More and more people are choosing to work remotely from home than to find a “regular” job at an office. With the internet, opportunities are always present to anyone who’s looking for them. Many startup companies outsource some of their tasks to skillful individuals. However, starting a career as a freelancer (or finding side gigs that you can do at home, for that matter) isn’t a walk in the park. If you’re just starting out, here are tips on how you can find work online:
1. Create an online portfolio.
If you want to make it as a freelancer, one of the first things you need to do is to create an online portfolio for yourself so you have a go-to page where you can redirect potential clients who may want to get to know you a little better. In this online portfolio, you need to showcase your experience by including samples of your work. You can also include a link to a FAQs page (which will detail the projects you’re equipped to do and the rate you charge for each of these projects) and a contact page so clients can easily reach you.
2. Familiarize yourself with job boards.
Different types of freelancing work have different online job boards, so you need to find those that are specific to the work that you do. When looking through and posting in job boards, make sure that you follow the instructions that moderators have put in place so you can avoid getting banned.
3. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
There are a lot of freelancing job boards and websites on the internet, and it will be to your advantage if you diversify. Job boards are great for connecting with clients directly. On the other hand, websites usually charge a small fee for every job you complete. At the same time, most job boards have lower paying jobs, while freelancing websites attract higher paying clients because of the added value of accountability. (Clients typically trust freelancing websites more because they have a middle man to complain to if the freelancer disappears mid-project.) To maximize your profits, find a good balance between job boards and freelancing websites.
4. Always be professional.
Even before you land a job, you need to exude professionalism so clients will trust you and your ability to complete projects. Your online portfolio should look clean and polished. Avoid using fonts and images that are distracting or too flashy. (Unless being “flashy” is the “nature” of your job, then go ahead and do so.) At the same time, when you communicate with potential clients, make sure that every message is constructed with respect. You also need to do your best to be prompt in responding to your clients, especially when they have questions or are expecting deliverables. By always being professional, it will be easier for you to acquire new and retain existing clients.
Freelancing can be a lucrative way to make money if you know how to do it. Speaking of making money, as a last reminder: Don’t undervalue yourself. Know your worth and stick to it.
