More people are becoming freelancers because of the flexibility of this career path. Also, this business provides unlimited growth.
However, as you leave full-time employment, you must take on the responsibilities that come with freelancing.
At this point, you are in control! You’re finding clients, handling gigs, and sorting your finances as a business owner. And a solid foundation is necessary for sustainable growth. Starting strong, there are certain tips you mustn’t ignore.
These are aimed to help you feel confident in your skills and deliver efficiently.
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1. Understanding the gig economy
Before you start building a new career or business, it is important to know what is involved. Freelancing means managing your own company.
You’ll put in the effort to manage clients and provide quality services. The flexibility and increased earnings are great. But you’ll also handle taxes, insurance, and more.
So, is this worth it? Well, to many independent contractors, it is. But what do you think? Understanding the gig economy and deciding whether to tread this path is crucial.
It helps you maximize the benefits of freelancing. You must understand that there’s a market for project-based work, both short-term and long-term.
Also, recognize the need for regular skill development and learn to manage your finances efficiently so you can your business to be profitable.
2. Defining your niche
You’ve heard this advice before, right? Yes, every freelancer knows this is important, but not everyone is willing to define theirs yet.
Well, if you’re disciplined enough, it’s a good idea to decide on a niche now. This way, your marketing efforts will be more proficient, helping you land ideal clients. You’ll communicate more clearly, with sharper messages that reach your audience more quickly.
Also, this move ensures you remain focused, freeing up mental energy. Doing this early on in your career provides a clear direction for business growth.
Some freelancers fail to understand that a well-defined niche makes them an expert in their industry. With this, you can build a deeper understanding of specific subject matter.
Thus, you become a credible authority that clients will want to patronize. And you can tremendously increase your earnings, since specialists often charge more.
To effectively define your niche, assess your skills and passion, and merge them with market demand.
3. Setting your pricing
This is an important tip for both new and seasoned freelancers. In this business, setting the right price keeps you confident.
Also, this makes you appear more competent and sends a clear message to clients that you have a solid plan. When setting prices, you can consider offering different “packages” for different types of gigs.
And even if you don’t have productized services, it is still important to set a price range.
Many newbies may be tempted to set low prices; that is a terrible mistake. It screams desperation, relaying to clients that your services are not worthwhile. Be sure to calculate everything that goes into the work.
This includes essential business costs, taxes, and your “salary.” An easier way out is to research what other professionals in your field charge. You can settle for value, project, or hourly-based fees.
Begin with a baseline, and increase your fees as your worth soars.
4. Don’t shy away from deposits
Another piece of advice you must take seriously in this industry is requesting deposits at the beginning of a task. Ensure you don’t ignore this, particularly if you’re working in project cycles. When you don’t do this, you risk not getting paid after sending the deliverables.
Also, clients who make such a financial investment demonstrate their commitment to projects. So, they’ll be more engaged and willing to provide prompt feedback.
Deposits at the start of a project also provide enough cash flow for operational stability. Ensure you do this for long-term projects that can take a few weeks or months.
5. Negotiating like a pro
Learn how to negotiate like a pro! This is an essential advice for freelance beginners. Proper negotiation allows freelancers get fair pay and protects their interests.
It ensures clear boundaries, supporting a better work-life balance. The thing is, many experts suffer from impostor syndrome, which can lead to poor negotiation skills.
Nevertheless, here are a few tips:
- Know your worth and understand that you’re offering value
- Ensure you conduct your research to determine an appropriate rate.
- Mention your fees confidently and discuss as a competent professional.
- Settle for a win-win outcome and record the discussion details.
6. Have a clear contract
Many freelancers put this off for too long, until it begins to cause trouble. Sometimes it’s not just mere ignorance; some people feel nervous about this. But such excuses will only leave you vulnerable, allowing some clients take advantage of you.
From the start, set clear expectations by employing a detailed contract.
Be sure to outline rates, timelines, deliverables, and any limits on revisions. You can also include intellectual property rights and termination terms.
