There are many perks to being a freelance web developer. It is possible to work remotely from anywhere in the world (Costa Rica anyone? You can also do it from your home. You can also set your own hours and rates, and manage your workflow. Web development is a highly-demanded industry at the moment. You have the opportunity to find clients and make a career out of it!
This brings us to the million dollar question: How can I become a freelance web designer?
This post will break down the process into five steps. It also contains valuable tips and tricks to help you get started with your freelancing career. Start at the top, and work your way down.
Step 1: Learn as Many Technologies/Languages as You Can
Web development projects require a mastery of multiple programming languages. This means that the more languages and technologies you are familiar with, the more jobs you will be able to accept. This is a crucial first step. Start with languages that are versatile and in-demand such as Python to prioritize and then build your experience with other technologies.
Step 2: Cross Your T’s and Dot Your I’s
Next, you need to set up the logistics for your business. There are many steps involved in starting a freelancing business.
To determine the best structure of your business, meet with a Certified Public accountant. This information will be necessary for the next steps.
Register your business name in any state where you live or work.
Register for a Federal EIN if you are eligible and find out when and what frequency you will need to pay taxes.
If necessary, get liability insurance
Get the software and equipment that you need to setup your home office.
Make a business plan. This document is essential in setting goals and defining vision for your business. It is also required to secure any financing you may need.
The US Small Business Administration offers step-by-step guidance for small business owners and hundreds of resources, including education about meeting requirements. You will also need to check with your state’s small business division for information and questions.
Step 3: Create your freelancing website
A portfolio of completed client projects is one of the most difficult aspects of freelance work. Your personal website should be your showcase piece. You should take the time to create a site that is engaging and interactive using current design trends. You should mention that you have built the site from scratch and can do the same thing for your clients. Tell your clients about yourself, what you love, what you can do, how it will benefit you, and why they should choose to work with you.
You can also include interaction opportunities such as links to social networks accounts, contact forms, or a live chat option. A blog is a great way to show off your knowledge of the latest web development trends and techniques and to help you increase your SEO.
Tip: “7 Ways to Earn Money While Building Your Website Development Portfolio” explains how you can build your portfolio, make industry contacts, and still pay the rent.
Step 4: Market Your Services
You can market your freelance services effectively by asking yourself “Who’s my target market?” If your passion is in one particular area of business, that could help you define your target market. Here are some examples of target markets:
Small businesses in the local area that don’t have an online presence
Websites of non-profit organizations that are not working
Online purchasing is not an option for sales companies
You can also target one industry. You might have grown up helping your parents run an auto shop. This gives you industry knowledge that you can use to help potential clients in that sector.
Once you have established your target market and determined your rates, it’s time to market your services. This might be as simple as stopping by a local business and saying, “I noticed that your website isn’t as effective as I thought it should be” or sending an email to businesses outside of your local area to say the exact same thing.
Your forte is web development so it is important that any digital work you produce is visually appealing. It is also important to have a business card, as you never know when you might run into potential clients and be able to leave your contact information.
Step 5: Stay Current
Continue your education in web development. Also, continue to learn new technologies and languages as they become available. Use your downtime to obt