Big Mistakes to Avoid with Your First Major Freelance Web Design Clients

I'm sharing 10 lessons that took me a decade to learn while building my web design business. From avoiding the niche trap to understanding the importance of marketing, these are real, battle-tested tips to help your business grow. I've experienced the highs and the lows, and now I'm sharing all my notes with you.🛝 Grab the slides!https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/10tips👨🏼‍💻 Watch Next!💸 14 Ways to Land High Paying Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw🖼️ 50 Web Design Tips and Tricks to Level Up Instantlyhttps://youtu.be/rRFD6tENX2U📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/join👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

 🛝 Grab the slides!https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/5skills📝 Check out the free/cheap fonts selection https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/fonts👨🏼‍💻 Watch Next!💸 14 Ways to Land High Paying Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw🖼️ 50 Web Design Tips and Tricks to Level Up Instantlyhttps://youtu.be/rRFD6tENX2U📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/join👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In this episode, I'll share the five most common sales objections faced by web designers and how to effectively overcome them in just five minutes. From credibility and price objections to commitment, scope, and comparison objections, I'll provide actionable strategies to handle each one. Learn how to reframe weaknesses as strengths, build trust with your process, understand the true value your client is looking for, and keep the momentum in your sales conversations. Make sure to watch the full series on the web design process, and don't forget to subscribe for more insights!Grab the 100 Sales Call Questions:https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/questions👨🏼‍💻 Watch Next!💸 14 Ways to Land High Paying Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw🖼️ Web Design Layout Masterclasshttps://youtu.be/nZ2BJt9PgKE📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/join👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In this episode, I give you the exact script I used to land a $10,000 web design project through a sales call. This is the first video in a series aimed at diving deep into every step of the web design process to secure high-paying clients. I discuss the importance of using an outline to maintain control during sales calls, breaking the call into four sections: discovery, solutions, process, and close. I emphasize asking heart and head questions to understand the client's needs, presenting the right solutions, and sharing my process to build trust. I also explain how to handle pricing discussions and the importance of follow-up for closing deals. Subscribe to stay updated with the series, and don't forget to check the link in the description for my list of 100 client questions to improve your own sales calls.Grab the 100 Sales Call Questions:https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/questions👨🏼‍💻 Watch Next!💸 14 Ways to Land High Paying Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw🖼️ Web Design Layout Masterclasshttps://youtu.be/nZ2BJt9PgKE📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/join👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In this episode, I share 50 web design tips, tricks, and hacks to elevate your web design skills in just 15 minutes. From mindset and design fundamentals to user experience and technical skills, you'll learn everything you need to create stunning, effective websites. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned designer, these rapid-fire tips will help you improve layout, color schemes, typography, and image use. Plus, I cover essential tools for development, SEO, and accessibility to ensure your sites are not only beautiful but also perform well. Get ready to take your web design to the next level.👨🏼‍💻 Watch Next!💸 14 Ways to Land High Paying Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw🖼️ Web Design Layout Masterclasshttps://youtu.be/nZ2BJt9PgKE📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/join👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In the third and final video of this series on website layouts, I share unique layout ideas to elevate your web design projects. Whether you're just starting out or looking to add some flair to your current designs, this video is packed with practical tips and examples. I'll take you behind the scenes of my work on a nonprofit project and show you how to use Figma to organize your inspiration. Learn about three, four, and five-column layouts, and get a free Figma file to kickstart your designs. Don't forget to check out parts one and two of this series for a solid foundation in web layout design!Grab the layout file!https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/layouts👨🏼‍💻 Check out the first 2 episodes in the series! EP 1https://youtu.be/EF_ucfA3CJsEP 2https://youtu.be/s2DVOZ62F8w📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterBecome a Self-Made Web Designer and join my exclusive membership. You'll get early access to videos, discounts on product launches and even a monthly coaching call. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDQ3BtYh76shNPjnqlQjxpg/joinWatch Next:💰 14 Different Methods to Land Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

