This was originally posted on Quora. Checkout My Quora Page where I answer more questions about freelancing and Upwork.
The first thing you want to do is build a profile that details specifically what you’ve done and can do.
This should essentially list everything you can. Don’t worry about going too long with it, because the more you have on there, the more you’re searchable. And you need to be searchable especially in the beginning.
You’re also going to want to make a video because this will give you some humanity. If people like your personality, they’ll be much more inclined to work with you. This also gives you a chance to sell yourself with some conviction.
The next thing you want to do is make sure that your portfolio nicely lists all of the things that you’ve worked on that a potential client may want to see.
Make it nice, and maybe put the logos of platforms that you’ve worked with.
Finally, it’s time to start applying.
Start searching for jobs in your wheelhouse and apply to them.
When applying, don’t copy and paste. Talk to them like a normal person. Check out this video I did about what makes a good proposal.
Your only objective should be for the potential client to check out your portfolio. It is not to sell them from the proposal. Many freelancers rub me the wrong way when they try and pretend to be clever on the proposal, and it’s pretty clear that they’re merely cutting and pasting the same BS over and over.
Be unique and be yourself, but also be confident that you can help the client with whatever it is they need.
At the end of the day, the client just wants to know you can do what you say you’re going to do, you’re a trustworthy person, and you’re likable.
