Freelancing allows individuals to work remotely and provide services to clients worldwide. Platform-based freelancing involves using online platforms to connect with clients, which is a great way to begin your freelancing journey. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start freelancing, along with popular freelancing skills, platforms, and how to bring your earnings into a Bangladeshi bank account.
Step 1: Identify Your Skills
Before starting as a freelancer, it’s essential to know what services you can offer. If you’re already skilled in a particular area, focus on that. If not, consider learning a high-demand skill through online courses. Here are some popular freelancing skills:
Once you’ve identified your skill set, the next step is to choose a freelancing platform where you can offer your services. There are many freelancing platforms available that act as marketplaces to connect freelancers with clients.
Popular Freelancing Platforms:
Upwork: A leading freelancing platform that covers a wide range of skills, from tech development to writing.
Freelancer: Similar to Upwork but with more flexibility for new freelancers.
Fiverr: This platform is great for offering smaller, predefined services (called “gigs”) with starting prices as low as $5.
Toptal: A platform for top-tier freelancers in the fields of software development, design, and finance.
PeoplePerHour: Popular among UK-based clients but open globally.
Guru: Offers various job categories, especially in IT, design, and marketing.
99designs: Specifically for designers to create logos, websites, and other graphics.
Step 3: Create a Strong Profile
Your profile is your online CV and is crucial for attracting potential clients. Spend time creating a professional profile that stands out:
Headline: Write a clear and concise headline that reflects your expertise.
Bio/Overview: Explain who you are, your skill set, and what services you offer. Mention any relevant work experience or certifications.
Portfolio: Showcase your best work to provide examples of what you can deliver.
Certifications: Include any certificates or courses that prove your expertise.
Reviews: As you complete jobs, focus on gathering positive client reviews to build credibility.
Step 4: Search and Apply for Jobs
Once your profile is set up, you can start applying for jobs. Most freelancing platforms have a job board where clients post job listings. Here’s how to approach it:
Search for Jobs: Filter jobs based on your skills and interests.
Submit Proposals: Write personalized proposals for each job. Focus on how you can solve the client’s problem.
Follow Up: Politely follow up if you don’t hear back from the client after a few days.
Negotiate Rates: Always discuss project timelines and rates with the client upfront.
Step 5: Start Small and Build Your Reputation
Initially, take smaller projects to build a portfolio and collect positive reviews. Over time, you can increase your rates and apply for more complex projects.
Step 6: Manage Your Finances
Freelancing platforms usually handle payments, but you need to know how to get your money into your Bangladeshi bank account.
Step-by-Step Guide to Withdraw Freelance Earnings in Bangladesh:
Set Up a Payment Method: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr offer several payment options:
Payoneer: A widely used service for freelancers in Bangladesh. After linking Payoneer to your freelance platform account, you can request a withdrawal.
Direct Bank Transfer: Some platforms offer direct deposit into a Bangladeshi bank account, although it may take a few days for processing.
Wire Transfer: High fees but another option.
Link Your Bank Account: Once you receive money into your Payoneer account, you can transfer it to your local bank account. Many freelancers in Bangladesh use Payoneer to get paid as it supports local currency transfers.
Withdraw Funds: After linking your bank account to Payoneer, you can withdraw funds directly to your Bangladeshi account (DBBL, BRAC, City Bank, etc.). Payoneer also offers an ATM withdrawal option.
Monitor Transfer Fees and Exchange Rates: Payoneer and other services have exchange rates and fees that vary. Keep an eye on them to maximize your earnings.
Step 7: Keep Learning and Upskilling
Freelancing is a competitive field. To stand out, continue learning new skills and keeping up-to-date with the latest trends. Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer various courses in high-demand freelancing skills.
Conclusion
Platform-based freelancing offers flexibility, autonomy, and opportunities to earn globally. By identifying your skills, choosing the right freelancing platform, and managing your finances effectively, you can start a successful freelancing career. For freelancers in Bangladesh, Payoneer is a reliable option to bring earnings into your local bank account. As you grow your profile, remember that reputation, skills, and consistent performance are key to long-term success in the freelancing world.
