Freelancing has changed dramatically in the last decade. It has now become a competitive field, with increasing revenue. About 25% of freelancing professionals make more than they would in a traditional 9–5 job. To stay as a freelancer, you must keep an eye on new skills in demand and learn them. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for freelancing.

The biggest advantage to freelancing is working independently for various organizations rather than as an employee of a particular company. As a freelancer, you work for yourself and do projects with different companies rather than being an employee.

Essential skills of a freelancer include communication skills, working with and relating to others, problem-solving, applying initiative, and IT skills. Possessing a good sense of humor and a team-oriented personality goes a long way.

Time management

You need to treat your freelancing career like a typical office job. Thus, maintain a to-do list of all project goals and deadlines. Once sorted, stick to a strict schedule each day. You need to balance your freelance work alongside other daily commitments.

Treat the work professionally and stay on task, eliminating all distractions and the temptations of sleeping in or lazing around. Maintain a structure throughout the day. You alone are responsible for how you use or waste your time. The deadlines are not difficult if you maintain a disciplined routine. You can confidently cater to a good number of clients with your reliability and efficiency.

Social media marketing

Self-employed in a one-person business, hence the ability to sell yourself is critical. Networking is a great way to meet potential clients and online technology has made it even easier to find new client work.  Taking advantage of this online market by having a good grasp of productive social media platforms, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or even Instagram. These platforms are great channels for promoting, creating campaigns, and making online connections with others in a similar field.

Communication

A mandatory soft skill for any freelancer when meeting clients in person or sending out business e-mails is communication. Studies show that after one negative experience; a good percentage of clients decide to never do business with that individual or company again. It is therefore important to know how to build strong, and positive client-freelancer relationships with others; conveying a clear understanding of their needs and expectations.

Clear, professional language; replying efficiently; asking as many questions as necessary, and ensuring that all agreements are established in writing are the key ingredients for quality communications.  Excellent writing skills help you stand out from the competition. Knowing how to write in a coherent, concise, and error-free manner further conveys your professionalism.

Finance

Working as a freelancer comes with a lot of freedom; but again, you lose the company perks such as paid leave, super contributions, and having someone managing your monthly payments. You are fully responsible for your financial stability, which means you need to develop a firm grasp of financial management and basic accounting skills.

What you need to understand is how much your services are worth. Ensure you are neither underselling nor overselling yourself; as this could lead to turning off potential clients. To know how much your competition charges, you can reach out to your peer groups or check to consult salary websites like PayScale, and set your rates accordingly.

Financial experts recommend you go by a 50/30/20 rule – this means aiming to live on 50% of your income, having 30% set aside for flexible expenses, and putting 20% into your savings. Going by this rule, you achieve your long and short-term financial goals.

Persistence and motivation

It is actually difficult to stay persistent on this career path. While every worker desires flexibility, freelancing can actually be a risky and unstable venture. But if you are willing to push through, it is actually worth it.

Most of the freelancers who moved from a traditional job would not choose to go back, no matter how much they are paid. This show how rewarding this occupation can be, despite the uncertainty and financial insecurity.

In times of setbacks, you must not lose your focus. Direct on your goals and keep reflecting on the required steps to achieve them. Even though you are working from the comfort of your home, dress for success to create an impact on your professional mindset. Set up a proper office for yourself, and consistently aim to improvise yourself. Treat your job seriously, and the results will surely follow. Though freelancing is tough, it is a booming industry.