Tools to market your telecommuting services

Telecommuting is simply working for your employer at home. Telecommuters receive a regular paycheck and all of the benefits associated with working for someone else. So why would someone need to market their telecommuting services?

As a telecommuter you may find there is a demand for your skills. Whether you write marketing copy, are a bookkeeper, data entry, transcriptionist or any number of other telecommuting positions, there are companies looking for someone to do exactly what you’re doing. Letting those companies know you’re available to take on extra work can mean the creation of both a rewarding side business and extra income.

So how do you find those potential customers? Here are three tools you can use to spread the word:

Brochures and sales letters. Many organizations and associations will rent membership lists to business owners. To generate extra income and build a side business, find a list and send a brochure or letter to members introducing your services. For example, if you’re a bookkeeper for a corporation, you could send a letter to small businesses selling your bookkeeping services.

Website. A website is a valuable tool because it is something people can use to find you rather than you pounding the pavement to find extra work – like you have time for that! Your website can be listed at the bottom of emails, when you network online, and on your business card. Keep plenty of cards with you at all times so you can be sure to have one when someone asks, “What do you do for a living?”

Business card. While you may already have a business card from your employer, you don’t want to hand that one out when you’re looking for extra work. Instead, create a business card that lists your name, website, email and/or phone number and your title or business. For example if you’re a bookkeeper your business card would say: Janet Smith – Bookkeeping services. A slogan is nice too because it tells people in a quick sentence what the benefit is to hire you.

Janet Smith – Bookkeeping services
“The easy way to manage your books”

Networking. Networking is quite possibly one of the best ways to build your business and bring in some extra income. Networking doesn’t just happen to be joining the local chamber of commerce, though that is a great place to start, networking online can be quite effective too. Find organizations, blogs, chat rooms and forums that are relevant to your business and start meeting people. Networking means supporting each other. Ask questions, answer questions and enjoy the process. As you meet people and relationships develop opportunities will present themselves. One quick note, as you join networking sites, make sure to include your website and contact information in your signature so customers can find you when they need you.

Telecommuting is a fantastic way to have the best of both worlds, you have the ability to work from home and be with your family and you have the security of a regular paycheck. Telecommuting also works quite well as an introduction into the freelance world. You can use your experience, connections, and skills to broaden your bank account and your possibilities.