In this issue of Ask FreelanceSwitch, we look at development work and domain names. Ask FreelanceSwitch is a regular column here that allows us to help beginners get a grip on freelancing. If you have a question about freelancing that you want answered, send an email to askfreelanceswitch@gmail.com.

Question 1

Am starting out as an Indie PHP/RoR web developer, but really struggling to get work and now thinking twice about it . What are some of the known ways to get freelance work from a dev who is just starting out? I do have significant experience of about 3-4 years with pet projects/job experience and making websites for relatives and friends, e.t.c.

Because a lot of clients prefer to work with developers who have already built up a portfolio working for other clients, it can seem difficult to break in and get work without a good reputation of your own. There are a few strategies that can help you land some work and start building up a client base, though.

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She’s got a well-known celebrity client and tons of tricks for getting and retaining clients. And she wants to help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground.

That’s why I thought we could all get something out of an interview with Laura Roeder of Roeder Studios. This California-based social media and publicity guru has plenty to share about how she’s effectively positioned her company—and how you can do the same with yours.

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Photo by James Sarmiento (old account)

Students in Springbook High School’s Web design classes get a real-life glimpse into being a designer—their teacher is also a freelancer!

Zac Gordon, 26, graduated from this Maryland high school just eight years ago. For the past four years, he’s been freelancing in the design business. Because he’s got a side career going, it’s the perfect platform for his students to see what being a designer is really like. Now he’s created a business platform that will enable him to work with his students after they’ve graduated. He’s still teaching in the classroom, but has found that the benefits of his full-time job have translated into a thriving business.

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