Freelancing can be challenging. Many people succeed, but just as many struggle. However, freelancing offers great benefits, such as working at your own pace and connecting with many companies, businesses, and professionals.
There are many online platforms for freelancers, like Upwork. While website traffic is important for getting hired, the key to success is how well you present yourself to employers.
Here are six important steps to help you succeed as a freelancer and attract more clients.
1. Join a Freelance Platform
First, you need to offer your services where people need them. Create profiles on different freelance platforms to increase your connections and visibility. This makes it easier for companies and professionals to find you, putting you in a space filled with potential clients.
For example, on Upwork, you can create a profile that includes your skills, experience, education, portfolio, and other details. Potential clients can review your profile and decide if you’re right for their job. These platforms also let clients ask you questions before hiring you.
2. Promote Your Services
Don’t rely only on freelance platforms. Let your social circles know about your services. Tell your acquaintances, relatives, friends, and even their friends about what you offer. These people could become your clients, and they are more likely to trust your skills because they know you.
Never underestimate the power of your direct connections. They can be very helpful in bringing you more clients through recommendations.
3. Focus on Your Niche
A common mistake freelancers make is being too general about their skills. For instance, listing yourself simply as a “writer” or “graphic artist” isn’t very appealing to clients. They often look for freelancers who can perform specific tasks repeatedly.
Instead of generalizing, be specific about your skills. For example, if you’re a writer, you might specialize in “children’s blog writing” or “informative article writing.”
4. Stay Active and Responsive
Creating an account and then waiting for clients won’t work, especially if you’re new. You need to actively apply for freelance jobs on the platforms you use.
Consider setting a lower hourly rate if you’re just starting, but not too low, as it might make clients doubt your quality. Be responsive to any inquiries from potential clients, and always be professional and polite. If you get hired, provide regular updates to assure your client that the project is progressing well and will be delivered on time.
5. Be Open to Repeat Work
When you gain a client, make sure you meet or exceed their expectations. After delivering your work, let them know you’re available for future projects.
This won’t work if you do a poor job, so always aim to produce high-quality work. If a client’s project needs more work than initially planned, suggest a new project with new objectives. If they were happy with your previous work, they’re likely to trust you with additional tasks.
6. Collaborate When Necessary
Don’t try to handle big projects on your own if you can’t manage them. If you need help, inform the client and explain that you’ll be working with someone else. Being honest and transparent will build trust.
Clients value honesty. If you need assistance to complete a project well, the client will likely appreciate your commitment to high-quality work.
These steps may seem simple, but they can significantly help you succeed as a freelancer and attract more clients. Eventually, you may become self-sufficient and even have the means to create your own platform or company to showcase and sell your services and skills.
Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. In the freelance industry, you can’t wait for a miracle. You need to work with what you have and actively pursue your goals one step at a time.
