When I made the leap into full-time freelancing in 2010, I felt like a small fish in a vast ocean. It wasn’t just about creating designs anymore—it was about building a business, connecting with clients, and managing myself in a world without the safety net of a regular paycheck.
Looking back, that transition was both exciting and intimidating.
Every project felt like a test of my abilities. Every new client interaction was an opportunity to learn, grow, and prove myself.
Over time, a few key steps became clear to me—lessons that helped me navigate the ups and downs of freelancing. And I hope these insights resonate with you, especially if you’re just starting out.
1. Over-Deliver, always
Your work is your reputation. That’s something I realized early on. Every time I went the extra mile for a client, it paid off in ways I didn’t expect. It wasn’t just about delivering what was asked—it was about exceeding expectations.
By putting in that extra bit of effort, clients saw me as someone they could rely on, not just for one project, but for many.
2. Build genuine connections
Networking is often misunderstood. It’s not about how many contacts you have—it’s about the quality of those relationships.
I learned that forming genuine connections with clients, colleagues, and other freelancers was far more valuable than simply collecting names on LinkedIn.
Clients trust people, not portfolios.
Some of my longest-standing clients came from a simple coffee chat or a conversation at a design event. What mattered most was building real, human relationships.
3. Embrace diversity
Each new client brings something unique to the table. Over the years, I worked with businesses from different industries and backgrounds, and each project taught me something new. This diversity wasn’t just a challenge—it was a gift.
Freelancing means constantly adapting, learning, and evolving.
And as much as you might have your go-to methods and design styles, each client can open a door to new ideas and perspectives.
4. Be reliable
Being reliable is one of the most underrated yet powerful skills in freelancing. Clients will always remember who delivered on time, who was available when they needed support, and who stuck to their word.
Reliability builds trust, and trust is the foundation of long-term relationships.
When I say I’ll meet a deadline, I make sure I do. Even if that means putting in extra hours or managing my schedule better, being reliable has set me apart from the competition.
My advice to new freelancers
If you’re just starting out in freelancing, remember: it’s a journey, not a sprint. Take your time, be patient, and focus on building trust with your clients.
Word-of-mouth is your most powerful tool. Happy clients will always recommend you to others, and that’s how your business grows.
Freelancing is about more than just your skills—it’s about how you handle relationships, how adaptable you are, and how well you can manage the unknown.
You’ll face challenges, but those challenges will help you grow.
Key takeaways for new freelancers:
- Over-Deliver:
Going the extra mile builds a strong reputation. - Build Real Relationships:
Genuine connections matter more than the number of contacts. - Embrace Diversity:
Each project brings something new—learn and adapt. - Be Reliable:
Reliability builds trust, and trust builds lasting relationships.
So, what’s your top tip for standing out as a freelancer? Share your thoughts below! Let’s grow together.
