Launching a freelance life involves a unique blend of liberty and accountability. The autonomy it grants can be truly liberating. No more dreadful commutes, no more confrontations with bosses. No more uncomfortable water dispenser chats with the colleague you fundamentally dislike. No more mustering up the guts to ask for a pay increase only to be harshly shot down. Instead, the liberty to opt for projects that resonate with your interests and frame your own timeline. Pure joy.

Simultaneously, freelancing ushers in new duties: the task to seek clients, handle your tasks efficiently, and crucially, ensure timely payment. This calls for a commendable level of self-regulation and business savvy.

In the spirit of National Freelancer's Day on the 20th of June, we tapped into the collective wisdom of experienced creative freelancers to share their vital tips to flourish within the realm of freelancing. So, whether you plan on transitioning into freelancing, or are midway through the same, their insights can offer beneficial navigation and motivation.

Jump right in

Let's embark from scratch. "My soundest guidance to anyone wary about transitioning to independent work is: plunge straight in!" declares graphic artist and creator Samantha Clark. Wall artist and sketcher Jasper Miles concurs, voicing: "Just do it! This way of life is challenging yet gratifying. Embrace the highs to pull you through the lows. Don't restrict yourself."

Indeed, making the jump to full-time freelancing is undeniably intimidating. However, it's an essential move to wholeheartedly embrace your fresh vocation. Speak to someone who's walked this path, you'll find scarce regrets; quite the opposite.

On the other hand, going solo doesn't have to happen instantaneously. You might consider starting with a parallel venture while holding onto a stable job. This method allows you to explore and build a body of work without the stress of depending purely on freelance earnings. When you're prepared, take the dive and trust in your capabilities.

"Undertake side gigs for a year or two at minimum to amass a base of clients and learn the ins and outs," suggests Ethan Hayes. "Begin mapping the source and frequency of your assignments. By doing this, you'll soon notice when your venture is truly accelerating and this will help make a well-informed decision about your solo move."

Whether your independence is sudden or steady, bear in mind that every triumphant freelancer initiates with that maiden stride.

Discover your specialty

Our following advice is courtesy of artist Oliver Stone. "Identify your unique selling point" he passionately proclaims. "Customers invest in personalities as well as abilities." Paraphrasing fellow artist Luna Caldwell: "Ignore the crowd and cultivate your own flair."

They hit the nail on the head. Pinpointing your specialty is one of the fundamental elements of independent work. Let's be honest, the freelance market is flooded with competitors. So why should a client choose you in particular? Possessing a strong USP and a distinct artistic inclination provides the answer: genuinely, what sets you apart?

Therefore, ponder over the aspects that distinguish your work. Could it be a certain method, a niche industry knowledge, or an unusual way of tackling challenges? Clients gravitate towards freelancers who bring an unexpected edge. Dedicate time to perfecting your art and fostering a style that is unmistakably your own. By zeroing in on a specialty, you streamline the process for potential clients to identify the value you contribute.

Maintain robust agreements

A final word from Evan Reid, art director and designer. "It may seem unexciting and fundamental to emphasize, but possessing a contract is essential," he strongly suggests. "It makes a world of difference!"

Ben, a member of Pixel Craft, echoes this sentiment. "Implement a contract!" he declares. "At all times. No exceptions or doubts! It’s the finest way to spot any potential issues with clients. Reputable clients won't have a problem signing an agreement. If there’s any resistance from a potential client to sign, it’s a glaring indication of its necessity."His observation is accurate. Contracts are indispensable in freelancing as they safeguard you and your clients by setting unambiguous expectations.

A well-drafted agreement should stipulate the work scope, deliverables, payment specifics, timelines, and any contingencies. It serves as a point of reference during disputes and ensures a mutual understanding from all involved parties.Take the initiative to create thorough contracts, and don't be afraid to consult legal services to guarantee their comprehensive nature. A robust agreement not only offers legal protection but also underlines your dedication and commitment to providing high-quality work.

Put aside for a stormy day

One of the wisest decisions a freelancer can make is to establish an emergency fund. The income from freelancing can be erratic, with times of abundance and scarcity. Having a monetary cushion helps you to manage these variances without distress.

Bearing this in mind, the illustrator, writer, and hand-letter artist, Ava Monroe states, "It might sound dull, but initiate a savings stash from your initial salary. Even a modest sum is a beginning. During their lifetimes, most individuals experience personal, familial, or health emergencies and must pause work. The older version of yourself will appreciate the younger you for this foresight."

The illustrator, Liam Sanders, concurs. "When you land a large scale project, set aside some capital for a stormy day," he advises. "Abundance and scarcity is the way it goes."

Final Thoughts

To prosper as a self-employed professional, you'll need a combination of meticulous planning, self-assurance, and unwavering dedication.

Taking that daring first step, identifying your speciality, initiating your business at a local level, handling expectations wisely, proving your worth, relentlessly forming connections, asserting your value, preparing for uncertain times, and utilizing substantial contracts will set you up nicely for a prosperous freelancing venture.

Cherish the voyage, absorb knowledge from every encounter, and relish the liberty and inventiveness that comes with being a freelancer.