Freelancing is a great way to sell your skills and also make some good money on the site. Freelancing isn’t completely passive income though – you need to work to make money. That being said, if you are freelancing online, it is a great way to get started in your field and be on the way towards more passive income streams. Also, freelancing can be a highly lucrative option, whether you are doing it full-time or part time.
So how do you break into the world of freelancing online? Let me be honest with you – it isn’t a piece of cake and it is definitely hard work. However, if you are prepared to provide your inputs, you should be able to get good returns on the time and effort that you put into it.
The first and easiest way to scout for good freelancing opportunities is through freelance marketplaces online. These are marketplaces that bring the buyer and seller together. They handle all aspects of payment between the buyer and seller and therefore very convenient to use. Two of the biggest online marketplaces are oDesk and Elance. It isn’t an easy choice between them though – they have their own pros and cons and you need to decide between oDesk and Elance.
The second way is to go through online jobs postings in your field. There are several places where such freelancing gigs are posted. For example, to find freelance writing gigs, you can go to boards like ProBlogger. This is dependent on what you want to do though – there are different places for web programmers, designers, and writers.
Although it might help to get your feet wet through the above methods, in the long run, you want to be on your own, so you can work on your own terms and charge clients what you really think your work is worth. This is easier said than done though. It is absolutely essential that you quickly build your own website where you showcase your samples and example work and promote this in various ways. You should have potential clients visiting your site and hiring you instead of you writing to them. That’s the hallmark of a successful freelancer and entrepreneur.
In conclusion, freelancing online for additional income isn’t hard but isn’t a piece of cake either. Yes, it is hard work but well worth the efforts in terms of money and experience. And remember to get started on your own sooner than later.
Sid is a freelance writer and blogger and his latest blog is GeeksMakeMoney.com
