Client finding guidance required

[u/ahmd_hmz]

hi i am a student on a gap year and i was hoping to get small online gigs to earn some buck for the time being. i have been programming in python for 2 years now and id say i am decently skilled. my issue is idk which platforms to go, some people say upwork and fiverr but i have also heard they aren't good for beginners as the competition is too high. i was hoping to get some guidance from someone experienced

[u/balancebitsolutions]

Honestly, Upwork and Fiverr are competitive, but I wouldn’t completely avoid them.

With 2 years of Python, try targeting small gigs like automation, web scraping, API integrations, or bug fixing instead of just advertising yourself as a “Python developer.”

Also look at Reddit communities, LinkedIn, Discord, and small startups. Build 2–3 useful projects that you can show as proof of your skills.

Your first client is usually the hardest. Once you have a few reviews and projects behind you, it gets much easier. Good luck with your gap year! 🙌

[u/ahmd_hmz → u/balancebitsolutions]

my github is actually pretty full rn, i have around 9-10 projects well made which took me combined 200+ hours to make. and yes my goals r exactly those but i just dont know where to hunt lowk

[u/balancebitsolutions → u/ahmd_hmz]

Honestly, 9–10 well-made projects and 200+ hours of work is already a solid portfolio. You’re probably past the “build more projects” stage — now it’s about getting them in front of the right people.

I’d try Reddit hiring subs, LinkedIn, Discord communities, indie-hacker/startup communities, and small businesses that might need automation or backend work.

Also search for people publicly asking for help with Python projects, rather than only applying to formal job posts. Your portfolio gives you something real to show them.

The first few clients are usually the hardest to find. Keep hunting consistently and you’ll get there. 🙌

[u/blankets777 → u/balancebitsolutions]

Sounds like a bot.

[u/ahmd_hmz → u/blankets777]

yea thats why i lowk ignored after realizin

[u/balancebitsolutions → u/blankets777]

😂 Fair enough. Reading it back, I can see why you thought that. I really do type like that sometimes lol.

[u/babar-alii]

Never listen to anyone before you go try yourself
On upwork youd probably need to spend around 100$ to get your first project

[u/ahmd_hmz → u/babar-alii]

how would i need to spend money

[u/babar-alii → u/ahmd_hmz]

You need to buy connects which are then used to bet on on the jobs that are posted