In previous articles, we explained what is freelancing and who is a freelancer. Now in this article, we are going to explain how t become a successful freelancer.
How to start freelancing in 2023? A complete beginner guide is below:
1- learn to communicate in English
In freelancing all communication we do is in the English language. If your English is good then you can start freelancing and there are chances that you can grow your freelance business. If your English is conversational level then You can use Google Translate or Grammarly to improve your English. But being an expert in the English language gives you an edge to be successful as a freelancer and win more projects through bidding. You can convince clients easily if you are an expert in the English language.
2- Laptop and Internet Connection
After assessing your communication skill, you have to buy a laptop and you must have internet access. In freelancing, we offer our services online so without an internet connection and laptop it’s not possible.
3- Learn a digital skill
To start freelancing you have to learn at least one digital skill or a set of different digital skills. For example, you can learn adobe illustrator and adobe photoshop to offer graphics designing services as a freelancer on different freelance marketplaces like Fiverr, Guru, Upwork, etc.
4- Create your seller profile on freelance marketplaces
After assessment of your communication skill, having laptop and internet access, and learning a digital skill now you should create your profiles on different freelancing marketplaces to offer your services. For example, you can choose fiverr.com to create your profile using your any of Gmail email accounts. Write a convincing bio and description in your profile and add your skills with a level of expertise on your profile.
5- Create Gigs / Portfolio
After profile creation, you have to create gigs. Gigs are simply the services that you are offering. To create gigs you need a portfolio or previous work examples related to the service which you are offering. In gig creation you can showcase images of previous work, you can write service titles, descriptions, tags, and your package rates or hourly rates, etc. Creating a beautiful portfolio and writing professionally SEO-optimized tile and description is key to your success as a freelancer.
6- Start Bidding on Different projects
In traditional marketplaces like Upwork, Guru, freelancer, etc you have to bid on projects to win a project. But Fiverr is a non-traditional marketplace. Here we create gigs and set package prices. Clients can order from us directly by buying one of our packages. But still, there is a buyer request page on Fiverr to bid on different buyer requests.
7- Build your Online Presence
Create your social media pages and start posting about the services that you provide as a freelancer. You can link your social media pages to your freelancing marketplace profile. Also, you can share completed projects on social media pages to promote yourself. You can also create your personal portfolio website to become a more professional freelancer. Your online presence will win the confidence of clients and you can become win the competition amongst different sellers in your niche.
8- Focus on service quality and long-term client relationship
After all the struggle when you are able to win projects then deliver quality work to clients. This will help you to earn positive reviews with 5-star ratings and also these clients can become your repeat clients. So don’t, compromise on service quality otherwise you will be out of competition. For good quality service deliver high-quality work above clients’ expectations, communicate professionally, deliver your projects within the agreed timeline, and remain flexible with clients until they are 100% satisfied.
9- Understand the Platform workspace
If you are working on Fiverr or at any other freelancing platform then understanding its workspace is vital. Workspace is a project management and collaboration space. Workspace ensures effective communication, secure payment & invoicing, file sharing, requesting revisions, tracking delivery time, setting milestones, and settling disputes, etc.
10- Continuously learn and improve skills :
To survive as a freelance seller, Stay updated with the latest trends and developments in your niche. You can update your skills by taking courses, attending webinars, or acquiring certifications that enhance your skills and efficiency.
So these were all the steps to be a successful freelancer. Above all self-discipline, time management, and self-motivation is also required for a freelancer. Success may not come quickly, but with dedication and perseverance, you can establish a thriving freelance career.
