If you’ve ever wondered how to start freelancing, you’re not alone. Thousands of people each year take the leap into self-employment, using their skills to build flexible, fulfilling careers.
Freelancing gives you the freedom to choose your projects, set your own schedule and create a business that fits your lifestyle. But it can be hard to know where to begin.
Whether you’re a writer, designer, developer or consultant, freelancing opens doors to independence and opportunity. We’ve pulled together this guide to help you get started, find clients and grow a freelance business that actually works for you.
Your profile is your professional shopfront. It’s the first place potential clients will look, so it needs to show who you are, what you do and why you’re great at it.
Start by deciding where you want clients to find you. That might be on platforms like LinkedIn, Fiverr or Upwork, or through your own website. We recommend building your own website with Hostinger. It’s simple, affordable and gives you full control over your brand.
Here’s what to include in your profile:
A strong profile helps you attract the right projects from day one.
Your portfolio is proof that you can do what you say you can. It gives potential clients a reason to trust you and a sense of your style.
Start by gathering your best examples. Include a variety that shows your range, whether it’s client projects, personal work or volunteer projects. If you’re new, create a few sample projects to demonstrate your skills.
Testimonials can add huge value here. If you’ve had positive feedback from clients, even short quotes, include them to build social proof.
We like to keep portfolios clean and simple. You can build yours on your website or use a management tool like Capsule to keep projects, client details and notes organised in one place. It’s brilliant for staying on top of work without endless spreadsheets.
Finding your niche makes marketing yourself ten times easier. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, focus on the type of work or clients you enjoy most and where your skills are strongest.
Ask yourself:
For example, being a “freelance social media manager for coaches” is much stronger than just “social media manager.” It tells clients exactly who you help.
Keep learning about your niche and stay up to date with trends. Our Toolbox is full of resources and tools to help you research your market and stay organised.
When you start freelancing, creating a killer marketing strategy is like turning up the volume on your career, making you stand out in a cMarketing doesn’t have to feel pushy. Think of it as showing up and helping people understand how you can make their life easier.
Here’s what we recommend:
If you’re figuring out how to start freelancing and want extra structure, our Freelancer Starter Kit includes templates for building your marketing plan and tracking your progress.
Starting your freelance journey is like setting sail on a thrilling adventure, with your first client acting as your compass guiding you towards success. Finding that initial client can feel like discovering a treasure trove of opportunities, and it’s your chance to showcase your skills and prove your worth.
Here are some essential tips that will not only help you find your first client but also set a solid foundation to chart your path towards freelance success:
Leverage your existing network and connections: Reach out to friends, family, and colleagues to let them know about your freelance services. They might have potential leads or referrals that could kick-start your freelance journey.
Join relevant online communities and forums: Participate in platforms like Reddit, Quora, or LinkedIn Groups where your target audience hangs out. Engage in discussions, provide valuable insights, and showcase your expertise. This can help you connect with potential clients and peers in your industry.
Use freelance job boards and platforms: Sign up on popular freelance job boards like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. These platforms can expose you to a wide range of potential clients and projects. Create a compelling profile and bid on relevant projects to land your first client.
Offer your services at a discounted rate initially: To build your client base and gain traction, consider offering your services at a discounted rate for your first few clients. This can help you establish a portfolio and garner positive reviews and testimonials that will attract future clients.
Finding your first client when you start freelancing can take time and effort, so stay persistent and proactive in your search. Keep track of your outreach and leads with Capsule so you never miss a follow-up.
Pricing your freelance services is an art that can either make or break your freelancing business. Picture this: you’ve put in countless hours perfecting your craft, building your portfolio, and honing your skills. Now, it’s time to put a price tag on your expertise and talent. But where do you even begin?
Determine your worth: Assess your skills, experience, and the value you can provide to clients. Consider factors like your expertise, the complexity of the project, and the time commitment required.
Research market rates: Look into what other freelance writers or professionals in your industry are charging for similar services. This will give you an idea of the current market rates and help you set competitive prices.
Be flexible and negotiate: While having a set rate is important, be open to negotiation based on the specific needs of each client. Some clients may have budget constraints, while others may require additional services or an expedited turnaround. Flexibility can help you secure more clients and build relationships.
Start with a competitive rate: As you begin your freelance journey, consider offering your services at a competitive rate to attract clients. This can help you build a portfolio, gain testimonials, and establish a strong foundation for your business.
Regularly evaluate and adjust your pricing: As you gain experience and expertise, regularly review and adjust your pricing. Increase your rates as you become more skilled and in-demand to reflect the value you bring to your clients.
Still not sure? Try our free freelance rate calculator.
Managing client relationships is crucial for a successful freelance journey. Clear and prompt communication with your clients should be a top priority. Provide regular updates, progress reports, and address any issues or concerns promptly and professionally.
Setting realistic expectations and deadlines is essential to ensure both parties are on the same page. Be transparent about the time commitment required and deliver high-quality work. By meeting or exceeding expectations, you will build trust and establish a strong relationship with your clients.
Managing client relationships also means being flexible and accommodating. This will make them feel valued and increase their satisfaction. Try to keep client info, contracts and project notes all in one place in a tool like Capsule.
Starting your freelance journey can be an exciting and rewarding endeavour. To set yourself up for success, it’s important to manage client relationships effectively. This involves setting realistic expectations and delivering high-quality work to build trust and establish strong relationships with your clients.
Freelancing offers numerous benefits, including the flexibility of working on your own terms and the potential for financial freedom. It allows you to take control of your career and choose your ideal clients and projects. With a strong online presence, a compelling portfolio, and effective marketing strategies, you can attract high-paying clients and ensure a steady flow of work.
To help you start freelancing, make use of this Freelancer Starter Kit, which provides valuable resources and information to kick-start your freelancing career.
