If you're a beginner, your job is to get your foot in the door. Do everything to make that happen.

Here's what I'll tell myself if I was starting a service-based business today:

1. **Define your niche.**

You need to determine: a. what service do you want to offer and b. who do you want to offer it to.

2. **Have multiple income streams.**

Don't rely on just one client or one platform. Remember that if more than 50% of your income comes from one client, you're not a freelancer - you're a part-time employee without benefits. This is how you gain [financial security](https://rntble.com/financial-security-as-a-freelancer/) for your service busines.

3. **Optimize your profiles and build a great portfolio.**

If you're starting out, offer free work in exchange for a testimonial. Over deliver on the trial work, then upsell your service after.

4. **Learn how to market and sell your services.**

Reach out to your ideal clients in the platforms they're active in.

5. **Raise your rates.**

It takes more effort and resources to work for a cheap client compared to a premium one, with a lot less stress.

If you know what you bring to the table, [you can’t be afraid to eat alone](https://rntble.com/financial-security-as-a-freelancer/).

Learn to get leads not likes.