7 Steps to a Successful Freelance Query

How can you quickly get and keep the attention of a prospective client? Managers who have freelance work to dole out are busy, trust me. I used to be one of them, and I had the opportunity to handle quite a few freelance queries. It’s a process that a lot of folks may enjoy—I know I did—but the fact is that they simply don’t have a lot of time to dedicate to it.

If it occurs to you that the above sample isn’t heading in the best possible direction, you’re on the right track. Here’s an approach to making your one shot count with a potential client.

1. Do your research. Locate companies that may be able to use your particular set of skills, experience, and topical interests. Learn everything you can about a company before you query. Know what the organization produces, and determine how you might fit into the equation.
2. Answer the extra credit question. Identify the position or title of the person who does the hiring for the task you wish to fill. If possible, learn his or her name too, and address the letter directly. The recipient will appreciate that.
3. Get to the point. Introduce yourself simply, and concisely state the type of work you seek. Be specific—it’s often best if you don’t cast too wide a net. Inquiring about more than one type of duty at the outset may dilute your message and make the reader wonder what your agenda really is. 
4. Target your message. Briefly state the value you bring to the table, applying your skills and interests directly to the client’s needs. Recently, I wrote about identifying and following your passions—right now is a good time to show exactly how yours align with those of your potential client.
5. Briefly summarize your qualifications. Your résumé, Web site or LinkedIn profile are a separate deal. So don’t rehash the info here. Instead hit a highlight or two to help the busy recipient decide quickly which file your query goes in—manilla or circular. Details may be reviewed in depth later.
6. Wrap up by thanking the reader for his or her time.
7. Take the time to proofread everything you are about to send. Very carefully. Whenever I received a query with a typo in it, guess which file it went into.

A final note: When you write, be more than straightforward. Be genuine. Your passion for what you can bring to the table is what will shine through and make that person want to work with you.

Do you have any tips to share? Thoughts on what’s worked for you in the past? Success stories? Failures? I’d also love to hear from anyone else who’s had experience responding to freelance queries.