How To Start A Freelance Business Part 3
(Experience, Branding, Portfolio, Growth)
By
Professor Theodore Henderson
This is the final section of the three-part series “How To Start A Freelance Business.” In part one we discussed in some detail what it would take to launch your freelance idea as a business. In part two we breakdown the legalities, contracts, and other business entity issues for you. Now we will put it all together with the final steps in the planning process.
Here in part three, we tie it all together by exploring such topics as, how to start freelancing for beginners, how to start freelancing with no experience, how to make a freelancer portfolio, and several more. If this is the first post of the series and you are relatively new to the concept of how to start a freelance business I encourage you to also read one of my recent posts called Your 7 Minute Guide To Become A Freelancer. It will give you a nice overview of freelancing.
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How To Start a Freelance Business With No Experience (or only a little)
One of the most significant obstacles that some freelancers deal with is discovering new work opportunities. It can appear daunting to transition into an uneven type of occupation that is also, at times, inconsistent. You presumably have existing skills from your work that can be applied to your new freelance activities, but you may not have much experience.
The first part of this post will discuss some of the very best approaches for starting freelance work when you do not have much experience.
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Acquiring Experience First
Many, if not most, freelancers would not suggest moving from full-time “regular” work to becoming a full-time freelancer. Preferably, you must not quit your task for freelance quickly.
Getting some solid experience will most likely be your first objective as a freelancer. It can be done on the side as you continue your other work. You can develop needed knowledge in your spare time. As soon as you feel confident in your work and your client count, you can become a full-time freelancer.
But remember, There is no shame in starting part-time; it makes more sense or is preferable for some individuals. It allows you an insight into the new way of life and its obligations while still having the security of another income. An excellent book and accompanying materials you should consider reviewing is Expert Secrets. It delves deep into how you can identify and develop the right expertise for your business goals.
Working Pro Bono
It can appear really tempting to work for totally free to build experience. It can be an incredibly beneficial method to acquire the needed experience to fill your portfolio. Maybe it will work for you– but it is not an efficient approach for everybody.
Nevertheless, it is imperative to be cautious about working for totally free. Some customers will gain a “well, you worked for them for free, what about me?” attitude, which can be tough to get away from. There is a distinct line between working for totally free to acquire experience and devaluing your skills.
Remember, at the end of the day, direct exposure does not pay the rent or utility bill. If it is economically practical for you to work complimentary to build your portfolio, then, by all means, do so. However, be careful of working for free for the benefit of branding or “exposure.” After all, you can not eat on branding or “exposure” alone.
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Work For a Lower Fee
While working pro bono might not appropriate, you will probably end up working for a lower wage. This is something that you need to do in the beginning. It will help you gain testimonials, clients, experience, and expand your portfolio.
When you do something for less than its actual cost, it will help you appreciate the real value more. You might decide that, after working for a lower wage than you would like, that the overall value of your work is more excellent, and you wind up adjusting your last costs.
Working for a lower fee will help you adjust to life and figure out how long it actually takes you to finish a task. It is an excellent intro to the freelance life.
Client Acquisition
One of the main goals of your freelance business needs to be retaining clients. When you start a freelance business, there is a chance that you do not have or know any clients. It is time to change that!
Any interaction or work you have must include the goal of establishing a long-term client relationship. Furthermore, you can ask for testimonials or recommendations.
By identifying and understanding your target market, you will uncover new clients. You must focus on building a database of customers that you can target and retain.
Direct Contact With and Making a Pitch
While frowned upon in sales, for freelancers, this can be a lifesaver. Often calling customers directly shows effort and puts your brand out positively. In particular, if you show them.
Discover how to pitch your services. Discover possible customers, research them, and after that send them an enticing pitch.
Don’t be shy; put yourself out there. Make yourself known (especially if you are offering a discounted price) is a terrific method to acquire experience. It can also help you build lasting client relationships. More on this topic later in this post.
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Have and Show Confidence
At the end of the day, self-confidence is essential.
If you are uncertain or skeptical of your business, then your audience will be, too.
If you need to build more confidence in your service, think about taking a course. For example, if you are more of a technical person, perhaps Fiverr, Google, or similar would be appropriate. This will boost your professionalism, along with making you seem more competent and certified in your area. Many of these courses are free or low-cost.
Nevertheless, if it is the “organization” side of freelancing that you are uncertain of this series is the right place! But finding a coach or mentor could be a fantastic option for you. Especially if you find a mentor or build a network of freelancers. Having access to a group or team of similar capabilities (both in industry or geographically) could help you manage your company’s legal side and supply you with relevant, specific guidance.
