Struggling to stay connected with clients in today’s unpredictable freelance world? In the latest episode of The Freelancers Tea Break, Emma Cossey shares smart, simple strategies to follow up effectively – whether it’s checking in with past clients or keeping the momentum after discovery calls. Discover how thoughtful follow-up can help you pivot, stay visible, and build lasting relationships in a competitive market. Don’t miss these game-changing tips to boost your freelance success!
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Prefer to read it? Here are the main points!
As freelancers, we often focus on the big, shiny things – our services, our branding, or even new platforms to be visible on. But sometimes, the simplest actions can have the biggest impact. One of those actions? Following up.
This month on the Freelancers’ Tea Break podcast, I’ve been sharing practical tips to help you review and refresh your freelance business in these strange times. We’ve already covered reviewing your offers, discovery calls, and visibility. To wrap up the series, let’s talk about why following up could be the missing piece in your client strategy.
Why Following Up Matters
It’s easy to assume that if clients want more work from you, they’ll just get in touch. But life happens – emails get buried, tasks get rolled over, people feel guilty for not replying. That’s where a thoughtful follow-up makes all the difference.
Here are two key areas to focus on:
1. Following Up With Previous Clients
Simple check-ins: A quick message three months after finishing a project – “How’s everything going with [project]?” – keeps the relationship warm.
Offer support: Let them know your upcoming availability and ask if they need help with anything.
Request testimonials: A natural way to reconnect while also boosting your credibility.
Client-only newsletters: Share useful updates in your area of expertise. This adds value while subtly reminding clients of how you can help.
2. Following Up After Discovery Calls
Send a recap email: Summarise what was discussed and share any resources.
Offer a gentle nudge: Suggest a check-in in a couple of weeks, especially if you know they might struggle with overwhelm or ADHD.
Set a next step: Propose a follow-up call or pitch meeting a week later.
Keep it light: A polite “just checking if you’ve got any questions” feels supportive, not salesy.
Remember: following up doesn’t mean spamming. It’s about staying visible, building trust, and giving people a chance to say yes when they’re ready.
Your Action Steps This Week
Review how you currently follow up with past and potential clients.
Decide on one simple system (like a calendar reminder or CRM tool) to keep track of it.
Draft a friendly follow-up template you can easily reuse.
Small, intentional follow-ups can turn missed opportunities into repeat clients and stronger relationships.
Do you have a system for following up with clients? Is it working for you, or does it need a refresh? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Come join the conversation in the Freelance Lifestylers Facebook group or over on Discord – both free and full of supportive freelancers navigating the same challenges.
Until next time, have a wonderful freelance week – and remember, the fortune really is in the follow-up.
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