7 Proven Steps to Kickstart Your Freelancing Career

A DIY guide to distinguish yourself and keep reinventing yourself as a freelancer

Photo by Per Lööv on Unsplash

The internet and remote collaboration tools have made it possible to make money doing what you’re passionate about. But merely turning what you enjoy into a freelancing gig doesn’t mean the money will follow automatically.

How to Start Working As A Freelancer

Of all ways to earn money — employment, freelancing, entrepreneurship — freelancing is the toughest. Your time is split between:

1. Acquiring clients — Building a credible personal brand, making cold calls, sending proposals, negotiating, and following up to close deals.
2. Working — Doing the work, following up with clients for inputs and approvals, holding review meetings, and completing ad hoc requests.
3. Getting paid — Sending invoices and following up. (Not all clients pay on time.)

Don’t get me wrong; I’m not trying to overwhelm or frighten you. These activities are part of every freelancer’s life. What sets the good ones apart is their ability to execute them faster and better than the rest. They can distinguish themselves in a crowd, charge a premium for their services, and keep reinventing…