The Best Locations To Find Freelance Work
When you start a freelance business you will need to target places you can find work. Luckily, there are many locations where freelancers can find work. There are many websites devoted to providing access to projects and jobs for freelancers. There are some (as listed below) that deal with freelance work as a whole, and there are other, more specific niche sites that focus on different markets. Do your research and decide what type of platform will best for your service however is also someplace where you will be able to discover customers.
An excellent general rule is to get work in the areas where your target clients hang out.
You must always bear in mind that time spent discovering work opportunities could better be spent working and bringing in revenue. As soon as you have a good strategy for finding projects, keep it going and continue with it. But, if it is too time-consuming and does not produce ideal outcomes, attempt another technique.
Profiles
Before highlighting some locations for uncovering freelance work, it is crucial to consider your profile. All of these platforms will require you to develop a profile. Your profile will have your name, abilities, credentials, etc., in addition to a portfolio. You must complete these profiles to the very best of your abilities. Incomplete profiles look unprofessional and will likely result in lost opportunities.
Fiverr
Fiverr is one of the more notable options for freelance platforms. It is, however, in some cases tailored towards smaller-sized tasks. Also, it has a slightly different project or job posting approach than the other sites mentioned in this post. Along with clients’ standard practice posting assignments for freelancers to send propositions, the reverse likewise occurs.
Instead of a customer posting, “I would like somebody to design a logo for me,” freelancers can publish, “I create logos.” Clients then look through freelancers’ offerings to find people to work with rather than the other way around. This is an unusual and useful thing, specifically if your service is distinct. Again, you
Fiverr has an alternative mindset towards pricing. Customers can see upfront what their projected budget will get them when they browse job offerings. There is, obviously, still competition, but you are more in control of what you will charge for your services.
Freelancer
Freelancer.com is a site like Fiverr. This platform is also available to freelancers and clients of all kinds, with project listings in several areas.
Freelancer highlights the benefits of customers being able to see freelancer portfolios before agreeing to work with one another.
This type of platform also features a chat function. This is an easy method to be able to communicate with the other party on the site. It keeps the work tasks and the conversation and job updates on the platform and does not cross over to other platforms.
Again, such websites are often low-paying, with freelancers battling to undercut each other’s costs to get work.
Upwork
On the freelancer platform Upwork.com, clients post job listings, which typically include the project’s or task details and frequently what they would like their freelancer to be like. Freelancers then bid and submit proposals detailing why they would be the best individual for the task. The customer then picks the best freelancer for the job.
Sites such as this are a few of the most highlighted and most typical avenues for finding freelance work. They are simple and accessible, making them ideal to bid for projects or jobs. These consolidated platforms are well-respected and frequently used to find expert freelance resources like yourself.
There are some distinct benefits of websites or platforms such as these. They include the ease of use and the legal protection that both clients and freelancers are bound by. There are clear the terms of use that must be agreed to and followed. The websites take payment from clients and release it to the freelancer once both users have confirmed that the work is complete. They make sure that the completed job is provided and payment transferred.
Nevertheless, there are also some drawbacks to these platforms. The first is that the platform typically takes a portion of the payment to cover website fees and connecting the parties. These can accumulate in time and mean that you are compensated less than you should receive if you found work independently.
Another concern is that such websites motivate a “race to the bottom” mindset. This means that freelancers typically reduce their costs for the service for a competitive advantage, which forces others to reduce their prices. On platforms like Upwork, some clients are not completely clear on a freelancer’s value (or don’t have the money). So they often select a less expensive alternative simply because of the price.
There are drawbacks and benefits to such sites, and ultimately it will come down to personal preference and abilities. They might work for your service, and they may not. Still, they are a readily available method for freelancers to uncover new clients even if you do not utilize them forever.
Guru
Guru.com is a “higher-end” freelance work website targeting specialist freelancers and customers. It claims to be designed for higher-quality freelancers and projects. It is advertising itself as a more “legitimate” platform and prides itself on the high quality of the freelancers it includes.
It likewise has a different payment system. Many freelance websites take payment from the client and hold it until the job is confirmed complete and then provide the freelancer’s funds.
Guru is different. Along with this conventional, fixed cost payment system, it has a range of other choices. Guru likewise provides hourly rates (utilizing their time tracking software application) and repeating payments for long-lasting tasks.
Toptal
Toptal.com is a name composed of two words to develop the phrase “top talent.” They want to communicate that their aim is to simply provide that. Prior to having the ability to utilize the site, there is a vetting procedure that includes experience verification, along with an interview.
Being on such a highly respected platform is a terrific method to draw in legit, high-paying customers. It will cement you as an authority and a superior quality freelance entrepreneur.
LinkedIn.com is an expert networking website that individuals mostly only upgrade when they get a brand-new job. However, LinkedIn has plenty of opportunities. Some recruiters trawl this platform to discover people that are open to opportunities to attempt and get in touch with individuals in their area.
