PART-1 | FIVERR SIDE HUSTLE SERIES
My first order: Fiverr journey from zero to $17k
Insights and learnings from my first-ever order on Fiverr
I still remember my first message from a client on Fiverr like it was yesterday; it arrived a month after I had created my profile and published my very first gig.
I was lying comfortably in my bed on a quiet, late night, indulging in a Netflix marathon when it happened. Out of the blue, the familiar ‘ding’ of a message notification came; I still get goosebumps remembering that. It was from a potential client, and they were reaching out to request my services. Specifically, they wanted me to create an Alexa skill for their radio station in the UK.
I took a deep breath and gathered my thoughts to craft a thoughtful and professional reply. This message was special, marking a significant milestone in my freelancing journey.
Though it was my first time working on such a project for a client, I was very determined to make it a success. In the past, I have created several Alexa Skills for fun and even won a hackathon, but never created one for a business. So this was quite challenging for me to begin with.
I accepted the offer, acknowledging the challenges that lay ahead. As I started working on the project, I faced various hurdles, but I didn’t let them demotivate me. Instead, I made a conscious effort to communicate openly and honestly with the client to make him understand the issues that I was facing with the Alexa certification. I kept them informed about every step of the process, ensuring transparency and trust.
It was a 2-day delivery, and finally, after a series of late nights and early mornings, I completed the project. I double-checked every detail, ensuring it met the client’s expectations. With that, I submitted the work, hoping that my efforts would pay off.
All fingers crossed 🤞
The moment of truth arrived when I received feedback from the client.
My heart raced when I got another ding…
“XYZ user has marked your order has completed”
Then after 2 minutes got another one…
“XYZ user has left their feedback. Rate your experience to see their feedback.”
And I genuinely left my 5-star feedback for the buyer as he was really good to me and understanding. And boom….
My first-ever Fiverr review was a glowing 5-star rating.
That milestone marked not only the beginning of my Fiverr journey but also a significant turning point in my freelance career. It taught me the value of open communication, the importance of dedication, and the satisfaction that comes from exceeding a client’s expectations. It was the start of something incredible, a journey that would take me from that very first message to countless more, each one a testament to my growth and determination as a freelancer.
Here are some tips for those who are just beginning on Fiverr or are thinking of doing so:
- Sometimes, it can take a while for somebody to reach out. So be patient; that first message is all you need.
- But even after some time, if you think that you’re not getting any messages/orders, then maybe self-evaluate your gig. Maybe your gig needs more clarity, and clients are not exactly able to understand what you are offering. Or the pricing is quite high for a beginner profile etc.
- After you get your first order, it can be intimidating and pressurizing to make sure everything is right. Try openly communicating with the client; after all, they also need their work done.
- Make sure you listen to all your client needs and requirements. Don't hesitate to ask questions when you need to. It will just show your technical flavour or your enthusiasm to work for them.
Lastly, do not be too nervous and just Give your best :)
Happy Fiverring!
If you’ve enjoyed this glimpse into my Fiverr side hustle journey and would like to hear more stories like this, I invite you to follow me. I’m excited to share more such stories in my Fiverr side hustle series, filled with the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way. So, hit that “Follow” button, and let’s embark on this journey together.
Till then, sayonara!!