So you have just started out by yourself, in the lonely and dangerous world of freelancing. Working for yourself can be challenging at the best of times, keeping track of all your accounts and where you are on what project. Or maybe, you’re finding it hard to connect to new business opportunities.
 
One of the most integral ways to attract and maintain clients as a lone-ranger is your reputation. In fact, some say it is all you have. I’d slightly disagree (only slightly), as there are the type of clients out there that don’t even ask for previous work. But reputation is your pass to a fruitful time being self-employed.
 
But how do I build my reputation? Overimpress.

• The client wants the project done for two weeks time - don’t stretch it to the full two weeks, get it done early. Surpass their expectations.
• The client is initiated in design - but they like your first-draft proposal mockup thing that you sent them “on the email” last week. Don’t just settle for your first thoughts - make every design your best yet. Surpass their expectations.
• The client is expecting features A, B and C. Implement a feature D and say “surprise! you like?”. Don’t charge extra. Surpass their expectations.

In essense, overdeliver without kissing arse. Focus on going one step further than what they are expecting, one step better than your last project. Word will soon get around that you are the most hard working, forward thinking person in the world and your total focus is on the customer.
 
More quick tips to come!