Freelance jobs: What you need to know

by Amber Rolfe

Thinking of going freelance? 

Whether you’re looking for a job with flexible working hours, you want something with more variety, or you’re just really interested in pursuing a passion you haven’t been able to utilise in your current role – freelancing is a great way to break out of the 9-5 and go it alone.

To give you and insight of what freelancing is all about, here are a few things you should know:

What is freelance work?

Freelance work is a type of self-employment that’s carried out on a flexible basis for various businesses. Unlike traditional employment, you’re not tied to one employer. Instead, you work on projects for multiple clients, choosing what suits your skills and schedule.

Freelancers tackle projects both big and small, short-term and long-term. Tasks could include building a website, designing a logo, writing blog posts, or shooting and editing videos. 

How does freelancing work?

Getting started is straightforward. Employers typically post jobs or projects on freelance sites. You then reach out, explaining why your skills make you perfect for the gig and stating your rate.

From there, employers review proposals, select the best fit, and agree on how and when the work gets done. Once you deliver to the required standard, you get paid. 

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Can I do freelance work online?

Absolutely. In fact, most freelance work happens online these days. 

Whether you’re a graphic designer in Glasgow or a content writer in Cardiff, you can work with clients anywhere in the world without leaving your home office (or kitchen table).

All you need is a reliable internet connection, the right tools for your trade, and a solid portfolio to showcase your work.

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Best freelance jobs

Freelance opportunities exist across almost every industry. Here are some of the most popular freelance roles:

• Freelance WordPress developer jobs. If you’re good with WordPress, there’s plenty of work out there. Businesses need help building sites, fixing bugs, and customising themes.
• Freelance graphic design jobs. Got an eye for design? Companies constantly need logos, marketing materials, social media graphics, and more. Check out graphic design courses if you want to sharpen your skills.
• Freelance writing jobs. From blog posts to whitepapers, content writing jobs are in high demand. If you can string a sentence together (and you’re reading this, so you probably can), freelance writing could be your thing. Consider a copywriting course to boost your credentials.
• Freelance marketing jobs. Marketing professionals can find freelance work managing social media, running ad campaigns, or developing marketing strategies for businesses of all sizes.
• Freelance web developer jobs. Beyond WordPress, businesses need custom-built websites and web applications. If coding’s your forte, freelance web development offers solid earning potential.
• Remote personal assistant jobs. Organised and good at juggling tasks? Virtual PA roles involve managing schedules, handling emails, and keeping busy professionals on track.
• Freelance data entry jobs. Data entry work is steady and doesn’t require specialist skills. Perfect if you’re just starting out or need flexible hours.
• Freelance IT jobs. Tech support, network management, cyber security – IT freelancers keep businesses running smoothly without the need for full-time hires.
• Freelance typing jobs. Fast and accurate typist? Transcription work converts audio files into written documents. It’s straightforward work that pays by the word or hour.

Other popular freelance roles include photography, videography, bookkeeping, translation, virtual tutoring, and consulting across various industries.

Browse all freelance jobs

What are the benefits of working freelance?

Freelancing comes with some serious perks:

• You’re in control. Pick the projects you want, work when you want, and ditch the commute. Fancy working at 2am in your pyjamas? Go for it.
• Variety keeps things interesting. No two days (or clients) are the same. You’ll build diverse skills and avoid the monotony of doing the same thing every day.
• It’s accessible. Starting up is quick and affordable. No office or massive investment required – just your skills and a laptop.
• Flexibility fits your life. Whether you’re a student, parent, between jobs, or pursuing a passion project, freelancing adapts to your circumstances.

That said, it’s not all perks. You’ll also need self-discipline, the ability to handle feast-or-famine income cycles, and enough self-motivation to power through when Netflix is calling your name.

How much do freelancers get paid?

Freelancers typically charge hourly or at a fixed project rate. You set your own rates based on your skills, experience, the project’s complexity, and how quickly you need to deliver.

In terms of how much you’ll actually get paid? It varies. A junior freelance writer might charge £20-30 per hour, while an experienced web developer could command £50-100+ per hour. Fixed-rate projects offer more predictability but require accurate time estimation to avoid underselling yourself.

Remember, your rate needs to cover not just your time but also overheads like software subscriptions, taxes, and the gaps between projects. And yes, rates are negotiable – just know your worth and stick to it.

Use our salary checker to get an idea of typical rates in your field.

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What do I need to become a freelancer?

Skills and motivation top the list. You’ll need solid expertise in your chosen field, but beyond that, freelancing requires:

• Self-motivation and discipline. No boss means no one’s checking you’re actually working – so you’ve got to do that yourself.
• Communication skills. You’ll pitch to clients, negotiate terms, and manage expectations. Being personable and responsive wins repeat business.
• Adaptability. When freelancing, clients needing changes and shifting deadlines is part of the job.  
• A strong portfolio. Potential clients want to see what you can do, so collect your best work and present it professionally. If you’re just starting out, consider doing a few projects at reduced rates (or even free) to build up examples.

Qualifications may be preferred, but this will depend entirely on your line of work, and the employer’s needs. For example, if you’re looking to become a freelance writer, you could consider a copywriting course, whereas freelance designers may benefit from a graphic design qualification.

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How to find freelance work

Ready to start searching for freelance work? Here’s how to do it:

Browse the best freelance sites

Reed.co.uk lists thousands of freelance jobs across all sectors. Beyond that, dedicated freelance platforms connect you directly with clients:

• Upwork: One of the biggest platforms, covering everything from writing to web development.
• Freelancer: Post bids on projects across hundreds of categories.
• PeoplePerHour: Popular in the UK, focusing on short-term and hourly projects.
• Fiverr: Great for beginners. List your services and let clients come to you.

Create profiles on multiple sites to maximise your chances. Each platform has its quirks, so experiment to see what works best.

Network like your career depends on it (because it does)

Spread the word that you’re freelancing. Tell friends, family, former colleagues. Join LinkedIn groups. Attend industry events. You never know who might need your services or can recommend you to someone who does.

Build your online presence

A simple website showcasing your portfolio can work wonders. Add testimonials, list your services, and make it easy for potential clients to contact you. Active social media profiles (especially LinkedIn) help too.

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Tips for starting a freelance career

Starting out? Here’s how to stack the odds in your favour:

• Choose a craft that’s in demand. Love what you do, but make sure others are willing to pay for it. Research which skills are needed right now and where the gaps are.
• Build a reputable brand. Even as a solo act, you’re a brand. Create a professional online presence through a website, social media, and freelance platforms.
• Put together a killer portfolio. Your previous work speaks volumes. Select your best projects and present them well. Quality beats quantity every time.
• Take a course. Not confident in your skills? Online courses can help you develop expertise, build your portfolio, and show potential clients you’re serious about your craft.
• Pitch properly. Tailor every proposal to the specific job, and show you understand the client’s needs and explain how your skills solve their problems.
• Set clear boundaries. Decide your working hours, rates, and the types of projects you’ll take on. It’s easier to stick to boundaries when you’ve defined them upfront.
• Keep your finances in order. Track income and expenses meticulously. Set aside money for tax, and consider getting an accountant if numbers aren’t your thing. Check out self-employment advice for more financial tips.
• Stay professional. Meet deadlines. Communicate clearly. Deliver quality work. Happy clients come back and recommend you to others.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register as self-employed?

Yes. Once you start earning money from freelancing, you need to register with HMRC as self-employed. You’ll need to file a Self Assessment tax return each year. 

Can I freelance while working a full-time job?

Absolutely. Many people start freelancing as a side hustle. Just check your employment contract for any restrictions, and be prepared for some long evenings and weekends. Also, remember you’ll pay tax on your freelance earnings – find out more about second job tax.

How do I find my first client?

Start with your network. Let everyone know you’re freelancing. Join relevant online communities and freelance platforms. Consider offering a reduced rate for your first few projects to build testimonials and portfolio pieces.

What if a client doesn’t pay?

Prevention is better than cure. Use contracts that clearly state payment terms. Request deposits for larger projects. If non-payment happens, chase politely but firmly. Most freelance platforms have dispute resolution processes. For direct clients, small claims court is an option for unpaid invoices.

How much should I charge?

Research typical rates in your industry and factor in your experience level. Don’t undervalue yourself, but be realistic when starting out. Remember to account for taxes, overheads, and time spent on admin when setting your rates.

Is freelancing stable?

Freelancing can feel like a rollercoaster – busy one month, quiet the next. Building a solid client base and diversifying your income streams helps smooth out the bumps. Many freelancers maintain a few regular clients while taking on one-off projects.

What about benefits like sick pay and holiday?

You won’t get them. As a freelancer, you need to budget for time off and emergencies. Build a financial buffer for quieter periods or when you need a break. It’s one of the trade-offs for flexibility.

Ready to start freelancing? View all available jobs now