Tips for working as a freelancer. Freelancing offers the flexibility to work on your terms — but the best opportunities go fast. To succeed, you need to know where to look, how to apply, and which sites actually offer serious gigs instead of unpaid “exposure.”
Platforms That Connect You with Real UK Clients
Start by registering on trusted sites with solid reputations:
- PeoplePerHour – UK-based freelance platform with a strong local client base.
- Upwork – International, but UK clients are common and pay in GBP.
- YunoJuno – Focused on creative and tech freelance roles in the UK.
- Freelancer Club – Especially useful for those in photography, design, or styling.
- TaskRabbit UK – Best for hands-on jobs like furniture assembly, cleaning, or moving help.
Create a complete profile with examples of your work, rates in pounds, and a brief but professional description. Clients are more likely to respond to freelancers with active, fully built profiles.
How Much Can You Really Earn as a Freelancer?
Rates vary by industry, but you don’t have to undercharge to stay competitive — especially in the UK, where many clients expect quality over volume.
Average Hourly Rates by Sector
| Freelance Role | Starting Rate (Per Hour) | Experienced Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | £15–£25 | £35–£60 |
| Web Developer | £20–£30 | £50–£80 |
| Virtual Assistant | £12–£18 | £20–£30 |
| Copywriter | £15–£25 | £40+ |
| Social Media Manager | £18–£25 | £35–£50 |
| Photographer (per job) | £100–£250 | £300+ |
Don’t race to the bottom. Instead, position yourself as someone who delivers value. Offer a clear scope, timelines, and results in your pitch.
How to Win More Freelance Clients (Even with No Reviews Yet)
Freelancers with a strong pitch and follow-up often get picked over more experienced ones. If you’re just starting out, your first impression matters more than your portfolio.
What to Include in Your Pitch Message
- Start with the client’s name and refer to their project directly.
- Mention 1–2 past projects or results (even unpaid ones).
- Offer a friendly tone and clear next steps.
Example:
“Hi Sarah, I read your job post about creating social media content for your café. I’ve worked on content calendars for small hospitality businesses before and would love to help. I can start this week and include a week’s worth of sample posts if needed.”
What Should You Include in Your Freelancer Portfolio?
Even if you haven’t worked for paying clients yet, you can still show your skills. Your portfolio doesn’t have to be fancy — just relevant.
Build a Portfolio That Gets You Hired
- For writers: Blog posts, newsletters, product descriptions, or LinkedIn articles.
- For designers: Mockup logos, posters, or website redesigns.
- For developers: GitHub projects or demo sites.
- For VAs: Templates of spreadsheets, calendar plans, or booking forms.
If you’ve done voluntary work or helped a friend’s business — add it. Clients care more about quality than how “official” the job was.
