Freelancing gives you the freedom to work from almost anywhere in the world for a global audience. It is a location-independent profession and an ideal choice for those looking to be their own boss, earn a substantial income, or escape the traditional 9-to-5 schedule.

There are countless roles you can fulfill from a home office with just a laptop and an internet connection: Content Writer, Blogger, SEO Specialist, Marketer, Project Manager, Graphic Designer, Web Designer, and more. While a successful freelancer can build a strong reputation, they must be extremely careful when sending proposals. A poor proposal strategy can negatively impact your professional image.

Regardless of how many years you have been in the business, mastering the art of the proposal can make you more successful than veterans who lack this skill. I have compiled a list of strategies that can help you become a successful freelancer in a very short span of time.

1. Stop Proposing as an Employee: You are an Entrepreneur

A common mistake freelancers make is positioning themselves as employees. You are not a worker; you are an independent entrepreneur and a professional in your field. You are your own boss, responsible for marketing, skill development, and negotiation. Think like a successful entrepreneur who does whatever is necessary to deliver quality work. Clients want an expert partner to help them achieve their goals.

2. Be Confident and Believe in Your Skills

Your proposal must radiate confidence. Avoid appearing uncertain; instead, present yourself as a master of your craft. Even if you are still learning, highlight your achievements and provide the best examples of your previous work. Make the client believe you can exceed their expectations by focusing on high-quality output.

3. Keep Your Proposals Concise (The 2-Minute Rule)

Do not make your job proposals long and tedious. Keep them straight and to the point to capture the client’s interest immediately. Apply a "2-minute rule": write a proposal that a client can scan for highlights in two minutes or less. To demonstrate professionalism, you can use tools like the WP Online Contract plugin to show you take legal boundaries seriously. This WordPress Online Contract plugin enables you to sign contracts with potential clients directly on the web.

4. Highlight the Client’s Return on Investment (ROI)

You must explicitly highlight the benefits of your partnership. Convince the client that you are the best choice by including a section on their Return on Investment. Demonstrate that the "investment" in your services will be greatly exceeded by the long-term benefits of your implementation.

5. Use Smart "Value Language"

When emphasizing the value of your services, choose your words carefully. Understand "Word Psychology" and use value-oriented language. For example, when discussing the project's financial aspect, use the word "Investment" instead of "Price" or "Cost." Picking the right words can distinguish your proposal from the competition.