How to Start Freelancing
TL;DR:
- Figure out what skills you can actually sell to businesses
- Build a portfolio that shows your best work with real examples
- Set up a professional website to showcase what you do
- Register your business properly to avoid legal headaches later
- Get a simple invoicing system running from day one
- Use networking and freelance platforms to find your first clients
Starting freelance work means turning your skills into a proper business. You need more than just talent – you need the right setup, legal structure, and way to find clients who'll pay you well.
Identify What You Can Sell
Before anything else, get clear on what services you can offer. Writing, design, web development, marketing, consulting – whatever it is, you need to know exactly what problems you solve for clients.
Don't just think about what you enjoy doing. Think about what businesses actually need and will pay for. The sweet spot is where your skills meet real market demand.
Build a Portfolio That Works
Your portfolio needs to prove you can deliver results, not just show pretty pictures.
Include diverse projects that demonstrate different aspects of what you do. If you're a designer, show branding work, web design, and print materials. If you're a writer, include different types of content and industries.
Add case studies that explain the problem, your solution, and the results. Numbers work well here – increased traffic, higher conversions, money saved.
Get testimonials from anyone you've worked with, even if it was a small project or favor for a friend's business.
Keep everything current. Old work that looks dated won't help you win new clients.
Set Up Your Online Presence
You need a professional website. Social media profiles aren't enough – clients want to see you take your business seriously.
Your website should be clean and easy to navigate. Put your best work front and center. Include clear information about what you do, who you work with, and how to contact you.
Make sure people can actually find you online. Use relevant keywords in your content and page titles. If you're a Manchester-based graphic designer, say that clearly on your site.
Register Your Business Legally
This bit isn't optional. You need to register as self-employed with HMRC within three months of starting work.
Decide if you want to operate as a sole trader or set up a limited company. Most freelancers start as sole traders because it's simpler, but a limited company can offer better tax benefits as you grow.
Keep records of everything from day one. You'll need them for tax returns and they help you understand if your business is actually profitable.
Get Your Invoicing Sorted
Set up a proper invoicing system before you need it. Tools like FreshBooks, Xero, or even a simple template in Google Docs will work.
Your invoices should look professional and include all the necessary information – your business details, the client's details, what work you did, when payment is due, and how they can pay you.
Decide on your payment terms upfront. Net 30 is standard, but you can ask for shorter terms or deposits on larger projects.
Find Your First Clients
Start with your existing network. Tell people what you're doing. You'd be surprised how many potential clients are already around you.
Use freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr to get started, but don't rely on them long-term. The competition is fierce and rates can be low.
Try networking events in your area or online communities in your field. Focus on building relationships, not just selling your services.
Reach out directly to businesses that might need your help. A well-crafted email explaining how you can solve a specific problem often works better than mass applications.
FAQs
How do I price my freelance services?
Research what others charge in your field and location. Start with competitive rates and increase them as you gain experience and better clients. Don't undervalue yourself – cheap rates often signal poor quality to clients.
Should I specialize in one area or offer multiple services?
Specialists typically earn more and find it easier to market themselves. It's better to be known as the best at one thing than average at many things.
How long does it take to build a sustainable freelance business?
Most freelancers take 6-12 months to build steady income. It depends on your skills, how much time you invest, and how well you market yourself.
Jargon Buster
Freelancing – Working for yourself and selling services to clients on a project basis
Portfolio – A collection of your best work that demonstrates your skills to potential clients
Sole Trader – The simplest business structure where you're personally responsible for all business debts
Limited Company – A separate legal entity that protects your personal assets from business debts
Net 30 – Payment terms meaning the client has 30 days to pay your invoice
Wrap-up
Starting freelance work takes more than just having skills. You need the business side sorted – legal registration, proper invoicing, a professional online presence, and a clear plan for finding clients.
Don't try to do everything perfectly from day one. Start with the basics, get your first few clients, and improve your systems as you go. Every project teaches you something new about running your business.
The key is treating this like a real business from the start, not just a side hustle. That mindset makes all the difference in how clients perceive you and what they're willing to pay.
Ready to build your freelance business properly? Join Pixelhaze Academy for step-by-step guidance on growing your client base and increasing your rates.