How to Start Working as a Freelancer with Little Experience
Starting a new chapter in midlife is both exhilarating and intimidating. If you’re in your late 30s, 40s, or beyond and considering freelancing, you’re not alone. Many of us reach a point where we crave flexibility, control, and work that genuinely aligns with our values. Freelancing can offer all that and more, but getting started—especially with little to no experience—can feel like a major hurdle.
The good news? You don’t need years of experience to start building a freelance career. With the right strategy, a willingness to learn, and some patience, you can gain clients and create a thriving portfolio, even if you’re brand new to freelancing. Here’s a guide to help you kick-start your freelance journey from the ground up.
Step 1: Identify Your Marketable Skills
The first step in building a freelance career is identifying what skills you already have that can be valuable to clients. Often, people overlook skills they’ve built over years in traditional jobs because they seem “ordinary.” However, skills like project management, writing, data entry, customer service, graphic design, or social media management are in high demand. And the best part? You probably already have experience in one or more of these areas.
Tip: Make a list of everything you’re good at, including soft skills like communication, time management, and problem-solving. Once you have your list, identify the top skills that businesses and individuals might need help with—this is where your freelancing focus should begin.
Step 2: Build a Portfolio Without Client Work
One of the biggest challenges for new freelancers is creating a portfolio that showcases their abilities when they don’t have any paid projects under their belt. Fortunately, there are ways to build a strong portfolio without having actual client experience.
Here are some ideas to get started:
Create Sample Projects: Think about projects that you could realistically complete for a client, and do them as if they were real assignments. If you’re interested in freelance writing, write a few blog posts or articles. If graphic design is your focus, create sample logos, social media graphics, or business cards.
Offer Pro Bono Work: If you’re comfortable, consider doing a few free or discounted projects for friends, family, or small businesses. This allows you to gain real experience, build your portfolio, and potentially receive testimonials—all without the pressure of paid work.
Use Portfolio Platforms: Sites like Behance (for creatives) or Medium (for writers) allow you to publish your work online, even if it wasn’t created for a client. Having these samples ready can show potential clients what you’re capable of.
Tip: Keep your portfolio focused and relevant. Showcase only your best work and make it easy for clients to see the value you can bring to their projects.
Step 3: Start Small and Local
When you’re just starting out, it’s best to start with smaller, manageable projects rather than trying to land large, complex gigs. Smaller projects allow you to build confidence, gain positive feedback, and improve your skills in a low-stakes setting. And don’t overlook your local network! You’d be surprised how many people in your community could benefit from a freelance professional, whether it’s for content writing, design, social media, or administrative help.
Reach Out Locally: Small businesses, local charities, and even individual entrepreneurs in your area may need your services but don’t know where to look. A quick email or friendly message explaining your services can open doors. Many clients prefer working with someone local whom they can meet face-to-face.
Leverage Online Platforms for Short Gigs: Sites like Fiverr and Upwork are excellent for starting with bite-sized projects that are simpler to complete. These platforms allow you to get client experience, build positive reviews, and work at your own pace.
Step 4: Leverage Your Network and Social Media
Your personal and professional networks are valuable resources when starting a freelance career. Let people know that you’re available for freelance work, and don’t be shy about sharing the types of projects you’re interested in. LinkedIn is an especially powerful tool, as it allows you to showcase your skills, post your portfolio, and connect with potential clients.
Here’s how to make the most of your network:
Update Your LinkedIn Profile: Make sure your LinkedIn profile highlights your freelancing goals. Add a section describing your services, showcase relevant work, and consider posting about your journey as you build your freelancing career. This positions you as someone ready to take on projects, even if you’re new to freelancing.
Post on Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter to share samples of your work, project updates, or insights related to your skills. You don’t need to “sell” constantly—just showing what you do can attract interest from those who may need your skills or know someone who does.
Ask for Referrals: Once you complete a project for a client, don’t hesitate to ask for a referral or testimonial. Word-of-mouth recommendations are incredibly valuable for new freelancers and can open doors to future opportunities.
Step 5: Hone Your Skills and Keep Learning
Freelancing is a constantly evolving field, and staying competitive means keeping your skills sharp. Identify areas where you could improve or learn something new that would make you more valuable to clients.
Here are some ways to expand your skills and stay current:
Take Online Courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning offer affordable courses in a wide range of skills, from design to marketing to project management.
Follow Industry Leaders: Subscribe to newsletters, read blogs, and follow experts in your field. Staying informed about industry trends helps you understand what clients might be looking for and allows you to position yourself accordingly.
Invest in Tools and Software: As you grow, investing in industry-standard tools can improve your efficiency and quality. For example, if you’re a designer, software like Adobe Creative Cloud may be beneficial, while writers might invest in grammar-checking tools or content management software.
Step 6: Set Clear Goals and Build Confidence Over Time
Starting out, you may feel uncertain about your abilities or worry about landing clients. That’s perfectly normal. Remember that freelancing is a journey, and each project you complete builds your confidence and skill set. Set small, achievable goals to keep yourself motivated, whether it’s completing three projects this month or gaining one new client.
Tip: Confidence grows through action. By setting and reaching small goals, you’ll develop a sense of momentum and purpose that will fuel you to take on larger projects and aim for higher rates.
Ready to Take the Leap?
Freelancing is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to make a career shift or add additional income, especially later in life. With the right approach, a little persistence, and a willingness to learn, you can build a portfolio and gain clients—even if you’re just starting out. Remember that everyone starts somewhere, and the key to a successful freelance journey is taking small, consistent steps forward.
I hope these tips have sparked some ideas on how to get started. Whether freelancing becomes your full-time pursuit or a side hustle, it’s a rewarding path that lets you take control of your career, work on projects you enjoy, and bring your unique skills to a new audience.
Here’s to new beginnings and embracing change,
Lala
