Getting freelance jobs in the past was a hard nut to crack as opposed to today, where it all seems like a breeze. This is thanks to sites like Upwork, Craigslist, ProBlogger, and so on. However, freelancing work still doesn’t come on a silver platter.
To work as a freelancer, you have to be disciplined and effectively plan your work. After all, you are your own boss. Therefore, it is important to take charge and do everything you can to ensure your success.
That said, to flourish in your career, you will need a shining online profile that will attract more prospects. However, creating a profile is not as easy as it may seem. So, here is an easy guide on how to craft a perfect online freelance profile.
Use Your Real Name
If you are still hesitant to share your name with the public, then you are not ready for freelance work. Coded names like “Pearlp88” are never taken seriously. Potential clients might not even look at your profile because of such a name. Never abbreviate your name or include numbers. It is important to portray yourself as someone is can be trusted.
Use A Professional Picture
If you think you will put a selfie or that picture you took with shades on while posing at the beach, you’d better think again. Always keep in mind that this is a professional profile, not a profile for Facebook or a dating site.
Dress professionally and look straight in the camera as you take your picture. Don’t forget to smile, of course. First impressions matter in the freelance world, and if your image is not clear enough, no one will click on your profile. Remember, you are asking these people to pay for your services. So, you want to seem competent.
Craft A Unique Headline
Choose your words carefully because this is what catches the attention of most prospects. If you write your headline well, you are sure to get more jobs coming your way. Your headline has to include some of your skills. For instance, if you are a writer, be sure to include something like “professional writer” within your headline. If you are a graphic designer, you can mention some of the programs you know how to use.
Include Your Experiences And Qualifications
Take advantage of the available options to include your qualifications and work experience. If there are any jobs you have completed in the past, add them in a neat bullet-point format. Include your work history, skills, and anything else you think might sell you as a freelancer.
Furthermore, if you worked for a well-known company in the past, include that too. It will show that you have been trusted by reputable professionals in the past. This, of course, adds more weight to your bio, thus attracting more work.
Connect Your Bio To Your Social Accounts
As a freelancer, you must be well versed with LinkedIn, Pinterest, Facebook, and the like. If not, then you have no idea what you are missing out. To begin with, LinkedIn validates your experience and also gives clients a sense of who you are. Make sure your social networks have a large and relevant following.
State Your Rates
Just like the adage, “know your worth,” says it is important to set your own value. First, do due diligence and find out how much people in your field charge, and always remember never to sell yourself short. Whereas setting a low rate seems like it’s a good idea for you to attract more clients, it will soon get you frustrated once you realize you are working a lot and not earning enough.
Also, don’t aim too high, ensure your rates match both your skills and experience. Setting your hourly rate above $50 as a writer might get you little to no work.
Bottom Line
When it comes to freelancing, your profile will act as your CV. Your profile is what will attract clients and earn you that next paycheck. If you are stuck, follow these tips and craft that perfect freelancer profile.
