33 Freelance Ideas You Can Start Today (From Home, For Free)

This past year the world has had to embrace a new normal. Which means millions of people have been left to explore freelance ideas as a way to make up for lost jobs, furloughs, or other unfortunate tragedies at work.

During the pandemic, freelance statistics show there has been a significant increase in the number of freelancers worldwide. Upwork, a popular freelance platform, confirms the same. The site has seen a significant rise in the number of subscribers. Over 2 million Americans, signifying a 36% increase, are now offering their freelance ideas on the site.

With the rise in joblessness, it’s easy to understand why this is happening. However, the fact remains that freelance work may very well become the new normal. Reportedly, 87% of those in the workforce see tapping into freelance business ideas as a viable option going forward.

Freelance work comes with its own challenges. However, the challenges can be offset by the satisfaction of being your own boss. You work your own hours and it’s possible to make a great income. In this article, we’ll share with you some fantastic freelance ideas you can start right away for basically zero investment.

Freelance Ideas for Creatives

Design jobs require creativity and a curious mind. You are in charge of different things, such as web design and marketing collateral development.

Let’s look at some freelance business ideas around design jobs you can do.

1. Web Designer

Any company that is operating on the online platform needs to have a good website. Even those in the nonprofit sector need a site to showcase their activities. A web designer must have a good eye for detail, whether it be designing a fresh site or redesigning an outdated website.

You need to be creative to come up with the best layout. You must ensure that your audience has a good experience when on the site.

Your clients will need a lot of advice on the best type of website. You must, therefore, be a good listener and communicator.

Dive deeper: How to Get Web Design Clients: 10 Pro Tips to Get Work Now

2. Art Director

Art directors oversee the development of advertising or publication material. You will manage your team and clients, so teamwork is critical.

Knowledge in graphic design, relevant software, and project management is critical. You must also be a people person who can work under pressure.

Learn how to start as an art director here.

3. Animator

Animations are fun and you can give your creativity full rein. You could create special effects for video games or movies.

You might have coding knowledge and can create your code. The other alternative is to use existing software. You will need some graphic design and motion graphics knowledge.

See tips on how to start as an animator here.

4. Graphic designer

Graphic design is an important part of the advertising industry. You would develop marketing collateral and brand identities. You may also be in charge of product presentations and web design.

Have good knowledge of the relevant computer software. Such software includes Adobe and Photoshop. Whatever you decide, it must resonate with audiences. You’ll also need help of a premium tool to manage your fonts offering a cloud-based alternative so you can access your fonts across all your devices seamlessly.

Learn how to start your graphic design business here.

5. Photography

A camera can capture a story that the best designs may not be able to tell. You need creativity and skill to capture the best photos. Technology has greatly improved both digital cameras and editing software.

See how to find your clients here.

6. UX Designer

User experience (UX) designers deal mainly with apps, software, or websites. You will also find work in video game development. You must have a good understanding of what the market needs.

Therefore, research will play a key role for you. You will analyze data and respond to any needs of the customers.

Here is a guide on becoming a UX designer.

7. Interior Designer

Interior design allows you to apply your creativity to the look and ambiance of a room or building. You would come up with ideas on color, light, furniture, and even flooring.

Your role would be to design an aesthetically appealing set up. You must be a good listener to understand what your client’s need. It helps to be tech-savvy in order to take advantage of the latest software that can help with tasks.

Learn how to start as an interior designer here.

8. Video and Film Editing

Video and film editors work closely with directors and producers. You edit the footage and bring it together into a final product. You must have a good eye for what will engage the audience.

The work can be time-consuming, so you need to be patient. Skills and video production, video editing, and some design software are important.

Find details on how to start here.

Freelance Business Ideas for Marketers

Do you have a knack for promotions or sales? If yes, you could consider going into marketing on a freelance basis. Marketing requires creativity and determination.

You have to use your power of persuasion to get people to buy goods or services. There are tons of jobs in freelance marketing that you can do from the comfort of your own home.

Let’s look at some of them.