Here’s a list of top ten influential business mentors in Bangladesh, including individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to guiding and supporting entrepreneurs and businesses in the country:
Trade & Investment Bangladesh: Trade & Investment Bangladesh is one of the leading Business Consultancy Firms in Bangladesh. Through its advisory services, training programs, and networking events, Trade & Investment Bangladesh provides invaluable support to entrepreneurs and businesses seeking to expand their operations domestically and internationally.
Md. Joynal Abdin: Mr. Md. Joynal Abdin is a seasoned business mentor and consultant with expertise in international trade, export-import, and business development. Through his consultancy services and mentorship programs, Mr. Abdin has helped numerous entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of global trade and achieve success in their ventures.
Bangladesh Trade Center: Bangladesh Trade Center is a leading business consultancy firm specializing in export promotion, market research, and trade facilitation services. The firm provides tailored solutions to help businesses identify export opportunities, enter new markets, and expand their international presence.
Business Intelligence Ltd: Business Intelligence Ltd is a prominent management consulting firm offering a wide range of consultancy services, including strategic planning, market analysis, and organizational development. The firm’s team of experienced consultants provides expert guidance and support to businesses across various industries.
Shaquib Quoreshi: Mr. Shaquib Quoreshi is a respected business mentor and serial entrepreneur known for his expertise in startup development, innovation, and technology entrepreneurship. Through his mentorship programs and workshops, Mr. Quoreshi has empowered countless aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into successful businesses.
Md. Zakir Hossain: Mr. Md. Zakir Hossain is a seasoned business consultant and mentor with extensive experience in business strategy, marketing, and sales. His consultancy firm provides customized solutions to help businesses overcome challenges, optimize performance, and achieve sustainable growth.
Young Consultant: Young Consultant is a dynamic consultancy firm founded by a group of young professionals passionate about driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. The firm offers a range of consultancy services, including business planning, market research, and startup incubation.
Mentor Asif: Mr. Mentor Asif is a well-known business mentor and motivational speaker renowned for his ability to inspire and empower aspiring entrepreneurs. Through his mentorship programs and motivational talks, Mr. Asif has helped individuals unlock their potential and pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Business Innovation Lab: Business Innovation Lab is a leading entrepreneurship development organization dedicated to fostering innovation and creativity in Bangladesh. Through its incubation programs, training workshops, and networking events, Business Innovation Lab provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources and support they need to succeed.
Rashedul Islam: Mr. Rashedul Islam is a respected business consultant and mentor known for his expertise in project management, business strategy, and corporate governance. Through his consultancy services, Mr. Islam has helped businesses streamline their operations, enhance their competitiveness, and achieve sustainable growth.
These business mentors and consultancy firms in Bangladesh play a vital role in nurturing entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in the country. Through their guidance, expertise, and support, they empower entrepreneurs and businesses to overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and realize their full potential.
Building Long-Term Relationships: The Journey Beyond Success
Building long-term relationships with mentors is essential for sustained growth and success, even as a company achieves milestones and accomplishments along its journey. These enduring relationships offer ongoing benefits that extend far beyond initial guidance and support, providing invaluable insight, perspective, and guidance at every stage of the company’s evolution.
One of the key benefits of maintaining long-term relationships with mentors is the continuity of support and guidance they provide. As a company navigates the complexities of growth, expansion, and diversification, having a trusted mentor by its side ensures continuity in strategic direction, decision-making, and problem-solving. Mentors who have a deep understanding of the company’s history, culture, and values can offer nuanced advice and tailored solutions that align with its long-term vision and objectives.
Moreover, long-term relationships with mentors foster a sense of trust, mutual respect, and camaraderie that strengthens over time. This trust-based relationship enables open and honest communication, allowing mentees to share their successes, challenges, and aspirations without reservation. Mentors, in turn, provide candid feedback, encouragement, and support, empowering mentees to overcome obstacles, stay focused on their goals, and maintain a growth mindset in the face of adversity.
