Becoming a Freelancer: My Journey from Redundancy to Success

Turning your skills into a service is the first step to becoming a freelancer. To do this, you'll need to understand how your skills can help a prospective client. Try to put yourself in the shoes of your ideal client. What problems do they have and how can your skills be used to resolve the issue?

My Redundancy and Transition

When I was made redundant from my permanent job at an ad agency, I was offered the chance to be re-hired by the same company as a freelancer. It was an exciting change that paid better, granted me more control and freedom, and was much more enjoyable. Since then, I have never looked back at full-time employment. Although I had some freelance gigs that lasted for years, I have never fully re-entered the traditional employment setup.

First Steps into Freelancing

I started my journey in 2019. Initially, I switched to Upwork and then transitioned to my own digital marketing agency, Digitalonian. It was not easy to get my first order, but it was still manageable back then with the buyer request option which is no longer available. Over the years, I have learned the importance of persistence, upskilling, and confidence in achieving my goals.

Online Job Search Strategies

Looking for online jobs to work from home is not only cost-effective but also convenient. You can join a freelancing platform like Zoopup, Freelancer, UpWork, or PeoplePerHour to create a profile and apply for jobs posted by clients. However, these websites often have high platform fees and plenty of competition, so they may not be ideal for seasoned freelancers.

Another approach is to directly offer your service on freelance websites such as Fiverr, Upwork, Guru, PeoplePerHour, or even through other means by searching online. It's crucial to have a skill you can offer to clients. This is your first step towards becoming a freelancer.

Freelancing Advice and Insights

To become a successful freelancer, you need to understand the mindset of your ideal client and how your skills can be of value to them. Persistence, upskilling, and confidence are key to overcoming challenges and achieving your goals.

In these difficult times, many individuals have faced struggles and setbacks. I, too, was once a college dropout, facing depression and health issues. However, I overcame these obstacles and am now dedicated to learning and contributing positively to the lives of others. My advice to freelancers and entrepreneurs is to remain persistent and never give up, no matter how difficult the journey seems.

As you continue to grow in your freelancing career, keep in mind the importance of constant learning and improvement. Keep working towards your goals, and don't be afraid to change your strategies if needed. With hard work, patience, and consistency, you can turn your dream of freelancing into a successful reality.

Conclusion

Becoming a freelancer is a journey filled with challenges and rewards. By focusing on your skills, persistence, upskilling, and confidence, you can overcome the obstacles and achieve success in the freelance world. Remember, every freelancer has a unique story, and yours is no different.