manuelmarino

Leadership Lessons From Game Development and Freelancing Over the past two years, I've been deeply involved in developing a role-playing game (RPG) in a Senior role. This project has been a journey of passion, creativity, and intense learning. At the same time, I've also been working as a freelancer on Fiverr, where I've applied these leadership lessons to my freelance work. These experiences have taught me valuable insights into leadership, which are not only essential in the gaming industry but also directly applicable to freelancing. Here are the key leadership lessons I've learned through these experiences. 1. Authenticity and Integrity Working on a role-playing game has shown me the importance of authenticity in leadership. Creating a game that resonates with players requires staying true to the vision and the story we want to tell. This commitment to authenticity has reinforced the importance of integrity in my leadership style. Whether it's making decisions in the game development process or interacting with clients on Fiverr, being honest and consistent has helped build trust and credibility. In freelancing, where relationships are often built on short-term interactions, maintaining integrity is essential for repeat business and positive reviews. 2. Resilience in the Face of Challenges The process of developing a complex RPG is fraught with challenges—technical difficulties, creative differences, and tight deadlines are just a few. These challenges have taught me the value of resilience. When faced with setbacks, the ability to keep pushing forward is essential. This resilience is equally important in freelancing, where projects can fall through, clients can be difficult, and competition is fierce. By staying resilient, I've learned to navigate the ups and downs of freelancing, ensuring that I deliver high-quality work even in the face of adversity. 3. Time Management and Prioritization Balancing a demanding Senior role in game development with my freelancing activities on Fiverr has been a true test of my time management skills. I've had to learn how to prioritize tasks effectively, ensuring that both my game development responsibilities and my freelance projects are completed on time and to a high standard. Time management is critical in both roles; in game development, it’s about meeting deadlines and keeping the project on track, while in freelancing, it’s about managing multiple clients and projects simultaneously without compromising quality. 4. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence Working closely with a team to develop an RPG has highlighted the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in leadership. Understanding the perspectives and challenges of my team members has helped foster a collaborative and supportive work environment. This lesson has been invaluable in my freelancing as well. By showing empathy towards my clients—understanding their needs, constraints, and goals—I’ve been able to build stronger, more productive relationships. Emotional intelligence has also helped me manage client expectations and handle difficult situations with professionalism and tact. 5. Vision and Strategic Thinking As a Senior team member on an RPG project, having a clear vision is essential. I’ve learned to think strategically about the game’s development, from initial concept to final execution. This involves not only setting long-term goals but also anticipating potential challenges and making informed decisions. In freelancing, this strategic thinking translates into setting clear objectives for my business, identifying growth opportunities, and planning how to achieve them. Whether it's targeting a new market on Fiverr or expanding my skill set, having a vision helps guide my decisions and actions. 6. Continuous Learning and Growth Developing a game is a continuous learning process, with new technologies, trends, and creative ideas constantly emerging. Embracing this mindset of continuous learning has been essential in both my role-playing game project and my freelancing career. On Fiverr, staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and continuously improving my skills has allowed me to offer more value to my clients. This commitment to growth not only enhances my capabilities but also keeps me competitive in the fast-paced world of freelancing.

Thanks so much, Kesha 😊👍

Let me tell you how I started my career. I want to make it clear that arriving at Fiverr is not a starting point for amateurs but a milestone for serious professionals. Fiverr clients expect the best, so you can't sign up unless you are capable of producing quality work. That said, back to my story. I started when I was 13 years old. I began as a folk and country guitarist. I remember the first piece I learned to play was "Bermuda Triangle Exit" by Stephan Grossman. For those who don't know it, here's a link to SoundCloud where you can listen to it for free: Bermuda Triangle Exit. I used to play for small groups, honestly avoiding large audiences. So, mostly small groups, friends mostly, but the idea that music could become my profession was taking root in me more and more. Playing for these small groups taught me valuable skills such as attention to detail, the importance of practice, and how to engage an audience, no matter the size. These skills became incredibly useful later on as a freelancer. After a few years, my father gave me an incredible gift: a Korg M1 keyboard that revolutionized my life. Not only did I begin to combine my knowledge as a guitarist with new skills as a keyboardist, but I also realized the incredible power of sequencing and workstations (the Korg M1 was not just a simple keyboard) and the potential for the future. This new tool helped me understand the technical aspects of music production, which is essential for delivering high-quality work to clients on Fiverr. With the Korg M1, I produced my first soundtrack for a video game, a MUD (Multi-User Dungeon), which were very popular at the time. I created the entire soundtrack, from the Title Theme to the battle themes and various locations. This project opened up new horizons for me and taught me how to work on long-term projects, manage time effectively, and communicate with other creatives, all essential skills for a successful freelancing career. At that point, I couldn't do anything but register with SIAE (the performance rights organization in Italy, which at the time required two exams to complete the registration) as a composer and author, and be registered with these professional roles. Today, I am registered with the American ASCAP. The first piece I registered with SIAE, "New Millennium," had incredible success and quickly climbed the world New Age charts. It was at that moment that I dedicated myself completely to music. This achievement was a testament to my dedication and the importance of continuously learning and improving, which is a key mindset for any professional, especially those on platforms like Fiverr. Here is the track "New Millennium" on Spotify: New Millennium. Throughout my journey, the skills I developed—from technical proficiency to project management—have been invaluable. They not only shaped me as a musician but also prepared me for the demands of freelancing on Fiverr. For those aspiring to reach such platforms, it's important to remember that continuous learning, dedication, and professionalism are essential.