Furthermore, mentors play a vital role in providing continuity in leadership and mentorship succession planning. As companies grow and evolve, there may be changes in leadership, organizational structure, and strategic direction. Long-term relationships with mentors ensure a smooth transition and continuity in mentorship, preserving institutional knowledge, values, and culture throughout the change process. This continuity in mentorship ensures that the company remains grounded in its core principles and values, even as it adapts to new opportunities and challenges.
Additionally, long-term relationships with mentors provide ongoing learning and development opportunities for mentees. As the business landscape evolves and new technologies emerge, mentors serve as trusted advisors and sources of industry insights, helping mentees stay informed, agile, and competitive in their respective markets. By staying connected with mentors over the long term, mentees can continue to benefit from their expertise, wisdom, and experience, enabling continuous growth and innovation within the organization.
In summary, building long-term relationships with mentors is essential for sustained success and growth in today’s dynamic business environment. These enduring relationships provide continuity of support, foster trust and mutual respect, enable leadership succession planning, and facilitate ongoing learning and development. By nurturing these relationships over time, companies can leverage the continued benefits of mentorship to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve long-term prosperity.
Finding the Right Mentor: Tips for Success
Finding the right mentor to support your company’s growth and success is crucial for navigating the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. Here are some practical tips for business owners on finding the perfect mentor:
Clarify Your Goals and Needs: Before seeking a mentor, take the time to clarify your business goals, challenges, and areas where you need guidance and support. Having a clear understanding of what you hope to achieve will help you identify the right mentor who can provide relevant expertise and insights.
Seek Compatibility and Alignment: Look for mentors whose values, expertise, and industry experience align with your business goals and aspirations. Consider factors such as leadership style, communication preferences, and personal compatibility to ensure a productive and mutually beneficial mentorship relationship.
Tap Into Your Network: Leverage your existing network of contacts, colleagues, and industry peers to identify potential mentors. Attend networking events, industry conferences, and professional associations to connect with experienced professionals who may be willing to offer mentorship.
Utilize Online Platforms: Explore online platforms and mentorship programs specifically designed to connect entrepreneurs with experienced mentors. Websites like SCORE, MicroMentor, and LinkedIn’s Mentor Match offer opportunities to connect with mentors from diverse industries and backgrounds.
Be Proactive and Persistent: Take the initiative to reach out to potential mentors and express your interest in establishing a mentorship relationship. Craft a compelling message highlighting your business achievements, goals, and reasons for seeking mentorship. Be persistent in your efforts and follow up consistently to demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm.
Start Small and Build Trust: Begin the mentorship relationship with small asks or requests for advice to establish rapport and build trust gradually. Respect your mentor’s time and expertise by being prepared, attentive, and receptive to feedback. Show appreciation for their guidance and contributions to your business growth.
Stay Open-Minded and Flexible: Be open to receiving feedback, insights, and perspectives that may challenge your assumptions or preconceived notions. Embrace opportunities for learning and growth, even if they require stepping outside your comfort zone or reevaluating your approach to business.
By following these practical tips and strategies, business owners can identify and cultivate meaningful mentorship relationships that support their company’s growth, innovation, and long-term success.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Mentorship for Lasting Success
In conclusion, business mentors play a pivotal role in driving company success through their guidance, expertise, and support. Throughout this discussion, we’ve explored how mentors provide personalized guidance tailored to the specific needs and challenges of each company, leveraging their experience and insights to navigate obstacles, make informed decisions, and seize opportunities. We’ve also highlighted the importance of building long-term relationships with mentors, emphasizing the continuity of support, trust, and learning that they provide over time.
Business mentors offer a transformative impact on company success by serving as trusted advisors, sounding boards, and champions of growth. Their mentorship extends beyond mere advice, fostering a culture of continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration within organizations. By offering guidance that is rooted in real-world experience and industry knowledge, mentors empower mentees to overcome challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth and success.