If for nothing else, LinkedIn is an excellent way to construct a network of other freelancers or possible customers in your market.
By completing your profile, showcasing your work, and providing updates to your tasks and organization, you are opening your company to the eyes of others. It is an excellent way for people searching for exactly what you are promoting to find you.
In essence, do not neglect LinkedIn (or perhaps other social media platforms). They require time to set up (though the material is primarily the very same throughout them all, so it is not too tiresome). Still, you never understand what could come of it. It is a small upfront time investment that could draw in numerous clients and add tremendous value to your freelance service. Visit LinkedIn Jobs and search for freelance positions or projects.
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How To Pitch
Another technique of finding freelance work is to target a person or company and pitching your services to them.
When pitching, first of all, you ought to be customizing your emails and, even more significantly, make sure that you are getting in touch with the proper individual. You must ensure that you do your research study into the business and ensure that you are using something irresistible.
The most important part of making a pitch is to make certain that your pitch is excellent. Frequently, companies get an abundance of marketing emails, deals, and pitches; you need to stick out from the rest and display what you have to offer them.
If you get an opportunity to take advantage of speaking to people in person or to groups take advantage. To gain confidence in communication or public speaking I recommend a visit to Toastmasters.org. It is a budget-friendly way to both network and work on your skills.
How To Promote Yourself: Developing A Portfolio
Having a high-quality portfolio is vital to being an effective freelancer. As well as showing your clients what you can do, your portfolio is a terrific way to add value to your service. It is the best and most potent ad for your offerings.
To Start, What is a Portfolio?
In the contemporary age of innovation, a portfolio can simply be a website that shows aspects of your work. It is a freelancer’s variation of a resume (and can consist of elements of one). It needs to smartly reveal your skills and education, in addition to your experience. You can use things that you have carried out in the past on here, too.
Building a Portfolio
Potential clients will not want to deal with somebody who can not verify the quality of their work. It will require to include examples of your work,
Having examples of your work is a phenomenal method to offset any perceived lack of experience. While you may have less experience than other freelancers, if your work’s quality is much better, it will be exceptionally advantageous to your company.
But how do you fill a portfolio with little experience? The simple response is to get some.
Working “totally free” is one frequently recommended approach to doing this. However, it is not for everybody. If you can financially stand up to providing complimentary labor, then do so. Nevertheless, in the future, keep in mind that exposure does not pay the bills. Others believe that working totally free can devalue the understanding of the quality of your work. However, despite all of this, it is undoubtedly a great way to get your name out there.
Working for a lower fee is something that you will probably need to do. You might get smaller-sized jobs on freelance gig sites to gain some experience.
Also, just do some “feel good” or “personal interest” projects. Do some projects that you are motivated about so that your enthusiasm can show through in your portfolio.
What Should You Put in a Portfolio?
Your portfolio must show examples of your work, along with your abilities, education, and experience, and what your business really is.
Your independent portfolio does not need to have a billion (slight exaggeration) completed tasks. This could be overwhelming to clients, and the possibilities are, they will not take a look at them all.
It ought to concentrate on choosing high-quality finished projects that show your services’ depth and scale. Additionally, you can include excerpts of jobs. This will, again, reveal your skills, yet not take too long to do.
Profiles on Sites
When signing up for profiles, especially freelance work platforms, it is crucial that you fill out all of the details. Any boxes or forms the site has that you can utilize to demonstrate your skills, experiences, or examples need to be thoroughly and meticulously filled out. Customers will be inspecting these intensely and probably comparing you to your competition.
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Website
As well as examples of your work, your website must likewise have your contact information.
It is likewise worth noting that you need to not overlook your prior experience. While some brand-new freelancers feel the need to prove themselves in the freelance sphere, consisting of appropriate past task experience will always highlight you in a positive light.
Some freelancers choose to have their rates and bundles available on their websites. This will make it clear to future customers what they can anticipate from your work.
Crucial sections to have on your website consist of about, services, portfolio, reviews, and contact information. Also, another trick is to buy your name and your company’s name if they are different. I’ve found NameCheap to be a quality provider with budget-friendly offerings.
Social Channels
You need to have a social networking presence. Obviously, nearly everybody is online is on social networks. Having your own accounts and using them to interact with your industry is an excellent way of getting your brand in front of people.
Suppose your service is something that you can share, for example, something graphic or visual. In that case, you can showcase on Instagram, do that. Beginning a blog to share your material is likewise an efficient portfolio structure (along with marketing) approach. You need to cross-share your material, consisting of
Tweeting links or sharing on Facebook. Of course, it depends on your business and how “online” your audience is.
In essence, discover the platforms that your clients utilize and develop a presence on those sites. Making yourself findable via online search and having an available portfolio is vital.
