Technology has drastically changed the way people make a living. In the past, if you wanted to be a freelancer, you had to be physically in the same place as your client. But now, with the advent of the internet and online freelancing platforms, anyone can be a freelancer, no matter where they are in the world. Upwork’s research shows that59 million Americans did freelance work in 2020, accounting for 36% or more than one-third of the U.S. workforce.
This figure shows no signs of slowing down, making online freelancing one of the fastest-growing trends in the job market today. So, if you don’t want to be left behind, it’s time to start thinking about how you can make a name for yourself as an online freelancer. Here are some tips on how to get started:
Figure out what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing.
Not everyone can be a freelancer. It takes a particular person to work independently and manage their own time. So, the first step is determining if you have what it takes. Do you enjoy working independently? Are you good at managing your time? You’re off to a great start if you answered yes to both questions.
Next, you need to figure out what services you can offer as a freelancer. What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? Many people get stuck in this part because they try to be everything to everyone. But the truth is, it’s better to focus on a specific skill set and become an expert in that area. Not only will this make you more marketable, but it will also make it easier to find clients looking for someone with your particular skill set.
When you understand what you can offer as a freelancer, you can make better decisions regarding marketing yourself and finding clients.
Build a solid online portfolio.
Your work speaks for you as a freelancer. Therefore, having a strong online portfolio that showcases your skills and experience is essential. When potential clients visit your website or online profile, they should be able to see examples of your work right away. If you don’t have any previous work to show, consider doing some pro bono work or volunteering your services to build up your portfolio.
When creating your portfolio, be sure to include a mix of both written and visual content. For example, suppose you’re a web developer. In that case, you might want to include screenshots of websites you’ve built along with a brief description of your role in the project. If you’re a writer, on the other hand, you might want to include links to articles you’ve written or samples of your work.
The key is to make it as easy as possible for potential clients to see what you can do and what kind of results they can expect if they hire you. Remember, your portfolio is your calling card, so make sure it puts your best foot forward.
Work on your branding
When people think of branding, they often think of big businesses with glossy logos and expensive ad campaigns. But the truth is, even freelancers need to think about branding. After all, your brand is what sets you apart from other freelancers in your field. It’s what makes you unique and helps you attract your ideal clients.
So, how do you go about branding yourself as a freelancer? Digital marketing agencies such as HYK Marketing Inc. can help design and build your name according to your goals. A team of experts to help you develop your branding can be a game-changer in attracting clients and growing your freelancing opportunities.
Although this step might require a bit more investment upfront, having a strong brand that will help you stand out from the crowd is worth it in the long run.
Get involved in the online freelancing community.
Like any other industry, the freelancing world has its own rules, norms, and etiquette. The best way to learn about these things is to get involved in the online freelancing community.
Many online forums and groups are dedicated to freelancers, so take advantage of these resources. Not only will you learn a lot, but you’ll also make valuable connections that can help you further your career. Plus, community involvement can also lead to opportunities to collaborate with other freelancers or even land new clients. It’s a win-win, so take advantage of the online freelancing community.
Freelancing is becoming an increasingly popular way to work, and for a good reason. It offers a lot of flexibility and freedom that isn’t always available in traditional jobs. If you’re considering freelancing, the above tips can help you get started on the right foot. This way, you can make a name for yourself and build a successful career as a freelancer.
