Whether your goal is to become a full-time freelancer or to supplement your income with a side job, you have to prepare accordingly. These are some of the most FAQ of those considering this competitive market:
Is Freelancing for me?
If you’re reading this, you probably already know you want to become a freelancer. There are many pros to freelancing – choosing when and where to work, the types of projects you want to work on, and a ton of freedom. However, freedom always comes with a price.
Increasing your earning potential as a freelancer will be a challenge. I suggest taking on larger projects and collaborating with other freelancers. This way you can offer a better mix of skills to expand your client base with bigger clients.
Being your own boss requires discipline and the right mindset. You should be able to maintain a daily work routine and juggle several projects at the same time. You may also choose to keep your day job and start working after work or during the weekends. Many find this transition less stressful by maintaining a steady flow of income.
If you’re ready to jump in, consider that you will have to continuously look for new projects while working on your current ones.
Where do I look for work?
I suggest you start using a freelancing platform that works for you. While you may find work on social media networks, like LinkedIn, freelancing websites are a constant work source. These sites will connect clients with the right freelancers, and some may even target a particular skill.
When looking for a platform, try to find one that meets your needs and salary expectations, while offering policies and protection for freelancers and clients. A popular freelancing website I recommend is UpWork.
One of the plusses of choosing the right freelancing platform is that your potential clients are spread out worldwide. Your chances of finding work and getting hired are higher, and you will find an extensive range of exciting projects.
UpWork also lets you track the hours you have worked on a project and automatically bills the client. This eliminates any fear of not getting paid for your work.
How do I build my profile?
Most freelancing websites don’t require the typical CV; instead, they will provide a template to fill out with your information. Here you should list your skills, education, experience, expertise and explain why they should hire you for the job.
When you create a profile, make sure to include a substantial portfolio that illustrates your skills and experience. If you’re a beginner, include samples of your work, and if you can, accept jobs at a discounted rate to gain more experience.
Creating a website that promotes you and your services is also a great idea. Make sure to include a portfolio of work and client testimonials. You can find inspiration by visiting other successful freelancers in your field.
How do I earn more money as a freelancer?
Even if you’re a new freelancer, I strongly suggest you choose a niche. When you specialize or become an expert in a specific field, you’ll be able to charge more. It also helps to define what your ideal client looks like.
Highly trained freelancers can also charge more for their services. This doesn’t mean you need to go back to school for a University Degree, but if you level up your skills, you’ll get on the right track.
Some of the highest paying freelance jobs are:
- Web Development
- Programming and Software Development
- Content Writing
- Customer Service Support
- Translator / Transcriber
- Social Media Coordinator
One of the biggest myths about freelancing is that it doesn’t pay well or is not serious work. I can personally tell you that if you’re committed to your field and strive for excellence, there will be plenty of high paying jobs in the market.
Where can I advertise my freelance services?
Yes, advertising your services on social media and your website is a great idea, as long as you update regularly. A strong digital presence is essential in this day and age, as clients want to know and trust your brand before working with you.
I would also add that relationships with your clients are one of the most important aspects of freelancing. If you maintain excellent connections and provide quality work, they will be more likely to refer you to other potential clients.
Your reputation as a freelancer will be your best letter of recommendation; if you deliver great work, you will earn high reviews, ratings, and testimonials.
Final Takeaway.
In conclusion, venturing into the freelancing world may seem daunting at first, but once you get your name out there and start building your resume and portfolio, you’ll find that freelancing can become your full-time career.
Freelancing is the best way to get started working as your own boss from home or anywhere in the world. Like any other field, there are pros and cons, but success comes to those with the determination to learn and improve and deliver high-quality work.
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Ross Jenkins
Ross Jenkins is the founder of DigitalME and is an ActiveCampaign Certified Consultant. He is ranked #1 on UpWork for his proficiency in digital marketing. DigitalME offers targeted digital solutions and is perfect for anyone who wants to increase leads, sales, and productivity through automation.