How to Become A Web Developer Freelancer (Step-by-step)

If you’re into programming or want to start programming, you can work with all types of web tasks by becoming a freelance web developer. You can do anything from WordPress to more heavy web tasks.

To become a freelance web developer, it’s essential to know your stuff and be able to argue your case. You must choose a programming language you want to focus on, and then strong design skills are a bonus but not a must.

I’ve been a freelance web developer for over 10 years, and I started with basic skills through client projects. I built a portfolio and my skillset as I was forced into new challenges.

Pros And Cons Of Becoming A Freelance Web Developer

Pros	Cons
The autonomy to select projects that inspire you The convenience of working remotely Work when you want to, and for how long you want.	The autonomy to select projects that inspire you The convenience of working remotely Work when you want to and for how long you want.

What Is A Web Developer Freelancer?

Freelance web developers are professionals who work independently and offer their services to clients on a project-by-project basis. They can work from anywhere, set their own schedules, and choose the projects they want to work on. Web developer jobs are in high demand, and many developers choose to work as freelancers to take advantage of the growing market.

Freelance web developers often collaborate with other professionals, such as web designers, end developers, and other specialists, to create high-quality websites and applications for clients. They use different programming languages such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, Python, Ruby on Rails, and Java. They also use frameworks like ReactJS or VueJS for front-end development or Django or Flask for back-end development.

You must have strong problem-solving skills as a freelance web developer since you will work independently without supervision. You must also have excellent communication skills to communicate with your clients about their needs and expectations effectively.

One of the benefits of freelance work is that it allows you to set your own schedule, which can be especially appealing if you have other commitments such as family obligations or schoolwork. However, it’s important to remember that freelancing can also come with its own unique challenges, such as finding new clients regularly.

How To Become A Web Developer Freelancer With No Experience

Here I’ve collected a step-by-step guide to how you become a freelance web developer. If I had to start my career over, this is how I would’ve done it. So this is based on personal experience.

1. Choose your Skillset

The first thing you need to do is sit down and figure out what you love to do. And I really mean love to do, as this is what you’ll be doing every day for the following years.

If you’re in doubt, then try out some different things. Maybe you love to build websites using WordPress, or you’re more into backend development using Python, PHP or even Golang.

Maybe you like front-end development but want the coding aspect, so you focus on front-end frameworks such as VueJS, React and Angular.

So all I can recommend you to do is to try as much as possible, build some personal projects using the different languages and methods, and then you’ll know in the end what motivates you.

2. Start By Saying Yes To Everything

I know I wrote earlier that you need to be niche, as companies want experts, not generalists. But in the beginning, it’s tough to stay niche when you don’t have a portfolio or track record.

When I started out, I said yes to anything I could come near, and I’m so happy I did. Not only did I work on many different projects, but I also learned a lot about client communication and how clients want to work differently.

So I can only recommend you to do the same, unless you have a track record already, then stick to your niche as you’ve passed this step already.

3. Learn these skills

You might think we’re on step 3, and I haven’t mentioned you need to build a portfolio site yet. This is step 6, and I’ll explain why. I’ll share some skills you should learn as a freelance web developer to improve your career.

• Communication. No matter your path, communication is still key to succeeding with your clients. Every client is different, and they want to communicate and work differently. Some clients want a daily status, and others want a finished project.
• Responsive design. If you don’t go the back-end way, then responsive design is an important skill to learn. You want to build front-ends and websites that scale beautifully on mobile devices and even tablets.
• Hosting knowledge. Even though you choose to build back-ends or websites, knowing what hosting works best for you is crucial. You want your client to have the best foundation, starting with the hosting.
• Front-end knowledge. Even if you choose back-end or work with website builders, having some front-end knowledge and knowing how CSS and HTML work will only benefit you. Both for building websites faster or making the back-end integrate beautifully with the front-end.
• Back-end knowledge. Again, if you’re building a back-end, you obviously want knowledge about the back-end. But building front-ends, and having basic knowledge about the back-end, makes it easier for you to build a front-end which will integrate seamlessly with the back-end.

4. Build an audience

Start sharing your knowledge on social media. I hear repeatedly that people are scared to share their knowledge, as their customers will take the answers and never hire them.

This could not be longer from the truth. Whatever knowledge you have is already out there. So if the client wanted, they could search on Google for answers, but that’s the last they want.

They want an expert to solve the issues for them as they don’t have time to do it. Nor time to research the project or issue.

So by sharing your knowledge on social media, you will build an audience and show potential clients you know your stuff, and you could get jobs through this method.

5. Set up your freelance business

Hopefully, you have some clients and some revenue, so it’s time to set up your freelance business.

Don’t waste your time on this until you have some clients and your freelance career has started to roll. Then, it’s time to set up your business.

How you do it depends on the country you’re working in. I’ve made guides for Denmark, Spain and Portugal. Often you set up your freelance business in similar ways, but some elements might vary.

6. Build a portfolio

Now it’s time to start building a portfolio.

I’ve seen it so many times. Freelancers postpone the job of finding clients and start to build a portfolio website instead. Sure, they can add some texts and maybe some personal projects, but they don’t have any clients, so they can’t show their work.

This is why it’s so important you don’t waste a second thinking about a portfolio website until you’ve acquired a couple of clients.

You want to be able to show your work, not just build a business card website.

Once you start building your portfolio websites, the most important thing is client cases. Get testimonials from your clients and describe the process you took that client through. That is a lead machine for new potential clients.

And by following these 6 steps, you’ll increase your chance of success significantly.

