As a freelancer, I’ve often faced situations where someone with less skill and average results gets chosen, while I get passed over. At first, it feels unfair and frustrating. It’s easy to think, “The client just doesn’t know better.” (And honestly, sometimes that’s true.)
But if we think about it more calmly, it's actually understandable from the client’s point of view. Most clients don’t have a clear way to measure who’s more technically skilled. Even if they look at portfolios or profiles, those don’t always reflect real ability. How well someone communicates during a project, how they solve problems, how responsible they are—those things only become clear after working together.
In my experience, many clients prefer freelancers who are easier to work with over those who are technically the best. And by “easy,” I don’t just mean friendly personality. It’s more about being someone who listens well, seems trustworthy, and understands the direction the client wants to go. In short, they choose the person who feels like they’ll do a good job, not necessarily the one who actually has the strongest skills.
This is something every freelancer should understand. Improving your skills is important, but it’s not enough. Technical skills are the foundation, but trust and communication are what often make the final difference.
Why Clients Go with “Vibes” Over Skills
Most clients are not technical experts. Many are project managers, business owners, or startup founders with limited knowledge in development or design. So instead of judging based on results, they often rely on how they feel during the process.
Here’s an example: One freelancer might confidently say, “It’s better to do it this way,” showing off their expertise. But if the client doesn’t understand technical terms, they won’t know whether to trust that advice. (Let’s face it—most of them don’t understand your jargon.)
Meanwhile, another freelancer might not be as experienced but listens well, tries to understand what the client wants, and stays positive and open. That freelancer gives the client a better experience. So the client keeps going back to them.
In the end, clients tend to choose the freelancer who makes them feel heard and understood. That sense of connection often outweighs pure skill.
So How Can We Prepare?
As freelancers, what should we focus on? The answer is simple—but not easy to do:
1. Technical skills are the foundation, but not everything.
2. Learn to speak the client’s language—explain things clearly and simply.
3. Build communication skills that earn trust.
Anyone can improve their technical skills over time. But your attitude, your ability to work with people, and how you communicate—those things are harder to change. That’s why clients notice them so much.
Final Thoughts
Most freelancers have had moments where they felt unfairly overlooked, even though their skills were strong. But if we keep saying “The client just doesn’t get it,” we’re missing the point. Instead, we need to understand what clients are really looking for—and develop strategies that meet those expectations.
Strong skills are the minimum. Being easy to work with is what sets you apart.
When you have both, that’s when you truly become the freelancer clients choose again and again.
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