A few days ago, there was content that was being discussed a lot on LinkedIn. There was a brand that was promoting the SEO specialist class, but unfortunately, the content uploaded for the promotional material does not contain the latest information.
Soon, the content received some expert attention from LinkedIn members. While other members questioned why the brand's content team did not first clarify the content to the SEO class teachers that the brand was promoting.
When reading the criticism and suggestions in this thread, I wondered: do the copywriters or content writers at the brand lack the skill of minding client business?
Minding client’s business, must-have soft skills for freelancers
Years ago, when X was still called Twitter, I diligently followed threads of freelancing tips from senior freelancers. There is one thread that I use as a reference in my current career. This thread discusses the soft skills that a freelancer must have, one of which is minding client's business.
Understanding the client's business needs is very important because it helps the freelancer build the client's trust and strengthens the credibility of the freelancer's abilities or skills.
By understanding customer needs, freelancers can provide more appropriate and relevant solutions, which will ultimately increase client satisfaction and loyalty.
I myself interpret minding the client's business as a sense of ownership of the business. This means that when I work for a client, I am actually representing that client's business.
Of course it doesn't mean I'm "selling" and "serving" my self. But, I need to behave carefully so that what I do (including creating content) will not harm my clients' businesses.
Take a mistake in creating the content above, for example.
A content creator who understands the client's needs will have a checklist before the content is published. He understands that the content he creates is one of the spearheads of a client's business continuity; therefore, checking and rechecking the accuracy and relevance of the content is mandatory.
Whether you realize it or not, a business is actually not just about one person; there are many people who depend on the continuity of the business. So, it would be very wise of us to pay attention to the way we work so as not to "hurt" those who depend on the business.
How to cultivate the skill of minding clients' business needs
Minding a client's business skills is not an independent skill. There are several soft skills needed for a freelancer to be able to develop these skills well.
Some of these skills are
1. Communication: Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing, are needed to understand client needs, provide solutions and answer questions kindly and patiently.
2. Empathy: A freelancer should be able to see things from the client's perspective and understand what the client is experiencing.
Problem solving: To be able to understand a client's needs, a freelancer needs to be able to identify the client's problems and develop effective solutions. Freelancers must be able to think creatively and find ways to help clients achieve their goals.
3. Building good relationships: A freelancer will benefit greatly if he is able to build good relationships with clients. This ability will help freelancers build trust and mutual respect when working together.
4. Teamwork: Understanding a client's business needs often cannot be done alone. Often, business needs can only be met with teamwork. For this reason, we need to be able to work together with other people effectively and contribute to the team in a positive way.
How to apply minding client's business skills as a freelancer
Minding a client's business involves a deep understanding of the client's industry, business goals, challenges they face, and opportunities that can be exploited.
As a freelancer, we can apply this concept by:
1. Understand the client's needs: Take the time to truly understand the client's needs and expectations.
Ask relevant questions and listen carefully to the client's wishes. If necessary, do double checking by providing a summary of the client's needs in your own language.
2. Open and clear communication: Make sure to maintain open and clear communication channels with clients.
Convey information clearly, respond quickly to their questions and requests, and ensure clients feel heard and prioritized.
It would also be better to provide a clear time when friends can be contacted to avoid miscommunication.
3. Provide innovative solutions:
If possible, propose new ideas or approaches that could increase the value and effectiveness of the project. This will show that friends are actively involved and trying to provide added value.
4. Maintain long-term relationships: It is not just about completing one project, but it is also important to build long-term relationships with clients.
Maintain regular communication, ask about their next project or future needs, and show your friends an interest in collaborating further. This can help strengthen client loyalty and provide ongoing employment opportunities.
5. Good customer service: Respond to any questions or concerns they may have, provide regular updates on project progress, and make sure they feel supported and appreciated.
6. Evaluation and feedback: After completing work with the client, evaluate the project. Ask clients for feedback on your performance and find out if there are areas that can be improved. This will help you to continue to hone your skills and improve your services in the future.
By applying the client business minded concept, you can build a good reputation as a freelancer who cares and is oriented towards client needs. This can help you get better references and job opportunities in the future.
It is important to note that minding a client's business is not just about providing good service, but also about understanding the client's business thoroughly, trying to be a reliable partner, and actively contributing to the success of the client's business.
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