11 practical tips for freelance designers

Robert Mayer, in his Medium article, has compiled a list of some of the things you need to know if you want to make the most of and improve your freelance lifestyle.

1. Find your niche

You cannot be an expert at everything: to create something outstanding, you need to dive deeply into the topic. By accepting all offers, we are missing out on special projects that can take us to the next level of our career.

2. Organize your workplace

It is not easy to switch between household chores and work, and maintain consistent productivity throughout your working hours as a freelancer at home. Not to mention too many distractions and feelings of loneliness. A separate, comfortable place to work can work wonders for your productivity and happiness.

3. Brand yourself

By building your personal brand, you identify ideal customers, set yourself apart from competitors, and build strong relationships.

4. Understand your finances

Regardless of your income – you have to save money and plan your budget. If you manage your money properly, you won’t have to worry about volatile earnings or seasonal dips. Your financial plan will already include all the risks and expectations, which means that you will be ready and feel safe.

5. Create links

One of the downsides of being a freelancer is a kind of informational and emotional vacuum. There are no colleagues or sometimes even clients that you meet in person. If you want to grow, you must expand your connections.

6. Don’t overdo it

Working seven days a week is a great way to burn out. The extra money earned cannot cure this, so be sure to take a break.

7. Become a partner

Sharing a piece of a project with other designers or collaborating can be tricky, but it pays well. Let creative synergy flourish.

8. Update your portfolio

You never know which offers you might be missing out on because your portfolio is poorly composed or out of date.

9. Work smarter

Optimizing your own processes means you can get more relevant work done in the same amount of time. This will lead to more income even without changing your prices. Or you can finally devote more time to yourself.

10. Get health insurance

Health problems and accidents are things that can greatly affect your life, being completely unpredictable. Take care of yourself and your safety.

11. Be polite

Last but not least, the best thing you can do for yourself and your business is to be a kind person. Be a man of your word. Be sure to take responsibility for your mistakes, avoid cheating at all costs, and be someone your customers can always count on to do the right thing.

Source: Design Career