Welcome to Monday Morning Freelance — your Monday morning bit of freelance fun that you can enjoy with your first cup of coffee! (Because who doesn’t want to put off that project just a biiiit longer?)

Let’s connect!

• Threads

• X (Twitter?)

• TikTok

• LinkedIn

Are you showing up authentically for your clients?

I’ve been having some end-of-year meetings with some of my long-term retainer clients.

You know, those chats where you reflect on the work you’ve done, where the client’s at in their own business, and how you can set one another up for success in the year ahead.

A comment a client recently made struck me unexpectedly: “You know, I just love chatting with you. You have a charisma that’s so fun.”

Well, hey now. I haven’t ever thought of myself as having “charisma”!

I know I’m “nice” in my partnerships, but I don’t often think about my presence beyond the professional.

That comment got me thinking, though: What if we all showed up for our clients with more of ourselves?

What if instead of hiding behind a “professional demeanor” or the technical aspects of what we do, we let our natural personalities shine through in the work? Even the quirky parts?

I think my client felt I was being genuine and authentic with them, and that’s what they responded to.

Sure, I deliver quality content, on time, with a bit of extra editorial work on the top.

But it’s me that they enjoy working with.

You Are More Than Your Deliverables

And I think we often forget that in freelancing. We are more than the projects we deliver or the value we offer. We are human beings with hopes, dreams, and emotions.

When we take the time to really be present, with all of ourselves—the good, the bad, and everything in between—I think that’s when our clients get the most out of our work.

They can see us as real people who understand their struggles and share similar experiences. They can feel like they are building an actual relationship.

That’s why I focus on not just providing great service and results, but also connecting with my clients in a meaningful way.

Taking the time to understand their vision for the project, hearing what they have to say about it, offering advice if needed—all of this helps build a strong foundation for our partnership.

Using Relationships to Bring Joy To Work

At the end of the day, our goal is to make sure they come away with a great experience that leaves them feeling satisfied and confident in their decision.

Knowing that the work we do together not only helps them achieve their goals but also gives us the opportunity to create something beautiful together—that’s what it’s all about.

So here’s my challenge to you, fellow freelancer: How can you create a valuable, personal connection with your clients so that you can form a great partnership?

Sure, at the end of the day the invoice needs to be paid and the project needs to get done, but think of it as an opportunity to build something lasting—an experience that will have just as many positive effects for you as it does for your clients.

The result? A work relationship that leads to more projects and, eventually, a deeper understanding of each other’s needs. And that creates a valuable, enriching experience for you both.

Make It Personal, Make It Worthwhile

I believe that when we focus on creating connections, we can build amazing things together—and make the world a better place in the process.

So let’s take this opportunity to create something meaningful! Let’s come together and build relationships that are mutually beneficial.

Let’s turn every gig into a chance to foster collaboration, cultivate trust and create something unique. With this approach, I believe that everyone can benefit—and everybody wins.

May your coffee be strong, and your deadlines be few.

Want to connect?

• Threads

• X (Twitter?)

• TikTok

• LinkedIn