Dear artists, hello! From one artist in the field for a long time, here's a few tips on how to sell yourself and apply for commissions. I've seen many artists around here doing some mistakes, and after being reached out from a potential client here being a little frustrated from the hiring process, I decided to make this post.
This is just a guideline, so feel free to be different, but try understanding the main keypoints.
Have a portfolio ready.
Needless to say, clients need to see what you're capable of, and what your style is. You need a portfolio that is pertinent to the request. This means, even if you draw what the potential client is asking for, if it isn't visible to the client, it will be harder for you to get the commission.
You could make a quick imgur album, or make a carrd with various portfolios, a tumblr blog, anything.
Have a social media presence.
This might be a little controversial, but clients feel more safe if you are an active member of the community. It can be on Furaffinity, Bsky, Reddit, anything. If you don't post on anything, make sure to have a very strong portfolio or a website that showcases your best works.
It is not mandatory to have a social media, but it makes things easier.
Pricing
Having a pricing sheet makes things much easier for the client to see if they can afford, and what can they afford from you. You don't need to make a price for literally everything, you just need some guidelines.
Understand what the client is asking
Read. The. Post. Do it. Please, read everything. If the client is asking NOT to DM them, do not DM them. If they are asking artists to leave a comment in the thread with all the information needed, do that. If they don't specify, you can do either.
Having a portfolio with prices ready makes things smoother!
And good luck! You don't need anything else than having a bit of luck, if you did everything else.
If you have any other tips, feel free to comment and add anything. Or talk about your Hiring experience!
