How to Start Freelancing Even If You’re a Beginner
In 2022, I decided to dip my toes into freelancing as one of the few ways I explored making money online. I managed to keep it up for a few months, working mostly with one client who provided about 90% of my jobs.
But when the work dried up, I stopped looking for new clients. At the time, I was juggling a demanding full-time job, and honestly, I was overworked and stretched thin.
Freelancing taught me a lot – about time management, client relationships, and the hustle required to build something of your own. While I’ve paused freelancing for now, I haven’t ruled out returning to it someday.
Freelancing isn’t for everyone. It requires discipline, hustle, and the ability to manage your own time.
If you’re thinking about starting freelancing, you might be wondering if it’s the right path for you. The good news? You don’t need to quit your job or have years of experience to get started.
Freelancing can be a side hustle that grows into something bigger – or it can remain a flexible way to earn extra income on your own terms.
Thinking of becoming a freelancer? Whether you’re looking to start a side hustle or build a full-time career, here’s what I’ve learned to help you get started.
Is Freelancing Right for You?
Before diving into freelancing, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons. Let’s break it down.
The Good Stuff:
Freedom to choose your projects and clients: You get to decide what you work on and who you work with. No more being stuck with tasks you hate or dealing with difficult bosses.
Flexible schedule: You can work whenever and wherever you want. If you’re a night owl, you can work late. If you prefer mornings, you can start early.
Unlimited earning potential: Unlike a traditional job where your salary is capped, freelancing allows you to earn as much as you want. The more clients you take on, the more you can make.
The Not-So-Good Stuff:
No job security: Freelancing doesn’t come with a steady paycheck. Some months you might earn a lot, while others might be slow.
You’re responsible for everything: From finding clients to managing your finances, you’re in charge of running your business. This can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared.
Self-discipline is key: Without a boss to keep you accountable, you’ll need to stay motivated and focused on your own.
Self-Assessment Questions:
Do you enjoy working independently?
Are you comfortable with uncertainty?
Can you handle the administrative side of running a business?
If you answered yes to these questions, freelancing might be a good fit for you. But even if you’re not sure, you can start small and see how it goes.
What are Your Skills and Niche?
The first step to starting freelancing is figuring out what you’re good at and what you enjoy doing. This will help you choose a niche – a specific area of expertise that you can focus on.
Identify Your Skills:
Think about your strengths and passions. What do you enjoy doing? What are you good at?
Consider your past work experience. Have you worked in marketing, writing, design, or programming? These skills can be valuable in freelancing.
Choose a Niche:
Research profitable niches. Some popular ones include writing, graphic design, web development, and consulting.
Consider industries with high demand for freelancers. For example, tech companies often need content writers, while small businesses might need help with social media management.
What You Need to Succeed as a Freelancer
Freelancing isn’t just about having the right skills – it’s also about having the right mindset. Here’s what you need to succeed:
Essential Skills:
Writing and communication – Whether you’re a writer, designer, or developer, clear communication is key. You’ll need to communicate with clients, write proposals, and explain your work.
Time management – Freelancing requires you to manage your own time. You’ll need to set deadlines, prioritise tasks, and stay focused.
Basic SEO and digital marketing – If you’re working online, understanding SEO and digital marketing can help you attract clients and grow your business.
Work Ethic:
Self-discipline – Without a boss to keep you accountable, you’ll need to stay motivated and focused on your own.
Willingness to learn – Freelancing is a constant learning process. You’ll need to stay up-to-date with industry trends and improve your skills.
Experience:
Build a portfolio to showcase your work. Include high-profile brands or industry-specific projects if possible.
If you’re just starting out, offer free or discounted services to build experience and add to your portfolio.
Industry Knowledge:
Focus on industries where you have experience or interest. For example, if you’ve worked in finance, you might specialise in financial writing or consulting.
Build valuable connections and knowledge over time. This will help you stand out from the competition.
How to Find Your First Clients as a Freelancer
Finding your first clients can be challenging, especially if you’re starting from scratch. You don’t have a portfolio, testimonials, or a reputation to lean on. Here are some strategies to help you get started:
Start with Your Network:
Reach out to friends, family, and former colleagues. Let them know you’re freelancing and the services you’re offering. You might be surprised at who’s interested or who knows someone who needs your help.
Be specific about what you offer. Instead of saying, “I’m a freelancer,” say something like, “I help small businesses create engaging social media content” or “I design websites for startups.” This makes it easier for people to connect you with opportunities.
Ask for referrals. If someone can’t hire you themselves, ask if they know anyone who might need your services. A warm introduction can go a long way.
Freelancing Platforms:
Create a strong profile. Your profile is your first impression, so make it count. Highlight your skills, experience, and what makes you stand out. Include a professional photo and a clear description of the services you offer.
Start small. When you’re new to a platform, it’s a good idea to take on smaller projects to build your reputation. Offer competitive rates at first to attract clients and earn positive reviews.
Be proactive. Don’t just wait for clients to come to you – apply for jobs that match your skills. Write personalized proposals that show you understand the client’s needs and explain how you can help.
When I started on Fiverr, I received offers from Malaysian clients, which was a great way to build my confidence and gain experience. However, I’ve noticed that these platforms are becoming more competitive over time, so it’s important to stand out by offering something unique or specializing in a specific niche.
Create a Simple Website:
Showcase your portfolio. Include samples of your work, even if they’re from personal projects or free work you’ve done for friends. If you’re just starting out, you can create mockups or examples to demonstrate your skills.
Make it easy to contact you. Include a clear call-to-action, like “Get in touch” or “Request a quote,” and provide multiple ways for clients to reach you (e.g., email, contact form, social media links).
Offer free value. One of the best ways to attract potential clients is by offering something for free. For example, you could write a blog post sharing tips related to your niche, offer a free consultation, or create a downloadable guide. This not only showcases your expertise but also builds trust with potential clients.
How to Price Your Freelance Services
Pricing your services can be tricky, especially when you’re just starting out. Here’s how to approach it:
Factors to Consider:
Your Experience Level: If you’re just starting out, you might need to charge less than someone with years of experience.
Industry Standards: Research what other freelancers in your niche are charging.
Client Budgets: Some clients have bigger budgets than others. Be prepared to negotiate.
Pricing Models:
Hourly Rates: Charge by the hour for your work. This is a good option for smaller projects.
Project-Based Pricing: Charge a flat fee for the entire project. This works well for larger projects with clear deliverables.
Retainer Agreements: Offer ongoing services for a set monthly fee. This provides a steady income and builds long-term client relationships.
Tips for Negotiating Rates:
Start with a higher rate and be open to negotiation. Clients might try to negotiate, but it’s better to start high and work your way down.
Highlight the value you bring to the client. Explain how your work will benefit their business.
Don’t undervalue your work. If you have a lot to offer, charge accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Freelancing
How much should I charge as a beginner?
Start with lower rates to attract clients, but don’t undervalue your work. As you gain experience, gradually increase your rates.
When should you raise your rates?
Raise your rates when you bring in new clients or when you’ve gained more experience. Test the waters by charging slightly more than you have before.
Can I freelance while working a full-time job?
Yes, you can freelance while working a full-time job. It requires good time management, but it’s a great way to build experience and earn extra income.
Take the Leap and Start Freelancing Today
Start small. You don’t need to quit your job or have everything figured out from day one.
Freelancing is one of the easiest ways to dip your toes into entrepreneurship. It’s a low-risk, high-reward opportunity to build your own business on your own terms.
Whether you’re looking for a side hustle to earn extra income or dreaming of a full-time freelance career, the first step is simply to start.