9. Digital Marketer

The online space has a lot of marketing potential. However, it requires a good digital marketer to take advantage of all that it has to offer. You have a lot of flexibility and the potential to make some good cash.

You should have a good understanding of websites, SEO, online advertising, and content development. Creativity is always a plus to stand out from the competition.

If a company wants to roll out a new product, you will be in charge of the process. You must handle all the communication–both internal and external. It will be up to you to determine the best positioning and messaging.

Good knowledge of technology is important. You may be marketing software or even web-based products. You’ll need to use the latest technology to increase efficiency.

Learn how to start with digital marketing here.

10. Promotions or Advertising Manager

You will be in charge of campaigns to promote products or services. You must come up with good ideas to generate relevant interest.

Work closely with the creative teams, clients, and suppliers. You are also in charge of the budget. You’ll decide on the best platforms for advertising.

Learn how to start here.

11. Media Buyer

A media buyer is in charge of buying advertising space. Clients want maximum visibility within their budget. Good knowledge of the media landscape is critical. You must also be aware of the digital space and how you can best utilize it.

Negotiation skills, budgeting, and project management are critical roles you will play.

Read more on the topic here.

12. Content Strategist

Content development forms a big part of marketing. Projects, campaigns, and editorials need content strategists. You must have a good understanding of the audience and their needs.

You then tailor content that responds to or solves their issues. SEO, blogging, and strategic thinking are some of the qualities you need to possess.

Find more tips on being a content strategist here.

13. Market Analyst

The role involves a lot of research, data collection, and interpretation. You must be keen on details, and be able to think strategically and analytically.

Learn how to start here.

14. Event Manager or Planner

Corporations host a lot of events and, more often than not, require an event manager’s services. You will be in charge of all the logistics, including the selecting of venues and working with suppliers for decorating.

You will also be in charge of catering, entertainment, and budgeting.

And you must be creative, a multitasker, and good with people. It would be best if you also are willing to travel as clients may expect this of you.

Find out more on event planning here.

15. Copywriter

Creativity, excellent writing skills, and out-of-the-box thinking are a big part of copywriting. Any copy for sales materials, advertising collateral, eBooks, and articles will come from you.

The position allows for flexibility with where you can work. There is also a lot of demand for it, especially from companies that cannot afford an in-house resource.

Learn how to find a job as a copywriter here.

16. Public Relations Consultant

Some people say public relations is more influential than advertising. You depend on third-party endorsements for products or services. And you need good writing skills and must be good with people.

You will be in charge of editorials, press releases, and speeches. You are also in charge of any queries. And you must be proactive and able to handle crises.

Learn how to start here.

Freelance Ideas for Writers

Writing jobs require you to be engaging and willing to do research. You have so many options with what you can write. Here are some areas you can go into:

17. Blogging

There are many blog writing jobs online. You could be a ghostwriter where you give content to other websites. You can sell articles to different publications. The other option is to offer freelance blog writing services to corporations.

Familiarize yourself with the latest trends such as SEO for better marketability. This field has become very popular and seen a lot of growth. Learn to negotiate good rates and always deliver gold.

Learn how to start a blog and how to attract clients as a blogger.

18. Writing Press Material

Some companies will hire freelance writers to handle the writing of their press material. You must be up-to-date with current events.

You should also have a knack for turning normal material into newsworthy content.

Learn how to start here.

19. Technical Writing

You will find a lot of demand for technical writers on freelance job boards. Such jobs include web development, coding tutorials and manuals.

You may also write evaluation reports, handbooks, and research reports.

Check out some websites for technical writers here.

20. B2B and B2C Writing Jobs

Business-to-business or B2B writing requires you to be able to communicate professionally. The company will hire you to craft communication that targets other businesses. The niche is profitable but can be very demanding.

Business-to-consumer also requires professionalism. You have more leeway depending on your target audiences.

Find more information here.

21. Copywriting and Video Script Writing

As we have shared above, copywriting is critical in marketing and advertising. The same goes for video scripts; especially for commercials.

You must be able to engage the audience from the get-go, while delivering on the message. Think about this as one of the lucrative freelance ideas you can try.

Learn how to start here.