Once drafted, request clients’ signatures on this document to formalize the matter. Doing this is not only professional but also prevents future misunderstandings, acting as a safety net against needing to issue refunds.
7. Leveraging multiple platforms
One mistake freelancers (especially beginners) make is relying on a single platform. You must have heard the saying, “Don’t put all your eggs in a single basket.” No doubt, every platform for scouting clients has its weaknesses.
So, if you stick to only one, you’ll become unsuccessful when things go south.
That’s why you must leverage multiple platforms or marketing channels. While you’re on Upwork seeking who’s hiring, you’re also running paid Facebook traffic. You can also combine word-of-mouth with organic social media engagement.
But, you must tread carefully; you don’t have the resources and time to try out “all” platforms. Try out a few and stick with those that work best.
8. Searching for potential clients
Getting regular clients in freelancing isn’t a thing you leave to “luck.” It takes clarity, credibility, and strategy.
And, this is a continuous process, even for seasoned independent contractors.
So, never ignore this advice!
Attracting your ideal clients begins with how you present your services. People are waiting to hear who you are, the things you do, and how you’re willing to solve their problems.
When you pitch to interested prospects, ensure you define your service or offer in a single sentence. Building a solid professional presence will help. You can start with something as simple as an email, LinkedIn profile, or even a portfolio website.
Cold emailing is another effective way to reach out to prospects. And these days, freelance job boards are helping out. Platforms like Upwork can link you up with individuals/businesses seeking skilled freelancers.
You may not get lucky at every trial, but consistency is key!
9. Manage busy periods effectively
In the freelancing world, no client is willing to wait too long for a response. Once they have an idea and decide to do something, they want you to start working on it immediately.
While you may want to focus on your current gig, make sure you’re still active online. Be creative across your marketing channels, and build a solid reputation. Your competitors are not backing down, so you want to keep up the energy.
Engage and communicate across online communities.
Also, comment on the client’s posts or respond to their inquiries as fast as possible. You can increase your response time using certain relevant tools. Some professionals use Zapier automation, which you may set up for your Facebook ads.
This way, you’ll receive an immediate message when prospects submit their details. And, you can contact them right away
10. Developing strong networks
As a freelancer, you mustn’t ignore this! It is important to connect with friends and other professionals. Most of the time, a good percentage of your clients come from people you already know. Yes, it is not always easy to meet and engage new people.
Thankfully, you can start with your existing circle.
Begin by making a list of 20 – 30 people, from your family, friends, colleagues, previous clients, or anyone you know in your industry. Send them a message about your services, asking for referrals, or telling them to pass it along.
Be sure to attend relevant industry events, join communities, and engage strategically.
Aside from referrals or client link-ups, networking can help you build confidence and provide support. You can also develop effective communication skills and engage in trending expertise in your field.
11. Effectively manage your business
Not prioritizing effective business management will be your greatest undoing. This is because proper management impacts your professional reputation and financial stability. First, freelancers must offer a smooth experience to clients.
You can only do this when you effectively manage and maintain a clear workflow. From the inquiry call through the proposal and quote, be sure to define the services and scope.
Also, ensure you better manage client onboarding, project delivery, and closure. Don’t treat freelancing as a hobby; it is your business.
12. Constant learn to boost earnings
Being confident in your skills is good, but you must keep upskilling. The world evolves at a very fast pace, and you don’t want to be left behind.
And many other professionals are actively engaging in far more training than you could ever imagine. New things and technologies are emerging in your field.
Even if you’re an SEO expert, you want to take a fresh course on this subject matter. This way, you can learn from a newer perspective and remain relevant in the competitive market. While you can take paid courses, there are free resources on YouTube.
Be sure to attend webinars and other relevant industry events. Stay up to date and use your upgraded skills to get high-paying gigs.
