The ultimate guide to freelance job interviews

Are you a freelancer looking to get some gigs? Then you should know that it is important to prepare for a job interview as a freelancer. To do so well, you should know your strengths and weaknesses and be able to answer questions about them confidently.

You should also know what your goals are in the future and how you plan on achieving them. In this article, we give you tips on what you need to do to pass that interview, let’s dive in.

Why preparing well for a job interview as a freelancer is important

It allows you to showcase your skills and experience: A job interview is your chance to demonstrate to the potential client why you're the best candidate for the job. By preparing well, you can highlight your relevant skills and experience and explain how they align with the needs of the project.

It helps you feel confident: Being well-prepared for a job interview can help you feel more confident and at ease during the interview process. This can help you communicate more effectively and make a better impression on the potential client.

It allows you to ask informed questions: As a freelancer, you have the opportunity to choose the projects you work on. Asking informed questions during the interview can help you understand more about the project, the client's expectations, and whether the opportunity is a good fit for you.

It helps you negotiate effectively: Freelancers often have more flexibility in terms of negotiating their rates and project scope. By preparing well, you can have a clear idea of what you're willing to accept and be more confident in your negotiation with the potential client.

Overall, preparing well for a job interview as a freelancer is essential to demonstrating your value and securing the job. By taking the time to research the client and the project, practice your pitch, and have questions ready, you can increase your chances of success and land the gig you want.

Types of job interviews 

Freelance job interviews can be conducted in a variety of ways, depending on the preferences of the potential client and the nature of the project. Some common ways that freelance interviews are conducted include:

In-person interviews

If the client is local and the project requires in-person work, the interview may be conducted in person. This could be at the client's office or at a neutral location, such as a coffee shop.

Video call interviews

Many freelance interviews are conducted via video call, using platforms such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet. This allows both parties to see and hear each other and is a convenient option for clients and freelancers who may be located in different parts of the country or world.

Phone interviews

Some clients may prefer to conduct interviews over the phone, either as a first step in the hiring process or as a way to screen candidates.

Email interviews

In some cases, a client may ask the freelancer to answer a series of questions via email as a way to assess their skills and experience.

Regardless of the method of the interview, it's important for freelancers to be prepared and to present themselves in a professional manner.

This includes being punctual, having a clear and concise pitch about their skills and experience, and having any necessary materials (such as a portfolio) ready to present. 

Here are some common mistakes freelancers make when preparing for a job interview:

Not researching the client or the project: It's important to know as much as you can about the client and the project before the interview.

Not researching the client or the project can make it difficult to tailor your responses to align with their needs and goals and may indicate to the client that you're not fully committed to the opportunity.

Not practicing your pitch

Freelancers often have to sell themselves and their skills to potential clients, and a clear and concise pitch is essential. Not practicing your pitch beforehand can lead to rambling or unclear responses during the interview, which may not make the best impression on the client.

Not having a portfolio ready

As a freelancer, your portfolio is an important tool for showcasing your skills and experience. Not having a portfolio ready or not having it up to date can make it difficult for the client to get a sense of your work and may hurt your chances of getting the job.

Not having questions ready

Interviews are a two-way conversation, and it's important to have questions ready to ask the client about the project, their expectations, and their company. Not having questions ready may make it seem like you're not interested in the opportunity or not fully prepared for the interview.

Not dressing appropriately

Even if you're not going into an office, it's important to dress appropriately for the job interview. Choosing inappropriate or unprofessional clothing can make a poor impression on the client and may hurt your chances of getting the job.

By avoiding these mistakes, freelancers can increase their chances of success in the job interview process and position themselves for success in the gig economy.

Tips to help you in your job preparation

As a freelancer, preparing for a job interview can be slightly different from what traditional job seekers might experience. Here are some tips to help you feel confident and well-prepared for your upcoming job interview:

Research the company and the role

It's important to know as much as you can about the company you're interviewing with, their mission, and the role you're applying for. This will help you tailor your responses to align with the company's values and goals.

Practice your pitch

Freelancers often have to sell themselves and their skills to potential clients, so it's important to have a clear and concise pitch ready. Practice explaining your experience, skills, and why you're the best fit for the role.

Prepare your portfolio

As a freelancer, you likely have a portfolio of your work that you can show to potential clients. Make sure your portfolio is up to date and showcases your best work.

Have questions ready

Interviews are a two-way conversation, and it's important to have questions ready to ask the interviewer about the role, the company, and their expectations for the position.

Dress for the job

Even if you're not going into an office, it's important to dress appropriately for the job interview. Choose clothing that makes you feel confident and professional.

Be punctual

It's important to arrive on time for the interview, whether it's in person or via video call.

Make sure you have the necessary technology set up and tested in advance.

Show enthusiasm

As a freelancer, you have the opportunity to choose the projects you work on. Make it clear that you're excited about the opportunity and the project.

Be prepared to negotiate

Freelancers often have more flexibility in terms of negotiating their rates and project scope. Have an idea of what you're willing to accept and be prepared to discuss it with the potential client.

Follow up after the interview

It's important to follow up with the interviewer after the interview to thank them for their time and to reiterate your interest in the role. This can be a simple email or a handwritten note.

By following these tips, you can feel confident and well-prepared for your job interview as a freelancer. Good luck!