Freelancers understand the beauty and burden of working alone. Being a freelance graphic designer exposes you to the world of freelancing, just as much as it opens doors to choppy waters. For instance, underquoting and overworking result in only adding to the chaos. But like every big storm in an ocean, freelancing brings with it countless rewarding adventures. If you deal with the forecasted storm of 2025, you are predicted to sail through it. Freelancing is expected to gain popularity—and 50% of the US workforce switching to freelancing by 2027 suggests you have ample time to prepare yourself. Having your strategy mastered matters more than ever. To smooth your path towards navigable waters, here are five dos, five don’ts, and five inspiring examples.
Five Do’s for Freelance Success
• Identify Your Specialty
Shifting focus allows you to stand out easier. When I chose to work with small businesses on their branding, I quickly became the go-to expert. Decide your niche; maybe it’s copywriting for tech startups. Specializing increases your marketing edge since it becomes easier to sell you as an expert.
• Prioritize the Right Tools
Tools can both work in your favor and against you. Controlio helps me track my project hours for invoicing, increasing the accuracy of payment collection. I also save time while focusing on creative tasks with tools like Trello and Wave.
• Network Actively
Build relationships to grow your client base. I secured a major project after a LinkedIn connection saw my portfolio in a group. Attend virtual events, participate in industry forums, or use Upwork to meet prospective clients. Your network is your lifeline to consistent work.
• Set Clear Contracts
Establishing clear contracts helps avoid misunderstandings. A client once demanded extras without additional payment, which taught me a lesson! Clearly defined scope, deadlines, and fees should be specified upfront. HelloSign and similar tools make digital contract signing easy and safe for both you and your clients.
• Diversify Income Streams
Having only one client is dangerous. In what would be a slow month for work, I designed templates and created additional income. Offer social media graphics along with the primary graphic design request to keep revenue coming in, especially during economic slowdowns.
Five Don’ts to Avoid Pitfalls
• Don’t Undervalue Your Work
Charging too low hurts your reputation and income. When I offered a logo for $50, I only later realized that my competitors charged $200 for the same. Explore Fiverr and set appropriate prices based on industry standards and your skills and experience.
• Avoid Skipping Invoicing Systems
Handling invoices manually is an absolute nightmare. I spent hours trying to collect overdue payments until I discovered automated systems. Invoice professionally using Wave, and set reminders to ensure payments arrive without having to follow up awkwardly.
• Do Not Overlook Spending Money on Taxes
Overlooking taxes can result in a lot of unnecessary expenses. This is something that I learned the hard way when I was hit with a big bill for not saving enough in quarterly taxes. Make sure you stay compliant by hiring a certified accountant or downloading tax software. Fiverr accounting services can link you with professionals.
• Avoid Taking on Too Much Work
Burnout is real, and taking on too many clients and projects makes it worse. My reputation suffered when I took on five clients at once and started missing deadlines. Know your limits and avoid taking on too much.
• Neglecting Work Promotion
Work will not magically appear, and waiting for it is unproductive. My client inquiries increased after I began posting portfolio updates on Instagram. Create a personal website, post client reviews, and promote your work on social media.
Five Examples of Freelance Rockstars
• Kaleigh Moore
Kaleigh is a freelance writer focused on SaaS. She promotes her case studies on her website, which helps her land high-paying clients.
• Brennan Dunn
A strategist who teaches freelancers how to double their income through email courses, highlighting the impact of niche specialization.
• Lianna Patch
Capturing audiences with her vibrant and engaging content is her “Punchline Conversion Copywriting.”
• Matt Olpinski
A designer who attracts clients with professional design services through his bold website and freelancing articles.
• Jeff Goins
Loyal clients are drawn through heartfelt storytelling woven into his blog, connecting emotionally with readers.
Final Note: Take Your Path with a Compass and Map of Your Own Creation
Achieving a balanced blend of freedom coupled with self-discipline is the essence of operating a freelance business in 2025. Following these do’s, such as niching down and using Controlio, as well as steering clear from don’ts, such as underpricing, can help achieve career sustainability. My design business journey taught me that strategy and persistence lead to success. Let Kaleigh and Jeff’s stories motivate you—start with baby steps and never stop learning. What’s one step you’ll take to boost your freelance work? I would love to hear them, and best of luck!
