Companies need front-end developers to build and run a good website. That is why companies hire front-end developers to ensure that their website is such that people want to see and use it. Companies often hire freelancers to build websites because they want to complete the work in small batches.

This article shows how to start freelancing as a front-end developer, from learning coding to finding freelancing work and building your own successful business.

Table of Contents

What is a front-end developer?

A front-end developer is the person who creates and sees the customer or user and interacts with them. Front-end development involves HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other website or app coding that allows the user to view and interact with it. What you see on your screen is thanks to a working team of front-end developers.

They not only write code in their tongues, but front-end developers also work on common frameworks like Bootstrap, Backbone, AngularJS, Ember.js, and Foundation. These foundations help you write code in a way that makes content work correctly on different devices. You can also learn libraries like jQuery which makes writing code faster and easier.

One of the best ways to think of front-end developers is to think of them like the menu of a takeout restaurant. The menu shows food options, prices, and other details that allow the customer to place an order. Rasoi, delivery driver, and food creation come under other development types.

Your everyday work involves coding applications and websites and then tweaking them to make them look better and perform specific tasks. While developers usually have technical and analytical minds, a front-end developer also needs to have some creativity to help build an engaging site.

Front-end developers often work with others (usually back-end and full-stack developers) to complete their projects. To become a successful freelance front-end web developer, you must be a team player.

How much do freelancer front-end developers make?

All web developers can earn good money either on traditional jobs or on a freelance basis. In the US, the average salary is around $84,000, or about $40 an hour, not including profits.

Freelance front-end developers will earn a little when starting their freelance career, around $35 an hour. But when you start searching for jobs on platforms like Upwork, you will see that mid-tier developers quickly reach $50 to $60 per hour. As their experience increases, front-end developers can charge $75 or more per hour.

As a freelance front-end web developer, you can also charge based on the project. Achieving mastery in a specific type of front-end development (such as development for e-commerce sites) will allow you to charge more in the end and also help you complete projects faster, improving your earning potential.

6 places to get started as a freelance front-end developer?

Here are some of the best places to start for freelance front-end developers:

Upwork: Upwork is a popular platform where freelancers can showcase their skills and connect directly with clients. Projects are available here for freelancers of every skill level.

Freelancer: Freelancer is also a renowned platform where freelancers can list their services and approach clients through the bidding process. There are diverse types of projects available here.

Fiverr: On Fiverr, freelancers list their services in the form of “gigs”. Here you can offer packages as per your specific skills and expertise and can get hired directly by the clients.

Toptal: Toptal is an exclusive platform where total freelancers are connected with clients. High-quality projects and competitive rates are available here.

LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a powerful networking tool where freelancers can make professional connections by optimizing their profiles. Here you can connect with direct clients along with job listings.

Local Networking Events: By attending local networking events, you can directly connect with businesses and clients in your area. This is an effective way to build a local clientele.

Freelancers can grow their careers by using these platforms and events and develop their skills and earning potential by working on diverse types of projects.

4 tips for getting consistent work as a freelance front-end developer

To achieve consistent work by becoming a freelance front-end developer, some important tips can help you:

Importance of Portfolio: Prepare your portfolio in which you can showcase your best work. Explain your skills and previous projects in detail in your portfolio so that clients can understand your proficiency.

Specialize in a niche: Choose a specific niche in which you are interested and in which your work will be best. Such as responsive design, and working on JavaScript frameworks like React or Angular. This will give you recognition in your field and clients will be able to find you easily.

Use networking: Connect with professionals in your industry, join online communities, and be active on social media. Networking not only gives you clients but also new opportunities and collaborations that can boost your career.

Maintain strong communication skills: It is very important to maintain effective communication with clients. Discuss your expectations, project details, and deadlines clearly to avoid any kind of misunderstanding.

By following these few tips, you can achieve consistent work as a freelance front-end developer and grow your career successfully.

How Do You Set Yourself Up for Freelance Front-End Developer Jobs?

Define your skills:

First of all, determine what level of expertise you have in front-end development. Like specialization in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, responsive design, or any specific framework or library.
Along with your technical skills, include soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and time management skills.

Look for skills training:

Find online courses, tutorials, and workshops to improve your existing skills. Join relevant courses from Udemy, Coursera, Khan Academy, or other local institutes.
Employ the latest technologies and tools such as CSS preprocessors, JavaScript frameworks, version control systems like Git, and design tools like Adobe XD or Sketch.

Plan your business (make your business plan):

Prepare a clear and detailed business plan. Include your services, target audience (like small businesses, and startups), pricing structure, and growth strategies.
Also, prepare a plan for legal formalities like business registration and taxes.

Define your tools:

Prepare the necessary tools and software for your work. Use code editors (like VS Code, Sublime Text), design tools (like Adobe Photoshop, and Figma), and collaboration tools (like Slack, and Trello).

Build your portfolio (prepare your portfolio):

Develop an impressive portfolio in which you showcase your previous projects. Explain each project in detail, including client goals, your contributions, and technologies used.
Highlight your creativity and technical expertise in your portfolio.

Research the competition and market:

Study your competitors and understand their services, pricing, and unique selling points (USPs).
Analyze the trends and demands of the target market so that you can customize your services according to the market.

Apply to jobs :

Create your profile on freelance platforms (like Upwork, and Freelancer) and apply for relevant jobs.
Also, explore networking through referrals and direct client interactions.

Plan marketing and more:

Develop a marketing strategy to promote your services. Use social media platforms, blogs, and online communities to showcase your expertise.
Collect client testimonials and case studies to convince future clients.

By following these steps, you can effectively launch your freelance front-end developer career and achieve consistent work. If you have any other questions or need help, you can ask me!

Conclusion

Start a front-end developer career today.

The best way to start freelancing as a front-end developer is to join job boards and apply for jobs that interest you.

Getting involved quickly will get you to the position you need to reach. Sign up on Upwork where it’s easy to create a profile and find companies that are looking to hire freelance front-end developers right now.

It’s also about running your own business, as there are plenty of customers who are directly interested in you building the websites they need.

To learn more, read our other article.

FAQs

How do freelancing as a front-end developer?

For front-end freelancing, learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and create a portfolio. Look at the competition on Upwork and make your proposals unique. Market yourself through your website and social media. It is important to keep skills updated and take client feedback.

How much do we make money as a freelance front-end developer?

As a freelance front-end developer, you can earn anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of the project. General earnings can range from $1,000 to $10,000 or more depending on hours worked and client rates.

How do we start freelancing with HTML and CSS?

To start freelancing with HTML and CSS:

Learn skills: Learn HTML and CSS well.

Create a Portfolio: Create and showcase personal projects and sample websites.

Join Freelance Platforms: Create an account on Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.

Write Proposals: View job listings and send tailored proposals.

Do networking: Promote your work on LinkedIn and social media.

How do we start freelancing as a web developer?

To start freelancing with HTML and CSS: