If you decide to build a career as a freelancer, you need to prepare yourself for the obstacles - there are many of those. However, one of the biggest challenges to overcome is the one related to choosing a preferred niche. Should you choose a more tech-oriented niche or do you prefer to work in a more creative environment, like marketing or design?
It can be an overwhelming decision, just like the editors at Brybe Marketplace explain in their detailed guide for beginners freelancers.
Here's how you can choose the right freelance niche for you.
1. What Kind Of Work Do You Enjoy The Most?
Before you start creating profiles on all the popular freelance platforms, take some time to reflect on yourself and your work.
Ask yourself - what do I enjoy doing the most? Does writing come naturally to me?
Do I prefer to draw things in my notebook? Or do I enjoy mathematics more?
The possibilities are endless, but you need to make a choice. Also, if you want to become a freelancer, you need to prepare yourself for countless hours in front of your laptop. If that's not something you wish for yourself, then freelancing might not be the right choice for you.
But, think about your preferred choices and start going in that direction.
2. How Do I Like My Current Job?
This is a much broader question, so we'll split it up into different parts.
There are different aspects of a job - the job itself, personal satisfaction, a sense of fulfillment, salary, a relationship with colleagues, and a relationship with your employer. People usually jog between these multiple aspects, trying to find the one that works the best for them.
So, for example, if working in a team is an important part of your job, would you be able to do the same job if you were working alone? Not that the freelance life is a life of a loner, but many freelancers work alone. They're hired per project, and usually, they aren't involved in other processes of the company. Of course, this isn't a static rule, it's just common practice. However, if you're the type of person who likes working with people, you need to take that into account when looking for a freelance gig. Look for companies who rely on teamwork and business founders who invest in team culture.
On the other hand, if you're satisfied with your salary, are you willing to work for less until you build up your freelance portfolio? This might be a bummer for many upcoming freelancers, especially the ones who are used to a fixed income. However, if you're determined to succeed as a freelancer, have savings on the side and start your journey.
3. Who Can I Already Reach?
Think about your current job - is there anyone you can talk to that can help you enter the freelance world? If you're working as a developer, the transition from a full-time employee to a freelancer can be quite easy. If you're working as a marketer, you can reach out to former colleagues and let them know about your future plans, see how they can help you.
Think outside of the box - that kind of thinking is always beneficial in the world of freelancers.
This is how you'll end up choosing the right freelance niche for you. When you'll feel ready, you can visit Brybe Marketplace, create your profile, and start to work on your freelance career.