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How do I start freelancing?

New Here ,
Sep 02, 2016 Sep 02, 2016

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Hi guys,

I'm trying out freelancing. I've got profiles on People Per Hour and Freelancer and I do apply (or 'bid' as they call it) for jobs, but it's beginning to feel like house hunting (I'm also currently searching for a new place). As I had never been taken up for a job by someone on these websites, I'm not sure how it is time-wise— are there clients who are not in a rush to get jobs done? How do you approach being a freelancer on these sites, is it best if I am on as many of them (the good ones) as possible? If I am though, isn't that a lot of juggling?

Even though I have been bidding for jobs, I'm not landing any. I'm currently not too fussed on getting paid a lot, decently will do. My main focus is to start actively designing again and getting paid. I've also just thought of going around to the independent shops in my area and passing them my card and CV, I'm sure they'd need some design work done from time-to-time.

The position I'm in now is that I've not held a full-time design job for over a year now (for, reasons), and the most recent job I've done were some wedding collaterals a couple months back. I had previously been an in-house designer for a travel agency and some bars and restaurant. I've had experience with things like social network visuals, flyers, posters, banners, menus, presentations and things of that sort, and I am most comfortable with Photoshop and Illustrator.

I'm aware that I've got a humble skill-set, but I do enjoy working on these things given enough creative freedom. I enjoy exploring how to make something look good and exciting from something often viewed as simple and boring. Little wins, I call them.

My question is, how do I start this freelancing thing? How do I find clients that would hire me?

I'm leaving my portfolio here as a reference to my skill level: Behance

Any advise would be appreciated~!

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Community Expert ,
Sep 02, 2016 Sep 02, 2016

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Welcome to Freelance hell!

 

I get most of my clients by word-of-mouth from client referrals, former clients who come back to me & social/community contacts.  

 

Getting started and making a name for yourself is the biggest hurdle.  Sometimes you have to physically go knocking on brick & mortar doors to get things rolling.   Try reaching out to some non-profit charities, churches, hospitals, etc...  They're usually happy to have skilled help -- providing you don't charge them a lot of money.  But these small jobs can lead to bigger & better things later.

 

Don't get discouraged.  We've all been there.

 

Nancy O'Shea— Product User, Community Expert & Moderator
Alt-Web Design & Publishing ~ Web : Print : Graphics : Media

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Explorer ,
Mar 23, 2018 Mar 23, 2018

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Good morning,

I am wondering if you found any tips and tricks to help launch your freelance career?! I am in that same boat.

Sincerely,

Rebecca

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Community Expert ,
Mar 23, 2018 Mar 23, 2018

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Treat it like a serious business.

1. Do a feasibility study.

2. If your freelance business passes that test, write up a business plan. This will help you think about almost all aspects of running your practice.

3. People do business with people. So engage

HTH

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Community Expert ,
Mar 23, 2018 Mar 23, 2018

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This lynda.com course on freelancing may be helfpul:

Freelancing Foundations

While some of this you may already know, it may help you to create your own plan.

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Explorer ,
Mar 23, 2018 Mar 23, 2018

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Thank you, I guess I should have been more specific. I am looking for what companies designers have used to create their website, what sites do you use to find work, and any other tips. I have worked my freelance company before but it was 10 years ago and things have changed quite a bit. I’m hoping there are some good new resources!

Sent from my iPhone

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Guide ,
Mar 24, 2018 Mar 24, 2018

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On path of earlier replies, participate in forums, social media, whatever term you prefer...and show your expertise. Back in the day I got quite a few jobs by answering questions on Macromedia forums, then some folks would email me and ask if they could just hire me to help them. It was maybe 1 of 50 people, but it was something.

So not only real-world networking but raise your profile (your 'brand') with helpful contributions.

To your later question, you can design your own website pretty easily with sites like WordPress or Wix if you don't need fancy and don't mind site branding. If you want a truly custom site, I'm sure there are many here who could help. You don't need to hire a high-end firm. But really, you should give it a go yourself - it just adds to your skillset.

Upwork seems to be a popular freelance site these days, as well as Fiverr, but you're competing with a huge crowd and a lot of price pressure. Such sites are 'easy' but they're also probably pretty low on conversions...

Agreed with others - hit the bricks; talk to small businesses in you area, non-profits especially. Sites like VolunteerMatch.org may be a good resource to get more samples and references under your belt.

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Explorer ,
Mar 25, 2018 Mar 25, 2018

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Thank you so much! I have thought about taking a couple of courses in web design to increase my possibilities. I recently did a logo and the company asked if I was able to create an animated logo... I missed out on that opportunity.

I really appreciate all of your advice!

Sent from my iPhone

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Mentor ,
Mar 23, 2018 Mar 23, 2018

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Know your audience in regard to your skills and ability and enthusiasm.

As other have mentioned - contacts- contacts- contacts. Word of mouth travels further than the wind.

Keep your portfolio up-to-date and only use what you feel best shows your ability. Keep up to date with what the design world is about. Eye on Design | AIGA Eye on Design  is one good place.

Search the web for potential clients that are within your area that you wish to engage with. If you have a website and are looking to extend your area of engagement make sure that you are listed near the top of the search engine.

Be bold in your direction and design. And keep the faith- this is a rewarding but difficult road! All the best!

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Community Expert ,
Oct 13, 2019 Oct 13, 2019

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LATEST

How do you start freelancing? Good question. Here are a couple of free ebooks which could be helpful:

 

The Freelancer’s Roadmap (68 pages)
Description | Download

 

The Freelancer’s Bible: Your Guide to Going It Alone (29 pages)
Description | Download | Bonus Article

 

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