The gig economy has given rise to freelancers like never. More and more people are turning to freelance careers ever since the pandemic struck countries and the workforce across the globe.
A study conducted by Freelancers Union and Upwork in 2019 that has revealed that 57 million Americans have freelanced way back in 2019. The same study also shows that 53% of workers between the ages of 18 and 22 are currently freelancing.
What is a Freelancer and what does a Freelancer do?
He is a self-employed individual that works for one or many companies. He can take on as much work as he can handle. Also, they must pay their taxes quarterly. However, they will not be entitled to benefits that any other employee of a company enjoys. Most freelancers work in the creative sector like graphic designing, writing, photography, and so on.
He will take up independent projects which he will complete within a deadline that he must religiously deliver.
How to become a freelancer – Role, and steps on how to be a freelancer
One thing that freelancers enjoy is a lot of freedom when it comes to their careers. You can go through these steps to find out what is a freelancer and what does a freelancer does.
Although, freelancing is an excellent career with plenty of opportunities, yet the niche has a lot of competition as well. So, you must be able to assess your skills and identify that domain that will work best for you and in which you have adequate skills to survive in the crowd.
-
Understand whether Freelancing is for you
First, above all, you must have a mindset to work as a freelancer. This field has its benefits and drawbacks, but the mindset is crucial. If you think you are reliable and responsible enough, being a freelancer can work wonders for you. You are your boss. Depending on the type of project you are working on, you must plan your day accordingly. Also, you must be prepared to juggle more than one project. This will also ensure that you always get a steady flow of work.
If you are just planning to embark upon the freelancing task and are still in a full-time job, it is best not to quit your job right away. Give yourself time so that you can assess whether you are comfortable with this kind of self-employment.
-
Look for the Suitable Platform
Most freelancing professionals depend on freelancing websites for work. These platforms allow you to connect with your clients, where you can share samples of your work. If the kind and quality of work that you do are approved by the client, you get more work and at a price that both of you settle for and agree upon.
Remember, these platforms have their terms and conditions that ensure protection is extended to both the freelancers as well as the clients. Every project that you work upon is a small or a mini contract. So, you must look for the platform that will work best for you.
-
Set up a Profile
Setting up a profile is the third step in how to freelance. For a freelancing career, you do not have to make a traditional CV because most freelancing websites have their pre-built templates and all you need to do is fill in the fields.
Fill in the expertise and skills that you have and most importantly the years of experience you have for the job.
-
Build your Portfolio
This is a crucial part of your portfolio that will help you to connect better with your client. When you provide details about your experience, the projects you have worked upon, furnish the details and the outcome of the project for the same. Take time to create your portfolio and do not rush. If you want, you can seek professional assistance as well.
-
Decide upon the Price
Your skill will determine the hourly rate or how much you are entitled to get paid. The price will usually differ from one client to another and from one project to another.
-
Get down to Start looking for a Job
Finally, when you have gone through the above steps, start looking for a job and a project.
Websites that offer freelancing projects
Check out these names of websites that might help you to land a good project.
- FlexJobs
- Upwork
- Freelancer
- People Per Hour
- Fiverr
- Freelanced
- Toptal
- Ifreelance
- Hubstaff Talent
- 99 Designs
- Freelance Writing Gigs
- Media Bistro
- Pro Blogger Jobs
- Tutor.com
- Project4Hire
- Guru
- Hirable
- Stackoverflow
- Design Hill
You can check out these freelancing websites for getting work.
