6 Steps To Become A Freelance Web Developer
By: Sohaib Rumi
Tags: Programming, Remote Working, Coding, Tech, Freelancing

6 Steps To Become A Freelance Web Developer

Full-time contract or as a side hustle

Photo by Alexandru Acea on Unsplash

Becoming a freelance web developer is quite a lucrative prospect, especially for people desiring freedom and the ability to dictate their own life. It is also quite desirable for those with a creative streak and the ability to manage time effectively. However, it is not that simple to become a successful freelance programmer.

Let’s face it, becoming a freelance web developer has some major perks. For starters, it can be done from nearly anywhere in the world, or right from the comfort of your own home. You also have the freedom to establish and control your own schedule, hourly rates, and workflow. Last, but far from least, is the fact that web development is one of the most in-demand industries to be working in at the moment. The demand is only growing, so the potential to find clients and to have a lucrative career is strongly in your favor!

This brings us to the million-dollar question: How do I become a freelance web developer?

In this article, we’ll break the process into 6 step-by-step instructions laced on how to kick-off your freelancing career. Simply start at the top and work your way down!

Learn to Code

Obviously right?

But the barrier for many here is the realization that you don’t need to be a master developer to do freelance work. I’ve said it again and again: 50% of all I do as a freelancer falls in the CSS category. It’s bloggers looking for design changes, digital marketers looking for landing pages, etc.

HTML and CSS are requirements, and from there you can land a lot of freelance work.

On top of this, PHP/WordPress and base knowledge of JavaScript will help you get your mittens on many more freelance projects.

So the first step is, learn to code. Without this, you simply cannot become a freelance web developer. If you know at least HTML and CSS well, then move to the next step.

Learn as Many Technologies/Languages as You Can

Web development projects require knowledge of more than one programming language. This means the more technologies and languages you know, the more jobs you’ll be able to accept, making this a vital first step. To prioritize, start with languages that are both versatile and in-demand, such as Python, and continue building your experience with more technologies over time.

Expand your Communication Skills

Communication skills are an essential part of a freelance web developer. It is very important to communicate with clients in order to get a sense of what they require and deliver that as per specifications. Also, communication skills are essential in forming professional ties to retain clients in the long-term.

Set basic Working Rules

Some basic working rules are required to become a successful freelance web developer. The most important rule is to have a fixed schedule that is strictly adhered to. Also, a fixed basic pay rate for clients is required. Moreover, a rough schedule of meetings, updates, deadlines, etc. should be fixed with the clients before the commencement of the project for optimal results.

Build a Portfolio

It’s important to track your work and create a site for yourself. After all, it is the face of your business, and your business is your work. You should use your website to showcase your skills through action. For example, if you’re an animator, add animation to show how you’d actually apply your skills in a practical setting.

If you don’t yet have professional projects to show, create speculative work (spec work) or show school projects that you’re proud of. You can offer your services for free to people you know to build your portfolio and get glowing reviews.

Here are some platforms to help easily set up (or inspire) a working portfolio:

Behance

WordPress

Wix

Personal website — use your coding skills!

And remember, include a contact form so people know how to get ahold of you should they want to hire you!

Market Your Services

To effectively market your freelance services, you should ask yourself, “Who is my target market?” If you’re passionate about one area of business or another that may help define your target market. Some sample target markets include:

Local small businesses that do not have an online presence yet

Non-profit organizations whose current websites are ineffective

Sales companies who don’t offer online purchasing

You can also target a single industry. Perhaps you grew up helping your parents run an auto body shop, so you have industry knowledge that you can apply to potential clients in that industry.

Once you’ve established your target market and set your rates, you can begin to market your services. In many cases, this might mean stopping by a local business to say, “I noticed your website isn’t as effective as it could be, and I was wondering if I could show you my ideas,” or shooting a quick email to businesses outside your local trade area to say the same thing.

Because your forte is web development, it’s important that anything digital that comes from you is visually appealing and showcases your work, so make sure to put time and effort into this process. Having a business card is important, as well, because you never know when you may run into a potential client and have an opportunity to leave your contact information.