Being a freelance web developer can be quite exciting since individuals get a chance to work on their terms, choose their desired projects, and be their own boss. That being said, working as a freelancer also comes with some challenges, such as finding clients and projects. Initially, individuals may also have doubts about how to start the journey, but with a few simple tips, one can easily start their freelance web development career.
1. Evaluate the skills
To kickstart any kind of career, the most important thing one needs to do is evaluate their skill set. Based on the career-relevant skills that one has, one will be able to market themselves and pick projects. To evaluate the skill set in web development, one can start by determining their strengths in the field, the things they can do, and the things they love doing. For instance, when it comes to web development, some individuals may be especially skilled and interested in front-end coding, testing and debugging, responsive design, etc. One can also list the programming languages that one is comfortable working with. Accordingly, one can create a portfolio and pick projects.
Besides technical skills, one also needs to determine if they have the soft skills required to be a freelancer. This especially includes time management, communication skills (to manage client interactions), and self-discipline. These skills are essential for staying organized and meeting deadlines.
2. Consider expanding the knowledge base
If one finds a gap in their web development skills, it is always a good idea to take up a course and expand the skill set. Some of the most important skills to learn for freelance web development work are front-end coding, which includes HTML and CSS, back-end development languages, which include Java, C#, Python, etc., testing and debugging, and search engine optimization (SEO), among others. Along with these, one may also benefit from developing business skills.
3. Build a portfolio
One of the most important tips for beginners to follow when starting their journey as a freelance web developer is to build their portfolio. A person’s portfolio comprises all of their previous work. So, to build a freelance web development portfolio, one would need to include the projects they have completed. These could either be from their previous job (before they decided to become a freelancer) or any independent projects they undertook. A portfolio will clearly convey one’s skills and quality of work to the client. In fact, having a portfolio ready is one of the first steps to getting clients as a freelance web developer. To create and save the web development portfolio, one can consider building a website where they can showcase their projects in a professional and visually appealing manner. One can also consider using online portfolio tools, such as Upwork and Wix.
4. Make a business plan
Beginners need to build a clear and detailed business plan before starting their new venture. A business plan will help one determine what kind of web development projects one is willing to accept and the tools they plan to use. This will further help freelancers determine their expenses in setting up the business, which will also include the operating or subscription costs of all the tools they are using.
5. Create a strong online presence
The next step one needs to take to launch their freelance web development business is to create an online presence. While the portfolio will comprise one’s best works, by itself, it would not be enough to create a brand. And creating a personal brand is extremely important for freelancers to attract clients. Web developers can build their online presence by creating their personal website. This site can not only include their portfolio but also feature blogs they write, client reviews, and a description of all the services they offer.
Freelance web developers can also use social media to build their online presence. They can consider sharing news and the latest updates in the web development world to display their interest and expertise.
6. Look for job postings
To find freelance web development projects, one can also consider looking for job opportunities and listings that are exclusively for freelancers or contract-based workers. Some of the most popular websites where one can find freelance web developer jobs include LinkedIn and Indeed. One can also consider signing up on platforms that are entirely dedicated to freelance listings, such as Fiverr and Upwork.
7. Conduct market research
Knowing about the market trends in the field of web development can help freelancers understand what particular skills clients are looking for and what latest tools are being used. One can also consider studying the works and portfolios of other freelancers and professional web developers to check what is working for them as well as what is not.
Apart from this, networking and connecting with fellow freelance web developers can also be helpful in market research, especially for beginners. Interacting with experienced freelancers can help one get a better understanding of how to communicate with clients or if there are tools they can use to make their tasks easier. More importantly, experienced freelancers can guide one with the pricing aspect of freelance web development. One can ask if clients pay an hourly rate or a project-based fee and what the typical industry rates are for various types of web development work.