Client Networking
Client Networking
Connecting with potential clients isn’t easy. ASJA’s Client Networking programs are here to help.
Your freelancing business requires constant feeding. Passive marketing, like websites and LinkedIn profiles are never enough when it comes to attracting potential clients. That’s where ASJA’s Client Networking programs come in. Through a variety of in-person and virtual events, you can get to know clients—and they can get to know you.
Client Connections
ASJA’s signature Client Networking program, Client Connections (CC), is offered once a year to ASJA’s professional members at our national conferences either as an in-person or virtual event. We’ve dubbed this fast-paced event, “speed-dating for writers and editors.” During nine-minute meetings, members have an opportunity to directly pitch their story ideas to editors, publishers and agents. Whether you’re looking to land a story idea in a magazine, expand your content marketing business or find an agent for your book, Client Connections is an incredible way to get in front of clients who are looking for experienced, talented writers. Remember: When you become an ASJA member, you have access to members-only programming and events during our conferences.
Virtual Client Connections
Virtual Client Connections (VCC) are much smaller versions of the Client Connections events held during our annual conferences. Our aim is to host a few VCCs each year by phone or Zoom. During a VCC, ASJA professional members have an opportunity to connect directly with clients, including editors, publishers and agents.
Virtual Pitch Slams
These one-hour events take place in virtual group settings. They begin with an interview-style conversation between an ASJA host and a digital/print editor about the kinds of stories their outlet is seeking. The second half of a VPS gives professional members two minutes to pitch no more than two story ideas to the editor as other members listen in. This format provides an opportunity not only for members to pitch their ideas (and follow-up directly with editors by email), but it also gives members an opportunity to hear how other freelance writers craft a pitch while hearing detailed explanations from the editor about what works or doesn’t work for their particular outlet. Recordings are available for those who cannot attend.