Freelance Proposal Template: Professional and Convincing
As a freelancer, compelling proposals are your key to new projects. With our template, you create professional proposals in minutes.
Start free. No credit card required.
Why Professional Proposals Matter
First impressions count – even with proposals
Save Time
15 minutes instead of hours. Time you can use for billable work.
Professional Impression
A structured proposal shows competence and reliability.
Reusable
Create once, use again and again. Building blocks for every project type.
Higher Conversion
Clear structure and transparent pricing convince clients faster.
Structure of a Freelance Proposal
Every professional proposal should include these components
Personal Greeting
Greet the client and show your understanding of the project.
About You
Brief introduction: expertise, experience, why you're the right choice.
Project Understanding
Show that you understand the requirements.
Scope of Work
What exactly will you deliver? Clear, understandable description.
Timeline
When do you start, when do you deliver? Realistic milestones.
Pricing
Transparent and comprehensible. Fixed price or hourly basis.
Payment Terms
Deposit, payment deadlines, accepted payment methods.
Next Steps
Call-to-action: What happens next? Contact options.
Pricing Models for Freelancers
Choose the right billing model for your projects
Hourly Rate
Billing for actual hours worked
Pros
- Flexible with changes
- Transparent for the client
Cons
- Client has no fixed budget
Best for
Consulting, support, unclear projects
Fixed Price
One fixed price for the entire project
Pros
- Planning security for both
- Simple communication
Cons
- Risk if effort exceeds estimate
Best for
Well-defined projects, standard services
Day Rate / Retainer
Fixed daily rate or monthly allocation
Pros
- Predictable income
- Long-term collaboration
Cons
- Less flexible
Best for
Long-term projects, regular clients
How to Create Your Freelance Proposal
In 4 steps to a convincing proposal
Understand the Request
Read the request carefully. Ask follow-up questions to clarify requirements.
Define Services
What exactly should you deliver? Clearly define the scope.
Calculate Price
Estimate effort realistically. Don't forget buffer and overhead costs.
Send Professionally
PDF or online link. Brief cover email with the key points.
Tips for Successful Proposals
Respond Quickly
Send your proposal within 24-48 hours. The fastest provider often wins.
Customize
No copy-paste. Address the client's specific requirements.
Communicate Value
Don't sell hours, sell results. What does the client gain?
Don't Forget Follow-up
Ask after 5-7 days if there are questions. Shows interest and professionalism.
Freelance Proposal FAQs
Answers to important questions for self-employed professionals
How do I write a proposal as a freelancer?
A good freelance proposal includes: Personal greeting, project understanding, clear scope of work, timeline, transparent pricing, and payment terms. With SimpleProposals, you create this in 15 minutes.
What hourly rate should I charge?
Calculate: (Living expenses + business costs + reserves + profit) / billable hours per year. As an IT freelancer, $100-200/hr is common, depending on specialization and experience.
Should I offer fixed price or hourly rate?
For well-defined projects, we recommend fixed prices – clients appreciate the planning security. For unclear scope or consulting, an hourly rate is fairer for both sides.
How do I handle price negotiations?
Stick to your price, but offer alternatives: Smaller scope for smaller budget, or additional services for more money. Avoid discounts without getting something in return.
What if the client doesn't respond?
Follow up after 5-7 days: 'I wanted to check if you have any questions about the proposal?' Not pushy, but professional. After 2 follow-ups without response: move on.
How long should a proposal be?
As short as possible, as long as necessary. For small projects, 2-3 pages are enough. Large projects can have 10+ pages. Important: Well-structured, easy to scan.
What does each proposal really cost you?
Create your first proposal in 15 minutes instead of 4 hours. Free, no credit card required.