There is comfort in freelancing. It is a form of work, independent and liberal. But at the same time, it can be a hassle to search for high-paying projects continuously. Whether you have a lot of experience or are merely starting out, expanding your client base is essential.
The total freelance platform market is estimated to be worth $3.39 billion. Don’t you want a piece of that ginormous pie?
Read on to increase your chances of landing freelance clients globally.
Create an Online Presence
The first thing a potential client will do is search for you online so having a strong online presence is crucial for freelancers looking to attract global clients. Your online professional profile serves as your virtual business card and portfolio, showcasing your skills, experience, and unique value proposition to potential clients worldwide.
You can start with the basics—create your own website/blog—and then build up your profiles on platforms designed to connect you with clients.
For external platforms, start by creating profiles on popular freelancing websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer.com. Additionally, maintain a professional presence on LinkedIn, as it’s a powerful networking tool for connecting with potential clients and other professionals in your field.
And, whether you are working on your website or another platform, follow these practices.
- Write a professional bio. Make it concise and engaging. Highlight your expertise, specializations, and what sets you apart from other freelancers. Use keywords relevant to your industry to improve your visibility in search results.
- Showcase your best work. Curate a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and experience. Include a variety of projects that showcase your versatility and ability to meet diverse client needs.
- Obtain testimonials and reviews. If you have it, flaunt it, right? Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews on your profile. These testimonials build credibility and trust with potential clients who may be hesitant to work with someone whom they don’t know.
- Keep your profile updated. Regularly update your profile with new skills, completed projects, and any relevant certifications or achievements. This shows potential clients that you’re actively growing and improving in your field.
- Use a professional photo. Don’t use that cute photo you took at the beach, or that one where you were partying the night out. Go for a high-quality, professional headshot that presents you as approachable and trustworthy.
- Optimize for search. Use industry-specific keywords throughout your profile to improve your chances of appearing in search results when clients are looking for freelancers with your skills.
This LinkedIn profile is a good example.
Use a VPN for More Job Opportunities
Popular freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr have great opportunities. However, they are not the only places where you can find work. Some of these high-paying platforms might be geo-restricted, which basically infers that they are accessible to users in certain countries only.
Using a VPN will bypass such restrictions and make opportunities found on more shores available to you.
For instance, Contena, or specialized platforms for countries such as Canada, or the UK has gigs that pay relatively more than general platforms. So, if you want to check out Canadian sites, for example, you can use a Canadian VPN. Same for other countries.
“But can I apply to job postings in other countries?” you may ask.
If I had a penny for every time I heard this question…
FWJ has an article that answers this. Here’s a snippet:
Can you apply? Yes. The hiring manager will determine whether or not they’re willing to work with a writer outside of the United States. You’ll never know if they’re willing to do so if you don’t apply.
While it says “United States,” it also applies to other countries. Read the entire article here.
A bonus to using a VPN: It enhances your online privacy by encrypting your internet connection, making it difficult for hackers or third parties to track your online activities.
Develop a Niche Expertise
Building a strong niche expertise is crucial for standing out in the global freelance writing market. Some niches, like technical and legal writing, pay more (significantly more!) than others. White paper writing, for example, can earn you $4,000 to $7,000 per paper.
Start by evaluating your core strengths and what you’re genuinely passionate about. For example, if you’re particularly skilled at storytelling and have a passion for technology, you might focus on writing engaging blog posts or white papers for tech companies. If you enjoy research and have a background in healthcare, consider specializing in medical writing, where you can create content for healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, or wellness blogs.
Once you’ve identified potential niches, research their demand in the global market. For instance, if you’re considering specializing in content for the nonprofit sector, explore job boards and freelance platforms to see how many clients are seeking grant writers or fundraising copywriters. Alternatively, if you’re interested in finance, look into the growing demand for writers who can produce in-depth articles on cryptocurrency or personal finance management.
