A graphic designer who was once working in a local graphics company wanted to be his own boss. He realized that to reach greater heights, he must take risks, and he did. Get to know Leandro Rodrigues of Belo Horizante, Brazil, and how that one risk he took led his life and career to rise above the ordinary.
Leandro's Education and Work Background
Leandro earned a degree in Technical Drawing from the School of Architecture and Urbanism at UNA University. He's been working in the design field for over 15 years now.
Leandro's portfolio showcases a variety of designs for brochures, flyers, posters, logos, business cards, T-shirts. He has also done more complex projects like user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) designs, mockup application projects, website mockups, and app game designs.
Becoming a Freelancer
It was five years ago when his financial status started letting him down. Leandro felt the need to find something to supplement his income until the solution dawned on him -- look for a side hustle.
Leandro was still in his day job at that time he signed up to Freelancer.com. He began working as a freelancer during his spare time. With the diversity and quantity of work available in the platform, little by little, the demand for his services increased, and he was able to build his portfolio.
He eventually discovered how rewarding it is to be a freelancer. Around two years ago, he took the risk of letting go of his day job and decided to work as a full-time freelance graphic designer. Now, he has more flexibility to do other things outside of work and be his own boss. He can choose what to work on, when he wants to do it, and how much he wants to be paid for it.
Leandro makes it a point to continuously improve his design techniques and his portfolio. That's how it became easier for him to attract clients from around the world. At this point, it's no wonder he has done over 230 projects on Freelancer. He now collaborates with employers from different parts of the world like USA, UK, Canada, Mexico, Portugal, Norway, France and UAE.
Leandro has become a part of the elite group of Preferred Freelancers working with Freelancer.com’s team of Recruiters who assist employers to find the best freelancer for the job.
Leandro’s Top Three Tips to New Freelancers
1. Make sure you complete your profile in detail, and highlight all your top skills.
2. Work on your portfolio and showcase all the relevant work in your profile, even if you have little experience (that way the employer can properly assess your style).
3. Start out with lower bids to attract attention (the employer will see that you are just starting on the site and can give you an opportunity).
