Freelancing as a student - How to start freelancing while still in college

01 August, 2024

The freelance job market in India, valued at $7.3 billion in 2021, is projected to grow to $50.4 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.1% between 2022 and 2032*.

India stands out as a rapidly expanding freelance market globally, providing students with attractive earning possibilities while pursuing their studies.

What is freelancing?

Freelancing involves individuals independently handling assignments for clients on a project-by-project basis without a long-term commitment. In contrast to traditional jobs, freelancers enjoy the freedom to select projects, create their own work schedules, and work from anywhere. This independence grants them diverse work opportunities across different industries and skill sets.

Did you know? 60% of Indian freelancers are under the age of 30 years! *

Why freelancing?

1. Helps gain work experience through real-world projects which can help professionally in the future.

2. Great way to earn while still studying. It offers financial freedom by reducing dependency on parents and covers personal expenses or college fees for many.

3. Engaging in freelancing can enhance students' financial literacy by teaching them how to manage earnings, create budgets, track expenses, invoice clients, deal with taxes, and save for the future. This experience nurtures practical money management skills for the real world.

4. Helps build job-focused skills such as client management, communication, negotiation, time management, etc.

5. Helps build professional portfolio and a valuable network of professional contacts.

In this blog, let’s explore how to begin freelancing as a student and a few tips for success.

How to begin freelancing?

Outline your goals: The primary step is to understand the purpose of starting this freelancing journey. Ask yourself, why you, as a student, are venturing into freelancing - Do you aim to earn a certain income, acquire experience in a specific area, or develop a portfolio? Clear goals will direct your actions and provide motivation.

Identify your key strengths: As the next step, focus on your key strengths. Whether self-taught, from hobbies, or previous jobs, these standout skills will help focus on the right opportunities.

Create a portfolio: A portfolio is a curated collection of your skills and past works to attract clients.

1. Compile your portfolio by gathering your college assignments and independent hobby projects to demonstrate your skills effectively.

2. Consider offering services at reasonable rates, charging minimally, or even providing them for free initially to explore the market and acquire valuable experience.

3. Also, creating potential client profiles will help you understand target customers and design a plan to reach out to them.

Choose the right platforms: Select freelance platforms that –

1. Align with your skill set
2. Offer diverse projects
3. Are replete with positive user reviews
4. Are user-friendly
5. Assess the platform's credibility, payment security measures, and available support services.
6. Compare fees, job categories, and client demographics to choose the best platform that fits your freelancing requirements.

Set your price points: When freelancing as a student, it's vital to set rates that align with the current market.

1. Analyse competitors, research market rates and set competitive prices.

2. As a beginner, it's advisable to begin with lower rates to draw in clients and then raise it gradually as you accumulate experience and establish your reputation.

Connect with potential customers: Networking plays a crucial role in the success of freelancers. After preparing your profile, focus on promoting your services.

1. Utilise social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to showcase your freelance offerings.

2. Engage with relevant groups and forums to reach out to potential clients.

3. Explore opportunities within your college network.

4. Engage with online communities and connect with industry experts to expand your network.

Start submitting your proposals: After setting up your profile, craft a tailored proposal for each project requirement. You can emphasise how your expertise aligns with the client’s needs. Learn to stay patient, as landing your first assignment may sometimes take time! Additionally, be prepared for rejections and learn to hone your skills to suit the requirements going forward.

Manage and optimise your time: Balancing freelancing with academic obligations necessitates efficient time management.

1. Develop a timetable that designates dedicated hours for freelancing while also allowing ample time for studying and class attendance.

2. Utilise tools such as calendars and task management applications

3. Adhere to your schedule and steer clear of distractions to maintain high productivity.

Strive for consistent high-quality work to build a positive reputation and foster repeat business.

Ask for reviews and refine your work: Always ask clients for their feedback. Constructive criticism helps you refine your skills, while positive testimonials boost portfolios and attract new clients. To succeed in the dynamic freelance market, continuously learn new skills and stay updated on the industry trends through online courses, workshops, and relevant blogs.

Conclusion

Freelancing is an excellent entry point into the professional world. Even if you're just starting out, it allows you to develop skills that will benefit you in the future, all while earning extra income as you continue your studies.

Read our next blog where we list down the top freelancing jobs and platforms for students in 2024.

Disclaimer

The blog is curated by referring to various credible sources and does not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of QS I-GAUGE. The information provided is for general informational purposes only, readers are advised to conduct their own research and seek professional advice before making any decisions.