How to Stand Out on Freelance Platforms: A Guide for Copywriting Beginners
In the vast ocean of freelancing, where countless hopefuls are vying for attention, standing out can feel like an insurmountable task.
But fear not, dear reader, for today we embark on a journey to unravel the secrets of making a splash on popular freelancing platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.
This isn't just a guide; it's a survival kit, a treasure map, and a secret weapon all rolled into one. So buckle up, because we're about to dive deep into the world of freelancing.
The Art of Personalization
First things first, let's talk about personalization. You see, in the world of freelancing, your application is your first impression, and as the old saying goes:
"You never get a second chance to make a first impression."
So, make it count!
When applying for jobs, ensure your application is personal and personalized.
This means humanizing your language and speaking directly to the business owner who is looking for support.
Share your values, your beliefs as a copywriter, and how you can help solve their problems. Trust me, this will make you stand out like a peacock in a flock of pigeons.
But remember, there's a fine line between being personal and oversharing. Stick to your professional values and how they align with the job at hand.
Show them you're not just another freelancer; you're a person who's passionate about what they do and who they do it for.
The Devil is in the Details
Next up, we have a simple yet game-changing tip: read carefully. Yes, you heard it right. It's as simple as that. When applying for jobs, pay close attention to the instructions.
You'd be surprised how many people fail to do this. Following instructions not only shows that you're detail-oriented but also that you're serious about the job.
So, don't skim through the job description. Read it, understand it, and follow it to the letter.
This attention to detail will set you apart from the crowd. It shows potential clients that you're not just interested in the job, but you're also committed to doing it right.
It's a small thing, but in the world of freelancing, small things can make a big difference.
Building Authority
Now, let's talk about authority. If you're a newbie, you might not have much experience under your belt. But don't let that deter you. There are other ways to build trust.
One unique way is to share your personality type. Many business owners design their teams based on personality types, so sharing yours can give you an edge.
It shows that you understand different personality types and that you've done the work to understand yourself better.
If you've taken the Myers-Briggs, DISC, or any other personality test, don't hesitate to share your results.
It shows potential clients that you're self-aware and that you understand how your personality can contribute to their team.
It's a unique way to showcase your soft skills, which are just as important as your technical skills in the world of freelancing.
Make it About Them
The fourth tip is possibly the most important one: make it about them. This is rule number one in copywriting.
When applying for jobs, lead with how you can help the client solve a problem. Make it clear how you can help them save time, money, and effort.
Show that you've taken the time to understand their brand and what they're looking for. This will help you go far on freelancing platforms.
This is where your research skills come into play. Before applying for a job, take the time to understandthe client's business, their brand, and their needs.
This will allow you to tailor your application to them, showing them that you're not just interested in any job, but you're interested in their job.
This level of attention and care can set you apart from other freelancers who send generic applications.
Lead with Value
The fifth tip is to lead with value. Offer some sort of tip, advice, or feedback in your application.
Better yet, showcase your copywriting skills by rewriting their main website's headline right there in your application.
This not only shows that you've taken the time to research the brand but also showcases your skills.
This is a bold move, but it's one that can pay off. It shows potential clients that you're not just talk; you can deliver.
Plus, it gives them a taste of what it would be like to work with you. Just make sure that any feedback or suggestions you offer are constructive and helpful.
The goal is to show them how you can add value to their business, not to criticize their current operations.
Patience is a Virtue
Finally, be patient. Freelancing is a numbers game. You will have way more applications and conversations than clients who end up hiring you.
But treat every single one of those applications as an opportunity to build awareness with a potential client.
Even if you're not closing all of these applications, treat that as a connection and a way to build your network.
Remember, every conversation is an opportunity to learn and grow. Even if a client doesn't hire you, they might refer you to someone who will.
Or they might remember you for a future project. So don't get discouraged if you don't land every job you apply for. Keep going, keep learning, and keep building your network.
Conclusion
In the end, remember that no contact with any business or fellow freelancer is a waste of time.
So go in with the mindset that you are simply having conversations to slowly build your network and trust that those connections will come back later.
With these tips in your arsenal, you're well on your way to standing out on Fiverr, Upwork, and other freelancing platforms. Happy freelancing!
Remember, the world of freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time to build a reputation and a client base.
But with patience, persistence, and the right strategies, you can make a name for yourself and build a successful freelancing career.
So keep these tips in mind, put them into practice, and watch as your freelancing journey takes off.