Freelancing: Your Path to Success?

[#1]

Is freelancing a stepping stone to your dream job, or is it your ultimate career destination? Let's discuss!

Share your experiences, aspirations, and challenges as a freelancer.

Are you planning to transition to a traditional role eventually, or have you found your niche in the freelance world?

Let's inspire and learn from each other!

#freelancing #careerpath #success #workfromhome

[#2]

Freelancing is not a career move -- not a great one, anyway.

For one, it's not conducive to getting job recommendations.  Also, it's known to be a spotty, unsteady type of working arrangement. I once told a friend I was a freelance writer. He snapped back, "Oh, so you're unemployed."

The one way freelancing helps your career is if it, in fact, turns you into an expert in your field. That usually requires years of steady work, which is not always available to freelancers.

Successful freelance writers spend a great deal of time, money and effort attending conferences and seminars. Sure, they always learn something there, but the main attraction is being able to talk face-to-face with industry players -- editors and publishers. On Upwork lthis type of pro-active career investment seems completely missing. I have read forum comments for years. Except for one notable exception (you know who you are T.C.) I never hear Upwork freelancers mention they will be out of touch for a few days while they hobknob with actual flesh and blood professionals in their field. 

I would bet dollars to donuts there are conferences and professional gatherings for marketers, graphic designers, web geeks, business analysts,  even life coaches (who get together and teach life coaching to each other -- I guess). But the culture of Upwork involves wandering no further than an arm's length from your Internet service. I constantlhy urge freelancers to get out of the house ... to make phone calls, to write letters to people who can help them out. In return, all I read about is how many invites someone didn't get or how their connects are running low.

You could also use freelancing as a way to support yourself while you went to school or to a training program. That might help your career.

Otherwise, freelancers often find themselves stuck with options dwindling. Technology passes them by, while they churn out products on out-dated programs or equipment. When they throw up their hands and look for a real job, they find a lot of doors close quickly because they are no longer viable in real time.

Anyone got a rosier outlook? I hope so. 

[#3]

Freelancing is finally deciding to control your own fate, take responsibility, stand up for what you think you deserve. It's usually the first step of starting your own business and growing it.

Here's the most critical part. You have to be mentally strong on an extreme level. When things are going well, it's easy to think that you've made it, you're doing all the right moves, you're a winner and other's are simply losers. And when things turn around, noone's reaching out to you, you're starting to consume your savings account... It's easy to fall into the valley of feeling sorry for yourself, your time is over, you just got lucky for some time and that was it... Of course neither of them are true.

[#4]

Freelancing requires a strong entrepreneurial spirit and mental resilience. While it offers freedom and control, it also comes with inherent risks and challenges. Successful freelancers must maintain a positive mindset, persevere through setbacks, and continuously adapt to changing market conditions.

[#5]

Alper,

I think most of that is true. Feeling sorry for yourself isn't just a fluke, a mental wrong turn. It's no fun to be broke and not know the reasons why or know that you somehow got skunked. When life gives you lemons, make lemonade is a cute expression, but thinking happy thoughts does not pay the rent.

In the scenario you described, again, freelancers who survive go out and meet their industry face-to-face. They find out where the market is going in seminars. They join online associations. They write introductory letters to clients -- not Upwork clients, but other clients. Clients don't only exist on the Internet. Some of them have real offices and real jobs and can be found in a telephone book. (Yes, I'm aware, telephone books are a thiing of the past. But you get the idea, I think.)

I've said many times, Upwork is great. It is terrific. But if Upwork is your only source for business, you are not only putting your business at risk, you are a very naive freelancer.

[#6]

Anthony,

I agree with your points about the limitations of relying solely on Upwork. It's essential to diversify your income streams and actively network within your industry. While Upwork can be a valuable tool, it's not a guaranteed solution.

I'd also like to add that building relationships with clients is crucial for long-term success. Going the extra mile to understand their needs and provide exceptional service can lead to repeat business and referrals.

Remember, freelancing is a business, and like any business, it requires consistent effort and strategic planning to thrive. 

