7 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Freelancing

Did you know nearly 79% of freelancers feel underpaid when they start? It’s quite surprising, right? As I entered the world of freelancing, I found it wasn’t as smooth as I thought. 🚀

There were highs like enjoying remote work freedom and lows like uncertain income. I learned some key lessons that I wish I knew earlier. These insights can help you avoid some common pitfalls, whether you’re new to freelancing or have been doing it for years.

Ready to dive in? Let’s explore these seven crucial things to make your freelance journey better. Trust me, knowing these can make all the difference in the world of freelance jobs.

The Reality of Freelancing

Freelancing isn’t all fun and games. It’s like balancing on a tightrope with flaming torches. The mix of freedom and uncertainty can surprise you. Today, 10 million people are looking into freelance services, up from 57 million in 2019.

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Many are attracted to the flexibility of remote work. A staggering 73% say this is why they’re interested. But freelancing isn’t without its challenges.

About 96.3% of Fiverr users make less than $500 a month. And Fiverr takes a 20% cut, making it tough to make ends meet.

Having a good profile, offering valuable services, and marketing yourself well are key. Remember to set boundaries to avoid burnout.

Freelancing has its good points, but you need to stay alert. Learn from the tough times and find a balance. Set your work hours, take breaks, and treat yourself like a CEO. Your freelance path is yours to shape.

1. Clients Aren’t Always Reliable

Oh, boy, the client rollercoaster. Just when you think you nailed it, a client pulls a fast one. Ghosting? Late payments? Freelancing can be an adventure, but it’s essential to be prepared for the unpredictability of clients.

Some clients always want to lower prices. This can make the project’s value drop and hurt your earnings. On the other hand, I’ve seen clients get too caught up in small details. This can really slow things down.

Then there are the uncommunicative clients. They make it hard to know what’s going on. Sometimes, they don’t do their part, causing delays that hurt your income. If they don’t share their goals, it makes things even harder.

Unresponsive clients are like roadblocks on your project highway. They slow everything down, including payments. Plus, some clients blame freelancers when things go wrong. This can damage relationships and affect the project’s success.

In a world where not everyone dreams of running their own business, freelancing can feel overwhelming. While many do well in freelance jobs, it’s not for everyone. It offers freedom but comes with uncertainty. Income changes and stress can make even the most ambitious rethink their choices.

Switching between freelancing and traditional jobs is okay. Our well-being should always come first. If freelancing is causing too much stress and financial trouble, it might be time to rethink it. Remember, freelancing is a unique journey for everyone.

2. You’ll Wear All the Hats

You might not just be the creative genius you dreamed of. Freelancing means you’ll also be your own accountant, marketer, and cheerleader. Imagine Monday morning, diving into admin tasks while working on client projects. It can get pretty crazy.

One big lesson is the value of a dedicated “desk day.” It really helps avoid those admin headaches. Here’s what you’ll likely deal with:

• Managing finances: You’ll need to keep track of expenses, taxes, and might even hire a bookkeeper.
• Client communication: Clear emails are crucial to avoid misunderstandings.
• Networking: Building relationships is essential for finding freelance work.
• Time management: Balancing client work with admin tasks will improve your multitasking skills.

It might feel overwhelming, but you’ll get the hang of it. Whether you’re working with big businesses or small startups, every client interaction is a chance. Just stay organized and proactive to conquer the challenges of remote work.

3. Your Schedule Can Get Messy—Fast

Flexibility in freelance work sounds great, right? But it can quickly turn into chaos. Setting your hours is easy, but managing them is hard. I learned this the hard way after many late nights that made me question my sanity. 😅

With nearly two decades in freelance writing, I know how important a schedule is. If you’re working in the gig economy, it’s easy to work too much. Here are a few tips to keep things organized:

• Buffer Time: Always leave some buffer in your daily routine to avoid meltdowns.
• Office Hours: Set strict business hours. Treat this freelance work like a serious business!
• Separate Spaces: Create distinct work environments to separate personal life from work life.
• Health Matters: Don’t forget to exercise and eat healthily. It’s amazing how fresh air and sunlight can refresh your mind.

Balance is key in the freelance world. Try to get those 8 hours of sleep everyone talks about. With more freelancers than ever, managing your time well can make you stand out in the remote work world.

4. Networking Is Key

“Your network is your net worth.” This saying is more than just a phrase; it’s a lesson I’ve learned firsthand. Networking opens doors to freelance opportunities you might not find on your own. By making real connections, you can reach more people on freelance platforms. This makes it easier to find new clients and exciting projects.

