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Hi Reader

It’s almost the end of 2024, and I hope you had a productive year so far. For me, it’s usually a time of reflection when I look back at the past to see how my business is progressing.

I have been evaluating my business recently, and I have noticed that I have doubled my projects and clients this year! Thanks to the Matching Game!

Finding the right clients can feel like a game of chance, but what if it were more like a strategy game? Let me explain the Matching Game, which has helped my business grow.

Here’s how to play:

1. Know Your Passion

First, identify what excites you most about medical writing. Are you passionate about patient education, clinical research, or regulatory documentation? Defining your passion helps narrow down your search to clients who need exactly what drives you.

2. Assess Your Expertise

Just like in medicine, specialization matters. Think about your areas of expertise—whether it’s neurology, hematology, or public health. Don’t chase clients outside your skill set; instead, focus on clients who need your unique expertise.

3. Clarify Your Deliverables

Be clear on what you can realistically offer. Are you great at writing comprehensive research summaries? Or maybe editing highly technical manuscripts is your forte. Being upfront about your deliverables ensures that your clients’ expectations match your abilities.

4. Target Clients That Align with Your Strengths

Instead of adapting yourself to fit a potential client’s needs, look for clients whose needs fit your existing skills. This makes the work smoother and more enjoyable, leading to better outcomes and longer-term relationships.

Why is this important?

The matching game is crucial because when you work with clients who align with your passion and expertise, you:

• Produce higher-quality work.

• Build a more enjoyable and sustainable freelance career.

• Create longer-lasting relationships that lead to future referrals.

What if I lack experience in my passion area?

Great question! If you lack experience in your passion area, don’t be discouraged. It’s worth investing time in networking and taking courses that align with your interests. By connecting with professionals in your desired field, you can gain valuable insights, build relationships, and open doors to opportunities. Additionally, relevant courses will help you sharpen your skills and show potential clients your commitment to growth, making you more competitive in the long run. Learning is an ongoing process, especially in a rapidly changing field like medical writing. I am still learning every day, and I enjoy it!

Here is my advice for the day:

By playing the matching game, you set yourself up for success—not just by finding work but by finding meaningful work that helps you grow as a professional.

I'm curious to hear your thoughts! As freelancers, we all face unique challenges, so which part of the "Matching Game" do you find more challenging?

Until next time, best of luck in your freelance journey!

Need coaching? Click below to discover the training I offer:

Interested in learning more about advisory board projects? Click below for a 4-week training course:

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Thank you for joining the Pen and Parents Newsletter, a resource for freelance medical writers who proudly wear the badge of motherhood! Nisreen Shumayrikh, PhD Find me on Social Media ​​​​

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