How can you use your portfolio to boost your bargaining power?

You've landed an interview for a freelance project that you're excited about. But before you sign the contract, you need to negotiate your rate. How can you convince the client that you're worth every penny? One of the most powerful tools you have is your portfolio. Your portfolio showcases your skills, experience, and achievements in a tangible way. It can also help you overcome common objections, demonstrate your value, and justify your rates. In this article, we'll show you how to use your portfolio to boost your bargaining power and get paid what you deserve.

1 Choose relevant samples

The first step is to select the best samples of your work that match the client's needs and goals. Don't just send them a link to your website or a generic collection of projects. Tailor your portfolio to the specific job and highlight the results you've delivered for similar clients. For example, if you're applying for a web design project, include samples of websites you've created that are in the same industry, niche, or style as the client's. If you're applying for a copywriting project, include samples of copy that have generated conversions, leads, or sales for similar products or services. By choosing relevant samples, you show the client that you understand their problem and that you have the solution.

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Leo Heydon Lancelot Johansson-Stockford 🤺

Papa | Hufflepuff in the streets, Ravenclaw in the spreadsheets | Talent @ ICEYE | Neurospicy ♾️🧠🌶️ | Watch Enthusiast | Wannabe Pilot 🛩️
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Yes! Always tailor your samples to the job you're applying for. A targeted and relevant portfolio is always better than a large but irelavant one Feel free to explain whh you included projects in your proftolio, and why you didn't!

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2 Quantify your impact

The next step is to quantify the impact of your work on your previous clients' outcomes. Numbers speak louder than words when it comes to proving your value. Instead of simply describing what you did, show the client how you made a difference. For example, if you're a web designer, you can include metrics such as increased traffic, engagement, or conversions on the websites you've designed. If you're a copywriter, you can include metrics such as click-through rates, open rates, or revenue generated by the copy you've written. By quantifying your impact, you demonstrate your expertise and credibility, and you give the client a clear idea of what they can expect from working with you.

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Leo Heydon Lancelot Johansson-Stockford 🤺

Papa | Hufflepuff in the streets, Ravenclaw in the spreadsheets | Talent @ ICEYE | Neurospicy ♾️🧠🌶️ | Watch Enthusiast | Wannabe Pilot 🛩️
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Always include metrics, but bonus points to make them understandable to non-team members. E.g. Talk about your revenue generated by copy you've written, but also talk about the impact it had on other teams e.g. Your work with other teams in generating it, your process in writing it

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3 Highlight your testimonials

The third step is to highlight the testimonials and feedback you've received from your previous clients. Testimonials are a form of social proof that can boost your trustworthiness and reputation. They can also help you address any potential concerns or objections the client might have about hiring you. For example, if you're a web designer, you can include testimonials that praise your creativity, responsiveness, or professionalism. If you're a copywriter, you can include testimonials that commend your writing style, tone, or persuasion. By highlighting your testimonials, you show the client that you have a track record of satisfying your clients and delivering high-quality work.

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Phil Sipowicz

Helping Freelancers, Solopreneurs, and Micro-agency builders succeed!
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It's crucial to present these testimonials in the most effective way possible. Here are some best practices: - Make sure that the testimonials you choose are relevant and specific to the services or products you offer. Generic testimonials won't have as much impact as those that speak directly to your abilities and results. - When selecting which testimonials to feature, choose ones that get straight to the point and highlight specific benefits or results achieved. Shorter testimonials are easier for readers to digest and retain. - Consider using visually appealing formats such as video testimonials or well-designed graphics with compelling quotes.

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4 Showcase your skills

The fourth step is to showcase your skills and abilities that set you apart from other freelancers. You want to show the client that you have more to offer than just the basic requirements of the job. You want to show them that you have unique value propositions that can benefit them in ways they might not have thought of. For example, if you're a web designer, you can showcase your skills in SEO, UX, or branding. If you're a copywriter, you can showcase your skills in research, storytelling, or copyediting. By showcasing your skills, you show the client that you have a diverse and versatile skill set that can add value to their project.

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5 Update your portfolio

The final step is to update your portfolio regularly with your latest and best work. You don't want to send the client a portfolio that is outdated, incomplete, or inconsistent. You want to send them a portfolio that is fresh, relevant, and impressive. Updating your portfolio shows the client that you're active, passionate, and committed to your craft. It also shows them that you're constantly learning, improving, and adapting to the changing needs and trends of the market. By updating your portfolio, you show the client that you're a professional and reliable freelancer who takes pride in your work.

Your portfolio is more than just a collection of your work. It's a reflection of your value, your brand, and your potential. By using your portfolio to boost your bargaining power, you can negotiate your rate with confidence and get paid what you deserve.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Leo Heydon Lancelot Johansson-Stockford 🤺

Papa | Hufflepuff in the streets, Ravenclaw in the spreadsheets | Talent @ ICEYE | Neurospicy ♾️🧠🌶️ | Watch Enthusiast | Wannabe Pilot 🛩️
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Work in progress projects in a portfolio are also good- whether personal or professional, They show your thought process, and show that you're happy to receive critique

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How can you use your portfolio to boost your bargaining power?

1

2

3

4

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1 Choose relevant samples

2 Quantify your impact

3 Highlight your testimonials

4 Showcase your skills

5 Update your portfolio

6 Here’s what else to consider

Salary Negotiations

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How can you use your portfolio to boost your bargaining power?

1

2

3

4

5

6

1 Choose relevant samples

2 Quantify your impact

3 Highlight your testimonials

4 Showcase your skills

5 Update your portfolio

6 Here’s what else to consider

Salary Negotiations

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