I’m an IT student close to finishing up university, and I want to try freelancing instead of taking an office job. Does anyone have any tips for someone new to freelancing?
You don’t have any work experience, so why would anyone hire you? I’m asking seriously.
You should think about what kind of tips you’re actually looking for. This post feels pretty lazy.
Paxton said:
You don’t have any work experience, so why would anyone hire you? I’m asking seriously.
You should think about what kind of tips you’re actually looking for. This post feels pretty lazy.
I’ve worked 2 years as a data engineer and backend developer, so I was hoping to focus on that.
Build a portfolio and start on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork. It’s a good way to get your foot in the door.
Keep your prices low until you build up some good reviews, then you can raise your rates.
Freelancing is all about selling yourself. Here’s the truth when you’re just starting out…
No one cares if you don’t have real-world experience.
Create some sample projects, get fake reviews, whatever it takes to make yourself look good. Clients only care if you can get the job done.
LisaMoore said:
Freelancing is all about selling yourself. Here’s the truth when you’re just starting out…
No one cares if you don’t have real-world experience.
Create some sample projects, get fake reviews, whatever it takes to make yourself look good. Clients only care if you can get the job done.
Sad but true.
LisaMoore said:
Freelancing is all about selling yourself. Here’s the truth when you’re just starting out…
No one cares if you don’t have real-world experience.
Create some sample projects, get fake reviews, whatever it takes to make yourself look good. Clients only care if you can get the job done.
Sad but true.
Exactly.
LisaMoore said:
Freelancing is all about selling yourself. Here’s the truth when you’re just starting out…
No one cares if you don’t have real-world experience.
Create some sample projects, get fake reviews, whatever it takes to make yourself look good. Clients only care if you can get the job done.
That actually helps a lot, thanks!
Here’s what I suggest:
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Reach out to IT recruiters.
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Contact companies directly.
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Look for companies hiring in your area and ask if they need short-term freelance help.
Build up your resume with things you’ve already done like school projects, personal projects, etc.
As someone who has freelanced for over 20 years, I would strongly recommend getting some work experience first. You need to understand what the job really involves, and university isn’t enough. Working in-house for a few years will also help you build connections and credibility.
When clients hire freelancers, they expect you to know what you’re doing. Starting with no experience can either lead to no work, or you getting in over your head.
Blake said:
As someone who has freelanced for over 20 years, I would strongly recommend getting some work experience first. You need to understand what the job really involves, and university isn’t enough. Working in-house for a few years will also help you build connections and credibility.
When clients hire freelancers, they expect you to know what you’re doing. Starting with no experience can either lead to no work, or you getting in over your head.
This is so true. Also, freelancing isn’t just about your skills—business, finance, and communication are key too. Experience in those areas will make a huge difference.
Blake said:
As someone who has freelanced for over 20 years, I would strongly recommend getting some work experience first. You need to understand what the job really involves, and university isn’t enough. Working in-house for a few years will also help you build connections and credibility.
When clients hire freelancers, they expect you to know what you’re doing. Starting with no experience can either lead to no work, or you getting in over your head.
Great advice!
Companies hiring freelancers expect someone who can hit the ground running from day one. If you’re just out of school and haven’t even used tools like JIRA, they might regret hiring you.
Start with some side projects for friends or family, then build from there. Managing a project and running your own business at the same time is no joke.
Teo said:
I’m an IT student close to finishing up university, and I want to try freelancing instead of taking an office job. Does anyone have any tips for someone new to freelancing?
What are you even planning to offer people? Freelancing is just offering your skills to someone who needs them. You need to figure out what that connection is.
Teo said:
I’m an IT student close to finishing up university, and I want to try freelancing instead of taking an office job. Does anyone have any tips for someone new to freelancing?
Thanks for all the advice, there’s a lot to think about before jumping in.
Teo said:
I’m an IT student close to finishing up university, and I want to try freelancing instead of taking an office job. Does anyone have any tips for someone new to freelancing?
Thanks for all the advice, there’s a lot to think about before jumping in.
I’m in the same boat. Have you decided on anything? I’m curious.