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How do I get my first IT freelance job?

Hi everyone, I’m an international student currently studying a Master’s in IT, switching my career from retail to tech. My goal is to eventually work as an IT freelancer, or maybe a part-time freelancer.

Over the past year, I’ve spent a lot of time learning and building real projects. I’ve launched several websites using React.js and Vue.js, and used some AWS cloud services for deployment, including my own developer portfolio site. One of the websites I built was for a friend’s event company, just because I wanted to help and gain experience.

Last week, I also launched my first iOS app. Even though I built it with ChatGPT’s help, it gave me my first real experience in submitting an app to the App Store and understanding the process. Besides frontend and backend work, I’m also self-studying CCNA to strengthen my networking fundamentals.

I sometimes share my progress on social media, and once a former colleague asked if I could build a website for her new boutique. But after that, there haven’t been any updates yet. So up to now, I still haven’t officially received my first freelance job request.

I’d really love some advice from people who have freelanced or are freelancing in IT. How did you get your very first freelance job? And is there anything more I can do to start getting real opportunities?

Thanks in advance!

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Teklemuz Ayenew’s Answer

You have a strong foundation with your solid knowledge and real projects, including a published app and hands-on deployment experience. This puts you in a great position. Creating a clean and simple portfolio that explains each project, why you built it, and the problem it solves can really help. Share this on LinkedIn, your personal portfolio, GitHub, and include a short video walkthrough of your projects. This will help potential clients see your work and feel confident about hiring you. Writing technical posts on platforms like Dev.to or Hashnode can also show your expertise and attract clients or collaborators.

Beginner freelance jobs often come from networking with friends, former colleagues, classmates, or professional connections on LinkedIn. You can build credibility on Stack Exchange by consistently answering questions in your field, like IT, networking, React/Vue, or cloud deployment. Earning reputation points and adding links to your portfolio in your profile can help clients find you. Joining community chat rooms or discussions can also lead to informal connections and freelance opportunities.

Freelance marketplaces like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer are great for getting your first verified jobs and reviews. More specialized platforms like Toptal or Gun.io can be good long-term goals. Reddit communities like r/freelance or r/forhire, and local tech or startup groups, can also offer small project opportunities. Let your network know you are available for freelance work and clearly list the types of projects you can handle. Offering help to small businesses or student groups with minor fixes or improvements can lead to referrals. By being active online, showcasing your projects, participating in communities, and reaching out to your network, you greatly increase your chances of landing your first freelance client.
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