Freelancing in Digital: Advice from Those Doing It
When we were invited to speak at Sheffield College’s Digital Employability Day, we were asked to share advice on working as a freelancer.
Rather than answer it alone, we did something better.
We asked the people who actually do it.
We’re lucky to work with an extended network of talented freelancers across design, development, UX, content and strategy. So we asked them one simple question:
"What’s the one piece of advice you’d give someone considering freelancing as a career?"
Here’s what came back.
It’s about people (more than you think)
If there was one clear theme, it was this: freelancing runs on relationships.
Jilly put it simply:
“Who you know is super important. 90% of our work comes from personal connections and referrals.”
Kevin echoed that:
“Talk to anyone and everyone about what you can do. You never know who is a potential customer.”
And Emma added:
“I have rarely needed to interview for a job since I started freelancing because I’ve always been recommended.”
Freelancing isn’t just about being good at what you do. It’s about being known for it.
Soft skills win work
Michał shared something we see play out time and again:
“Focus on soft skills just as much (if not more!) than technical skills. Being reliable, respectful and positive will land you more work than just being brilliant.”
In digital, technical ability gets you in the room.
How you communicate, collaborate and show up determines whether you get invited back.
Find your community
Louise highlighted something people often overlook:
“Networking with your peers is not to be overlooked. Other freelancers aren’t just competition - they’re collaborators, sounding boards and support.”
Freelancing can feel solitary if you let it.
But when you build a community around you:
- You learn faster
- You share opportunities
- You collaborate on bigger projects
- You make it less lonely
And when you’re established? Give back. Help the next wave.
Be good at business, not just your craft
Ruth gave the most practical advice in the room:
“A good accountant. In all seriousness - know your numbers.”
Emma reinforced it:
“Always put aside money for your tax!”
Freelancing means running a business. That means:
- Understanding pricing
- Managing cash flow
- Planning for tax
- Building a pipeline
Creative freedom is powerful. Financial literacy makes it sustainable.
Say yes. But also learn to say no.
There was also advice around mindset.
From trying things out and getting connected, to Aga’s reminder:
- Failures are normal
- Be responsible for what you agree to
- Learn to say no
Early on, saying “yes” builds experience and momentum.
Long-term, saying “no” protects your energy and your standards.
Build before you bill
One important reality check: Don’t expect to dive straight in at senior freelance rates.
Build your portfolio. Showcase real work. Demonstrate value.
Freelance isn’t a shortcut - it’s earned credibility.
Final thought for students considering freelancing
Freelancing isn’t just a job model. It’s:
- A network
- A reputation
- A mindset
- A long game
And perhaps the biggest takeaway from our network?
Your career will grow through people as much as through projects.
If you’re starting out - get connected. Show up. Care about your work. Care about people.
The rest builds from there.
