How to Break Into Freelancing

Freelancing is a liberating way to make a living. It allows you to do what you love while being your own boss and adhering to your own schedule. But getting started can be intimidating. Freelance gigs are abundant, and the Internet makes them pretty easy to find. The hardest part is getting those first few jobs to get some experience under your belt.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Build your portfolio. You could use work you’ve done in school or on your own. Don’t feel like you have to include everything you’ve ever done. Just the most impressive projects will be sufficient.
2. Get some experience doing work for others. You could barter or do work for charities or non-profits. Writers and graphic and web designers can gain experience by doing projects for websites of people they know.
3. Set up a website showcasing your work. Include testimonials from satisfied customers and positive reviews of your work as endorsements. Also include pricing and contact information.
4. Start looking for freelance gigs online. There are a number of websites set up specifically to connect freelancers and people who need freelance work done. You might also find work on traditional job boards. See the Resources section for some websites to try.
5. Network online and off. Making connections is one of the most effective ways to gain new clients.
6. Remember the local market. Sometimes people are more willing to take a chance on a local provider with little experience than someone who is miles away and they may never meet in person. Writers and photographers, for example, might consider contacting local publications to inquire about gigs.

Tips & Warnings

• Blogging is a great way for writers and photographers to showcase their work. And with a little creativity, other freelancers can use a blog to their advantage as well.
• Those first few jobs probably won’t pay top dollar. But it is still important to make sure you’re being compensated adequately for your time and effort.