Cyberattacks on businesses are on the rise. An IMF study found that the number of cyberattacks has doubled since the pandemic. Some have suffered modest losses, whereas others have experienced a much heavier toll.
Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report revealed that the median cost per ransomware attack has more than doubled in the last two years to $26,000. Due to the rising cyber threats, the demand for cybersecurity professionals is at an all-time high.
While there are 3.5 million unfilled positions, working as a full-time cybersecurity professional is stressful and can lead to burnout. That may be why many professionals are turning to freelance work. Your success as a freelance cybersecurity professional, however, depends on the number of clients you can attract.
It might appear overwhelming, but there are several strategies that will help you grow your client base. Here, we’ll discuss some of them.
#1 Leverage Professional Networks
One effective way to get clients as a freelance cybersecurity professional is networking. Making connections with fellow professionals will be beneficial since they can refer you to clients when their schedule gets too busy. You might receive referrals if a client requires expertise outside a fellow cybersecurity professional’s scope and you specialize in that.
The International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2) and the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) are reputable organizations for networking. Join any one, and you will be able to access industry events, exclusive job boards, and local chapter meetings, providing ample opportunities to connect with potential clients and peers.
You must also attend webinars and industry conferences. These will help you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies while meeting professionals who may require your services.
If you work remotely, look for virtual events. Also, engage actively in online forums, LinkedIn groups, and cybersecurity communities. Share insights, answer questions, and participate in discussions to showcase your expertise. All this will help increase your chances of gaining referrals, recommendations, and new client opportunities.
#2 Build a Robust Online Presence
Rio SEO’s 2022 Local Search Consumer Behavior Study revealed that nearly three-quarters—74%—of consumers use Google Search or Maps to find information about businesses in their area. This underscores the critical importance of having a strong online presence.
A professional yet user-friendly website that clearly outlines your services, showcases client testimonials and provides easy contact options is a must-have. Hence, get one designed for your sole proprietor business.
Creating a website is no longer limited to professional expertise. AI-powered website builders have streamlined the process of website creation. You can build your website without design or coding skills using AI tools.
One of the significant benefits of using AI for website creation, Hocoos explains, is reduced cost and time. As a freelance cybersecurity professional, you may not have the time to design a custom website from scratch. You will probably not have the budget to hire a developer. But with AI website builders, you create an engaging site replete with content, images, and videos at a significantly low cost.
Once your website is created, optimize it for search engines by incorporating relevant keywords, high-quality content, and meta tags. This will help your site rank higher in search results, making it easier for potential clients to find you.
Create your profile on Google My Business and optimize the listing so that it appears whenever people search for cybersecurity professionals. Make sure your profile includes accurate contact information, business hours, and a detailed description of your services. Also, encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews, as this can improve your ranking and attract more potential clients.
#3 Use Freelance Platforms
Clients who prefer hiring freelancers often look for them on freelance platforms such as Freelancer, Upwork, and Toptal. Create an account in one or all of these platforms to gain clients. You will be able to connect with businesses that are actively seeking your expertise, providing a steady stream of potential job opportunities.
When you create an account, showcase your skills, certifications, and experience. To build credibility, include a professional photo and detailed descriptions of past projects. Also, highlight any specialized services you offer, such as data protection or penetration testing.
Browse the platform regularly for job postings and apply to relevant ones. Tailor each proposal to address the client’s specific needs and pain points. Emphasize how your expertise can solve their problems and protect their systems. Be concise and professional in your communication to stand out among other applicants.
Also, deliver high-quality work to your clients and ask them to leave positive reviews and ratings. This can significantly boost your profile’s visibility and attractiveness to future clients.
To sum things up, growing your client base as a freelance cybersecurity professional when so many are already there on the field might seem like a challenge. However, these tips can help you attract and retain more clients, so implement them.
Other than that, offering free consultations and creating high-quality content can help you get more clients. Testimonials and referrals from satisfied clients can also enhance your reputation. Try getting them, too.