Working with agencies as a freelancer
TL;DR:
- Agencies hire freelancers regularly for overflow work and specialist skills
- Agency work provides steady projects but limits direct client contact
- You'll get exposure to bigger projects and different working methods
- Balancing agency and direct client work gives you the best of both worlds
- Time management becomes crucial when juggling different project types
Many freelancers find themselves working with agencies at some point. Agencies need extra hands for busy periods or specialist skills for particular projects. This creates opportunities, but it's worth understanding how agency work differs from direct client relationships.
Why agencies hire freelancers
Agencies use freelancers for two main reasons. First, they need extra capacity when they've got more work than their permanent team can handle. Second, they want specialist skills for specific projects without hiring full-time staff.
This means agency work can be fairly regular. Once you're on their books and they trust your work, you'll often get called back for similar projects. It's less about selling yourself each time and more about delivering consistently good work.
The trade-offs with agency work
Working through agencies means you're one step removed from the end client. The agency handles client relationships, project scope, and usually the strategic thinking. You focus on execution.
This has pros and cons. You avoid difficult client conversations and scope creep, but you also miss out on building direct relationships with the end clients. Those relationships are often how freelancers build their reputation and get referrals.
Agency rates are typically lower than what you'd charge direct clients. The agency needs their cut, so there's less margin for you. However, the work is often more predictable and requires less business development time.
Getting the balance right
Most successful freelancers don't work exclusively with agencies or exclusively with direct clients. A mix gives you stability from agency work plus the higher rates and relationship building from direct clients.
Block out your calendar in advance. If you know an agency has a big project coming up, reserve those days and schedule your direct client work around it. This prevents double-booking and helps you give proper attention to each project.
Keep your direct client relationships warm even when you're busy with agency work. A quick email or phone call every few weeks maintains the connection without taking much time.
Making agency relationships work
Treat agencies like long-term clients rather than one-off projects. Be responsive, meet deadlines, and flag problems early. Agencies value freelancers they can rely on because their reputation with their clients depends on your work.
Ask for feedback after each project. Agencies often work with multiple freelancers for similar roles, so understanding what sets you apart helps you get called back.
Don't be afraid to suggest improvements or alternatives when you spot opportunities. Good agencies want freelancers who think beyond just following instructions.
FAQs
Can I work only with agencies and skip direct clients entirely?
You can, but you'll likely earn less and have less control over your work. Direct clients usually pay better rates and give you more influence over project direction.
How do I find agencies to work with?
Start with agencies in your local area or sector. Many have freelancer application forms on their websites. Networking events and LinkedIn can also help you connect with agency owners and project managers.
Should I tell agencies about my direct clients?
Be professional about it. Don't work on competing projects at the same time, and don't breach any confidentiality agreements. Most agencies understand freelancers have multiple clients.
What happens if an agency client wants to hire me directly?
Check your contract with the agency first. Many have clauses preventing direct hiring for a certain period. Respect these agreements to maintain good relationships.
Jargon Buster
White-label work: Projects where you work on behalf of an agency but the client sees it as the agency's work, not yours.
Preferred supplier: An informal status where an agency regularly calls on you for work because they trust your abilities and reliability.
Project manager: The person at the agency who coordinates freelancers, timelines, and client communication for each project.
Wrap-up
Agency work can provide steady income and expose you to bigger projects than you might land as a solo freelancer. The key is balancing it with direct client relationships so you're not completely dependent on agencies for work.
Start building relationships with a few good agencies in your area or sector. Deliver consistently good work, communicate clearly, and treat them as long-term partnerships. This approach gives you a reliable income stream while you develop your direct client base.
Ready to build stronger client relationships? Join Pixelhaze Academy for practical advice on growing your freelance business.