Ask HN: Successful webdev freelancers, what are your recommendations?

I am in the process of starting my freelance business which will focus on helping innovative companies, which are trying to change the status quo, with their web/app development and server challenges. I was wondering, whether any successful freelancers in this field could quickly help me (and others) out by sharing their experiences: * How did you end up serving specific clients, how did they find out about you? * What do you do to spread the word about your work? * Any general advice for a freelancer just starting out, something you wish you had known back in the days? I am looking forward to your replies, thank you very much in advance for taking the time and effort to reply.