Understanding that you need to show prospects your value if you want to earn your worth as a freelancer is how some succeed and others fail.

Why is this important for freelancers?

You're the boss. You need to be seen as the expert in the client relationship.

Businesses hire a freelance web designer because they can't design a website.

So, they look to a web designer as the expert in that topic. The same goes for freelance writers, or Pinterest managers or copywriters.

It's required, then, to show value to your prospects so that you can command high rates.

And, guess what?

There are four keys to increasing your perception of value to prospects that you can try.

1. Learn the Skills and Tools for Your Service

Photo from Pexels

For freelance writers, content marketing is a big industry online. It's in your best interest to become familiar with upcoming trends and current topics.

Two great resource are Content Marketing Institute and QuickSprout.

Both of these sites have oodles of awesome posts about content writing and marketing.

Another thing high-paying clients want from their writers is to know how to use common tools and best practices for online.

For example, knowing how to edit images, optimize images, take screenshots and annotate screenshots are all very popular skills you will need to learn.

Some businesses might use a project management tool like Asana to track your tasks.

It's in the best interest for freelancers to become familiar with the tools of their trade.

2. Corner Your Niche

Do you have a niche? This is a topic you want to get paid for.

Not all niches are created equal.

For writers, niches like finance and business are very profitable, while other writing niches like lifestyle and relationships aren't.

When I first started freelance writing, I picked what I knew - parenting, health and psychology.

I quickly learned parenting was difficult to dive into; there are just too many mommy bloggers who were willing to write at a low rate, so I didn't want to compete.

I was able to land higher paying gigs with health and psychology.

But, instead of just sticking to those two niches, I learned about a new niche - digital marketing - and became an expert in it.

Now, most of my new clients seek me out for digital marketing content. I can ask for a premium and it's justified.

3. Have Social Proof

Photo from Kaboompics

I don't know about you, but if my husband tells me that drinking 10 cups of water will make you lose a pound in a week, I don't really believe him.

But, if an acquaintance tells me this, I'm all ears!

This is the magic of social proof. When others (that aren't related to you or that you know) recommend your services, it creates social proof online.

And for prospects, hearing what other clients say about you, only helps tip the scales in your favor.

I was able to early on secure testimonials from my clients and later from my influential clients.

4. Become Their Go-To Freelancer

Wouldn't it be great if a client with a team always comes to you first for content or for social media posts?

This happens to me a lot.

When this happens you'll have no shortage of work. 

But, how do you become their go-to person?

· Exceed deadlines

· Be relatable

· Respond promptly

· Be flexible

 Work On Your Skills

 Boosting your skillset as a freelancer should always be something you strive for.

Whether you take a course, read a book or join a mastermind group, always find time for education.

And you do, you'll attract a whole new tier of quality clients.

Instead of focusing on five new skills you need to learn, choose one or two to start off.

The quickest way to give up on all this is if it's too overwhelming. Do what works for you.

Over to you –

How do you show prospects your value?