Think about the benefits:

• Networking can open up new collaboration opportunities that might surprise you.
• It builds trust and credibility. People are more likely to recommend you when they know you’re reliable and skilled.
• Being part of a community of freelancers offers emotional support. Freelancing can feel lonely at times.

Having clear networking goals helps you stay focused. Do you want to find new clients or work with other freelancers? Knowing what you want will guide your actions. Attending industry events is a great way to meet people and find new opportunities. Online platforms like LinkedIn are also powerful for connecting with professionals and starting conversations.

Keeping in touch with past clients and colleagues can lead to valuable referrals. Be true to yourself when networking; honesty builds strong connections. Always follow up after meetings or events to show your appreciation and keep the door open for future work. Networking is an ongoing process that requires regular effort. Make time each week to grow and maintain your professional network.

Going to events specific to your field helps you meet people who understand your work. Share your knowledge through blog posts or presentations to stand out as a leader. Research shows that 85% of freelancers believe networking is key to success. When done correctly, it can lead to lasting partnerships and business growth.

5. Feast or Famine Is Real

Sometimes, you’re swamped with work, and other times, you’re left wondering where your clients are.🌪️

The Ebb and Flow of Freelance Work

The gig economy can be unpredictable. Building a sustainable freelancing career takes time, effort, and dedication. You’re always hustling, looking for new clients, negotiating contracts, and delivering great work. It’s important to stay organized and manage your tasks well.

Juggling multiple gigs can be tough. It’s crucial to prioritize tasks or risk losing your sanity. 🌀

How to Manage Income Fluctuations

So, how do we manage the ups and downs of income? Here are a few tips:

• Budget like a pro: Track your earnings and expenses carefully. It’s key to save for tough times.
• Diversify your income: Spread your income across different freelance jobs. This helps during slow periods.
• Cultivate resilience: The ups and downs can be tough, but adapting and bouncing back is crucial.
• Stay motivated: Discipline and self-motivation are your best friends. Set your own schedule and keep a good work-life balance.

Many freelancers face the challenge of inconsistent income. The feast or famine reality is tough, but with the right strategies, you can manage it well.

6. Pricing Yourself Is Tricky

Getting your pricing right can feel like navigating a minefield! Many freelancers struggle with self-doubt when setting their rates. This often leads to undervaluing their services. Trust me, I’ve been there! Understanding your value is key to setting competitive rates that show your expertise.

Understanding Your Value

Think about what you offer. Your unique skills, experience, and knowledge make you valuable. By knowing your strengths, you can confidently tell clients about your worth. Avoiding the trap of underpricing is crucial to avoid financial loss and job dissatisfaction.

How to Set Competitive Rates

Don’t guess your rates. Instead, take a strategic approach. Regularly check your pricing against:

• Industry trends
• Client feedback
• Market research

Setting your prices is an ongoing task. Raise your rates every six months to show your growth. Use different pricing methods like project-based or hourly rates. Don’t forget to include your expenses, like equipment and subscriptions.

7. You’ll Grow Faster Than You Think

Freelancing is a rollercoaster, but one of the best surprises is how quickly you’ll grow. When you start out, everything feels overwhelming—finding clients, managing deadlines, and juggling tasks. But here’s the thing: every project you take on is a stepping stone, every mistake a lesson in disguise.

The learning curve is steep, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. You’ll sharpen your craft, discover what type of clients and projects align with your goals, and develop efficient workflows. Tasks that once felt daunting—like negotiating rates or creating contracts—will become second nature.

What’s even better? You’ll gain confidence in your abilities. The imposter syndrome that may plague you at the start will fade as you see your skills, portfolio, and reputation grow. Freelancing is not only about earning a living but building a career that reflects your passion and potential.

So, embrace the process, stay curious, and give yourself grace as you learn. Growth is inevitable when you take consistent steps toward your goals.

Freelancing and the Gig Economy

Freelancing is at the heart of the gig economy, which has grown a lot in recent years. In 2023, nearly 64 million Americans were part of this workforce. That’s about 38% of all workers! This shift in work is huge.

The flexibility of freelance jobs is exciting. We get to choose our hours and projects, but we often lose job security.

The gig economy is booming, adding $1.27 trillion to the U.S. economy. Companies find freelancers cheaper than full-time employees. Hiring a full-time employee costs 1.25 to 1.4 times the salary alone. Add in extra expenses, and it gets even more expensive!

So, businesses are turning to freelance and remote work more often.