Freelancing on a global scale requires staying ahead of the curve. If you’ve chosen to specialize in SEO content writing, for example, you might take advanced courses in the latest SEO techniques or content marketing strategies to refine your expertise. If you’re focusing on B2B writing, consider attending industry webinars or earning certifications in areas like inbound marketing or copywriting. Specialization makes you an expert in your field, allowing you to command higher rates and attract clients who value top-tier expertise. Oh, and we can’t leave out AI. If you’ve noticed, the number of AI-related jobs are increasing in the daily job lists.
Your niche should be prominently featured in your portfolio, website, and all marketing materials. For instance, if you’re a freelance writer specializing in sustainable living, ensure your website showcases a portfolio of articles, blog posts, and case studies related to environmental topics. If you specialize in legal writing, include examples of contracts, legal blogs, or case summaries you’ve written. Tailor your pitch to showcase how your specialized skills solve specific problems for clients, and use real-world examples to build credibility and demonstrate your expertise.
Network Globally
This one’s a no-brainer, yes? Expanding your network globally is essential for attracting clients from different regions and industries.
Participating in online communities and forums is a great way to connect with other freelancers and potential clients worldwide. Look for groups/communities on LinkedIn, Reddit, Facebook, and specialized communities such as Peak Freelance offer opportunities to discuss industry trends, share tips, and collaborate with professionals from different countries. Sub-reddits like r/freelanceWriters and r/freelancewriting are particularly useful.
Attend virtual conferences and webinars. These provide an excellent opportunity to learn from industry experts and connect with potential clients or collaborators. For instance, attending a content marketing webinar hosted by industry leaders can introduce you to new trends and provide networking opportunities with participants from across the globe. Check Eventbrite, The Writers’ Union, and Writer’s Digest.
Collaborating on international projects can significantly expand your reach and showcase your ability to work with diverse teams. For example, you could contribute to a global eBook project where writers from various countries share their insights on a particular topic, such as remote work strategies. By participating in such projects, you not only enhance your portfolio with diverse content but also create valuable connections with fellow writers and potential clients worldwide.
Building relationships with other freelancers can lead to valuable referrals, especially when their expertise complements yours. For instance, if you specialize in writing long-form content and connect with a freelance graphic designer, you can refer clients to each other for comprehensive project solutions. A writer you know from an online community might refer you to a client looking for a specific expertise you possess, or you might do the same for them, leading to a mutually beneficial relationship. Networking within the freelance community is often a key strategy for gaining referrals and expanding your client base globally.
Enhance Your Communication Skills
Clear and concise communication is key when working with clients from different countries. As a freelance writer, your ability to convey ideas effectively in writing is already strong, but it’s important to continually refine these skills. For example, emails that are straightforward yet polite can help you avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, improving your verbal communication by working on articulation and active listening during video calls ensures that your discussions with clients are productive and mutually understood.
While you don’t need to be fluent in multiple languages, learning a few basic phrases in your clients’ native languages can go a long way in building rapport and showing respect for their culture. For instance, greeting a French client with a simple “Bonjour” or thanking a German client with a “Danke” can make interactions more personable. This small effort can help create a positive impression and facilitate smoother communication, especially with clients who may not be entirely comfortable with English.
I can’t emphasize this enough: Be Aware of Cultural Differences in Communication Styles
Understanding cultural differences in communication styles is essential when working with a global clientele. For example, in some cultures, direct communication is valued, while in others, indirect or more formal communication is preferred. If you’re working with clients from Japan, they may appreciate a more formal and respectful tone, whereas clients from the U.S. might prefer straightforward and casual interactions. Being sensitive to these differences helps you tailor your communication style to better match your clients’ expectations and avoid potential misunderstandings.
And make sure you familiar with tools that facilitate effective remote communication and collaboration with clients across different time zones. For instance, tools like Zoom for video conferencing, Slack for real-time messaging, and Trello for project management can help keep communication clear and organized. Additionally, using scheduling tools like Calendly can simplify the process of setting up meetings across various time zones, ensuring that both you and your clients are on the same page.
Optimize Your Pricing Strategy
Start by researching the standard rates for freelance writing services in various regions. For example, a blog post might be priced differently in the U.S. compared to Europe or Asia. Use platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or industry-specific forums to gauge what other freelance writers with similar experience levels and expertise are charging globally. This research will help you set rates that are competitive in the global market while reflecting the value you provide.
