Freelance Proposal Examples + Guide

With remote work and online platforms booming, it is a great time to be a freelancer. Want to break into freelancing but not sure how?

Let’s go over one of the main ways to land freelance work- a proposal. Here is a quick guide and freelance proposal examples to help get you on your way.

How do I write a proposal for a freelance job?

The best proposals are those that make it clear you are capable of the job, you have past experience and you can get it done on time.

Since it is a freelance job and not an employment contract, completing the gig successfully is the top priority for the client.

Here are the top 5 points to consider when making your freelance job proposal:

• Write clearly and to the point
• Say why you think you would be best to do this job
• Share your past experience doing the same or similar type of work
• Keep the proposal short
• Do a spell check and grammar check before submitting

But before even writing the proposal, make sure you have completely read and understood the posting. The more that you are clear on what the expectations are from the client, the better you will be able to communicate why you can do this gig.

Let’s take a look at some freelance job proposals to get an idea of how you can go about writing your own proposal.

These proposals are only to give you an idea of how to write a proposal. The best proposals are ones that are authentic to you and your skills.

Freelance proposal example #1

Let’s say you find a gig for designing a website- something you have a strong track record in.

Here is a formal freelance proposal example for the client, Claire and her business:

Dear Claire,

My name is [Insert your name] and I came across the gig for designing a website for your business. After reading over the details, I believe I can complete the project within the timeframe and to your specifications.

I have been designing websites for the past 5 years as a freelancer. You can see links to a few of my past clients here:

• Link 1
• Link 2
• Link 3

As you may have noticed, I have worked with businesses similar to yours so I have a good understanding of your market. Plus I have worked with the specific systems that you require so it can be a smooth process to transition over to you when complete.

A little about me, I have credentials in web design from XYZ school and have a certificate in UI/UX from XYZ course. I am a native English speaker and you can expect quick and clear communication from me throughout the process.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

[Insert your name]

Freelance proposal example #2

Here is an example of a proposal for a content writing job:

Hi Dave,

I’d be happy to take up your post for content writing. I’ve been writing content for 15+ different clients for the past 3 years. My work has included writing blogs, social media posts, and email newsletters. I have attached a few examples below.

I am a native English speaker and have completed my Master’s degree in English literature. I was a communications associate for 5 years at a digital marketing agency before becoming a freelancer.

I read through the brief and the price and timeframe work well. I’ll be able to turn around the writing for 3 rounds of feedback and changes too. Your gig will be completely checked for spelling and grammar correction, and will be written in American English for your target audience.

I look forward to the opportunity to work with you. Please let me know if you have any questions.

Thanks!

[Insert your name]

Freelance proposal example #3

Here is an example of a proposal for a few months contract:

Hello Chris,

I’m interested in the 3 months contract for business development with your company I saw posted online.

I have 2 years of experience in business development for both B2B and B2C companies. I have superior sales experience online through email marketing and over the phone. I have attached 2 references below that go into detail about my past experience. I also have a B.A. in Business Administration and graduated in 2019.

I can take on growing your book of business and fully dedicate the hours required in your post. The compensation per milestone reached is fair and works for me. And as you mentioned, if we find ourselves a good team, I would be interested in continuing to work with your company longer than the 3 months.

I am open to taking feedback and working with your larger team on this specific project. I can also make myself available for any team meetings as is required. You can also expect weekly reports from me detailing progress on sales calls.

I look forward to the potential opportunity to work with you and let me know if you have any questions.

Best Regards,

[Insert your name]

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Common mistakes to avoid when writing a proposal

There are some simple and easy mistakes you can avoid when writing a proposal. Here are the top 5 things to avoid when putting your proposal together:

• Don’t apply for a gig you aren’t fit for: You may be tempted to apply for as many jobs as you can, but really make sure you are capable, equipped and have strengths in the skills needed. Just so you don’t waste your time or the prospective clients’.
• Don’t make it too long: Clients are likely not to read proposals that are beyond just a few short paragraphs. Keep it to less than 5 paragraphs and a maximum of 3-4 sentences per paragraph if you can.
• Don’t write an extensive biography about yourself: Remember this is about getting the work done: Unlike getting hired as an employee, freelancers are specialized in coming in, being highly productive and getting the job done. Clients are often looking to see if you can do the job within their needs, rather than your entire history.
• Don’t try to negotiate on the listed price: Unless specifically asked for you to set a price, if a price is listed on a website or posting, it is highly unlikely the client will change it. So only apply for jobs that you feel comfortable with the price as is.
• Don’t use jargon, slang or acronyms unless widely understood: Double check everything you have written to make sure that someone overseas would understand.