How Do I Start Freelancing as a Graphic Designer?

Are you an experienced graphic designer interested in the freedom and flexibility of freelancing? Are you ready to take control of your career and work on projects that interest you? If so, you're in the right place. We will guide you on how to successfully transition from being an on-staff graphic designer to a freelance graphic design professional equipped with a solid designer contract.

Assess Your Readiness

Before you jump into freelancing, it's important to assess your readiness. There are a few things you need to know before you jump in: What does a contract graphic designer do when their income stream is inconsistent? Do you have enough savings to support yourself during the initial stages of your freelance career as you build your business? 

As a freelancer, you will be your own boss. You need to be able to stay motivated and engaged despite any external pressures. Are you prepared to handle all business aspects, such as marketing, client management, and accounting? If your answer is yes, then you are one step closer to becoming a freelancer.

Focus and Refine Your Skill Set

Possessing a solid skill set forms the foundation of your success as a freelancer. Your unique skills and experiences genuinely set you apart in a competitive landscape. If your career has been centered around a specific industry or project type, this specialized knowledge can be your differentiating factor. 

The key is to effectively communicate these unique aspects of your expertise to clients. Make it clear why your distinct background and experiences bring unmatched value, helping them understand that your services offer a perspective they won't find elsewhere.

Update Your Portfolio and Market Your Services

Your portfolio is your best sales tool as a graphic designer; it should showcase your most impressive and relevant work. Ensure your portfolio is current and consider tailoring it to the freelance market you want to target. Your website is often a client's first impression of you. Make sure it showcases your best work, clearly describes your services, and provides a way to contact you. 

In addition, you need to optimize your website to increase your visibility online with search engines. Consider sending out a newsletter to your contacts announcing your move to freelancing and outlining your services. Use social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Attend industry events and join online communities to meet potential clients and other designers. Word-of-mouth publicity can be a powerful tool for getting new clients.

Determine Your Rates

Pricing your services as a freelancer can be tricky. It's important to factor in not only the value of your work but also your overhead costs such as software subscriptions, computer equipment, and health insurance. 

There are various ways to structure your pricing including by the hour, project, or value added. Choose what best fits your style and the norms in your target market.

Prepare a Solid Contract for Clients

Having a well-crafted contract is paramount to a successful freelance career. It defines the scope of work, deliverables, payment details, timelines, and terms and conditions of a project, thus providing a clear roadmap for both parties. A good contract minimizes misunderstandings, helps manage client expectations, and serves as a legal safety net, protecting you from potential disputes and nonpayment. Don’t forget to include a termination clause in the contract, as well!

Can a freelancer end a contract? Absolutely! It’s prudent to ensure that every project you undertake is protected by a legally binding agreement. However, drafting a contract from scratch can be a complex and time-consuming task, especially if you do not have a background in law. 

The Contract Shop® is a valuable resource for contract graphic designers and other creative professionals who need legally sound contract templates. Our lawyer-drafted templates cover standard clauses and can be customized to fit your needs.

Be Patient and Persistent

Transitioning to freelancing can be challenging. Sometimes, work is slow and clients are hard to come by. With some persistence, you'll gradually build a strong reputation and client base. 

Remember–freelancing is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate your small victories, and don't let setbacks discourage you. With your wealth of experience and the right approach, you can build a successful freelance career as a graphic designer. 

Let the Contract Shop® help you streamline your contract creation process and safeguard your interests. All templates from The Contract Shop are created and vetted by legal professionals, so you can trust that you are well protected in your freelance career!