How to Stand Out on Freelance Platforms and Win More Projects?

Many freelancers, particularly new freelancers, are unsure how to differentiate themselves from clients. What, they wonder, does it take to be considered a top candidate for the projects they want to win? What information is required to be in high demand by clients?

This is obviously important to freelancers. Marketplaces typically employ less than 20% of their freelance platform members. Of course, there are external factors at work. While some areas of expertise are in high demand, freelance professionals in other areas are experiencing slower times and fewer opportunities. Furthermore, in order to provide potential clients with a diverse range of skills and experience, freelance platforms typically accept more freelancers than they can directly support.

Due to these obstacles, freelancers are frequently unsure of how to present themselves, put their best foot forward, and respond to project opportunities that match their skills, experience, and interests. In a nutshell, how to set themselves up for success.

Some tips to win

Freelance platforms are becoming more competitive as more professionals join on a daily basis. As a result, standing out and winning projects can be difficult. You can, however, differentiate yourself and increase your chances of winning more projects by implementing a few key strategies. Here are some pointers to help you stand out on freelance websites:

• Make a Good First Impression: Your profile is your first impression, so make it a good one. Use a professional profile picture, emphasise your skills and experience, and highlight your best work. Include keywords related to your skills so that clients can easily find you.

• Be Specific About Your Skills: Make a list of the skills you offer and provide examples of your work in each area. Clients want to know exactly what you can do and what you specialise in so that they can have confidence in your ability to deliver high-quality work.
• Provide Competitive Pricing: Research what others in your industry are charging and price your services competitively. Clients are always looking for good deals, so make sure you charge a reasonable fee for your services.

• Communicate Clearly and Professionally: Respond to client inquiries in a timely and professional manner. Answer any questions they have and make it clear how you can assist them with their project. Maintain open lines of communication throughout the project, providing updates and soliciting feedback as needed.
• Provide High-Quality Work: Above all, make certain that your work is of high quality. This will assist you in establishing a positive reputation on the platform and increasing your chances of winning additional projects in the future.

The Dark Side of Finding Freelance Work

You may face some difficulties while looking for a freelance job and while on the job. These are important to address so that you know what to look for.

Scams

Scams are common in freelance and remote job listings, as previously stated. You’ll need to be cautious when looking for work and be aware of common job scams.

Contract Issues

Freelancers are sometimes exploited or asked to perform work outside the scope of the contract. Examine the contract before agreeing to do more work for a client. Are revisions included, or do you need to increase your fees? To avoid problems like this in the future, make sure that any additional work requirements are properly included in any future contracts.

Payment issues

Continue to send payment reminders if you have unpaid freelance invoices. To avoid future payment issues, include payment terms in the contract in writing. Setting up online payment options that accept credit cards may also aid in payment speed.

Too Many Samples

If a potential client requests an original sample, inquire as to why they require it. It’s possible they want to see what you do with their materials. When someone requests original work before hiring you, make sure you define the scope of what they want and how it will be used. Also, make a point of getting this information in writing.

Feast-or-Famine Syndrome

The freelance world is frequently described as a feast or famine; that is, you either have too much or not enough work. This can result in long-hour days and weeks, followed by days or weeks with little or no work. You’ll need to learn how to properly balance your time as well as budgeting and saving money. And when work is slow for a few days or weeks, that’s when you should really focus on networking and job searching.

Overall, double-check the company and/or the hiring manager, avoid jobs that promise a lot of money for little work, and never give out your Social Security number or bank account information.