In today’s increasingly competitive job market, what makes a candidate stand out in a sea of applicants? Whether you’re applying for a freelance gig or a full-time role, there are certain habits that can make all the difference. As a freelance platform that has vetted thousands of freelancers, we know a thing or two about what clients are looking for. Here are a few best practices that can set you apart:
- Timely and Effective Communication
While it might seem obvious, being prompt and clear in your communication is crucial. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role, organized, and respectful of others’ time —a trait that can significantly affect how you’re perceived. Employers and clients appreciate candidates who are responsive without the need for constant follow-ups or reminders. A general rule of thumb is to respond within 12-24 hours (ASAP if possible). If you’re OOO, create an automated message to inform prospective clients of your absence and expected date of return.
- A Well-Crafted Online Presence
An online profile is often the first impression a client will have of your capabilities, whether it’s your LinkedIn page, your website, or your profile on a job board or a freelance platform. Your profile should include an introduction about yourself, highlight your top skills, and effectively showcase your experience and work. Don’t be afraid to show your personality! It’s also important to keep everything updated. It can be frustrating for recruiters and prospective clients when they either can’t find a link to your portfolio or the link doesn’t work, so be sure the link is present, active, and correct when sharing.
For more tips on creating an engaging profile on the Wripple platform, check out this guide.
- A Strong Cover Letter
Although it requires extra effort, do not skip a tailored cover letter. A strong cover letter should highlight your relevant experience, why you’re interested in the role, and demonstrate how you can add value to the team. It’s an opportunity to connect the dots between your skills and the job at hand, showing you’ve done your homework and excited about the opportunity.
- A Hyper-Relevant Mindset
It’s one thing to talk about the skills and expertise listed on your resume but to really stand out, a good candidate should share how their work examples, training, and industry experience are relevant to a client’s needs. This means being a good listener, of course, and having the ability to hone in on the client’s problems and articulate how you are ideally equipped to handle them.
Get tips on how to ace your next freelance project interview.
- Professionalism
Maintaining professionalism throughout the hiring process is essential. This means communicating honestly and respectfully. It also means being on time and being engaged in meetings and interviews. And even though we’re all a little more casual these days, a video interview is not the time to finish your lunch, wear your pajamas, or let your needy (but adorable) animals run wild in the background.
By focusing on these best practices, you not only increase your chances of landing your next project but also build a foundation for a long-lasting career!
To learn more about any or all of these solutions, contact your Wripple Client Lead, or
request a demo.In today’s increasingly competitive job market, what makes a candidate stand out in a sea of applicants? Whether you’re applying for a freelance gig or a full-time role, there are certain habits that can make all the difference. As a freelance platform that has vetted thousands of freelancers, we know a thing or two about what clients are looking for. Here are a few best practices that can set you apart:
- Timely and Effective Communication
While it might seem obvious, being prompt and clear in your communication is crucial. It shows you’re genuinely interested in the role, organized, and respectful of others’ time —a trait that can significantly affect how you’re perceived. Employers and clients appreciate candidates who are responsive without the need for constant follow-ups or reminders. A general rule of thumb is to respond within 12-24 hours (ASAP if possible). If you’re OOO, create an automated message to inform prospective clients of your absence and expected date of return.
- A Well-Crafted Online Presence
An online profile is often the first impression a client will have of your capabilities, whether it’s your LinkedIn page, your website, or your profile on a job board or a freelance platform. Your profile should include an introduction about yourself, highlight your top skills, and effectively showcase your experience and work. Don’t be afraid to show your personality! It’s also important to keep everything updated. It can be frustrating for recruiters and prospective clients when they either can’t find a link to your portfolio or the link doesn’t work, so be sure the link is present, active, and correct when sharing.
For more tips on creating an engaging profile on the Wripple platform, check out this guide.
- A Strong Cover Letter
Although it requires extra effort, do not skip a tailored cover letter. A strong cover letter should highlight your relevant experience, why you’re interested in the role, and demonstrate how you can add value to the team. It’s an opportunity to connect the dots between your skills and the job at hand, showing you’ve done your homework and excited about the opportunity.
- A Hyper-Relevant Mindset
It’s one thing to talk about the skills and expertise listed on your resume but to really stand out, a good candidate should share how their work examples, training, and industry experience are relevant to a client’s needs. This means being a good listener, of course, and having the ability to hone in on the client’s problems and articulate how you are ideally equipped to handle them.
Get tips on how to ace your next freelance project interview.
- Professionalism
Maintaining professionalism throughout the hiring process is essential. This means communicating honestly and respectfully. It also means being on time and being engaged in meetings and interviews. And even though we’re all a little more casual these days, a video interview is not the time to finish your lunch, wear your pajamas, or let your needy (but adorable) animals run wild in the background.
By focusing on these best practices, you not only increase your chances of landing your next project but also build a foundation for a long-lasting career!