22. Email Marketing

Emails provide an effective marketing tool for many companies. You will be in charge of writing content around products or promotions. Newsletters and other online content may also be part of your role.

The role can be challenging because you must engage with the audience. Your content should sway the consumers to purchase; sales and marketing skills are a must.

Learn more about finding clients here.

23. Social Media Writing

Different social media platforms need different types of content. As a social media writer, you will need to develop posts, articles, stories, and even product descriptions.

Learn how to start here, plus ways to get clients.

Other Freelance Business Ideas

While creatives, marketers, and writers are among the most popular groups of people implementing successful freelance ideas, there are dozens of other options in beauty, fashion, travel, crafting, and much more. Here are even more freelance business ideas you could pursue this year:

24. Consultant or Adviser

Offer your consulting skills, depending on your talent. It could be on literally any subject that people need help knowing more about professionally. You can do it all online by offering advice and recommendations. Market yourself on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

Think about having a blog to get more people to know about your services. Eventually, you become the go-to person for everything related to your subject matter.

See more about the topic here.

25. Vlogger

Another lucrative freelance business idea is vlogging. Instead of writing, use video content to promote products and build an audience. You must be engaging and a good narrator. The content you provide must be relevant to your audience.

With enough subscribers to your channel, you could land sponsorships and attract advertisements for some good earnings.

Learn how to start here.

26. Beautician

Depending on your skill set, you can offer home-based beauty services such as: Hairdressing, Make-up artist, Personal shopper, Tattoo artist, Beauty therapist, Manicures and pedicures, Massage treatments. Getting clients may be difficult in the beginning, but soon word will spread if you do a good job.

Learn how to start here.

27. Travel and Write or Vlog

Freelance ideas need not tether you to one location. Have you found that you spend more time on the road than at home? Do you jot down fun things to do while traveling? Do you share your stories on your blog or social media? If yes, how about monetizing your passion for travel.

Some publications will be happy to buy your articles. Alternatively, monetize your website once you have enough traffic. Some companies or even countries will sponsor your trips if you can provide publicity for them.

Learn how to start here.

28. Sell Your Arts and Crafts

Do you dabble in arts and crafts during your free time? Have you created your jewelry or sew your own outfits? Do many people ask where you buy your pieces from?

If yes, how about utilizing your talent to make money. Use your social media platforms to promote yourself.

You should also have a website that allows you to share your information with your audience.

Learn more here.

29. Become A Dog Walker

One of the gig-economy style jobs, If you love dogs and love spending time outdoors, become a dog walker.

Learn how to start here and read about more gig economy jobs.

30. House Sitting

Looking for fun and relaxing freelance ideas? What better way to make some money than to house sit? You will need a good reputation for clients to entrust their homes to your care.

Learn how to start house sitting here.

31. Babysitting

Babysitting requires a lot of patience. But if you love children, it should be a walk in the park for you.

Increase the likelihood of getting jobs by getting some training. Learn skills such as first aid because it’s likely a requirement–and you might need it on the job.

Read more on becoming a babysitter here.

32. Fashion design

Your fashion sense may have always been a stand-out. You could turn your fashion sense into a thriving business. Many people want unique fashion items which you can tailor make for them.

Learn how to start here.

33. Matchmaker

Are you a strong believer in love and love connections? Do you always try to hook up your friends or family with potential mates? Have you found that you are a really good judge of character? Matchmaking makes it on our list of exciting freelance business ideas.

You can also brag about your success at matchmaking. If all the above are true, think about matchmaking as a business.

To learn how, start here.

Final Thoughts

We have looked at a number of freelance ideas for you to consider. Don’t let your job situation get you down–there is a lot that you can do to improve your skill-sets or learn new ones.

Freelance work requires discipline and patience. Initially, it may be challenging, but with time, it gets easier. Learn everything there is to know about the area you want to go into. Most importantly, do not be afraid to take the leap.

You don’t even need to resign from your job. You can try some of these freelance business ideas as a side hustle for additional income.

Keep the conversation going...

Over 10,000 of us are having daily conversations over in our free Facebook group and we'd love to see you there. Join us!