Seller's Survival Guide: How to Optimize Your Fiverr Presence to Increase Sales If you're looking to boost your sales on Fiverr, optimizing your presence is crucial. Here are some effective tips to help you stand out and attract more clients: 1. Create an Engaging Profile: Your profile is the first impression potential clients will have of you. Use a professional and friendly photo. Write a bio that highlights your skills, experience, and what makes you unique. Be clear about your expertise and the value you offer. 2. Craft Effective Gig Descriptions: Your Gig titles should be clear and catchy. Use high quality images or videos that showcase your work. Detail the services you offer comprehensively, ensuring potential buyers understand exactly what they will receive. Include FAQs to address common queries and reduce hesitation. 3. Master Fiverr SEO: Research relevant keywords that buyers are likely to search for. Integrate these keywords naturally into your Gig titles, descriptions, and tags. This will improve your visibility in Fiverr's search results, making it easier for clients to find your services. 4. Manage Reviews Wisely: Positive reviews significantly impact your credibility. Provide excellent service to encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews. If you receive negative feedback, handle it professionally by addressing the client's concerns and offering solutions. 5. Strategic Pricing: Set competitive prices that reflect the value of your services. Consider offering different packages (basic, standard, premium) to cater to various client needs and budgets. This flexibility can attract a broader range of customers. 6. Promote Your Gigs Externally: Utilize social media platforms to share your Fiverr Gigs. Create engaging posts that highlight your skills and link back to your Fiverr profile. 7. Deliver Excellent Customer Service: Responsive and professional communication is key to building strong client relationships. Respond promptly to inquiries and be clear and courteous in your messages. Offer revisions to ensure client satisfaction and demonstrate your commitment to delivering quality work. 8. Continuous Improvement: Regularly analyze your Gig performance using Fiverr’s analytics tools. Identify areas where you can improve, whether it’s tweaking your descriptions, adjusting prices, or updating images. Stay open to feedback from clients and make necessary adjustments to enhance your offerings continually.

I want to share some insights on why using social media is really important for promoting your Fiverr Gigs. As someone who has seen the benefits firsthand, I believe diversifying your social media presence is key. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; being active on multiple platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and even Instagram can expand your reach significantly. Each platform has its own unique audience, and by tapping into these different user bases, you can attract a wider variety of potential clients. It’s not just about having followers, but about having the right followers. Quality trumps quantity. Aim to build a community of people who are genuinely interested in what you do. Engage with them, share valuable content, and let them see your expertise and passion. Remember, the product you’re selling isn’t just your service—it's you. Your reputation as an artist and professional is paramount. Maintaining a strong, positive reputation will help build trust and loyalty among your clients. Moreover, your reputation isn’t solely built on social media presence but also on the quality of your work. Delivering high-quality products is an ethical responsibility and a cornerstone of professional integrity. Strive to exceed client expectations every time. This not only enhances your reputation but also fosters trust and long-term relationships with clients. When you consistently provide top-notch service, your clients are more likely to recommend you to others, creating a ripple effect of positive word-of-mouth marketing. Combining high-quality work with an active and genuine social media presence creates a powerful synergy. Social media amplifies your reach and visibility, drawing new clients to your Fiverr Gigs. This approach helps you grow your business ethically and sustainably. Remember, the goal is to always offer the best possible service while using social media to highlight your skills and attract new opportunities. Let’s continue to support each other in delivering excellence and building strong, reputable brands on Fiverr.