How Much Does A Web Developer Freelancer Earn?

Freelance web developer jobs can earn you a decent amount of money, but it depends on your skills and experience. I started out earning $30 an hour and all the way up to $110 an hour.

It’s essential you start low, as you, in the beginning, don’t have a portfolio that speaks for you, and maybe your skillset is not perfected just yet.

If you want to make a full-time income as a freelance web developer, you must proactively seek new clients and build your portfolio. This means networking with other professionals in your industry, attending conferences and events where potential clients might be present, and creating an online presence through social media and other channels.

While there is no set salary for freelance web developers, the earning potential is high for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to build their skills and reputation. According to Glassdoor.com, the average annual salary for a freelance web developer is around $75K per year. However, this number can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience level, and specialization.

How To Get Clients As A Web Developer Freelancer

There are numerous ways to get clients as a web developer freelancer. I started using the platform Worksome, but you can also use Upwork. In the beginning, it’s all about getting some jobs so that you can build your portfolio.

What I’ll recommend you do, no matter what is to start building a following. Share your knowledge, and show your potential clients you know what you’re talking about.

Utilise Social Media Platforms to Showcase Your Work and Attract Potential Clients

Social media platforms are an excellent way to showcase your work as a freelance web developer and attract potential clients. You can create a professional profile on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or other social media platforms.

Don’t be afraid to share your knowledge with your followers on the platforms. You want to show you know what you’re talking about. So potential clients will get reassured you can solve their issues.

You can also join groups related to web development and participate in discussions. This will help you build relationships with other professionals in your field who could potentially refer you to their clients or hire you for projects.

Attend Networking Events and Conferences to Meet Prospective Clients

This is not something I’ve done a lot, but I know others have succeeded with it. Just be aware it’s very time-consuming.

Networking events and conferences allow freelance web developers to meet prospective clients face-to-face. These events often have exhibitor booths where attendees can learn more about different businesses or services.

Attending these events can be a great way to network with potential clients. Be sure to bring business cards and a brief pitch highlighting your skills and services as a freelance web developer.

Offer Discounted Rates or Free Consultations

In the beginning, it can be difficult to get clients, as you’re new and may not have a portfolio just yet.

A way to get started is to offer discounted rates or free consultations is an effective way to entice potential clients to try out your services. This allows them to see the quality of your work without committing too much money upfront.

Consider offering discounts for first-time clients or bundling services together at a reduced rate. Free consultations allow potential clients to discuss their needs with you before making any commitments.

Utilize Freelance Job Platforms

This was my way to solicit my freelancing path. I started using Worksome and tried other platforms as well, but Worksome was my favourite.

By signing up for freelance job platforms such as Upwork and Freelancer.com, you’re right where your potential customers are. These platforms allow you to create a profile showcasing your skills and experience, search for jobs that match your expertise, and submit proposals for consideration.

Be sure to complete your profile thoroughly so potential clients can understand what you offer accurately. Consider taking tests offered by these platforms that demonstrate proficiency in specific areas of web development.

Create a Portfolio Website

Once you start to get some clients, it’s time to build your portfolio website.

Creating a portfolio website that showcases your skills and services is essential for attracting new clients as a freelance web developer. Your website should include your portfolio of work, testimonials from satisfied clients, information about the services you offer, and contact information.

Consider investing in a domain name and hosting service so your website has a professional appearance. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and optimized for search engines so potential clients can easily find you online.

Asking for referrals from satisfied clients is an effective way to expand your client base. Happy clients often refer their friends, family, and colleagues to you if they have had a positive experience working with you.

Consider sending follow-up emails or surveys after completing projects asking for feedback, and requesting referrals. You can also offer incentives such as discounts on future work for referring new clients.

Tips For Becoming The Best Freelance Web Developer

Niche in, but stay broad

Companies want experts, not generalists. Find a niche that you excel in and stick to it, but stay broad at the same time.

By broad, I mean have some knowledge about as much as possible, but be an expert in only one thing. For example, even though you’re a WordPress expert, you should still have some hosting knowledge, as it’s part of having a WordPress website.

In the beginning, it’s tough to stay niched as you don’t have a track record. When I started, I took any task I could come near, and then I slowly niched in and became an expert in front-end development.

Staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies

The field of web development is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Attending conferences and networking with other freelance web designers can help expand your knowledge and skill set.

Developing strong communication skills

Effective communication is essential for collaborating with clients effectively. Developing strong communication skills will ensure you understand your client’s needs for their website project. Project management skills are also crucial for delivering high-quality work within deadlines.

Stay organised

When you start getting more clients, staying organised is essential. You want to impose professionalism and make all your clients feel valued.

This you do by using project management software and planning tools like Planzer.

Initially, it might be tough, but make it a routine to note everything down and then plan your days and weeks so you know what’s coming and you don’t run into any surprises.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful web developer freelancer is not easy, but it is achievable with hard work and dedication. With the right skills, mindset, and strategies in place, you can build a thriving freelance career that allows you to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of working on your own terms.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your freelance career, plenty of resources are available to help you succeed. From online courses and tutorials to networking events and professional organizations, there are many ways to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in web development.

Be careful not to fall into the endless-course trap. You have to find clients and get started.

If you’re relocating to a new country, I have written articles on how to start freelancing in Portugal, Spain and Denmark.

So if you’re ready to take the leap into freelance web development, remember to focus on building your skills, establishing your brand, marketing yourself effectively, and providing exceptional service to your clients. With these key ingredients in place, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a successful web developer freelancer!