You can earn more money as a freelance developer than you would in a full-time job.
You also have the option of being your own boss. Thanks to flexible working hours and a variety of other benefits.
However, quitting your job and going it alone is a terrible decision if you don't currently have a steady customer base.
Here are the things you need...
This is a very short guide for absolute beginners in the field of freelancing.
Create a portfolio website
One of the first things a customer looks for in a potential freelancer is the ability to produce. If you're new to freelancing, you're likely to lose out on tasks to a more experienced freelancer 90% of the time.
After all, clients are investing a significant amount of money in their initiatives, and they want every dollar to be worthwhile.
However, every now and again, a potential customer does not simply pick the most experienced freelancer. But instead takes the time to go over the profiles of other freelancers who have offered to work for a cheaper charge.
Good portfolios have a basic style and highlight your greatest work. Put up some screen photos and a summary of the project if you've worked on any large projects in your day job.
Remember - Don't boast too much. Instead, be straightforward and to the point.
Make your friends - your clients
A fun fact: It's possible that your first consumer is already in your contact list.
Yes, many of your friends' or relatives' businesses may require software or a website to help them run more smoothly. Reach out to them, demonstrate your abilities, and explain how you can help them overcome their difficulties.
Here are some examples of solutions you may create:
- A professional portfolio design
- A website for them
- An android or ios app
- A management software
- Setup their Ecommerce store
Where to find clients?
There are several freelancing websites available online, however the following are the best:
Upwork
One of the best platforms out there with a really good quality of candidates.
Upwork connects businesses with independent professionals and agencies around the globe. Where companies and freelancers work together in new ways.
Toptal
This might surprise you as you might not have heard of this website - but actually this one's really amazing for finding niche projects.
Toptal is an exclusive network of the top freelance software developers, designers, finance experts, product managers, and project managers in the world.
Freelancer
Find & hire top freelancers, web developers & designers inexpensively. World's largest marketplace of 50m. Receive quotes in seconds.
They are probably the most well known platform for freelancing around the globe. So you are likely to find a higher quantity of prospect clients on this platform - scattered around various categories.
Or you could always - Promote yourself by spreading the word. All by yourself.
Word of mouth marketing
When it comes to securing projects, marketing is really vital. You must make yourself recognised in locations where potential clients are likely to be found.
Clients may be found both online and offline, and you should have a strategy in place for both. Maintain a relaxed and welcoming tone when meeting a potential client in person.
If you can connect with a potential customer on a personal level, he or she is more inclined to employ you, so avoid being unnecessarily professional.
Conclusion
That's it. This was supposed to be a really quick and short guide - for those who are trying to understand the world of freelancing.
Hope this article helped you with that. Now you can go ahead and grab those clients you deserve.
Make sure to learn more about building the right portfolio. Picking the right niche. Designing your gig nicely. Etc.
There are many topics to dive in here. But today we don't have time for that... Maybe another day.
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