Ask How do freelancers protect their ideas when pitching to a potential client who has not hired them yet?

[Edward22]

When trying to win a project, freelancers often share ideas to show their thinking, but there is always a fear that the client may take the idea and not hire them. It can be a hard balance between showing value and protecting your work. I feel many people struggle with this stage. What steps do you take when sharing ideas early, so you still look professional while reducing the risk of your ideas being used without payment?