After graduating with a diploma in web design, what opportunities can you look forward to? Fortunately, quite a lot. You could work in an agency with lots of different clients across different sectors, you could work for one large company in-house, or you could even go freelance!
Freelancing is a great option for web designers who want to be their own boss. As a freelance web designer, you will have the freedom to choose your own hours and your own projects. However, all that freedom does come with some added responsibility as well, so you’ll want to be prepared for this career path.
There are a number of ways to kickstart your freelance web design career. You will need to make sure that you have the tools, the contacts, and the work ethic to go it alone. Read on to find out some of the best ways to succeed as a freelance web designer.
Ensure That You Have the Tools to Succeed After Your Digital Media Diploma Program
As an aspiring freelance web designer, you will need to have access to all the tools that you need to succeed. This includes:
- A work-from-home space that is free of distractions
- A strong wifi connection
- All the necessary software
As part of a web design diploma, you will learn to create designs using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and more. These software programs are essential components to any web designer’s toolkit, and allow them to create high-quality work. As a freelancer, you might need to invest in getting this software, which can present a bit of an up-front cost.
Build an Online Portfolio to Showcase Your Work
Your portfolio is one of your most important assets as a freelancer. This is how you showcase your work to attract new clients and help them see everything that you’re capable of. That’s why you’ll want to make sure that your portfolio contains your best work, and offers many different examples for others to see. In addition, you’ll also want to make sure that your social media pages, such as LinkedIn, contain a link to your portfolio. This way, it’ll be easier for your portfolio to reach more people and help you build up your client base.
Fortunately, before graduating with your digital media diploma from Canadian Business College, you’ll already have created an online porfolio. That’s because creating a portfolio is included right into the program.
Share Your Work on Social Media
Social media is one of the best spaces to find new clients. Through your social media accounts, you’ll be able to reach plenty of people that you otherwise might not have.
Try to share any new work across your social media profiles to help increase visibility and attract new clients. Hashtags like #100daysofdesign are also a good way to increase your following and find other designers.
Network as a Freelancer to Build Up Your Client Base
Networking can sound intimidating at first, but it doesn’t have to be, In fact, there’s a good chance you already have a bigger network than you might think. All of your followers on social media, peers, and previous co-workers are a part of your network. As you prepare to launch your freelancing career, make sure to notify those in your network about the change, so that they’re aware that you’re available to take on projects.
If you want to grow your network, you can do so by attending networking events, joining professional LinkedIn groups, and reaching out to local business owners and other professionals who might be interested in your services. Over time, you’ll be able to create a solid client base and get your freelancing career off the ground!
Are you interested in web design training?
Contact CBC today to learn more!