Step 2: The Reverse Scarcity Technique
Never say "I am available to start immediately." It smells like desperation. Elite freelancers use 'The Selective Window'.
Tell the client you have a slot opening up on Thursday and you're interviewing two other clients for it. This shifts the power dynamic. Now, the client is trying to win your time. It sounds counter-intuitive, but humans value what is difficult to obtain.
Combine this with a Loom video walkthrough of their specific problem, and you've practically secured the contract before the first interview.
Next: The 'Value-Anchor' Pricing Strategy.