How to Stand Out From the Crowd | Ways to stay Competitive
July 19, 2011 
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Freelancing started what, ten, maybe 20 years back? Who knows exactly when! It’s not the point. The point here is: there are lots of other freelancers out there, which can also mean competition is tough.
- Stand out in the Competition!
The good news is there are techniques that can be useful in keeping yourself at a competitive advantage.
Build your profile. If you’re new to freelancing and do not have an experience or a quality feedback yet, your profile can still be competitive by giving emphasis on the things that you CAN do. Try to think a little deeper on your strengths. It can be your fresh concepts to web design, or your ability to learn fast. Even the simplest “keen eye for detail” can make a big difference. Keep in mind that whatever’s in your profile will be the basis if you’re getting a gig, or a passed up.
Improving your skills will gain you more confidence!
Improve your skill. Make sure you know all the latest in your chosen field. If you’re work involves technology (PHP/AJAX), learn the newest technique to be more effective. Lots of reading and researching will help you improve your skills, making you “stay in the ball game” for the longest period of time.
Accumulate learning. If you’re already an expert in your field, why not try to learn different skill from other field? If you’re already an expert in web design, try to research on how to become a web developer. This new skill can be added to your profile to increase your worth as a freelancer.
Cooperate with others. Though it is part of your goal to be “unique”, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to isolate yourself. Remember, no man is an island. Build friendship with your fellow freelancers and share experiences or even tips on freelancing. You can actually work together and share ideas on a certain gig. This way, you did not just learned from one another, but you also gained support and friendship from the “world” you both belong.
Be cooperative to your team!
Competition helps each one of us to be experts on our chosen fields. However, we should be fully aware of what a “healthy competition” means. Avoid insulting or bad mouthing our fellow freelancer as well as undermining them. It’s more important to feature your best asset than to compare it to anyone else. And, it’s also important to remember that our main competitor will be ourselves.
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