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Zachary grace
6,682 PointsHow to start making websites as a freelancer
So I feel confident that I have learned enough to start taking on some clients. I would love to hear from some experienced developers on how they got started? How do you get yourself established as a freelance web developer?
4 Answers
Kevin Haube
12,265 PointsBefore anything, start by building a portfolio. Not a collection of files you've produced, but rather a showcase of your talent in both design and development by creating your very own website. Let it speak for itself, while also showcasing your other work. That'll give consumers an idea of what to expect from you.
Expert Tip: Exceed that expectation. Challenge yourself to go beyond what you KNOW you can do. That's how we grow as developers.
Next, there are sites (Freelancer.com comes to mind) that have jobs posted by potential consumers, and you bid on the job, not by how much you'll pay, but how much you'd like to be paid. From there, the poster picks his favorite. I tend to shy away from these kinds of websites because I like to build personal relationships with my clients through face-to-face meetings (usually at my local Starbucks...YUM!). It's a great way to network.
Start with local businesses in the area. That Mom 'n Pop Shop down the road could use your skills! Network around your area, and before you know it, you could be working for some major clients!
Dustin Matlock
33,856 PointsHey Zachary, have you had a chance to check out the Treehouse courses on freelancing and running a web design business? There's a lot of good information there, and maybe when you finish with that, we can recommend some more things.
Zachary grace
6,682 PointsThank you Dustin, I'll take a look at those. I appreciate it!
Tommy Gebru
30,164 PointsHey Zachary, Treehouse offers a lot of content on getting hired or starting a business and can be found in the Library or on the Track. Hope this helps!
Zachary grace
6,682 PointsThank you Teame!
Jorge Eduardo Garcia Celorio
10,112 PointsHello Zachary!
This quote will really start to get you some clients "Consume less, produce more".
As long as you establish and develop your own website, develop and share projects on GitHub, share what you know, and keep an active presence on the web, you will eventually get clients. As both Dustin and Teame have posted, check the Treehouse track on starting a business! And watch, watch and re-watch the Treehouse Show!
Provide quality, on time, at the right price, and clients will follow suit.
There's another area that I strongly recommend you which is: Personal Finance. If you are able to manage your financial health, trust me, you will maintain a successful freelancer lifestyle for a loooong time.
Tommy Gebru
30,164 PointsI have never watched the Treehouse Show, I am gonna try to watch a few every week!
Zachary grace
6,682 PointsThank you Jorge, Your answers were just the boost of confidence I needed. I really like the quote as well!
Zachary grace
6,682 PointsZachary grace
6,682 PointsThank you Kevin for taking the time to write a comment! I agree about going above and beyond expectations. That's what I've been doing with my own website, which is also why it is taking me a while to get it exactly how I envision it. Thanks for the tips about websites that hire freelancers. I agree that it's much more enjoyable to be able to build a personal relationship with clients. I'm kind of in a place where i'm switching careers, and I really need to start making some money with web design. I appreciate you feedback very much!