• How to Become a Freelance Web Developer in 2023
  • Build a portfolio
    • How to build a portfolio
      • Open source work
      • CodeCanyon scripts
      • Your portfolio site
  • Find your client
  • Focus on a specific niche
  • The end

#How to Become a Freelance Web Developer in 2023

Whether you're just getting started or you're a seasoned pro, you can utilize your skillset to become a freelance web developer.

#Build a portfolio

Starting is always the hardest part of doing anything. Before finding the clients, you need to realize there are an estimated 1.5 million freelance developers globally(https://askwonder.com/research/freelancer-developers-world-ba34agqze). How to gain trust from your initial clients are the key to kick start your freelance career.

First thing is to build up a portfolio, a portfolio directly shows the quality of your work and what your expertise is.

#How to build a portfolio

Initially, you will not have any client work to put in your portfolio. Here are some ideas on how to build up your portfolio when you just started.

#Open source work

You can start with something small or even free. For example, you can find projects that interest you and submit a PR on https://github.com/. When the PR is approved, list them on your portfolio site.

#CodeCanyon scripts

Create some scripts for sale on https://codecanyon.net/. CodeCanyon is a marketplace for simple source code. By creating some scripts on the site, you will not earn some quick cash, but also expose yourself to potential.

After getting your scripts approved, list them on your portfolio site too.

#Your portfolio site

Now it is time to build the actual portfolio site. It is extremely easy to build a website nowadays.

To build a portfolio site for yourself, head over to https://tailtemplate.com/posts/template-for-portfolio and download a template and upload it to https://staticfast.com/. Now you have a portfolio site.

#Find your client

Now you have a nice portfolio. And it is time to find your first client. Here we list out some of the most popular websites for freelancers. Go ahead and sign up. Please remember to enter your portfolio site URL in the introduction.

• PeoplePerHour: https://www.peopleperhour.com/
• Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/
• Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/
• Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/
• Toptal: https://www.toptal.com/

#Focus on a specific niche

If you are looking for a way to increase your income as a freelance web developer, you should consider focusing on a niche. You'll benefit from this if you can find a specialty because it will make it easier to land new clients and expand your business.

A narrow focus allows you to focus on one area and provide your clients with better service. You'll also be able to learn more about what other products or services can help address their needs. This is also helpful in understanding how new technologies and developments affect your clientele.

Another advantage of focusing on a niche is the ability to establish yourself as an expert. Clients will be more likely to trust you if you can demonstrate your knowledge of the latest technology and techniques.

#The end

To start is the hardest part of a freelancing career, take baby steps and build up your portfolio, and you will become a successful freelancer with patience.