One survey found that the average hourly rate of freelancers across the world is $104.17 (€96). The study that collated data from 101 countries found that 31% of freelancers make between $81.37 (€75) and $107.41 (€99) per hour. Another survey, which covered 122 countries and over 2,000 freelancers around the world, found that freelancer rates range between $22 and $24 per hour.
Explore different pricing models to find what works best for you and your clients. For instance, hourly rates might be suitable for ongoing projects where the scope can change, such as content editing or social media management. Project-based pricing can be effective for clearly defined tasks like writing an eBook or a series of articles. Value-based pricing, where you charge based on the value your work brings to the client rather than the time spent, is another option, particularly for high-impact projects like marketing campaigns or web copy that drives conversions.
While it’s important to offer competitive rates, you also need to ensure that your pricing is sustainable for your business. Consider your costs, including time, tools, taxes, and other expenses, when setting your rates. For example, if you’re a specialized writer offering in-depth technical content, your rates should reflect the expertise and research required. Offering discounted rates to attract new clients is common, but make sure these discounts don’t compromise your ability to meet your financial goals.
Most importantly, be transparent in pricing. This builds trust and helps avoid misunderstandings with clients. Clearly outline your pricing structure in your proposals and contracts. For example, if you charge additional fees for revisions beyond a certain number, specify this upfront. Similarly, if you have different rates for rush jobs or require a deposit before starting a project, make sure these terms are communicated clearly. This transparency not only helps manage client expectations but also positions you as a professional who values open and honest communication.
Implement Smart Marketing Strategies
Of course, we can’t forget marketing. And that starts with developing a personal brand. This is the cornerstone of your marketing efforts. It reflects who you are, what you specialize in, and why clients should choose you. Start by defining your brand’s core message—what makes you different from other freelance writers? For example, if you specialize in creating compelling copy for nonprofits, your brand should emphasize your passion for social causes and your ability to drive donations through persuasive storytelling. Consistently present this brand across all platforms, from your website to your social media profiles, to create a strong and recognizable identity.
Next, create a content marketing plan. Content marketing is a powerful way to demonstrate your expertise and attract potential clients. Develop a plan that includes regular blog posts, social media updates, and perhaps a newsletter that showcases your skills and knowledge. For instance, if you specialize in SEO writing, you could write blog posts about the latest SEO trends, tips for optimizing content, or case studies highlighting your success stories. Sharing valuable content not only positions you as an expert in your niche but also helps drive traffic to your website, where potential clients can learn more about your services.
While organic marketing efforts are important, paid advertising can help you reach a broader audience, especially when targeting specific niches or regions. Platforms like Google Ads, Facebook Ads, or LinkedIn offer targeting options that allow you to reach clients based on their location, industry, or interests. For example, if you’re aiming to work with tech startups, you could run a LinkedIn ad campaign targeting founders and marketing managers in the tech industry, highlighting your expertise in writing technical white papers or product descriptions.
Sweeten the deal by offering promotions or discounts—a great way to attract first-time clients and encourage them to try your services. For instance, you could offer a 10% discount on their first project or a free consultation to discuss their content needs. This approach not only lowers the barrier for potential clients to engage with you but also gives them a taste of your quality and professionalism. Once they’ve experienced your work, they’re more likely to return for future projects, making this an effective strategy for building long-term client relationships.
Ready to Expand Your Client Base?
Freelancing offers the freedom to work on your terms, but to thrive, you need a strategic approach to finding and securing high-paying clients. By building a strong online presence, developing niche expertise, networking globally, honing your communication skills, optimizing your pricing strategy, and implementing smart marketing strategies, you position yourself to attract clients from all over the world.
Now is the time to take action. The global freelance market is growing, and the opportunities are vast. Start by applying the strategies outlined in this article, and you’ll be well on your way to expanding your reach and landing clients worldwide. Don’t let these opportunities pass you by—take the first step today!