Freelance Work: What Is It and How Do I Start? | Built In

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the job market, automating routine work and contributing to an ongoing shortage of white-collar jobs — specifically those at the entry-level. Yet, at the same time, it’s also fueling demand for freelancers.

According to a recent survey, there’s been a 130 percent increase in tech-related freelancing — a surge largely driven by mass layoffs and overseas contracting. Despite global outsourcing trends, many organizations still prefer U.S.-based freelancers for highly skilled positions. And this growth shows no signs of slowing down. The number of freelancers in the United States is projected to exceed 90 million by 2028, with some of the most in-demand roles spanning AI and machine learning, cybersecurity, software engineering, web development, cloud infrastructure and data science.

For professionals navigating an AI-disrupted job market, freelancing is becoming less of a fallback option and more of a strategic career path. Here are some ways to establish and maintain your freelancing career.

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How to Get Started Freelancing

To become a freelancer, you must pinpoint exactly what you want to offer and how you’re going to sell it. Instead of trying to be a jack of all trades, focus on skills you already have and how you can use them to solve problems for others. For some, this might be graphic design or copy writing, for others it might be software development or AI strategy consulting.

Once you know your cover services, the next step is packaging it. This means creating a digital portfolio to show off your work or setting up tools like proposals or contracts that outline your process for working with clients. 

Next comes the hardest part: finding your first customers. Here are some paths you can take to find clients: 

• Direct outreach: Identify companies that employ freelancers or who could benefit from your services. After compiling a list, pitch them directly. This can be a simple but personalized email explaining how your services can solve a problem for them. 
• Networking: Leverage old connections and other opportunities like local meet ups and social media to inform others of your work. Sometimes, you may find opportunities through your network or word of mouth connections. 
• Job boards: There are a number of websites that focus on listing freelancing roles. It’s a good idea to check them regularly to find new gigs. 
• Freelance platforms: Sites like Fiverr or Upwork can be a great way to find work and build experience as a new freelancer. 

Finally, be prepared to expand your skill set and adjust your strategy. Freelancing is about honing your skills and putting them in front of the right people. But it’s also good to test the market and determine if there is demand for your services and what people are willing to pay.

Benefits of Freelancing

Freelancing comes with several benefits. These are just some of them: 

• Work-Life Balance: As a freelancer, you can set your own schedule, choosing the hours you work and the location you work in. This can be particularly appealing to individuals who prefer working from home or other remote locations.
• More Autonomy: Freelancing enables you to work with companies or projects that align with your interests. It also gives you the flexibility to decline certain work.
• Unlimited Earning Potential: As a freelancer, you can set your own rates and work with multiple clients at one time. These two factors put you in control of how much you can earn, not a specific employer.

Potential Drawbacks of Freelancing

While freelancing might sound lucrative, these are some considerations to think about before making the jump. 

• Income Instability: Freelancers are not salaried employees and as such do not receive a steady paycheck. Their income is dependent on the work they produce for their contracted time, meaning that their income can fluctuate if they lose work or take on fewer projects.  
• Lack of Benefits: As independent contractors, employers do not provide freelancers with health and retirement benefits. Freelancers are also expected to provide their own equipment and tools to complete their projects.
• Tax Management: Many freelancers work as 1099 contractors or self employed individuals. This employment distinction means that employers do not withhold taxes from their pay, and as such freelancers are required to pay estimated quarterly taxes.

How Do You Build a Successful Freelance Career?

The key to a successful freelancing career is to package what you already know into a format that people want. Whether it’s a specialized service, an e-book, a series of online courses or even in-person workshops, you have to figure out which setup works best for you. The goal is to meet demand with something clearly defined and easy for clients to understand.

Beyond skill delivery, freelancers also need to establish a professional presence. A portfolio site, social media profiles and a consistent personal brand signal credibility, making it easier for potential clients to get to know you and evaluate your work. Networking is equally important — many freelancers find their earliest projects through referrals, former colleagues or even friends of friends. Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork and LinkedIn can also be effective ways to find work.  

To sustain a successful freelancing career, it’s important to treat it like a business. That means setting a fair rate, managing your taxes and building processes that effectively balance workload with your personal life. Over time, diversifying your income streams can reduce risk and help you grow.

By combining marketable expertise, maintaining a visible presence and having a solid business strategy, freelancers can have a career that is both flexible and resilient.