5 min read 7 Freelancer Mistakes That Kill Your Chances of Getting Hired
Freelancing in 2025 is more competitive than ever. With platforms like GigTry.com, Fiverr, and Upwork flooded with talent, clients are spoiled for choice. The truth is: even if you’re skilled, small mistakes can cost you big opportunities. If you’ve been applying to gigs and not getting hired, chances are you’re falling into some common freelancer traps.
In this guide, we’ll explore 7 costly freelancer mistakes that kill your chances of landing projects — and how to avoid them so you can succeed on GigTry, one of the fastest-growing freelancing marketplaces.
1. Weak or Incomplete Profiles
Your profile is your online résumé. A poorly written, incomplete, or generic profile makes clients move on instantly.
- Mistake: No profile picture, vague description, and missing portfolio.
- Fix: Add a professional photo, write a strong bio focusing on skills + results, and upload samples of past work. On GigTry, verified profiles stand out and win more clients.
2. Undervaluing Your Services
Many freelancers set their rates too low to “attract clients.” But undervaluing your work doesn’t build trust; it signals inexperience.
- Mistake: Charging less than market value.
- Fix: Research rates for your skillset and charge fairly. Clients on GigTry are looking for quality, not just cheap rates.
3. Poor Communication
In freelancing, communication is everything. Slow replies or unclear messages frustrate clients and push them to other freelancers.
- Mistake: Delayed responses, unclear proposals.
- Fix: Respond quickly, ask clarifying questions, and keep communication polite yet professional. GigTry’s built-in chat system makes this easy.
4. Ignoring Client Instructions
Many freelancers lose projects simply because they don’t follow instructions in the job posting.
- Mistake: Sending generic copy-paste proposals.
- Fix: Tailor every proposal to the client’s needs. Mention their project details and show you’ve read their requirements.
5. Overpromising and Underdelivering
One of the biggest reasons clients stop working with freelancers is when promises don’t match reality.
- Mistake: Saying “yes” to everything to get the job.
- Fix: Be honest about what you can deliver and set realistic deadlines. Clients value honesty and reliability more than flashy promises.
6. No Portfolio or Case Studies
Clients want proof. If you can’t show them past work, they won’t take the risk.
- Mistake: Empty portfolio section.
- Fix: Even if you’re new, create sample projects or case studies. Upload them to your GigTry profile
- to showcase your abilities.
7. Not Building Long-Term Relationships
Freelancing success isn’t about one project; it’s about repeat clients.
- Mistake: Finishing a job and disappearing.
- Fix: Follow up, thank the client, and offer future help. GigTry makes it easy to build client loyalty with its transparent review system.
Conclusion
Freelancing is about more than just skills — it’s about how you present yourself, communicate, and deliver results. By avoiding these 7 mistakes, you can dramatically improve your chances of landing projects and building a long-term career.
Ready to take your freelancing career seriously?