Freelancing is an exciting but challenging journey that requires persistence, skill, and continuous learning. Many professionals dream of working independently, but the path to success is filled with obstacles. In this blog, I will share my personal experience on how to succeed as a freelancer, highlighting the challenges I faced and the strategies that helped me thrive.
My IT Journey: From a Small Company to Freelancing Success
I started my IT journey in 2015, working for a small company. During my four years there, I learned a lot, sharpened my skills, and explored various new technologies. This company was a great learning ground for me, as I had the opportunity to coordinate with clients, understand their pain points, and bridge the gaps necessary to achieve project goals.
After four years, I moved to an MNC where I worked with a large team and handled high-profile projects for companies like Intel and Samsung. While working closely with clients, I gained deep insights into project requirements and expectations. However, despite these experiences, I felt that my learning and personal growth had hit a plateau. That was the moment I realized I needed a change.
Taking the Leap: My Freelancing Journey
In 2021, I decided to take a leap of faith and start freelancing. Initially, it was incredibly tough. Finding the first project was one of the biggest challenges because I had no feedback or reviews on my profile. Without a proven track record on freelancing platforms, attracting clients seemed almost impossible.
However, I remained persistent. After multiple attempts, I finally secured my first project. I dedicated myself to delivering exceptional work, and the client was highly satisfied, giving me a 5-star rating. This initial success gave me the confidence to keep going. Slowly but steadily, I started building my freelance career—one project at a time.
Experiencing Both Job and Freelance Life
Having worked as both an employee and a freelancer, I can confidently say that freelancing offers greater freedom and control over your career. As a freelancer, you have the flexibility to work from anywhere, manage your finances, and directly handle client interactions. You also develop a deep understanding of project timelines, ensuring efficient delivery.
In contrast, while working in a company, I often felt restricted. Many times, senior management would make unrealistic commitments, leading to overburdened developers. This made me realize that freelancing allows for better work-life balance and more autonomy in decision-making. However, I strongly recommend that anyone considering freelancing should first gain solid job experience, hone their skills, and develop a passion for their work. Without the right experience and mindset, freelancing can be overwhelming and may lead to regret.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Strong Freelance Career
One of the hardest parts of freelancing is consistently finding new clients. Every completed job means searching for the next opportunity, which can sometimes feel like an endless cycle. However, I firmly believe that persistence and quality work lead to long-term success. Over time, I built strong relationships with clients, leading to ongoing collaborations and long-term partnerships.
Key Lessons on How to Succeed as a Freelancer
Build a Strong Portfolio – Even if you don’t have client reviews initially, showcase personal or open-source projects to demonstrate your skills.
Be Persistent – The first project is always the hardest, but never give up. Keep applying and refining your approach.
Deliver Quality Work – Client satisfaction is crucial for building trust and securing repeat business.
Communicate Effectively – Understanding client needs and maintaining clear communication is key to long-term success.
Keep Learning and Adapting – The tech industry evolves constantly, so staying updated with new skills and trends is essential.
Final Thoughts
Freelancing is not an easy journey, but with dedication, skill, and perseverance, it can lead to financial freedom and personal growth. My transition from working in a company to becoming a successful freelancer has been filled with challenges, but each step has been a learning experience. If you are wondering how to succeed as a freelancer, remember—patience, continuous learning, and delivering value to clients will set you apart.
If you have a great idea and want to build an outstanding product, feel free to connect with me. I will do my best to fulfill your requirements, and hopefully, we can build a great partnership.
Are you considering freelancing or already on your journey? Share your experiences in the comments below! If you want to discuss this topic further, feel free to connect with me on Upwork anytime.
