Securing Instructional Design Clients Off Upwork

Introduction

Welcome to the freelance world! It’s exciting (and at times, challenging) to make a way into the Instructional Design sector, but rest assured, once you get the hang of it, it’s rewarding. Getting clients off of Upwork requires a combination of strategic networking, personal branding and proven experience in your field.

Steps to Securing Clients

Step 1: Build a Strong Portfolio

Before you approach any potential clients, invest time in building a solid portfolio. You can use past academic work or create a few mock projects. The aim is to showcase your skillset and ability to deliver high-quality instructional design work.

Step 2: Networking

Networking plays a crucial role in finding potential clients. Attend industry-specific events, join online communities and forums, and interact with professionals in your field. LinkedIn is also an excellent platform to connect with potential clients.

Step3: Personal Branding

Develop a strong personal brand that helps you stand out from the competition. This may involve creating a professional website that houses your portfolio, or even starting a blog to share insights and knowledge about instructional design. Add these details to your LinkedIn and Twitter profiles.

Step 4: Reach Out Directly

Don’t be afraid to reach out to potential clients directly. Send them an e-mail, or message them on LinkedIn. Be sure to introduce yourself, articulate the services you offer, and above all, explain how you can provide value to them.

Key Points to Consider

• Always provide potential clients with an outline of your experience and what you can offer to them.
• A well revised and error-proof proposal is more likely to attract attention.
• Be persistent. It may take several attempts to secure a client outside Upwork. Remember, persistence is key!

Conclusion

Getting clients off Upwork may seem daunting initially, but with strategic planning and execution, you’ll become adept at attracting clients. Remember, patience and persistence are crucial to your success in this venture.