Somedays, freelancing can be a struggle between trying to find new clients and getting actual work done. Using the right platforms and a standardized approach to pitching can help streamline those efforts.
If you're a freelancer with goals of expanding your business in 2020, here are some expert tips and fantastic platforms to guide the process.
Important Considerations for Freelancers
Before you start scaling your business, there are a few key areas of your business to tend to. First, plan to have your banking streamlined for your business needs. Processing payments through Amaiz and taking advantage of the freelance-oriented set-up is one option for getting your financial ducks in a row.Another consideration is your approach to pitching potential clients. Ensuring you have consistent profiles crafted and your best work highlighted is a must.
Create a standard pitch template and tracking sheet to record:
- who you pitched,
- when you reached out,
- what platform you used, and
- when you should follow up.
5 best freelance platforms for growing your business in 2020
CloudPeeps
CloudPeeps launched in 2015, as a response to the shift toward more remote work and freelance opportunities. The goal of CloudPeeps is to connect determined, goal-oriented freelancers with reputable businesses to form a productive working community.CloudPeeps offers a variety of freelance opportunities, ranging from content writing and social media management to SEO and keyword research. This broad approach allows businesses to put together a team of freelancers in one centralized platform.
CloudPeeps offers a tiered subscription plus commission membership option. The free version takes a 15% commission while the top-end option costs $29 per month and takes a 5% commission.
Toptal
Toptal is the cream of the crop when it comes to freelancing platforms. If you manage to secure a spot on Toptal, you'll open your business to exciting and profitable new opportunities. The platform pairs freelancers with big corporations and world-renowned startups, like Airbnb and Shopify.To become a freelancer on Toptal, you'll need to go through a rigorous screening process. The platform is currently open to developers, project managers, and financial freelancers. The screening process includes everything from skills tests to interviews. If you think you've got what it takes, it's well worth applying as you can earn thousands of dollars a week on certain projects.
Aquent
A common challenge freelancers face when using a platform for finding clients, is tagging relevant experience. The incorrect use of tags can result in mismatches or missed opportunities. Aquent aims to solve that problem using an organic AI-driven approach that takes a deep dive into your portfolio and does the tagging for you.Aquent is for freelancers in the marketing and creative sectors and allows members to set their rates and negotiate accordingly. If you're unsure how to charge a competitive rate, they provide a guide to help you ensure you're getting what you're worth.
PubLoft
PubLoft is a platform that focuses specifically on content marketing and freelancers who work within the B2B market. This robust platform helps you find clients, and it also helps you manage client relations in one centralized location. Additionally, PubLoft offers financial snapshots that can help you plan ahead.PubLoft handles invoicing and payments, paying freelancers biweekly. In return, freelancers pay a monthly subscription price.
SolidGigs
SolidGigs takes a multifaceted approach to support freelance business growth. Their weekly roundup sends the best new freelance jobs of the week directly to your inbox for review. On the other side of things, SolidGigs offers a rotating collection of courses and templates to help you build your business. These tools cover everything from setting your rates to spreadsheet templates for tracking your progress.SolidGigs offers a flat rate subscription of $19 per month. You can get a free trial for $2 for the first month to give it a shot.
Use these platforms and expert tips to help you grow your freelance business in 2020 and beyond.
This article was originally posted on Colorpeak: Best Freelance Platforms to Grow Your Business - From Online Banking to Content Marketing
