How to Start Freelancing in 2021: My Realistic Tips

It’s been a wild year. You’re probably as sick as me of hearing the “p” word… the “C” word… I’ll leave it at that.

I moved to a new state a month before this infamous shutdown, with canceled interviews and orientations. With an obvious blow to the job market, I decided to make do with what I could in terms of work. Freelancing in general and starting my business allowed me to grow tremendously in areas I otherwise couldn’t in a traditional office setting.

With that in mind, fellow contractors and freelancers know that it’s still a competitive market to find business these days. If you’re diving into a side hustle or considering taking that next step for your small biz, here are some small ways I’ve found you can set yourself up for success!

1. First Impressions Go a Long Way

I hate to be a stickler, but proofread those emails.

When you’re working as a freelancer, it’s important to start viewing every point of communication in a professional setting. You’re not just an awesome worker – you’re a business! Own it and appear that way consistently, whether it’s a presentation, quickie email, or Instagram message.

Another tip to make a great impression is to complete your best + fastest work anytime you’re dealing with a first-time customer. Instill trust and credibility with your clients right away; they’re more likely to reach out again and will be much more understanding with timeline adjustments when life happens (and we all know, life happens).

2. Fake It Till You Make It

You are going to make mistakes, and that’s okay.

Treat this as a learning experience: the more projects you can say yes to, the more you’ll learn. It’s likely that your first clients will be people in your personal network who understand that you are new to freelance. This is your chance to figure things out without the pressure of a fancy corporate client.

I know I’ll keep saying this, but I mean it. Own it. You are the expert and you’re selling your expertise. Would you want to buy a service from someone talking down about themselves? Probably not! I’m not saying to mislead your clients, but be wary of your attitude towards your own work while you’re starting out.

3. No Matter How You Charge, Always Track Your Time

The art community in particular preaches about valuing your time and charging properly.

I wholeheartedly agree… but when you’re a beginner, you might not be cashing out right away. Money/quotes/rates/invoices in general: not many people’s favorite subject. However you decide to charge your first clients, it’s okay to ease into figuring out your system. That said, tracking each of your projects diligently will help you figure out pricing and timelines in the future.

I recommend setting up an invoice template for yourself and create one for every project! There are plenty of simple examples a Google search away. Even if you don’t feel the need to send a casual client an invoice (gotta love Venmo sometimes), having them accessible to reference will keep you on track months later.

4. Organize Ahead of Time and Save Yourself Tears

This leads me into more organization… we’re talking physically and digitally!

Your needs will vary business to business and depending on your industry. In general, save and document everything!!! Receipts, emails, quotes, invoices, files. I am incredibly picky about the organization of folders on my computer, but I know that without this structure I would never be able to find anything.

It is very likely that at some point a previous client will lose or need access to old files. There are many resources, free and paid, that will help you store and manage your data. Some physical solutions are USBs and external hard drives, but backing up your files to a cloud is what you need to be doing in 2021.

5. Cut Yourself Plenty of Slack

It’s a learning process.

Don’t tear yourself up about not reaching a million instagram followers, an elite client list, or a ton of extra fluff in your bank account. Freelancers thrive when they stay organized, truly believe in their work, and set personal boundaries.

Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Take things seriously enough to set yourself up for later success, but give yourself grace just for going out and hustlin’.

you got this.