Going freelance in web design is a dream for many artistically inclined professionals, but the field isn’t just about the talent you have. Successful freelancing depends on your business savvy and ability to commit and deliver on time.
Self-employment is a great thing, but many don’t choose it because of the financial and career-related risks involved. Freelance web design could be a miserable existence if you don’t play your card right, and the fact is that many web designers are already doing it the wrong way.
The most important aspect of freelancing as a web designer is getting the right clients, both in terms of consistency and quality. In general, freelancing should be treated as another facet of consulting, which must be done correctly if it is to evolve into a fulfilling career. A successful freelancer is someone who has developed an extensive professional network, possesses a healthy dose of entrepreneurial spirit, and keeps up-to-date on the latest developments in their chosen industry.
A premature decision to become self-employed instead of participating in a full-time job could severely damage your financial and emotional health, as well as cost you the most productive years of what could have been a successful career. It is certainly a gradual process and involves several steps.
Start with a full-time position
The best way to understand the intricacies of the web design industry is to work with a company where you can gain experience in what clients really need and what it takes to meet their requirements. Simultaneously, it is advisable to build a sizeable technical portfolio. This will give you confidence in your raw abilities and also an understanding of what type of work meets industry standards.
If you can’t find such a position (almost all companies are looking for experienced candidates), it would be helpful if you enroll in a professional course from a reputable institute that provides the right training and support in finding a job.
Start building your network and portfolio
When you have a salary to look forward to, you can spend the rest of your time working on your own projects. Deals from independent projects will come your way if you open the right channels and broadcast their availability.
Social platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook are great resources to help you build your network and showcase the work you’ve been involved in. Join groups on LinkedIn where other web designers congregate. This is a place where people looking for designers frequently post job and project listings.
Networking is all about laying the foundation for self-employment. When you’re sure you can get enough quality work throughout the month, you can consider leaving your full-time position.
Once you’re freelance, sign up on freelance sites like elance.com and freelancer.com, where you can showcase your portfolio and bid on advertised projects.
Keep improving your skills
Technology is continually changing, and new tools and ways of doing things are being introduced to web designers all the time. You need to stay up to date on the latest developments in your field because this allows you to get the best projects.
Once you consistently get bookings, you can start raising your rates, start taking high-paying jobs, and pass the less lucrative ones on to friends and acquaintances just starting out.
Specialize
Specialization is the key to making yourself known and being in constant demand. Graphics design involves several ingredients – try to specialize in one and become a master at it. Gradually, you will see your demand grow and your bank balance will show satisfactory figures.
Start early and be patient. Being self-employed is a lot like a job interview. But, as a freelance, interviews happen virtually every day, and your progress depends on your dedication to the job and growing your business.