Furthermore, mentors play a vital role in fostering a sense of community and connection within the business ecosystem, facilitating valuable networking opportunities, and connections that can benefit the company’s growth and expansion. Through their mentorship, mentees gain access to a wealth of resources, expertise, and support services that enable them to navigate the complexities of the business landscape with confidence and resilience.
In essence, business mentors are catalysts for change, driving company success by inspiring, guiding, and empowering the next generation of business leaders. Their transformative impact extends far beyond the confines of individual companies, shaping the future of entrepreneurship and corporate leadership in profound and meaningful ways. As companies continue to navigate the ever-evolving business landscape, the guidance and support of a trusted mentor can make all the difference in unlocking their full potential and achieving long-term success.
Mr. Md. Joynal Abdin is a prominent Business Consultant and Digital Marketer based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He holds the role of Founder and CEO at Trade & Investment Bangladesh. With an extensive professional journey, he has contributed significantly, having served as Executive Secretary at Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI), Executive Director at DCCI Business Institute (DBI), Deputy Manager at SME Foundation, and Assistant Secretary at the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FBCCI).
Mr. Abdin’s diverse array of services encompasses, but is not confined to, Business Mentorship, Business Research and Documentation, such as Feasibility Studies, Project Proposal Preparation, and Business Manual and Standard Operating Procedures writing. He is also adept at Export Market Selection, Product Positioning both domestically and internationally, Buyers-Sellers Matchmaking, Website Development, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), and Social Media Marketing, Email Marketing etc. among other valuable offerings.
A business mentor plays a multifaceted role in guiding, supporting, and nurturing the growth of their mentees. Their functions extend far beyond offering advice; they serve as coaches, advisors, role models, and advocates. Here, we will delve into the various functions of a business mentor and why each is essential for the success and development of the mentee.
Knowledge Sharing: One of the primary functions of a business mentor is to share their knowledge and expertise. They draw upon their years of experience and insights to provide valuable information about industry trends, best practices, and strategies for success. This knowledge transfer can help mentees make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
Guidance and Advice: A mentor serves as a trusted advisor, offering guidance and advice on a wide range of business-related issues. Whether it’s decision-making, problem-solving, or setting goals, the mentor provides a safe space for the mentee to discuss challenges and explore potential solutions.
Network Expansion: Mentors often have extensive networks built over their career. They introduce their mentees to valuable contacts, potential clients, partners, investors, or other professionals. Access to this network can open doors and create opportunities for the mentee’s business growth.
Accountability and Goal Setting: Setting clear goals is crucial for progress. A mentor helps their mentee establish and track goals, holding them accountable for achieving milestones. This function ensures that the mentee remains focused and on the path to success.
Objective Perspective: Business mentors provide an objective viewpoint. They are not emotionally attached to the mentee’s decisions or business outcomes, allowing them to offer impartial feedback. This objectivity can be crucial in helping the mentee see blind spots and make better decisions.
Personal Growth and Development: Beyond the business realm, mentors can guide their mentees in personal growth and development. They help build self-confidence, leadership skills, emotional intelligence, and work-life balance. A mentor is a holistic guide, supporting the mentee in both professional and personal aspects of their life.
Skill Development: Mentors identify areas where their mentees can improve and offer guidance on skill development. Whether it’s improving negotiation skills, enhancing marketing strategies, or refining communication abilities, mentors provide targeted coaching to help the mentee grow.
Inspiration and Motivation: Through their own experiences and success stories, mentors inspire and motivate their mentees. Knowing that their mentor has overcome obstacles and achieved their goals can reignite the mentee’s enthusiasm and determination during challenging times.
Learning from Mistakes: Mistakes are a part of the business journey. A mentor shares their own failures and lessons learned, helping the mentee navigate difficult situations and avoid making costly errors. Learning from the mentor’s mistakes can be a powerful educational tool.
Long-Term Perspective: Business mentors help mentees maintain a long-term perspective. They encourage them to focus on their ultimate objectives and provide guidance on how to achieve these goals. Mentors help mentees avoid becoming too absorbed in daily operations and losing sight of the bigger picture.
