Have you ever thought about becoming a freelancer on popular websites like Fiverr or Upwork? In this article, we talk to John, an expert in the freelancing world, with over five years of experience. He shares insights into how much profit you can potentially make through freelancing, along with some valuable side hustle tips and tricks to help you get started.
John’s Freelance Journey
John’s has been freelancing on Fiverr since around 2018 or 2019. With a background in tech sales, his main focus is on copywriting. He primarily offers sales and marketing emails, campaign writing, website content creation, and more recently, YouTube coaching and consulting. His expertise also includes website analysis to help businesses improve their sales and marketing strategies.
Typical Freelance Clients
John’s clients mainly consist of startup companies with 5 to 20 employees. Occasionally, he works with mid-sized businesses that have hundreds of employees. These clients, usually directors of departments, look to outsource certain projects. However, most of John’s work comes from startups and small businesses.
Getting Started on Fiverr/Upwork
To start freelancing on Fiverr or Upwork, the most important thing is having a skill or service that provides value. A common misconception is that simply posting a gig will result in instant income. However, creating a solid listing requires time and effort. You’ll need to create an account, design an engaging gig image (possibly including your photo), and write a descriptive title. Spend time thinking about how to structure your service, including different packages and pricing models, to ensure you’re offering value without underpricing your work.
Why Freelancing Over Other Side Hustles?
John has tried numerous side hustles over the years, such as selling at flea markets and consignment, but freelancing stuck with him. He liked the idea of utilizing the skills he had learned in his career while maintaining the flexibility to generate extra income. Over time, freelancing and creating video content resonated with him, providing both financial and personal satisfaction.
How to Price Freelance Projects
When John first started freelancing, he charged $5 per email to build up ratings and reviews. Over time, as his reputation grew, so did his prices. Today, a single email costs $100, and package deals offer discounts, such as $270 for three emails and $400 for five. Gradually increasing your prices based on the value you provide and client demand is crucial to maintaining a sustainable freelance business.
Potential Earnings in Freelancing
Freelancing income can vary greatly. For John, freelancing is a part-time gig, and he makes an average of $2,500 per month, with his best month earning $4,200. While some freelancers make $30,000 a month, others may be content with earning $100. It all depends on the time and effort you are willing to invest, your skill set, and how you price your services.
Replacing Your Full-Time Job with Freelancing
Freelancing has the potential to replace a full-time job, but it takes dedication and hustle. Simply posting a gig will not result in automatic success. Consistent effort and excellent service are key to building a steady income. Once you establish yourself, freelancing can provide a reliable source of income, but it requires perseverance, especially in the early stages.
Lessons Learned and Time Management
One of John’s challenges was managing time effectively as his business grew. Initially, he accepted too many orders and found himself working nights, weekends, and even while traveling. Learning to set boundaries and manage time is essential, especially when freelancing alongside other commitments.
Who Should Avoid Freelancing?
Freelancing might not be for everyone. It requires problem-solving skills, especially when dealing with client expectations and possible miscommunications. If you’re not comfortable with uncertainty or handling difficult clients, freelancing could become overwhelming. Staying level-headed in the face of challenges is key to long-term success in this field.
Steps to Start Freelancing
- Research and Define Your Skill Set: Focus on what you are good at, and refine your offering until you gain traction.
- Test the Waters: Start by offering low-cost services to build experience and understand how much time and effort each task requires.
- Time Block: Set specific hours for freelancing and stick to them to ensure you maintain a balance with your other responsibilities.
Tips for New Fiverr Sellers
If you’re starting out on Fiverr, John recommends adding pictures and a video to your gig, preferably featuring yourself. This helps you stand out from the competition. Study successful sellers in your niche to see how they position their services and pricing without directly copying them. Observing your competition can save you a lot of time when setting up your own gigs.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about starting a freelancing side hustle, the best advice is to stop procrastinating and start now. Research, plan, and get your first gig posted. Freelancing offers endless opportunities, but the key is to take that first step and learn as you go. Once you commit to the process, success will follow.
Freelancing can be a rewarding venture that provides flexibility and control over your income. Whether you’re looking to replace your full-time job or earn extra cash on the side, the potential is there for those who put in the effort.
Conclusion
Freelancing offers endless possibilities, but like any business, it requires dedication and the right mindset.