Someone once said, "If you follow others, you will always see the same places, but if you walk alone, you will discover new islands." As a freelancer, this quote resonates deeply with me. The essence of freelancing lies in the balance between uniqueness and adaptability. It's crucial to stand out in a sea of competitors, and one of the best ways to do this is by creating GIGs that are distinct and reflect your personal style and expertise. Being unique means showcasing what makes you different. It's about leveraging your individual strengths and experiences to offer something that no one else can. For example, in my work as a music composer and producer, I strive to infuse my projects with a unique blend of storytelling and musical innovation. This sets me apart and attracts clients looking for something fresh and original. However, it's equally important to stay attuned to industry trends. Clients often look for freelancers who can deliver what is currently popular and in demand. By understanding and incorporating these trends, you make your services more accessible and appealing. This doesn't mean sacrificing your uniqueness, but rather integrating relevant elements that enhance your offerings and make them more marketable. The challenge lies in finding the right balance. Too much conformity, and you risk becoming just another face in the crowd. Too much emphasis on uniqueness, and you might alienate potential clients who are looking for tried-and-true solutions. The key is to remain true to yourself while being flexible enough to adapt to the evolving needs of the market. So, as a freelancer, it’s vital to carve out your niche while staying relevant. By blending your unique qualities with current trends, you can create GIGs that not only stand out but also resonate with clients, ensuring a steady flow of work and growth in your freelancing career.

I see your point about the complexities involved in changing leading instruments. So, we can say, this isn't a minor tweak like changing the BPM; it involves rethinking the texture and balance of the entire track. However, from my experience, while such a revision does add a few hours of work, it's not excessively demanding. I've handled more complex requests in the past and managed to deliver satisfactory results. So, in this hypothetical situation, I would accept the client's request and proceed with the necessary adjustments, ensuring the final piece meets their expectations.

@hzsmith Wonderful reply! Your method of defining modifications to the initial work request as a new task rather than a revision is particularly smart. It’s a clear way to ensure clients understand the difference between minor tweaks and substantial changes that require more time and effort. This undoubtedly helps in avoiding the endless loop of small revisions that can be so time consuming.

Navigating the delicate balance between satisfying your clients and maintaining professional boundaries can be a real challenge. As we all know, our primary goal is to make our clients happy and deliver excellent work. However, it's crucial to remember that we shouldn't just follow every single directive our clients give, especially if it leads to an overwhelming number of revisions or excessive work beyond the original agreement. One of the biggest struggles we face is managing clients who are unsure of what they want or lack knowledge in our field. In these situations, it's important to take on the role of an educator. Guide your clients toward the best possible outcome by using your expertise to suggest what will work best for their project. Always be polite and professional in your communication, ensuring that they understand the value of your advice. When it comes to revisions, it's essential to set clear boundaries from the start. Specify how many revisions are included in your package and stick to it. If a client requests more than what was agreed upon, politely remind them of the initial terms and discuss additional fees if necessary. This helps prevent exploitation and ensures that your work remains manageable and fair. Moreover, steering clients towards your best product is not only beneficial for them but also for your reputation as a seller. When a client doesn't know what they want, they're relying on your expertise. Take this opportunity to showcase your skills and recommend the most suitable options. By doing this, you are not only providing a service but also educating your client, which can lead to a more satisfying experience for both parties. Remember, your time and skills are valuable. It's important to assert yourself professionally and not be afraid to stand by your work agreements. By guiding your clients respectfully and maintaining clear boundaries, you'll create a positive working relationship that benefits everyone involved.

