5 Tips To Become A Better Freelancer

In recent years, freelancing has become an increasingly desirable job choice. According to PayPal’s Global Freelancers Insights Report, freelancers are predicted to represent as much as 2 percent of the population (1.5 million) in 2018. Given the expansion of freelancers due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the rivalry has also increased dramatically in this category.

The following tips will help you shape yourself into a better freelancer, regardless of whether you are a video editor, a software developer, a virtual assistant, a graphics artist, or a digital marketer.

1) Quality over Quantity

If you are only new and starting out as a freelancer, online marketplaces like Rakuboss may allow you to apply for work openings. Bidding on as many projects as possible is very natural for you. A central lesson, however, to be learned here is that the nature of the bid matters, not the number. Try to think and learn about the client’s business as best as possible. Know what they do, how they do it, and what is being demanded of you.

When you have completed an in-depth review of the specifications, write a short document where all the items you bring can be set down comprehensively. Bidding is not a game about numbers. Compared to hundreds of low-quality bids, one high-quality bid is more likely to get you the job because you do not have the time to evaluate the customer’s criteria or make them appreciate your capabilities.

2) Clearly mention your strategies

It is understood that freelancers vying for contracts are very discreet about their work processes. For example, if you are an Internet marketer bidding on an SEO initiative, the client would naturally want to understand what protocols you will follow to help their website rank on Google’s first page. Effective communication is vital in maintaining trust between the client and the freelancer. To be specific about the products, use this as a conversation. When a potential client trusts you, even if your quote is much higher than those of your rival bidders, they are likely to hire you.

3) Clients love surprises

The clients are normal human beings, too. Surprise them. As a rule of thumb, always under-promise and over-deliver. Can you support the client in raising sales by 100%? In your bid, pledge only 50%. Surprises do not always need to be over-delivered to the goals. Additional assignments not part of the project brief will also be taken up. This shows your inclination to take ownership of projects. Over time, it also makes you indispensable, an important factor in creating a loyal clientele.

4) Be active in helping to improve the products

Unlike what big corporations would want you to think, the goods and processes they own are not flawless and not standardized. Even in the biggest companies, there are a lot of minor but effective business improvements that are overlooked. As a result, the client will appreciate the freelancer who goes out of her way to suggest changes and suggestions. If you are a developer and feel that the organization will be best served by making any improvements to the project, make it a point to take it to your client. Don’t go out of line; make suggestions only in places where you are in control and knowledgeable.

5) Learn to communicate effectively

As a freelancer working remotely, communication (oral and written) is one of your vital assets. In establishing your authority, language plays an important role. Enroll in one of the English language classes if it is not your primary language. Even if you are fluent in the language, common typographical errors always create a wrong impression in your client’s eyes. Before scouting for freelance assignments online, make it a point to hone your communication skills.

Are you a graphic designer building your freelance portfolio? Remember, showcasing a strong portfolio that highlights your design versatility and unique style is key to attracting clients. Or are you a freelancer in another field looking to start and venture into this kind of work? What other tips do you think can make fellow freelancers better? You can start selling your sidelines at Rakuboss and take jobs for a well-rounded and secure future.