Top 10 Traits of a Successful Freelancer (2024)

FAQs

What are the qualities of a freelancer? ›

All the skills you learn and develop over time add significant value to your price tag. These skills, what you know, plus an understanding of pricing theory, can lead to you becoming a very successful freelancer indeed.

No two freelancers or entrepreneurs are the same, but the best and most successful do share some similar characteristics. The ability to work hard, professionalism, communication skills, persistence, passion, self-discipline and initiative are some of the most important characteristics.

A freelancer is an independent contractor who earns wages on a per-job or per-task basis, typically for short-term work. Benefits of freelancing include the freedom to work from home or from a non-traditional workspace, a flexible work schedule, and a better work/life balance.

Soft skills like communication, thinking creatively, and teamwork all have their place in the work environment. Just because you are a solo professional doesn't mean you work alone. These are the best soft skills to learn as a freelancer.

What is the most difficult part about being a freelancer? ›

Disadvantage: You're totally responsible. Freelancing isn't a vacation. It's up to you to make sure you keep your clients happy, keep track of business expenses, seek new clients, and negotiate rates. Without the support of a traditional work structure, you may find staying organized and focused to be challenging.

Also, extroverts tend to excel in both verbal and nonverbal communication, which can be key for freelancers who are constantly looking to secure new clients and build relationships with existing ones.

Essentially, a freelance job is one where a person works for themselves, rather than for a company. While freelancers do take on contract work for companies and organizations, they are ultimately self-employed.

They include communication skills, working with and relating to others, problem-solving, applying initiative and IT skills. Having a good sense of humour and being a great person to work with goes a long way too. Your other skills are all the other skills, knowledge and hobbies you have.