As an artist on Fiverr, the digital marketplace offers an incredible platform to showcase your talents and connect with clients worldwide. However, one of the pressing questions we face is whether we need to be constantly online to maximize our opportunities. Let's explore the pros and cons of staying online as much as possible and how to find a sustainable balance. The Pros of Staying Online Increased Visibility: Being online frequently can boost your visibility in Fiverr's search results. Many buyers filter their searches to show sellers who are currently online, hoping for a quicker response. By staying online, you position yourself to capture these immediate opportunities and increase your chances of landing gigs. Immediate Communication: Quick responses are often key to securing a sale. When buyers see that you're online, they may feel more confident that you'll respond swiftly, which can be a decisive factor in their purchasing decision. This can lead to higher conversion rates and more satisfied clients who appreciate your promptness. RealTime Engagement: Being available in realtime allows you to engage with potential clients more effectively. You can answer their questions, clarify their requirements, and build a rapport, all of which can lead to a higher likelihood of them choosing you over competitors. The Cons of Staying Online Sleep Deprivation: The pressure to be constantly available can take a toll on your sleep. If you're always online, it might mean sacrificing valuable rest. Over time, sleep deprivation can affect your health, creativity, and overall performance, which are crucial for delivering high quality creations. Psychological Strain: The demand to be perpetually available can lead to significant psychological stress. Feeling like you must always be ready to respond can create anxiety and burnout, impacting both your personal life and professional productivity. It's essential to recognize the mental toll this constant connectivity can impose. WorkLife Imbalance: Constantly being online blurs the boundaries between work and personal life. This can lead to a feeling of being "always on the clock," making it difficult to unwind and enjoy downtime. Finding a balance is crucial to maintain both your professional success and personal wellbeing. Finding the Right Balance Use Fiverr's Mobile App: While it may seem counterintuitive, leveraging Fiverr's mobile app can help you manage your availability more flexibly. You don't need to be glued to your computer; the app allows you to stay connected and respond to inquiries on the go. However, set boundaries for when you will and won't check notifications to avoid constant disruptions. Set Specific Availability Hours: Clearly communicate your working hours on your Fiverr profile. Let clients know when you're most likely to respond. This can set realistic expectations and reduce the pressure to be available 24/7. Sticking to these hours can help you maintain a healthier work life balance. Automate Responses: Use Fiverr's automated response feature to acknowledge inquiries even when you're not immediately available. A simple automated message indicating that you'll respond within a specific time frame can keep potential clients engaged without the need for constant online presence. Prioritize SelfCare: It's essential to prioritize your health and wellbeing. Ensure you get adequate sleep, take breaks, and allocate time for activities that help you recharge. Remember, your creativity and productivity as an artist depend on your mental and physical health. Evaluate and Adjust: Regularly assess your strategy and make adjustments as needed. If you find that staying online constantly is not sustainable, experiment with different approaches to find what works best for you. The goal is to achieve a balance that allows you to meet client needs without compromising your wellbeing.

Having an interesting profile picture on Fiverr is essential for pleasantly attracting clients. First impressions matter, and a well-chosen photo represents not only you as a professional but also the industry you work in. In my case, working in the computer games sector, it's crucial that the image conveys both creativity and technical competence. For an example of what I'm explaining, you can check my profile picture on Fiverr (I'm an avatar in a game world), where I clearly demonstrate visually what I'm describing in this post. A professional smile is important: not exaggerated, but one that expresses warmth and trust. You need to appear pleasant yet serious, to highlight the professionalism and significance of your work. Additionally, it's advisable that the colors in the image reflect those of your brand, like those in the graphics of your GIGs. This creates visual consistency that reinforces your brand identity and makes it easier for clients to recognize you. A well-thought-out image can make a significant difference in capturing attention and building your credibility on Fiverr.

Although I agree with your point about not making assumptions about what buyers want, sometimes it's necessary to understand the client more than they understand themselves. This is because there are clients who don't really know what they want and need guidance. Of course, a novice seller might not be able to do this effectively—it requires a veteran seller with years of experience. You can often tell a client is unsure when they initially ask for an electronic track and then switch to wanting something orchestral, for example. It's in these moments of trial and error that you need to step in and help steer them towards the right choice for their project.

I definitely know there are tons of new sellers, and this obviously flips the rankings month by month. Unfortunately, it's a highly meritocratic and competitive system. But then again, all of freelancing is like that, being a global phenomenon means there's a lot of competition. Sadly, there's no solution other than to keep doing what you believe in, your art and passion, give it your all, and wait for the following years to reap the benefits of your work.

I understand you; after all, every seller's experience has had its ups and downs, but three months is really not much time. I've been on Fiverr since 2018, and I am both Top Rated and a PRO, but I can assure you that I've worked really hard. As much as many wouldn't want to hear it (due to the lack of sleep), I've worked day and night. I've put in a lot of effort, and I'm sorry about your situation, but truly, three months is a short time. You need to dedicate yourself, despite the changes in algorithms, and give your best. Only after years can you truly reap the expected benefits. (As it should be, I believe, since it’s a highly meritocratic and competitive system).

@jherfanI'm sorry for what happened, but I believe that the solution lies in surveys. These have a HUGE impact. I don’t know the exact metrics, of course, since they are hidden, but I imagine they're tens of times more important than simple public reviews. After all, it's the place where customers honestly express what they really think of your work. Clearly, many have complained, and obviously, you can’t know about it.