13. Understand finance and logistics
Very few people talk about this, considering the freedom that comes with freelancing. However, this idea of freedom comes with great responsibility. You have to think about money, savings, taxes, and even health insurance.
Doesn’t sound attractive, right?
Sadly, it’s not something you should ignore, as “structure” is an integral part of self-employment. When you take proper charge of your money, you can maintain a sustainable business. You want to keep a clean financial record.
As a self-employed person, ensure you separate your business money from your personal finances. Open a business-only bank account and track every income and expense.
Ensure you understand and file your taxes properly; the rules vary by country. So, conduct extensive research or, if necessary, hire an accountant.
14. Manage time properly
Freelance gigs often come with deadlines, and it is important to plan and create a workable schedule. Incorporate meetings and project deadlines into this schedule. Organize your projects, focusing on high-value tasks first to enhance outputs.
That said, you must accept as much work as you can deliver within a stipulated time. Don’t wait till the very last hour or pull an all-nighter for projects.
Poor time management could cause you to turn in deliverables that are below par.
Also, there’s a reason why “free” exists in freelancing! Don’t remain chained to your work desk until you’re completely drained. Go out there, swim, take a walk, run, rest, and let off steam. Ensure you make the most of the freedom that comes with freelancing.
15. Multitasking and self-discipline
Taking on only a single project or depending on a single income source is a huge mistake. Don’t wait to learn the hard way. Despite the flexibility, many big professionals in this career path actually make more money by taking on more gigs.
Don’t interpret this as taking on more workload than you can handle. But you want to get enough gigs that can reliably meet your needs. You’ll need something you can fall back on if one client decides to terminate your contract.
Another tip freelancers often ignore is self-discipline!
Many freelancers are motivated, but they keep forgetting that discipline will take them farther. When you’re disciplined, there’s a higher chance of getting the job done even when you’re not up to it.
So, ensure you create clear, structured routines and consistently meet deadlines. Break big tasks into small, manageable projects. When running late, communicate clearly with clients and ensure it doesn’t happen often.
16. Always show your work
When prospects can’t find you or don’t know about your services, how will they hire you? Showcasing your skills is as important as delivering great services. This way, you can attract new clients and maintain sustainable business growth.
Begin by building a strong online presence, creating content, and getting it in front of your target audience.
Try optimizing your platform profiles to ensure clients find you more quickly. Ensure that self-promotion is part of your routine.
Update your portfolio to reflect your expertise; add samples of previously handled work and incorporate writing into your website by, sharing insights and valuable information with prospects. This is a great way to attract back old clients.
17. Invest in profitable tools
Although flexible, freelancing may sometimes require hard work. Maintaining that flexibility requires workable systems that keep things running. In this business, there are certain tools and software that can ease the burden.
Some essential ones used widely by freelancers include:
- Project management tools like Trello, Notion, and ClickUp
- Communication tools like Zoom and Slack
- Productivity and Writing software like Google Docs, Grammarly, and Evernote
- Time tracking tools like Clockify and Toggl
- File management and storage tools like Box, Dropbox, and Google Drive
- Payment services like Wise, PayPal, and Stripe
- Contract and invoicing tools like Wave, Bonsai, and Paymo
18. Maintain client relationships
At this point, it makes sense to say never burn bridges! Sometimes clients can be demanding, and it can be tempting to respond rudely. But maintaining a professional relationship throughout each project and after is necessary.
Even if the first gig wasn’t glamorous, you can easily negotiate better terms next time. Also, words often travel in this industry; you don’t want your reputation soiled.
You can also have previous customers as returning clients. So, keep their contact details close; message them now and then. Don’t sound pushy, but make sure you’re at the top of their mind. With this, previous clients can easily reach out if they have a gig for you.
Conclusion
Freelancing offers many advantages, but becoming successful requires some special steps. There are often many tips scattered across the internet.
However, a lot of these tips, tricks, and pieces of advice are mostly ignored. If you can execute the tips discussed in this guide, you’ll surely emerge as a top performer.