Considering branching out as a freelancer? Wondering how to get a freelance job? Statistical data shows that Africa accounts for 10.1% of all freelancers globally, despite being the world’s second-most populous continent. Africa has immense potential yet to be explored.
Freelancing provides the opportunity to work on projects you have always desired with diverse teams across the world with the freedom to choose and decide how you work. The earning possibilities you have as a freelancer is unlimited. Unlike traditional jobs, where you have a fixed monthly salary, you can set and negotiate your work rates and earn higher as you move up the ladder to become a top freelancer.
What does it take to stand out? Being a top freelancer signifies that you as a talent, have a successful history of consistency and quality. In this article, you will learn the step-by-step guide on how to be a top-rated freelancer.
Top industries for freelancers
Fintech and Logistics are the biggest sectors in Africa, accounting for around 38% share of all sectors in the economy. Smart remote work directly translates into efficient results. In a survey done by researchers, it was noted that 232 out of 657 companies offered job opportunities in sales and marketing. Skilled professionals are wise to explore these verticals for freelance work.
Below are some of the most popular freelancing jobs in 2022, you may consider:
- Software development
- Design
- Writer
- Digital marketing
- Project management
- Web/mobile development
- Product Management
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
9 Tips for Becoming a Top Freelancer
The journey to becoming a top freelancer includes many parts, but we will focus on the most important three below:
- Hard skills
- Soft Skills
- Client relations
1. Upskill on the latest hard skills
2. Refine your soft skills
3. Put your customer first
Your client remains the most important factor in any business relationship. Keeping your client top-of-mind and aiming to serve the customer to the best of your capabilities will guide smart decision-making. From the very first interaction to the delivery of the final product.
4. Be an expert problem-solver
5. Work solo, cooperate with a team
6. Communicate early and often
7. Be open to critique
8. Flex your flexibility muscles
9. Hold yourself accountable, and let others
Closing Thoughts: Find a Trusted Freelance Platform
Gebeya is an online freelance talent marketplace for the Best of African Talent. Top companies across the globe are matched to a multicultural, multilingual talent pool of freelancers who are dedicated, professional and highly tested and trusted. Quality matters most when we talk about working in the freelance industry; quantity shouldn’t be a concern. Nevertheless, there persists a large need for skilled freelancers all around the globe. Gebeya aims to solve this demand problem by leveraging professionals for companies in need.
The marketplace is home to hundreds of skilled professionals working in freelance roles. Companies across the globe are facing the need for such talent. Growing nations in Africa prioritizing digital transformation must make use of such an opportunity.