If you really want to stand out as a web designer, mastering website layouts is essential. In this episode, I break down how to create effective one and two column layouts using visual hierarchy, variation, and balance. Learn practical tips and see real-world examples of layouts that guide attention, engage users, and elevate your design game. Don't forget to check out the Figma file linked in the description, and stay tuned for the next episode where we'll cover more complex layouts!Grab the layout file!https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/layouts👨🏼‍💻 Check out the first episode in the series!https://youtu.be/EF_ucfA3CJs📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterWatch Next:💰 14 Different Methods to Land Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In this episode, I dive deep into the crucial role of layouts in web design. From the psychology behind why clear and purposeful layouts matter, to practical tips on setting up columns and grids in tools like Showit and Figma. Discover how understanding and using layout variations can enhance user experience, keep your designs engaging, and ultimately make your web design projects stand out. Plus, get ready for a series of videos showcasing over 33 unique layouts and gain access to a free Figma file filled with wireframes and inspiration. Don't miss out. Subscribe for more insights!Working on some membership issues. Check back soon!📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletterWatch Next:💰 14 Different Methods to Land Web Design Clientshttps://youtu.be/jGDrKhaLWyw📈 52 Places to Find Web Design Clientshttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/52-places-to-find-freelance-web-design-projects-online/ Visit the episodes web pagehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/how-to-get-high-paying-web-design-clients-fast-14-methods/👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

Over the past 10 years, I've experimented with TONS of strategies to get high-ticket web design clients, and I've compiled the 14 best methods that have consistently worked for me. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow your business, these strategies are designed to attract $5,000 to $10,000 clients on autopilot.Resources Mentioned:📩 Sign-Up for the SMWD and Get Client Opportunities in Your Inbox Every Weekhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/newsletter💯 The First 100 Frameworkhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OrIxvWCdkEc📈 52 Places to Find Web Design Clientshttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/52-places-to-find-freelance-web-design-projects-online/💻 Joy's Video on Using Chat GPT to Find Clientshttps://youtu.be/PnKsy5XVlNM?si=jC_UVdIwtIGThJZD🚛 How to Scale Your Web Design Business Fast (Using Online Communities)https://youtu.be/Vg-BP7X9ego?si=NFU-9EqQGB3iVmRB💰 How to Become a 6 Figure Upwork Freelancerhttps://youtu.be/2jtZgQDjm-g?si=Dx_zznpbuZgqfjudVisit the episodes web pagehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/how-to-get-high-paying-web-design-clients-fast-14-methods/👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast

In this episode, I share the exact steps I took to start a successful web design business while juggling a full-time job and the responsibilities of being a single dad. Learn about crucial strategies such as creating a time budget, systematizing tasks, and cutting out unnecessary steps to make the most of your limited time. Whether you're struggling to find time, or figuring out how to optimize your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you get your web design business off the ground without sacrificing your well-being or burning out. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss future episodes!Watch Next:📄 My Complete Web Design Project Process:https://youtu.be/T5JglDcd54A📈 38 Resources of Web Design Inspirationhttps://youtu.be/llYWhiB6LMU💻 Over a Decade of Web Design Knowledge in 7 Minuteshttps://youtu.be/1NTKwpAVcHgVisit the episodes web pagehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/how-to-build-a-web-design-side-hustle-with-no-experience-complete-manual/👨🏼‍💻Check out Showit and get your first month freehttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/showitSay hey on instahttps://www.instagram.com/chrismisterek/Here are some links to the equipment I use for my podcast and videos. These are affiliate links. Clicking on these will help me keep the channel and podcast runningCamera - Panasonic Lumix G7https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/cameraLens - Samyang 12mm F2https://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lensAudio Interface - UA Apollo Twin Duohttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/interfaceMicrophone - Shure SM7Bhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/sm7bLighting - El Gato Key Lighthttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/lightingRecording Software - ecammhttps://selfmadewebdesigner.com/ecamm#selfmadewebdesigner #webdesign #freelancewebdesigning #webdesigner #webdesignlife #webdesignerlife #uxdesign #uxdesigner #uxuidesigner #careerchange #careeropportunities #freelancewebdesign #inmy30sandlovingit #careerchangeinspiration #selftaughtwebdesigner #selftaughtwebdesign #webdesignmentor #learnwebdesign #wpbeginner #programminglife #programmerslife #codingdays #code #programming #codinglife #newpodcast #techpodcast