[#7]

Freelancing offers a unique opportunity for individuals to build a flexible and fulfilling career. While it may require self-discipline and proactive networking, it can also lead to greater autonomy, work-life balance, and the chance to develop specialized skills. With the right approach and dedication, freelancing can be a rewarding and successful path.

[#8]

Freelancing has been an incredible journey for me!

It offers flexibility and the chance to work on diverse projects, which I love.

[#9]

Freelancing sounds like a great fit for you! Enjoying the flexibility and variety of projects is a common benefit for many freelancers. Keep up the good work and continue exploring the opportunities in your field.

[#10]

Thank you!

[#11]

I have been successfully freelancing for a few decades and it's been an incredible career.

[#12]

Hi William,
That's fantastic! Achieving long-term success in freelancing is a testament to your skills and dedication. What advice would you give to aspiring freelancers based on your experiences?

[#13]

I think about this all the time and many ask me this same question: 

1. freelancing can be a career but you have to manage it that way.

2. freelancing can be a stepping stone > agency / software / real estate

3. freelancing can be a side hustle.

Those are the three buckets I put this in. if you make a LOT of money freelancing, BE SMART. Take that money and make sure that you pay off your home, all debt and than invest it in real estate or your own agency / software company. The problem I see is that many become SO DEPNDENT on freelancing that even after a few years when things are GREAT, as soon as it slows down, you feel the PAIN, but, if you have other things / investments, that pain will hurt a LOT LESS.

As you can see, even with platforms like Upwork, rules change, models change, etc. Can hurt you quickly.

[#14]

Great point on stewardship of money regardless of the career path; life can change fast.

[#15]

Absolutely! It's always wise to be mindful of our finances, regardless of our career choices. Life can throw unexpected challenges our way, and having a financial cushion can make a significant difference in navigating those times. 

[#16]

Hi Samer B,
That's a great breakdown of the different ways freelancing can fit into a career path. It's important to be strategic and consider long-term goals. Diversifying income streams through investments or building your own business can help mitigate the risks associated with freelancing. Thanks for sharing your insights!

What strategies have you found most effective for building a sustainable freelancing career?

[#17]

Freelancing is a stepping stone to our dream job. we gain experience with our dream job. Companies sometimes reject our resumes but clients on freelancers trust and give us work. so why not freelancing is a great job. if somebody hire us for long term and permanent job its like a jackpot. 

[#18]

Hi Sruthi A, 

Great perspective! Freelancing can be a valuable stepping stone.
What strategies have you found for transitioning to a full-time job?

[#19]

Unless you are the adventurous type or a nomad, stay away from full-time freelancing; freelancing is a career-killer.

If you have a brick-and-mortar job, keep freelancing as a side hustle.

As Anthony says, "Otherwise, freelancers often find themselves stuck with options dwindling. Technology passes them by, while they churn out products on out-dated programs or equipment. When they throw up their hands and look for a real job, they find a lot of doors close quickly because they are no longer viable in real time."

[#20]

I have earned 8 figures freelancing so it can be a career if treated as such.

Always upskilling to in-demand skills and have the ability to sell.

[#21]

That's impressive! Your success demonstrates that freelancing can be a lucrative career path. What advice would you give to aspiring freelancers looking to achieve similar success?

[#22]

Always upskilling to in-demand skills and have the ability to sell.

I have spent 1,000 hours upskilling in the past few years to the new Generative AI technology as an example.

One of a few people on the planet that are Generative AI IBM specialized certified in 10 areas of specialities.

[#23]

That's impressive! Your dedication to upskilling in Generative AI technology is commendable. By staying ahead of the curve and acquiring specialized certifications, you've positioned yourself as a valuable expert in this rapidly evolving field. Your commitment to continuous learning is a key factor in your success. 

[#24]

It's also the KEY to billing $200 plus per hour which makes freelancing profitable.

[#25]

Hi Ravindra B,

Freelancing can be challenging for those seeking stability. Consider keeping it as a side hustle while maintaining a full-time job. Remember to stay updated with industry trends to remain competitive.

What strategies have you found effective for balancing a full-time job with freelancing?