise and proves your ability to deliver results, further solidifying your value to potential clients.

 

By incorporating these strategies, you can ensure your writing is professional and aligned with the client's needs and expectations.

 

 

A Final Thought


Mastering the art of client-centric writing is essential for success in online talent marketplaces and any business communication.


By focusing your writing on the client's needs, preferences, and goals, you build a foundation of trust that can lead to client satisfaction and continued work.


Remember, it's not about you but how you can help the client. Avoid the mistakes of self-centered writing. Instead, connect your skills to the client's needs, use their language, and provide specific solutions. This approach will set you apart from the competition and increase your visibility and appeal in the eyes of both clients and platform algorithms.


Using these best practices is an excellent start, but there is much more to learn and master. If you're ready to take your freelancing career to the next level and truly excel in client-centric communication, I can help.


Stay inspired!


Jeanne ✌🏻❤️

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