Niche down to charge more
"WordPress developer" earns less than "WordPress developer for healthcare startups". Specificity sells.
Quote project, not hourly
Project quotes align you with outcomes, not time. Clients prefer predictability and you earn more for fast work.
Always get 30–50% upfront
Especially with new clients. Pros do this. It filters serious clients from tire-kickers.
Write proposals in client language
Restate their problem in your first line. Show you understood — then propose how you'd solve it.