I started out on the many contract working portals, got a few really crappy jobs to get some ratings in my profile and keep increasing my rate. I kept everythin

I started out on the many contract working portals, got a few really crappy jobs to get some ratings in my profile and keep increasing my rate. I kept everything at arms length until I found people I didn't mind working with for longer periods of time, at which point I de-listed from the portals. I continued some of these contract arrangements, and got some great referrals out of them. I was a little lucky in that one of the initial contracts was for PHP development, but they wanted an iOS dev so badly (and I had proved myself by that point), that they paid for an iPod touch and Apple Developer license in exchange for me working at the same PHP hourly rate. So basically I got paid to learn the new skill while adding a portfolio item. Don't waste a lot of time on the contract work portals. The pay is horrible, the jobs are crappy, the people are crazy, and it sucks up a lot of time. If you don't have an existing network though, it'll be a way to get started. The people you find here which you can actually stand, you can use to build up your network of referrals. Offer discounts if they give you a chance to get paid to learn a new skill (but obviously be reasonable - don't get in over your head). Time management and Communication are key for success. Client management, legal terminology, budgeting, etc are also great things to understand. Good luck!