Building Confidence: Mentors play a vital role in building the mentee’s confidence. They provide reassurance, positive feedback, and validation, helping the mentee trust their abilities and judgment.
Advocacy: In some cases, mentors go beyond providing guidance and become advocates for their mentees. They may recommend them for opportunities, endorse their skills, and act as references. Such advocacy can significantly boost the mentee’s career or business prospects.
In conclusion, a business mentor’s functions are diverse and far-reaching, encompassing knowledge sharing, guidance, networking, accountability, and personal development. A successful mentor-mentee relationship is built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to growth and success. The mentor’s functions, when fulfilled effectively, can be a transformative force in the mentee’s journey toward professional and personal excellence.
Closing Remarks:
As we conclude our exploration of the power of business mentorship, it becomes abundantly clear that this dynamic relationship holds a unique and transformative influence in the world of entrepreneurship and corporate ventures. Throughout this journey, we’ve uncovered the profound impact that a mentor can have on individuals and organizations, the invaluable wisdom shared, and the opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Business mentorship is not merely a transaction; it is an investment in one’s future. It is a relationship built on trust, respect, and a shared commitment to growth and success. The functions of a mentor encompass guidance, knowledge sharing, networking, accountability, and so much more, making it an indispensable resource for those navigating the often challenging waters of business.
Mentors provide a beacon of light, illuminating the path forward with their experience and insights. They offer the compass that helps us navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business. With their support, we can make informed decisions, avoid common pitfalls, and progress more rapidly toward our goals.
The power of mentorship is not confined to a single industry, generation, or background. It is a universally applicable force that has the potential to unlock the full potential of aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned executives, and everyone in between. It transcends boundaries, connects people, and fosters a sense of community and shared knowledge.
In the stories of successful individuals and organizations, we find the testament to the mentor’s guiding hand. We see triumphs achieved with their support, obstacles overcome with their wisdom, and visions realized with their encouragement. These real-life narratives underscore the tangible and immeasurable impact of mentorship on the journey to success.
As we embrace the power of business mentorship, let us not forget that mentorship is a two-way street. It’s a relationship that requires active participation, open communication, and a willingness to learn and grow. Whether you’re considering becoming a mentor, seeking a mentor, or simply curious about the potential of mentorship, it’s important to approach this partnership with dedication and a thirst for knowledge.
In the ever-evolving world of business, mentorship is not a luxury but a necessity. It is the compass that guides us through uncharted territory, the ally that supports us in our endeavors, and the inspiration that fuels our aspirations. It is a timeless and invaluable resource that continues to shape the success stories of countless individuals and organizations.
As we move forward on our respective journeys, let us embrace the power of business mentorship, continue to seek knowledge, and remain open to the wisdom and support that mentors can provide. With mentorship as a guiding force, there are no limits to what we can achieve and the heights we can reach. Here’s to the mentors who light our path, and to the mentees who embrace the transformative power of mentorship – together, we shape the future of business.
The Power of Business Mentorship [P-2]: The Power of Business Mentorship [P-2]
Mr. Md. Joynal Abdin is a Business Consultant & Digital Marketer based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is Founder & CEO of Trade & Investment Bangladesh, one of the leading Business Consultancy Firm in Bangladesh. He is also Co-Founder & CEO of Bangladesh Trade Center. Previously he served at Dhaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) as Executive Secretary; DCCI Business Institute (DBI) as Executive Director; SME Foundation as Deputy Manager; and the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FBCCI) as Assistant Secretary.
The list of services Mr. Abdin is offering includes but not limited to Business Mentorship, Business Research and Documentations like Feasibility Study, Project Proposal Preparation, Writing Business Manual, Standard Operating Procedures etc.; Export Market Selection and Product Positioning at Home and Abroad; Buyers-Sellers Matchmaking; Website Development; Search Engine Optimization (SEO); and Social Media Marketing etc.
The Power of Business Mentorship [P-2]: The Power of Business Mentorship [P-2]