How to make a winning profile

Chapter 2 : How to Make a Winning Profile on Freelancer

A step-by-step guide to standing out, earning trust, and getting your first hire.

By Farzat Amin · November 2025 · 8 min read

Your Freelancer profile is your storefront — the first impression that decides whether a client scrolls past or clicks “Hire.” A great profile can land projects even when you have zero reviews. Let’s break it down into phases that actually work.

Phase 1 · Free Setup — No Cost, Just Time

Step 1 · Complete Your Profile (Use AIDA)

Fill in every detail — name, tagline, summary, skills, and portfolio. Treat it like a landing page written to convert visitors into clients.

AIDA Framework Explained

AIDA stands for Attention, Interest, Desire, Action — a classic marketing model describing how people decide to buy. Use it to make clients “buy” your skills.

  • Attention: Grab their eye with a bold statement.
  • Interest: Share what makes your approach unique.
  • Desire: Show proof, results, or testimonials.
  • Action: Invite them to message or hire you.

🧠 Sample Profile Description (AIDA Applied)

Attention: I help businesses transform ordinary visuals into brand-driven experiences that convert.
Interest: With 3 + years in web and brand design, I focus on usability and clarity.
Desire: My recent projects increased client conversion rates by 45 %. Every design I deliver is mobile optimized and SEO-ready.
Action: Let’s bring your next idea to life — click “Hire Me,” and I’ll reply within a few hours.

📁 Portfolio Setup

Upload both images and videos — make sure they fit inside the recommended frame.

  • Image / Mockup – 1600 × 1200 px
  • Video – 1600 × 1200 px

Use realistic mockups to make your designs look premium. Developers can add short screen recordings or live-demo links.

Tip: Your first five projects define your brand — deliver perfection, not just completion.

🎓 Take Free Exams

Exams add instant credibility. Start with the free ones like Freelancer Orientation Test to show professionalism and platform knowledge.

Freelancer certifications tab
Example of certifications section after completing orientation test

Note: Clients often filter search results by “Certified Freelancers.” Even one badge can boost visibility.

Phase 2 · Invest Smartly

Once your foundation is ready, invest in credibility. Think of these as professional upgrades — not expenses.

✅ Apply for a Verified Badge ($99)

This badge confirms your identity after a short interview. Verified profiles appear higher in search and unlock premium projects.

✅ Take Paid Skill Exams ($5 each)

  • US English Language Test — shows communication clarity.
  • Skill-based Exam (WordPress, Laravel, Photoshop etc.) — shows technical depth.

✅ Earn the Rising Star Badge

After 5–6 strong reviews, apply for the Rising Star program. Freelancer staff will review your performance and communication.

Tip: Treat the interview like a client call — be confident and speak clearly about your projects and goals.

🚀 Why This Matters

Once your profile is complete, certified, and reviewed, Freelancer’s algorithm pushes your bids up the search list. That means more visibility, more clicks, and more trust — even before a client reads your proposal.

Profile Checklist

  • Professional photo (smiling, bright background)
  • AIDA-based bio description
  • 5–6 portfolio pieces (1600 × 1200 mockups)
  • At least 1 free exam completed
  • Verified badge (if possible)
  • 2–3 paid skill exams
  • Rising Star badge after 5 reviews
  • Confident, friendly communication

Building a winning profile isn’t about luck — it’s about presentation, persistence, and proof. Treat your profile like your digital resume and shopfront combined. Polish it until it reflects the kind of clients you want to attract.

Farzat Amin Profile

Farzat Amin

Designer & Developer · Preferred Freelancer · Helping Brands Grow Online