Are you a college student looking to make some extra money while pursuing your degree? Freelancing might be the perfect option for you. As someone who has started freelancing recently, I want to share some tips and tricks that can help you get started.
My Experience
I started freelancing as a web developer while still in college. My first client paid me only ₹400 ($5), but yesterday, I finished a ₹55,000 ($700) project. How did I get there? By following the tips that I’m about to share with you.
Tip 1: Showcase Your Skills
As a beginner, it can be challenging to land your first project. One reason for this is that nobody knows you. So, how can you showcase your skills? There are a few things you can do.
First, create a portfolio website and include your best work there. Second, participate in online forums related to your field of interest, answer questions and provide solutions. T
hird, join social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn and interact with potential clients and people in your field of interest. By making your skills accessible to anyone, you increase the chances of someone hiring you.
Tip 2: Establish a Connection with Clients
Sending proposals that say “Hey, I can do this work for you” might not be enough to land a project.
Clients need to trust you before hiring you. Therefore, it’s essential to establish a connection with them. One way to do that is by writing a neat and credible proposal.
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Make sure you understand the project requirements, and highlight how you can meet those requirements. Don’t forget to mention relevant experience, qualifications, and skills that make you the best candidate for the job.
Tip 3: Maintain Relationships with Old Clients
Word of mouth is one of the best ways to market yourself as a freelancer. You can only get recommendationsby providing excellent service to your clients.
Maintain healthy relationships with your old clients by keeping in touch and providing follow-up services. This way, they’ll be more likely to recommend you to their network.
Tip 4: Be Open to Learning
As a freelancer, you might get a project that requires skills you don’t have. Don’t say no to such opportunities. Instead, be open to learning new things. The beauty of freelancing is that you can work at your own pace and on your terms.
Use the internet to your advantage by taking online courses, reading articles, and watching tutorials. You can even ask clients to provide training or guidance.
Bonus Tip
Twitter has been a goldmine for me. Sixty percent of my revenue comes from clients who found me through Twitter.
Check out my detailed thread!
Join the platform and start networking with people in your field of interest. Use relevant hashtags and participate in relevant conversations. You’ll be surprised at how many opportunities come your way.
Conclusion
Freelancing can be an excellent option for college students looking to make extra cash. You can turn freelancing into a lucrative career by showcasing your skills, establishing a connection with clients, maintaining relationships, being open to learning, and leveraging social media. Remember to be patient and persistent, success doesn’t come overnight.