Having a portfolio is absolutely essential for all freelancers. You know that. It’s how you assure potential clients that you’re a professional who can get the job done and help them grow their business. And of course, your portfolio will include a bio and evidence of the work you do. But the best freelance portfolio websites set themselves apart from the pack by including a bonus for site visitors.
But first, let me back up a bit. What’s the #1 purpose for your portfolio? It’s to sell yourself as a capable freelancer. Essentially, it’s an advertisement that details how you help your clients.
So you definitely need samples of your work. And you need to add some personality, letting prospects know what kind of person you are through a bio or “about me” page. Your USP will help prospects understand what makes you unique and the best person for the job.
Once you get your site up and running, you won’t need to make too many updates beyond freshening up your portfolio pieces. So here’s the suggestion that will make a big difference for your business…
The Best Freelance Portfolio Websites Include a Blog
Don’t roll your eyes just yet! This is a key tactic for converting prospects into clients. Blogs serve a unique purpose. In the case of freelancers, they give people a sneak peek into your services and your process. Blogs add substance and help potential clients identify you as an expert in your field.
Your blog doesn’t have to be an epic undertaking to be effective. Simply include content about topics that demonstrate your skills. That means you can skip the play-by-play of your personal life and your opinion of the latest Netflix series. (The only exception is if the story directly relates to your profession!)
What Can a Freelancer Blog About?
Here are a couple of ideas to get you started:
Constructively critique methods or creative choices.
Always be respectful and kind! But also be honest. For example, if you’re a graphic designer, you may want to tell your audience what you love (or don’t particularly like) about a new logo you noticed. Or as a VA, you might want to evaluate different software options your clients will be choosing between.
Share thoughts about a current project.
What’s exciting about the work you’re doing right now? How does it allow you to stretch your analytical and/or creative brain? What problems are you coming up against, and how are you solving them?
The best freelance portfolio websites include information like this because it gives potential clients a chance to imagine what it’d be like to work with you. (Just be careful not to violate any NDA’s. And always stay positive!)
Review resources you find helpful in your industry.
You can start by adding your own thoughts related to a relevant blog post you read recently. Link to the original article, and then give your audience a bit of your perspective on the topic.
The Best Blogs on the Best Freelance Portfolio Websites
Once you decide to implement a blog on your site, make sure you post regularly. “Regular” could look different depending on your time constraints and business goals. For example, if you’re freelancing part-time, you might want to commit to fewer posts.
- Once per month
- Every other week
- Weekly
- Or even a couple of times each week!
The main thing is that you set yourself a schedule and stick to it! Good sites have a blog in the first place. But the best freelance portfolio websites have a recently-updated blog! The last thing you want is for a prospect to get to your site, notice that you haven’t posted since November 2021, and conclude that you’re not all that serious about your career.
Beyond keeping to a regular posting schedule, make sure you share your content on your social channels. Depending on where your clients like to hang out, LinkedIn might be a great place to post a link. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram may also be useful ways to get in front of your prospects.
Once potential clients find you (or you find them by sending a pitch!), they’ll have access to a gold mine of your unique insights. And it will be that much easier to sell yourself as a service provider!
Your turn! Will you incorporate a blog into your portfolio site? What kinds of content will you post? Let us know in the comments below!
Read More: 5 easy ways to create the best freelance portfolio websites >>>
Last Updated on July 1, 2023.
