By The Journey to Freelancing
Adrienne Johnston, formerly a vice president of operations at Buckhead Investment Partners, embarked on her freelance journey in 2018, driven by a desire for career fulfillment. Despite lacking a professional design background, Johnston transitioned to freelance graphic design, recognizing the need to carve a niche specialization to optimize her earning potential.
Finding the Right Niche
Johnston’s initial foray into freelancing involved dabbling in various projects, but she soon realized the importance of focusing on a specific area to streamline her workflow and enhance her profitability. Through meticulous research, she identified presentation design as a lucrative niche, leveraging the ever-growing demand for high-quality presentations across industries.
Leveraging SEO for Success
To bolster her online presence and attract prospective clients, Johnston prioritized search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure her website ranked prominently in relevant searches. By strategically optimizing her site’s content and structure, she succeeded in generating a steady influx of leads, laying the foundation for her burgeoning freelance career.
Setting Rates Strategically
As Johnston’s reputation flourished, she strategically increased her rates to reflect her expertise and the value she provided to clients. By transitioning from hourly rates to project-based pricing, she optimized her earning potential while fostering transparency and efficiency in client engagements.
Communicating Rate Adjustments
Johnston adopted a proactive approach to rate adjustments, utilizing a structured email template to communicate changes to her clients effectively. Through open and transparent communication, she navigated rate negotiations with confidence, ensuring mutual understanding and fostering long-term client relationships.
Sustaining Growth Amid Challenges
Despite facing potential client resistance to rate increases, Johnston remains steadfast in her pursuit of maximizing her income potential. With a pragmatic outlook and a focus on strategic partnerships, she continues to navigate the evolving landscape of freelance rates with resilience and determination.
Looking Ahead
As Johnston sets her sights on future growth milestones, she remains optimistic about the trajectory of her freelance business. By leveraging her proven strategies and adapting to market dynamics, she anticipates further success and continued growth on her journey as a six-figure presentation designer.
In navigating the intricacies of freelance rates, Johnston’s journey serves as a testament to the power of strategic planning, resilience, and effective communication in building a thriving freelance career.
