7 Habits of Successful Freelancers
March 24, 2009 by Jen Nipps · 15 Comments 
Ads abound saying you can make a six-figure annual income by freelancing. Some go so far as to say you don’t have to do much work. Others are more honest and admit it will take work.
One thing is true: Freelancers, successful or not, have habits. Whether you believe the ads or not, there are seven common habits of successful freelancers.
1. They analyze their market. Successful freelancers make themselves aware of popular trends, their competition, and the going rate for similar services in their geographical area and area of expertise. For writers, this includes studying magazines and finding guidelines. For graphic designers, it can mean knowing what colors are hot for the current season. They know what their clients — actual and potential — are looking for.
2. They do their best. Much of a freelancer’s reputation is based on word of mouth (or e-mail). One who consistently turns in sub-par work will soon find themselves out of work. Those who do good work and do their best can receive referrals for still more work.
3. They know the “rules.” Sometimes successful freelancers break the rules, but they know what the rules are, which ones they are breaking, and why when they do. They also don’t do it all the time but do allow themselves to do it for special cases.
4. They do what they love. There is a saying: “Do what you love and the money will come.” They love some element of what they do or they wouldn’t do it. Why make yourself do something you absolutely hate every day? Successful freelancers do what they love, at least part of the time.
5. They continue to improve their skills. Technology continues to change. A web designer who continues to use only basic HTML to code sites is outdated and obsolete. So is the graphics designer who uses Adobe Photoshop 3. Taking courses through an Internet class or a local college/university public service program helps freelancers stay current and viable.
6. They reinvest money in their business. By all means, pay yourself. Why would you be working as a freelancer if you weren’t getting paid? Some reinvestment back into your freelance business is necessary, though. Office supplies need to be replenished, dues to professional organizations need to be paid, upgrade your computer or buy a new scanner. All of this constitutes reinvestment.
7. They diversify. There’s another saying: “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” Relying on one client for the majority of your freelance income could spell trouble if they decide to change freelancers, decide to do things in-house, or go out of business. Successful freelancers have a variety of clients and projects so they’re not relying on one client or type of work in particular to sustain them.
There are many other freelance habits. What habits have you developed to spur your freelance business towards success?
Networking. You have to spend a hunk of time networking.
Helping others. Not for a return, but because it’s the right thing to do to pay it forward.
And chocolate. There must be chocolate.
Netta, you are certainly right. (Especially about the chocolate. *s*) There were a few more things than what I listed here, but I had to make some choices as to what to include.
Best,
~Jen
Yes, definitely habits successful freelancers have. I’d venture forth time management skills as well.
I especially like #4. You’re not going to succeed in a highly self-motivated freelancing world if you don’t like what you do.
Great article, Jen! It’s hard to believe but I knew someone who said she made at least a thousand each and every month and that’s what she used to pay her mortgage…hard to believe, but I had no reason to doubt her.
Successful freelancers treat what they do as a business llike any other, not just a fun thing, even though it can be fun also.
Morgan Mandel
http://morganmandel.blogspot.com
oh, great! now i know how to be a good freelancer ^_^!!
Great article!!
Hiya Jen,
Great post. I would say time management and networking are very important. And you can’t forget the chocolate. LOL.
Thanks for your comments, everyone! Who knows? There might eventually be a follow-up with more habits of successful freelancers.
Best,
~Jen
Very Nice.
I wish to be so creative.
this makes for very interesting reading. I have to agree with 4. They do what they love. I can’t stress how much you have to enjoy freelancing and designing for whichever media you are involved in. I have been a web designer for only nine months and I absolutely love what I do. Everyday there is something new to learn I can never see that ending.
What about: 8. Have regular breaks! this is key to keeping your designs fresh and not overworking yourself!!!
All the best, Gaz.
Nice post, i would also add 8th step, being unique, although websites tend to follow certain rules and layouts, certain web-designers have there own flair and style.
* Good communication skills are important – learn how to listen to your clients, then follow through appropriately.
* Don’t be a flake – if you say you’re going to do something, do it.
* Be on time for meetings – in person or on the phone.
* Treat others the way you want to be treated.
* Be honest.
You all have wonderful additions. Thank you for sharing them here!
Best,
~Jen
Good tips thanks.