The First Job

Posted by Sven

August 22, 2009

This will be first post after some time but not last

If done well, freelancing can be a rewarding career that offers a decent salary, flexible hours and the ability to be your own boss. However, starting out can be difficult to say the least. Here are a few tips to help you with getting that first bid.

Although experience, ratings, reviews and price are important factors in freelancing it must not be regarded as a first priority.
Show interest in the project. Ask questions. Clients want to feel as if their project is important to you. Asking questions shows the client that you have interest in the work they present
Freelancing is a business. As a business, excellent service is a first priority. Let your personality show. Be friendly, but do inappropriate. Remember to be professional at all times.
As mentioned, price is not the first priority but it is important though. Deciding on a proper pricing structure that is competitive is not very easy and requires proper research. Fortunately, the majority of freelancing sites allows you to change your bids. When deciding on a bid, be fair to yourself as a freelancer. You don’t want to work for nothing, but you also do not want overbid and lose a project.
When freelancing, your job is to provide the best product you can offer. Therefore, if you have suggestions that may make the product better, communicate your suggestion with your buyer. This will not only earn trust, but will earn you more freelancing jobs in the future.
As in life, in freelancing, honesty is certainly the best policy. If you are unable to complete any part of the project, disagree with the deadline, etc.
Part of being successful in freelancing is having a proper portfolio. If you were seeking any other job, you would not walk in, requesting employment empty-handed. You would have a resume. Well, in freelancing, your portfolio serves as your resume.
One of the best qualities of a freelancer is a positive attitude and patience. Being successful in freelancing will take time. You must build a reputation based on personality, fairness, service, honesty and professionalism.