The Next Experience: Scaling and Growing Your Company
A mistaken belief about freelance work is the concept that it is, in some way, not a “real” organization. While, to begin with, it can appear like you and your laptop computer against the world, your service can grow.
It is necessary not to delve into too much too rapidly. If you attempt to take on too much, you may end up failing. To begin with, concentrate on consistency and finding your feet.
However, when you are comfortable and confident, you will have the ability to grow your organization. It will take some time to strategy; do not just delve into something. This chapter will detail some concepts for scaling your freelance service.
Full-time Freelance
Suppose you are beginning part-time and have actually made the switch to complete- time freelancing. In that case, it deserves to wait until you are secure in your customers, work, and income level before you leave your old job.
So, perhaps your first experience will be devoted to a full-time self-employed way of life.
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Employing and Building a Team
You can work with others and put together a team. Being freelance does not mean you have to always work alone. You can employ others to work with you and for your clients. Perhaps you might broaden your company offerings or merely have more people doing the same kind of work as you.
Subcontract
Suppose you do not want to hire others to work for your business in the content production or service offering. In that case, you could instead outsource other components of your organization.
Perhaps you require assistance with your company administration or organization setup. You might hire a virtual assistant to handle marketing, emails, or contacting your customers. Additionally, you might employ an accounting professional or another person to help with your taxes.
You can subcontract various services, and this could free up time for you. The time you could utilize to invest working or relaxing– the option is yours.
Specific Niche
By narrowing your freelance service to a specific niche, you will be a better fit for your clients. For instance, a client searching for a financial author would rather work with the specified ability than just a general content writer.
Furthermore, you can charge more for a specialized service.
Developing a Brand Name
Once you are more developed, you need to make an effort to create a cohesive brand name. This is a massive value-add to any business; it makes you respectable and authoritative.
It is unnecessary for all freelancers, but it is something that a possible client would find themselves drawn to. Often, when customers work with a freelancer, they wish to deal with an individual, not a random service– so make certain they see that.
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New Services
Another form of company growth could be adding brand-new services to your business. Possibly you might add brand-new elements to your package or focus on various aspects of your market.
Your company must never ever be static. Be assured that you are keeping up with the sort of services that your customers are demanding.
Raise Prices
At a minimum, when you have more experience and increased skills, you must increase your price. Your dedication, focus, and hard work deserve it!
Conclusion – How To Start A Freelance Business
In conclusion, there are several essential things to think about when you are beginning a freelance company.
Of these, producing an exceptional portfolio ought to be at the top of your list. Eventually, your portfolio will be the most superb form of advertising.
To begin a successful freelance operation, you’re first required to determine your service and target audience. You require that your audience discover your business which your services matter, and appealing to them. Take on tasks (even if they are not ideal or paid as you would like) to construct your abilities, experience, and trustworthiness.
Do not forget to concentrate on your organization’s business side and make sure you are operating as a legal machine. Even if it is only you. Once you are ready to start working full-time, decide where the very best locations to discover your clients are. Frequent them and promote your business correctly. Discover how to manage your time and maximize your efficiency. You have the flexibility to work however you select, and you should make the most of that.
When you have a strong structure for your business, scale it up! You are in charge, and you get to choose how and when it runs.
Most of all, enjoy your business. Freelance work is difficult, but the benefits are truly unrivaled. There is no other sort of work where you will get to live the life that you choose.
In all sincerity, as long as you focus on your industry, maintain to date with trends, and monitor your progress, your freelance company will have durability. Suppose you prepare your freelance service and update your plan as your organization progresses. In that case, you will probably succeed in living your dream life.
Freelance work is among the most emancipating and fulfilling career options out there. Still, it can be challenging to launch and make successful without proper planning. Put in the homework, sweat, and dedication to guarantee your success.
Additional Resources – Start A Freelance Business
- Fiverr – Start your business immediately and offers free training for new or established freelancers.
- Flexjobs – FlexJobs is a subscription service for job seekers that features flexible and remote jobs.
- Virtual Vocations – A job service that provides job seekers with hand-screened remote job leads
- FocusMe – Time management and productivity application.
- Are You Ready to Go Freelance?
- How to Create a Graphic Design Portfolio
- How To Start A Freelance Business Part 1
- How To Start A Freelance Business Part 2
Visit our Recommended Business Tools page to review several excellent online business & marketing applications.
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About The Author
Professor Theodore Henderson works with business owners, entrepreneurs, and corporate professionals on their business skills, marketing, and leadership strategies. He is an Amazon best-selling author, a Certified Career Coach, Business Skills & Leadership Coach, and a Certified Social Media Security Professional Powered by CompTIA.
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Visit The Wisdom4Business Blog for the complimentary series on business startup and entrepreneurship.
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Also, visit TheHealthyBusinessOwner.com for timely and useful tips and strategies for living a healthier lifestyle.