Introduction
In freelancing, it is important not only to be able to fulfill orders, but also understand how clients choose freelancersAfter all, even a talented specialist can be left without projects if they don't know what the client is looking for in a contractor. In this article, we'll explore what clients pay attention to when choosing a contractor, what mistakes turn them off right away, and how to sell yourself effectively.
🔹 1. First impression: profile decides everything
Your profile is your business card. The client spends no more than 10–20 seconds, to understand whether it is worth reading further.
Here's what plays a key role:
- Photo. Real, friendly, well-lit. No logos, cats, or dark filters.
- Description. Not a template like “I am responsible and punctual,” but a lively text that shows your individuality and experience.
- Headline. It should immediately state what you can do: “Designer with 5 years of experience in eCommerce”
Copywriter for fashion and beauty brands
🔹 2. Portfolio: not just pictures, but proof
Clients are almost always First they look at the portfolio.
What matters here is not the volume, but the quality and presentation.
What customers appreciate:
- Matching the style and the task.
- How neatly and logically the examples are presented.
- Is there a brief description: goal, process, result.
❗ The mistake many freelancers make is simply uploading work without context.
Add a few lines:
"The goal was to create a minimalist landing page for a women's clothing brand. The result was an increase in conversions by 32%."
🔹 3. Reviews and ratings: the power of trust
Even one positive review is often more important than a beautiful portfolio.
Customers read not only numbers, but also tone of reviews:
- What they write about your communication.
- How do you react to edits?
- Were there any difficulties with deadlines?
If you are a beginner, start with small orders to collect your first ratings.
🔹 4. Communication with the client: tone and reaction
Even if you are a perfect match in terms of skills, the client may choose another one - simply because he It's more pleasant to communicate with him.
Good communication is:
- Fast and polite responses.
- Specific questions about the project.
- No boilerplate phrases like “Ready to get started!” without further clarification.
🗣 Example:
"Hello! I reviewed your landing page project. Could you please clarify if you have a brand guide and references?"
We wrote about this in detail in the article. How to Communicate with Clients: Email Templates and Phrases That Work.
🔹 5. Cost and timeframe: justify, don't make excuses
The client evaluates not only the price, but also the way you serve it.
❌ Bad:
“I’ll do it for 1000 UAH, if it’s not expensive.”
✅ Better:
"The price is 1000 UAH. Includes design, edits, and mobile adaptation."
This way you show confidence and professionalism, not self-doubt.
🔹 6. Personality and approach
Freelancing is not only about skills, but also about the energy you bring to the job.
Clients feel when the performer involved, and not just “does it for money.”
Add a little humanity to your profile:
- Why did you choose your profession?
- What do you like about your job?
- What tasks inspire?
This creates an emotional connection and increases the chances of you being chosen.
Conclusion
Now you know, How clients choose freelancers — They are looking not just for a contractor, but for a partner they can trust.
Your success directly depends on how you present yourself, design your portfolio, and communicate.
Author: Alex
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