Client MIA? Turn Ghosting into a Growth Opportunity

Being ghosted by a client is not a good feeling, but it's a common experience in the freelancing world. Here's how to navigate it and bounce back.

It's a familiar scenario: you've put in the work, invested time, sent the proposal, maybe even started the project, and then... then... then...no reply. Your client has vanished into thin air, leaving you wondering what went wrong. While it's easy to get caught up in frustration or self-doubt, getting ghosted is often less about you and more about a client's changing priorities, internal issues, or simply poor communication skills.

Why It Happens (and Why It's Not Always You)

Clients ghost for a variety of reasons that often have nothing to do with your work quality:

• Budget changes: Their financial situation may have changed unexpectedly.

• Restructuring: New management or staff changes can slow projects.

• They are not that ready: The project might have grown beyond their initial vision, or they realized they weren't ready.

• Poor communication: Some people just aren't good at delivering bad news or closing out projects.

• They got another option: Sometimes, another provider might have offered a different solution, most of the time, cheaper option.

Moving On and Landing Your Next Gig

While it stings, dwelling on a ghosting won't help you or your business. Here's how to move on and quickly secure your next job offer:

1. A Gentle Follow-Up

Don't spam them, but one last polite, non-pushy email can sometimes work wonders. Focus on being respectful and clear about your purpose. Keep it concise and open-ended. Something like:

"Hi [Client Name],

Just checking in on the [Project Name] project. I haven't heard back and wanted to ensure my last message didn't get lost. Please let me know if there's been any change on your end. If you're no longer proceeding, I completely understand.

Best regards, [Your Name]"

Give them a few days. If there's still no response, it's time to let go.

2. Re-assess and Learn  

Take a moment to “objectively” review your interactions. Did you miss any red flags? Was your communication clear? Is there information that is not set clearly?  It is best also to shift your perspective and not dwell much on self-doubt. This isn't about blaming yourself, but about identifying any areas for improvement in your process for future clients.

3. Improve Your Client Pipeline

It’s best always to review your client list. Never rely on just one or two potential clients. Continuously network, market your services, be flexible, and have multiple leads in your pipeline. This way, if one falls through, you've got others to pursue. Diversify not only your clients. Never give up on networking. Be visible on platforms such as LinkedIn, conferences, freelance marketplaces, events, and even referrals.

4. Outreach and Network

Reach out to past clients, colleagues, and connections. Let them know you're available for new projects. Referrals are often the quickest path to new opportunities. Update your LinkedIn profile and relevant online portfolios to reflect your latest skills and availability. Build a strong online presence.

5. Upgrade Your Skills & Portfolio

Your greatest asset is your skillset. Use this downtime to your advantage. Take an online course, masterclasses, update your portfolio with your best work, or create new samples that showcase skills you want to highlight. A stronger portfolio makes you more attractive to potential clients.

6. Improve Your Outreach Strategy

Are your proposals engaging and client magnet? Is your initial outreach clear and direct? Perhaps this is the ideal opportunity to refine your approach and make a stronger first impression. Focus on the value you bring to potential clients. Always check on what their needs are and offer solutions and options. Every client has pain points; what are they dealing with? That’s your entry. Give it your best shot. You’ll never know when they'll reach out to you or contact you.

7. Stay Consistent and Persistent

Rejection, in any form, is part of the journey. Don't let one ghosting experience derail your motivation. Always shift your perspective. Dust off and move on. Easier said than done, but shifting your mindset always helps. Maintain a positive mindset, learn from every interaction, and keep actively pursuing new opportunities. Your next great client is out there! And do not forget that even in the season of waiting, there should be joy and opportunities.

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