How To Become a Freelance Web Developer 2025 | even if you are just starting out.

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares a realistic approach for aspiring freelance web developers in 2024. They discuss the challenges of finding jobs, the importance of focusing on one service, and how to build small business websites using themes, headless CMS, and deployment tools. The speaker highlights the need to target specific clients, such as small businesses, and emphasizes the importance of marketing through word of mouth and content creation. Throughout, the speaker offers insights into the tools and strategies they use to build and deliver freelance projects, aiming to empower others to start their own freelance journeys.

Takeaways

• 😀 Freelancing as a web developer is challenging, especially when starting out, but a structured approach can help you succeed.
• 😀 Developing your skills while actively seeking freelance work can allow you to build a portfolio and improve your chances of landing clients.
• 😀 The process of freelancing involves more than just coding—it requires business skills, such as client communication, marketing, and project management.
• 😀 Use simple tools like website themes from sites like Tailwind Awesome and Theme Forest to jumpstart projects instead of building from scratch.
• 😀 A headless CMS like Strapi or Docusaurus can help you deliver a more professional product by allowing clients to easily manage their content.
• 😀 Keep your offering simple and focused when starting out. Offer one type of service (like small business websites) and refine it before expanding.
• 😀 Deploying projects easily is key to efficiency. Platforms like Vercel and Netlify simplify deployment for developers.
• 😀 Find your target audience early. For example, small businesses like restaurants or yoga studios are good clients for simple informational websites.
• 😀 Marketing your services can start with word of mouth, followed by content creation (like YouTube tutorials) to showcase your skills and attract potential clients.
• 😀 Focus on building a basic service offering first, and avoid spreading yourself too thin with multiple types of projects. Specialize in one area to gain expertise.
• 😀 As you grow your freelance business, continue learning about marketing and sales to improve your ability to acquire clients and expand your services.

Q & A

Why is it difficult for beginners to find freelance web development jobs?

One of the biggest challenges is getting hired in the first place. Many people struggle with applying for jobs and facing rejection, leading them to consider freelancing as an alternative. However, becoming a freelancer is difficult and requires more than just coding skills; it requires the ability to find clients and manage projects.

What is the suggested approach for someone new to freelancing as a web developer?

The suggested approach is to first focus on building basic coding skills (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like Next.js). Then, create an offering for clients, such as building simple business websites. This can be done while still learning or as a side hustle if you're already working.

What are the key skills that a beginner web developer should have to succeed in freelancing?

Key skills include proficiency in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and frameworks like Next.js. In addition, you should be familiar with tools like Tailwind for themes, headless CMS (e.g., Strapi), and deployment platforms like Vercel. It’s also important to know how to find clients and market your services effectively.

How can using themes help a beginner web developer when starting a freelance business?

Using pre-made themes helps save time and avoid building websites from scratch. By using themes from platforms like Tailwind Awesome or ThemeForest, a beginner can quickly create attractive websites that can be customized for clients, enabling faster project delivery.

What is a headless CMS, and why is it useful for freelance web development?

A headless CMS, like Strapi, is a content management system that allows developers to manage and update content independently of the website’s front end. This means clients can update their content themselves without needing to rely on a developer, which saves time and improves efficiency.

Why is it important to focus on one specific service when starting as a freelancer?

Focusing on one service, such as building small business websites, allows you to specialize and become more efficient in delivering that service. Trying to offer a wide range of services can lead to overwhelm and a lack of focus, which is especially problematic when you're just starting out.

How can a beginner web developer market their freelance services effectively?

Effective marketing can include word-of-mouth referrals, creating content on platforms like YouTube to showcase your skills, participating in relevant online forums where potential clients are, and promoting services on LinkedIn and Twitter. Creating content that demonstrates your expertise will attract potential clients.

What is the role of deployment platforms like Vercel in freelance web development?

Deployment platforms like Vercel simplify the process of hosting and launching web applications. They allow developers to focus on coding and content without worrying about the complexities of DevOps, making it easier to deploy client websites quickly and efficiently.

What is the significance of choosing the right target clients for freelance web development?

Targeting a specific client base, like small businesses (e.g., restaurants, gyms, or yoga studios), helps you understand their needs and deliver a focused solution. It’s crucial to know who your target clients are so you can tailor your offerings and marketing strategies accordingly.

How can a web developer build a simple business website for a client?

To build a simple business website, a developer can start by choosing a theme, integrating it with a headless CMS like Strapi for content management, and deploying it using a platform like Vercel. The website should feature business information, services, and an easy-to-update blog section, allowing clients to manage content themselves.