Before you approach your first client, three things need to be in place: proof that you can do the work, a way for clients to find and check you, and the habit of writing clearly and professionally. This section covers all three.
Why preparation matters
A client who has never met you is taking a risk. They are trusting you with their money, their deadline and sometimes their reputation. Anything that reduces that risk makes them more likely to hire you. A good sample reduces the risk that the work will be poor. A clear profile reduces the risk that you are not who you say you are. A polite, clear message reduces the risk that working with you will be stressful.
Some online postings say clearly that applications without samples or live links will not be considered. Local clients may not say it, but they think the same way: "Show me something you have done."
What this section covers
- A portfolio that proves your skill. Three to five strong pieces, each presented with the problem, what you did and the result. You will learn how to build samples even before you have paid clients, and how to do it honestly.
- Profiles and online presence. How to set up profiles that say in seconds what you do, for whom and how to reach you, on the places your clients actually look.
- Writing to clients professionally. How to greet, answer the question asked, confirm details in writing and reply on time.