There are few better careers these days than that of a freelancer. By working for yourself, you get to choose your own niche, set your own schedule, and charge what you know you’re worth. As a freelance web developer, you can work from anywhere and it’s not too difficult to find jobs.
However, there is a difference between trawling job boards and finding real success working for yourself. While any freelancer can find gigs, it takes a bit more work to find steady, high-paying clients. These are clients who partner with you, rather than hiring you for a job. You become their go-to for all their web development needs, but they trust you to do it on your terms. You’re an expert, rather than someone who just happens to have the necessary skills.
The number one factor in positioning you as an expert is your professional website. A professional website shows that you’re more than just someone looking to make extra cash. You’re an entrepreneur and you know how to navigate the business world.
If you’re setting up your website (and you can find the best WordPress hosting deals here), this is what you need to include.
What You Do
It’s amazing how many people forget to include a simple description of what they do. Remember that not everyone is totally sure what a web developer does. While it’s obvious to you, you still need to showcase what you will do for the client. Keep this short and punchy. It is crucial, but it shouldn’t take up too much space on your landing page.
What They’ll Get
Any web developer can do the job in most cases. However, not every web developer will know how to deliver results. When it comes down to it, this is what your USP is. Explaining what you do sets you up as a professional, but explaining what kind of results you’ll deliver really sells you.
A Portfolio
Your website should not be your portfolio. However, you should include your portfolio as a page on your website. Rather than positioning you as someone just looking for gigs, it becomes a way to seal the deal. By the time a client looks at your portfolio, they should already be interested in working with you. Your samples simply show the great work you’ve done for other clients.
Testimonials
Which brings us to testimonials. Obviously, if you’re just starting out, you won’t have any testimonials. And you don’t need them if you do a good enough job at selling yourself. But as soon as you’ve had some success, ask clients to write a few words. Testimonials do what a portfolio can’t: they show you can get results. When asking for testimonials, remember to specify what you want. Satisfied clients will be more than willing to write something for you, but often don’t know what to say until you prompt them.
An Easy Way To Make Contact
Clients should not have to search for your contact information. It should be easy to find and provide a range of choices, including email, contact form, and phone (if possible).