Networking with Purpose: Building Meaningful Connections in the Freelance World.

Are you a freelancer feeling like you're constantly shouting into the void? Dreaming of a steady stream of clients and exciting collaborations, but not sure how to get there? You’re not alone. For many freelancers—especially those navigating transitions or doing it all solo—the pressure to “find the next gig” can be overwhelming.

But what if the key wasn’t about hustling harder, but connecting smarter? At Leslyn Moore Consulting, we believe that the foundation of long-term freelance success isn't just in what you do—it’s in who you build with.

Networking Isn't a Shortcut—It's a Strategy

Let’s be real: For many Black women, networking has felt extractive, performative, or inaccessible. We’ve been in rooms where our brilliance was ignored and our voices dismissed. That’s why purposeful networking—the kind that centers authenticity, shared value, and mutual respect—isn’t just smart business. It’s radical reclamation.

This post will walk you through how to network with intention, integrity, and impact—without losing yourself in the process.

1. Define Your Networking Compass

What are you hoping to build through your connections?

Instead of: “I need more clients.”
Try: “I want to connect with creative agencies that serve purpose-driven brands who need a brand strategist who gets their mission.”

Your why sharpens your aim. Whether you’re seeking collaborators, community, or client leads, this clarity keeps you focused.

2. Craft Your Digital Doorway

Your online presence is often someone’s first encounter with you. Let it reflect your clarity, confidence, and personality.

• LinkedIn: Go beyond listing job history. Share your story in your “About” section. Be active in industry conversations.

• Platform Choice: Choose where to show up based on who you want to connect with. If you’re a designer, Behance. A coach? LinkedIn. A storyteller? IG or Threads.

• Professional Home: Your website or portfolio should answer two questions clearly: What do you do? And how do I work with you?

3. Show Up: Virtually and In-Person

Yes, even as a freelancer, community is essential.

• Attend with Intention: Choose events, webinars, or summits aligned with your values. Don’t chase “big names”—chase aligned energy.

• Practice Your Intro: Go beyond the job title. “I help wellness brands connect with their audience through soul-led storytelling.” Boom.

• Genuine Conversations: Skip the elevator pitch when it feels forced. Ask people about their work. Make it a dialogue, not a transaction.

4. The Follow-Up is the Flex

Connections aren’t built in one moment—they’re built in the follow-through.

• Send a quick note referencing something you discussed.

• Share a resource or tip that could help them.

• Don’t wait for an ask—just keep the relationship alive.

5. Nurture With Intention, Not Expectation

Networking isn’t collecting names—it’s building a circle.

• Listen First: Ask, “What’s lighting you up in your work right now?”

• Give Freely: A referral, a compliment, or a shared contact can go a long way.

• Stay in Touch: A birthday DM, an article share, or a “Thinking of you” message keeps you top of mind.

6. Reconnect with People Already In Your Orbit

• Reach Back: Past clients, colleagues, mentors—drop a note and say hello. You’d be surprised who’s rooting for you.

• Make the Ask: Ask satisfied clients if they know someone who needs your magic. Give them a one-liner they can pass along.

7. Find Your Freelance Circle

Freelancing doesn’t mean going it alone. Community fuels clarity.

• Partner Up: Find freelancers whose skills complement yours. Copywriter + designer = dream team.

• Cross-Promote: Share each other’s work and celebrate wins publicly.

• Join Communities: Whether it’s a local meet-up or an online Slack group—find the spaces where you can grow, vent, and build.

Network Like You Mean It

At Leslyn Moore Consulting, we believe that confidence doesn’t happen in isolation, and neither does sustainable success. Networking with purpose isn’t about collecting contacts or performative professionalism. It’s about building a circle that sees your value, honors your vision, and challenges you to rise.

It’s about building a business that aligns with your voice, your values, and your community, on your terms.

📩 If you’re ready to move from uncertain to unstoppable, visit leslynmoore.com to learn more about our Skills Clarity Calls and personalized consulting services. Together, we’ll shape your networking strategy and business growth path with confidence, connection, and intention.