Go-To Questions for Streamlining Freelance Inquiries
As a freelancer, receiving inquiries is a routine part of the job. Someone identifies a need within their organisation and considers you as a potential solution. But how should you navigate these initial contacts? What questions should you ask to ensure the opportunity aligns with your goals and expertise?
In today's economic climate (first quarter - 2025), every inquiry is valuable. Traditional business advice often suggests meeting potential clients in person or via video call to establish a personal connection. However, this approach can be time-consuming, and not all inquiries warrant such an investment.
For instance, I recently received an email from an ad agency I hadn't worked with before. The message was brief: "Are you still freelancing? Would you be free for coffee?" There were no details about the project or the nature of the work. While building rapport is important, it's also crucial to determine the seriousness and specifics of the inquiry before committing time to meetings.
Over time, I've learned to streamline this process by asking key questions upfront. This approach helps in assessing the opportunity's relevance and ensures that both parties have a clear understanding from the outset. Here are the four questions I pose:
Project Categories: What industry or sector does this project pertain to? (e.g., automotive, tourism, etc)
On-site Requirements: How many days per week would I be required to be in the office?
Contract Duration: What is the anticipated length of the contract?
Daily Rate: What is the offered daily rate for this role?
By addressing these questions early, I can quickly determine if the opportunity aligns with my current objectives and availability. This method not only saves time but also ensures that both parties have a clear understanding of expectations from the beginning.
What questions do you find essential when evaluating new freelance opportunities?
