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Freelance Guide

This document is a practical guide for developers who want to start freelancing or grow their freelance business. It covers platforms, tools, workflows, client communication, pricing, and long-term strategies.

1. Freelance Platforms

Global Platforms

  • Upwork One of the largest freelancing platforms, suitable for developers, designers, writers, and more. Competitive, but offers long-term clients.

  • Freelancer
    Similar to Upwork, with project-based and contest-based opportunities.

  • Fiverr
    Focused on “gigs” (small, clearly defined services). Great for building a portfolio quickly.

  • Toptal
    Premium platform with strict vetting process. Higher pay, but harder to get accepted.

  • Guru
    Flexible payment terms, less competitive compared to Upwork.

  • LinkedIn
    Professional networking and client acquisition channel. Building visibility here can bring inbound clients.

  • GitHub / Portfolio Sites
    Showcasing your code, open-source contributions, and projects increases credibility.

Local/Regional Platforms (Turkey)

Other Opportunities

  • Content & Education: Udemy instructor, technical blogging
  • Creative: Book translation, copywriting
  • Game Development: Unity freelance projects

2. Building Your Online Presence

A professional online presence makes you stand out.

  • Portfolio Website:
    Options to build:

  • Domain & Hosting:

    • Follow Website Setup document for detailed steps.
    • Payment: usually yearly, with discounts for multi-year.
    • Always register the domain under your client’s name if the site is for them.

  • Social Media:
    Maintain active LinkedIn, Twitter (X), and GitHub profiles.

3. Tools for Freelancers

  • WordPress: Widely used for websites and e-commerce.
    • Plugins: WooCommerce (shopping cart, payments), Yoast SEO, Elementor.
  • TopTracker: Time tracking tool (especially for Upwork projects).
  • Prompt Engineering: Use AI tools to improve productivity, write proposals, or brainstorm.

4. Workflow with Clients

Finding and Onboarding Clients

  • Introduce yourself with a professional profile and portfolio.
  • Initial communication via platform messages, email, or LinkedIn.
  • Gather requirements, set expectations, and confirm scope in writing.

Communication

  • Early stage: clarify project goals, deadlines, and deliverables.
  • During the project: provide regular updates (weekly or milestone-based).
  • End of project: present deliverables, get feedback, and confirm acceptance.

Payment Process

  • Define payment terms upfront:
    • Full upfront (rare)
    • 50% upfront + 50% after completion (common)
    • Milestone-based payments (recommended for large projects)
  • Use secure payment systems on platforms (Upwork Escrow, Fiverr).
  • For private projects, use PayPal, Wise, or bank transfer.

Maintenance & Support

  • Offer optional ongoing support packages.
  • Maintenance tasks include plugin updates, bug fixes, backups, and minor feature adjustments.
  • Charge separately for maintenance (monthly or yearly).

5. Pricing Strategy

  • Getting Started: Offer competitive pricing to build portfolio and client base.
    Example: $10–$15/hour or fixed-price projects at lower rates.
  • Growth Stage: Increase rates as you gain experience, positive reviews, and niche skills.
  • Rule of Thumb: Revisit pricing every 6–12 months.

6. Long-Term Strategy

  • Build relationships with repeat clients.
  • Specialize in a niche (e.g., WordPress e-commerce, React apps, Unity game development).
  • Diversify income: client projects, courses, templates, plugins.
  • Continuously learn and update your skills.