Our best advice for starting freelancers

How do I know if I’m cut out to be a freelancer?

Let me start by saying that it takes a level of maturity that not everyone, certainly not every junior profile, has. Why: there will come a time that you need to think on your feet or make tough choices. It’s not always easy, especially when you’re young and inexperienced. Furthermore, you’re competing with seasoned freelancers, so you have to bring some strong skills to the table if you want clients to pick you over them. In other words, the ideal freelancer is someone who knows his stuff, understands what it’s like to be detached on a project (and has worked as a consultant before, for example) and already has some years of experience on their books. If that sounds like you, you’re probably perfectly able to freelance! 

A little sidenote: some mistake freelancing with freedom. Understand that this is not completely the case. Yes, you can choose your projects, that’s true, but ultimately, you’ll work (fulltime) for a client, much like you did before when you were employed. Sure, you can choose your days off, but you also pay for them yourself. You can choose which car you drive, but again, you pay for it yourself. That’s the general idea: more freedom but with that comes greater responsibility.  

I get that the idea of earning more money is a trigger for most (young) people to consider freelancing, but like I’ve said: I strongly advise you to first gain some experience and only then to switch. Usually, when you’re a medior to senior profile and you notice that the company you’re working at, can’t really afford to give you a raise anymore and/or when you’ve been on several projects and are aware of your strengths and weaknesses, it’s a good time to consider starting your freelancing career.

On what other projects should I have worked before?

It doesn’t really matter, as long as you’ve worked on a few of them, preferably in different sectors. Clients look for someone who knows what it’s like to ‘job hop’ by being outsourced as a consultant. They do so, because they want someone who can deal with all kinds of sectors, situations, people, and so on. 

By the way, have you ever worked as a consultant on a government project before? Clients find that attractive, as most of those projects last quite a while so this showcases dedication and long-term commitment, which are valuable skills. Continuity is important to them. 

How do I find a good project?

Actually, that’s the job of the recruiter you’re partnering up with. They should match you to a few clients that would be right for you and steer you away from companies with red flags. In all honesty, I’m not always looking for the best cultural fit but rather for a great technical fit. Can you deliver what they’re asking for and will you be able to fulfil your potential and enjoy yourself? That’s more important than ‘having nice conversations at lunch’. I find that most freelancers aren’t looking for that anyway. More importantly, know your worth, your value and your favourite technologies, so recruiters can get you a top-notch project that interests and challenges you! After all, that way you can keep evolving and learning too.

Any last tips?

Don’t just quit your job and jump in but really think about it beforehand. Be aware of the costs and make sure you can cover up to two months without a project, without bankrupting yourself. Chances are slim that this will happen, but you never know. If that kind of thing stresses you out, best stay on a payroll. There’s no shame in that, freelancing is not for everyone and that’s okay. 

Be sure to always read your contract thoroughly or let someone do it for you if it’s not your cup of tea. Clients have to indicate when you’ll get paid and how much. Connect with the right people (accountants, recruiters) to get help in this department. 

Now we’re on the topic: you’ll probably be approached by multiple recruiters. Be careful and picky in selecting the right one. You have got to know where they’re going to present you before they do so. The last thing you want, is for multiple recruiters to introduce you to the same client.  

Lastly, make sure your CV is clear, concise, and relevant. Update it if necessary and put your last experience on the top of it. Need some more guidance on your CV? Read our blog or reach out to us for more information. Also, update your LinkedIn profile in order to let recruiters know that you’re open to new opportunities.

Good luck!

We are Youssef – founder of addon – and Hajar and Adam – recruiters. The three of us establish the smooth sailings of our organisation. As we want to keep our personal and human values high, we welcome anyone who wants to contribute to our story and mission. Don’t be shy to contact us: we’re approachable, available and we can’t wait to meet you!