Everything about

freelance for beginners

and how to start on Upwork

Usually, we write content that’s useful for seasoned freelancers. When you've been freelancing for almost 10 years, it's easy to forget that many are just starting on this journey. So, today this post is specifically for freelance for beginners who are taking their first steps towards the dream of a freelancer on the beach with a laptop. Spoiler - that is very uncomfortable.

In this post we tried to collect answers to all the questions about freelance for beginners:

1. What is freelance, freelance platforms and why should you start with them.
2. What to expect from freelance platforms
3. A list of articles to learn everything you need to start on Upwork

1. What is freelance, platforms and why should you start with them.

When the term "freelancer" first appeared in the English language in the early 1800s, it was used to refer to a medieval mercenary who fought for whatever nation or person paid him more. The essence of the term has not changed much since then, only the scope of activities has expanded.

Now, a freelancer is an expert in a niche who independently searches for clients and can work on several projects at the same time. Unlike remote workers who work from home, but with a set a schedule for one company, a freelancer sets his own schedule and cooperates with different clients.

Pros and cons of freelancing

Advantages:

  • Flexible schedule: Freelancing allows you to set your own work schedule, adapting to your priorities and rhythm.

  • Global capabilities: Ability to work from different countries with customers from all over the world. Of course, if you know at least a little English.

  • Variety of projects: Freelancing allows you to work on interesting and diverse projects. Freelancing is an ideal option for people who get bored quickly if they are engaged in the same work.

Disadvantages:

  • High competition: Strong competition for projects requires a good portfolio and constant development. In full-time, you usually find a job once and work there for several years. In freelance, you will have to constantly improve your client search skills.

  • Earnings depend on working capacity: The number of working hours directly affects income. If you got sick or go on vacation – the income immediately drops.

  • Lack of guarantees: Many are afraid of freelance precisely because of this disadvantage – uncertainty about tomorrow, the availability of work and whether the client will pay. But as experience shows, no one gives guarantees that you will not be fired tomorrow. As for payment guarantees, this issue is perfectly solved by freelance platforms.

What is a freelance platform?

Freelance platform is a website where freelancers and clients find each other to implement various projects or services. Freelance platforms bring together those who are looking for specialists to perform specific tasks and freelancers who offer their services or skills.

On freelance platforms, clients post tasks or projects, and freelancers submit their proposals or bids on them. Customers can choose talents based on their portfolio, rating, reviews and other parameters, and then open a contract on the platform. After fulfilling the terms of contact the client pays for the services through the platform, which takes a percentage from the earnings.

The main advantages of freelance sites are security and convenience for both parties.

What are the other advantages of freelance sites?

  1. It’s an ideal place to start: Freelance sites are the perfect starting point for newbies. It is easy to see job posts there, analyze the demand for the specific services you provide and find your first client. They also help you create a portfolio and collect feedback.

  2. Simplicity and convenience: All processes are optimized as much as possible. The freelancer easily finds opportunities and the client can quickly choose a specialist. It is much easier than trying to find a client on other resources.

  3. Security for both parties: Freelancer platforms guarantee security for both customers and freelancers. Payment systems and fraud protection avoid misunderstandings and fraud.

2. What to expect on freelance platforms

Let’s summarize what all freelance websites have in common and what you need to be prepared for:

  • you need to register and undergo verification (most often)

  • you will need to create a profile, fill it out correctly, add a portfolio:

    read here how to make a developer portfolio

    and for the designers.

  • in order to apply for jobs on most of the platforms, you will need to pay for it

  • be ready to send 10-20, or even more applications, to get the first client. When you do not yet have a rating on the platform it makes sense to do the first projects for a lower price in order to generate good reviews.

3. How to start on Upwork: freelance for beginners

Since we have been working on Upwork for more than 9 years, we recommend that you start your freelance journey from there. So, below we prepared a selection of posts that will be useful to those who want to understand Upwork and learn everything you need in order to start, develop and grow your freelance career:

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