But it’s not all good. Many gig workers feel isolated. They have lower mental health and life satisfaction than full-time workers. Freelancers work hard to build trust with clients, while gig workers do short tasks with no ongoing work.

Platforms like Picxele are changing things. They ensure payments and help improve skills. The gig economy offers diverse income streams. But it can also mean unstable earnings and more pressure. Freelancing means understanding these challenges and being ready for the ride.

Continuous Learning and Adaptation

The world of freelancing changes fast, like a new social media update every minute. It’s not just about the work; it’s about staying on top of the game. To succeed, you need to keep learning and improving your skills. Every new trend brings new skills to learn, from graphic design to digital marketing.

Investing in your skills not only makes you more valuable but also boosts your confidence. It’s a win-win.

The Importance of Skill Upgradation

Freelancing is more than just a job; it’s a chance to explore and grow. Each project requires different skills. Those who keep learning new skills can handle more challenges.

Think of it this way:

• Diversifying your skills opens new job prospects.
• Advanced skills help you command competitive prices.
• Continuous learning keeps you updated with industry trends.

Investment in Courses and Training

Some might wonder, “Why spend money on courses?” But the truth is, investing in education is worth it. It can be from online courses like Coursera and Udemy to local workshops.

• It reduces anxiety when tackling new projects.
• Being up-to-date lets you switch industries smoothly during downturns.
• Regular training fosters self-improvement, enhancing your competence in freelance work.

Building a Supportive Community

Freelancing can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Building a supportive community turns freelancing into an exciting journey. By networking, we meet other freelancers and share knowledge, helping each other grow.

Here’s what a solid community can do for you:

• Support Network: Make real friends and partners who help you grow together.
• Knowledge Sharing: Listen to talks about taxes or contracts and get new ideas for your work.
• Business Opportunities: Work with other freelancers on new and exciting projects.
• Mental Health Support: A supportive group helps you deal with the ups and downs of freelancing.

Finding the Right Freelance Marketplace

Not every freelance marketplace is right for everyone. The right one can make a big difference in finding freelance jobs. Do some research. Here are some popular platforms to consider:

• Upwork: It’s known for its wide range of options. It starts with a 20% commission fee on the first $500. As you earn more, the fee goes down. It’s a great choice with lots of verified talent!
• Fiverr: With about 3.42 million active buyers, it’s easy to find work. Services start at just $5! It’s perfect for quick jobs.
• Freelancer.com: This platform charges a 10% service fee on your earnings. It’s a good choice if you like bidding on different projects.
• Toptal: If you’re great at technology and design, this is for you. Only the top 3% of applicants are accepted. It’s for high-quality freelance jobs!
• Guru: Here, you can bid on both long and short-term projects. It gives you flexibility in your work.

Other platforms worth checking out include SimplyHired. It helps with salary research and employee reviews. This is helpful for negotiating your pay.

Think about your skills and what freelance jobs you want. Whether it’s Dribbble for design or We Work Remotely for various categories, there’s a marketplace for you. Take your time to find the right one. Your freelance journey is important.

The Power of Social Media for Freelancers

Your online presence is crucial! Social media is more than just fun posts; it’s a key tool for freelancers. Sites like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter help you reach people worldwide. This is important because clients often look for talent online.

Instagram is a dream for creative freelancers. It’s a great place to show off your work. Share your projects and connect with your audience. 📸 Sharing your process can really engage people.

Social media also lets you see how your work is doing. This feedback helps you know what people like.

Working with clients from anywhere is easier now. Say goodbye to currency worries. Tools like Ruul make invoicing simple, saving you time. You can also see what others charge to set good rates for yourself.

Being active online is important. Share useful stuff and show off your work. This can lead to more clients and higher earnings. Don’t forget, word-of-mouth is still a top way to find clients, so keep your network strong!

So, get involved in social media, connect, and grow your freelance career. Social media is not just a trend; it’s a powerful tool for success.

Wrap-Up

Freelancing is a journey full of ups and downs, with lots to learn. The gig economy has grown fast, with more people wanting to work on their own terms. In the U.S., about 38% of the workforce, or over 64 million people, chose this path last year.

One of the best things about freelancing is setting your own rates. 💰 You can earn as much as your skills and experience allow. You also get to pick your clients and projects. Plus, you can work from anywhere, giving you total freedom.

But freelancing isn’t always easy. You might face issues like taxes, payment problems, and unpredictable income. Yet every challenge you overcome brings you closer to your ideal freelance life. So, face those challenges head-on, keep moving forward, and enjoy the ride. Let’s do this! 🚀