Freelancing has been a part of my life for the last 12 years, and in the past five months, I’ve transitioned to doing it full-time. Balancing freelancing with a day job was a rewarding challenge, but this has taught me invaluable lessons over the years. Here are the five freelancing tips for beginners from my journey:
1. Communication Is Key
When I first started freelancing, I realized that effective communication with clients wasn’t as straightforward as I’d assumed. Explaining project ideas in a way clients can understand is an art in itself. I had to learn to avoid over-explaining the process—clients generally don’t need to know every detail about "how the sausage is made." Unless they specifically ask, it’s better to focus on the results and trust your expertise.
Good communication also means deeply understanding your client’s needs and goals. Asking the right questions and listening carefully can set the tone for a successful collaboration. A clear understanding upfront prevents misaligned expectations and ensures both parties are on the same page.
2. Properly Vet Clients Before Taking on Work
In the early days of my career, I accepted almost any project that came my way. Many of those projects turned out to be dead ends, leading to wasted time on meetings and quotes only to be ghosted. Now, I’ve learned to vet clients carefully before committing.
It is crucial to understand a potential client’s needs and determine whether their project aligns with your skills. Sometimes, their needs don’t match what you offer, and that’s okay—it’s better to direct them elsewhere than to take on work you can’t deliver effectively. Proper vetting saves time and helps build a portfolio of meaningful and successful projects.
3. Time Management Can Make or Break You
Time management is the backbone of freelancing. Missing deadlines is not an option, and learning to prioritize your workflow is essential. Early on, I struggled with balancing multiple projects, but over time, I’ve honed a system that works for me.
The key is to treat your freelance hours like a standard workweek. Avoid overcommitting—aim for a manageable workload within a 40-hour week. Breaking your day into sellable hours and allocating time to specific tasks keeps projects on track. Efficient time management leads to happy clients and less stress for you.
4. Stay Updated with Client Tools and Programs
Over the years, I’ve learned that clients often work with outdated or mismatched software. Understanding their setup is vital for delivering files they can use seamlessly. Whether it’s aligning with their operating systems (PC or Mac) or matching software versions, adapting to your client’s environment ensures smoother collaborations.
This knowledge extends beyond design programs. Tools like Teams, Skype, or Google Workspace for communication, and project management platforms like Monday or Basecamp can vary widely. Staying flexible and proactive about software compatibility shows professionalism and can even provide opportunities to guide clients toward better tools.
5. Know Your Worth as a Freelance Designer
When I started freelancing, I undercut my rates to win projects but quickly realized it wasn’t sustainable. As I gained experience, I learned to appropriately value my time and expertise. Your pricing should reflect your skill level and years of experience.
Research the going rate for in-house designers with similar experience to set a competitive price point. While freelancers don’t usually receive benefits, clients often view your services as cost-effective compared to hiring a full-time employee. If a project’s scope exceeds a client’s budget, consider scaling back or proposing alternative solutions that meet their needs without compromising your worth.
Freelancing is a constant learning experience, but these five lessons have been game-changers for me. Whether you’re starting or looking to refine your process, I hope my experiences can help you navigate the challenges and rewards of freelance graphic design.