How To Become a Successful Freelance Developer & Other Tech

Summary

In this video, the host shares valuable insights for aspiring freelancers and consultants, particularly in tech. With a background in corporate tech for over eight years, the host emphasizes the importance of understanding one's niche, building an online presence, setting competitive rates, and effectively managing time and clients. Tips include leveraging LinkedIn for client acquisition, being responsive, and treating freelancing like a business to ensure success and client retention.

Takeaways

• 🌟 The speaker emphasizes the importance of freelancing and consulting in the tech industry.
• 🚀 The transition from corporate to freelance work can be challenging but rewarding.
• 🏆 Understanding your niche is crucial before starting a freelancing or consulting career.
• 💡 Being passionate about your work and knowing your value is key to success in freelancing.
• 📈 Building an online presence is essential to showcase your expertise and attract clients.
• 💼 It's important to determine a pricing strategy that reflects your worth and allows room for negotiation.
• 🔍 Researching average rates on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can help set your own rates.
• 📢 Actively finding clients through networking and showcasing your work is necessary for growth.
• 🤝 Being responsive to client inquiries can set you apart from other freelancers.
• 📅 Managing your freelancing business professionally, including timely invoicing and project management, is vital.
• 💪 Believing in oneself and making the leap into freelancing or consulting is the first and most significant step.

Q & A

What was the reason for the speaker to create this video?

The speaker created the video because they felt lucky to be freelancing and consulting in tech and wanted to share some tips they wish they knew when they started.

What is the first tip the speaker shares for starting a freelancing or consulting career?

The first tip is understanding your niche, which means figuring out what you are passionate about and what you can offer to clients without a boss directing you.

How long did it take the speaker to adjust to freelancing after leaving corporate work?

It took the speaker about two months to adjust to freelancing, with the first month feeling paralyzed due to the pressure of the change.

What does the speaker suggest about building an online presence for freelancers?

The speaker suggests that freelancers need to build their online presence, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, to showcase their expertise and stand out in a competitive market.

Why does the speaker recommend starting with a high price when determining your rate as a freelancer?

The speaker recommends starting with a high price because it sets the expectation of your value, and clients are likely to negotiate rather than outright reject your initial quote.

What is the importance of being responsive when working as a freelancer according to the speaker?

Being responsive is crucial because it sets you apart from freelancers who may not reply promptly, and clients appreciate timely communication.

How does the speaker suggest finding clients for your freelancing business?

The speaker suggests finding clients by putting yourself out there on different platforms, posting on LinkedIn, and even asking current clients for referrals.

What is the final tip the speaker gives for managing a freelancing business?

The final tip is to manage your freelancing business like a business, including being diligent with accounting, invoicing, and meeting deadlines.

What tools does the speaker recommend for managing different aspects of a freelancing business?

The speaker recommends using QuickBooks for accounting, a time tracking app for managing hours, and project management tools like Trello for organizing work.

How does the speaker describe the transition from corporate work to freelancing?

The speaker describes the transition as initially exciting, then terrifying, followed by a period of feeling frozen, before eventually regaining confidence and finding success.

What is the speaker's advice for those considering a leap into freelancing or consulting?

The speaker advises believing in oneself and making the leap, noting that it can be more secure and rewarding than a traditional 9-to-5 job.