What Sets Successful Freelancers Apart (It’s Not Talent or Experience)

Publication Date

May 23, 2025

Summary

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “not ready” or “not good enough” to make freelancing work – this post is your reminder that you don’t need to be the best

What Really Sets Successful Freelancers Apart

The most successful freelancers aren't the best writers. They aren't the most talented digital marketers. They don't have perfect stats or glowing testimonials.

Nope.

They are persistent.

They follow up quarterly with dream clients (with etiquette).
They ask for what they need and want to earn.
They do their best to be on time and require few edits.
They make their clients' lives easier.
Their personality shines in discovery calls – or they build efficient systems to work via email and forms.
They network.
They are patient as they build their network and trust that their hard work will pay off.
They truly believe they can make it work no matter what.
They pivot when something isn't working.
They ask for help when they need it.
They find community and mentors.
They stay open to learning and personal growth.

They even work on their inner blocks: money mindset, self-worth, emotional resilience.

The Honest Truth from My Own Journey

I'm not the best writer or digital marketer. I have ZERO formal education in this field and NO corporate experience.

But I make 2x more than the majority of freelancers who work with the same clients I do.

Why?

Because I charge what I need and want to make. Because I don’t work with clients who can’t afford that. Because I’m easy to work with. My work is on time, low-edit, and easy to collaborate on. My invoices are easy to pay (credit card and ACH FTW – thanks Novo!).

You Can Make Freelancing Work

You don't need to be the best.

If your brain is worried that:

your portfolio isn't up to snuff
you haven't had previous clients — who's going to trust you?
you can't charge more than $0.20/word because no one will hire you
you can't DM people until you've got a beautiful website

I'm here to tell you those are just excuses.

I had all those thoughts in my first few months (okay, years). But they didn’t stop me from getting clients or making money.

Yes, my portfolio could’ve used work. (It still could!) No, I didn’t have clout. But I still found people who wanted (and needed) my help.

I raised my rates slowly using my ooching method.

And once I got over my fear of DMing people on LinkedIn, I started getting so many leads I had to refer them out. I almost started an agency because of it.

I also made amazing friends through LinkedIn. Some of those DM threads are still going strong.

I Believe in You

You can get past your limiting beliefs and self-doubt. You never needed to be the best.

You just need to try.

FAQ: Believing in Yourself as a Freelancer

Do I need a perfect portfolio to get started as a freelancer?

Nope. A few clear, relevant samples are enough to get your first clients. Update as you go.

Can I charge higher rates if I’m new?

Yes – if you deliver value and communicate clearly. Rate = skill + value + (transferrable) experience.

What if I don’t have any experience?

You can create portfolio samples or do 1–2 beta projects. What matters most is showing your skills.

Is networking really that important?

Yes! People hire people they know, like, and trust. Relationships are your greatest asset.

Here’s my guide to networking as a freelancer →

How do I get over the fear of reaching out?

Start small. DM someone with a compliment. Offer help. Remind yourself that you're here to serve, not to sell.

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