Thinking About Freelancing? These 3 Tips Will Set You Up for Success

Publication Date

July 10, 2023

Summary

TL;DR—let’s break down the three most important things Ash recommends doing before you go full-time freelance

Tip 1: Find Role Models

The best way to learn how to freelance? Watch someone who’s already doing it.

Freelancing doesn’t come with a rulebook. So having a few people in your orbit who are already navigating this world can be hugely helpful.

How to do it:

Follow a few freelancers on Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn
Ask your friends and family if they know anyone freelancing—then reach out
Join a free or paid community like a Facebook group, Discord, or private membership
Listen to podcasts hosted by freelancers (like The Guidebook)

Why it matters:

These folks can answer your questions, help you avoid common pitfalls, and remind you that you don’t have to figure this all out alone.

Tip 2: Start Networking Right Away

You don’t have to wait until your website is done, your packages are perfect, or you’ve picked a niche. Start meeting people now.

Networking doesn’t have to be sleazy or salesy. It’s just about building genuine relationships that can support you—personally and professionally—once you’re up and running.

Tools to try:

LinkedIn: Start following people, leaving comments, and sending friendly connection requests
Freelance-friendly groups or communities
My LinkedIn templates if you want help showing up confidently (and professionally) from day one

Bonus tip:

Treat networking like a long game. Relationships take time—but they often become the key to consistent referrals, collabs, and clients later.

Tip 3: Seek Radically Candid Freelancers

Freelancing isn’t a cakewalk—and the people who pretend it is? Not the ones you want advice from.

Look for the folks who tell the truth. Who admit they’ve messed up, hit burnout, taken bad clients, or ghosted a deadline once (or twice). These are the freelancers who’ll give you advice rooted in real experience—not glossy highlight reels.

Why this matters:

You’ll feel less alone. And you’ll get way better, more nuanced advice from people who’ve made mistakes and kept going.

Try This: A Tool for Breaking Down Big Tasks

Feeling overwhelmed? Struggle with executive functioning? Wish your to-do list didn’t feel like a guilt trap?

Try this:

A tool I saw on TikTok (not sponsored!) that breaks big projects into bite-sized steps. It’s helped me do everything from writing an e-book to finally cleaning my kitchen without crying.

Whether you’re working through your first client project or trying to get a freelance portfolio together, this method might be a game-changer.

FAQ’s About Starting a Freelance Writing Business

What’s the best way to start freelancing if I have no experience?

Start by finding role models, doing some networking, and offering your services at a beginner-friendly rate to build your portfolio. Listen to podcasts like The Guidebook for real-world advice.

Do I need to have a niche to start freelancing?

Not at first. Many freelancers discover their niche through experience. Start general, then niche down based on what lights you up (and what people are willing to pay for).

How important is networking for freelancers?

Networking is one of the most powerful tools in your freelance toolkit. It leads to referrals, collaborations, and support—and you can start building relationships before you're “ready.”

Where can I meet other freelancers?

Try LinkedIn, Facebook groups, Discord servers, or paid communities. You can also connect with freelancers through content platforms like Substack, Instagram, or your favorite podcasts.

What’s a good mindset to have when starting out?

Stay curious. Know that freelancing is a long game. You’ll learn as you go, and that’s part of the process. Don’t wait until you feel “ready”—start now, and adjust as you learn.

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