Research indicates a growing trend in freelancing globally, with more professionals choosing flexibility over traditional employment. According to a study by McKinsey, the gig economy is expected to continue growing, offering diverse opportunities for freelancers. This change is empowering students, unlocking doors for them to find opportunities in the workplace.

Freelancers are self-employed and often called independent contractors. Companies hire them for short-term engagements from websites like Upwork, Fiverr, Toptal, 99Designs, Flexjobs, etc. They can benefit financially from doing so and find talent for specific programs rather than having to train in-house staff.

In the gig economy, it is possible for students to earn money and gain valuable experience through working on freelance projects. If you are a student getting a university education, the following information can support you to discover freelance opportunities.

You can freelance alongside your studies

The ability to work online means you can work as a freelancer while you are studying at college. Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Flexjobs, will help you to earn money and build up a portfolio before you graduate. There are many freelance websites such as Upwork and People Per Hour where you can sign up to find freelance work. These websites match employers with freelancers for a plethora of different tasks. Skills that are in demand include writing, editing, copywriting, and graphic design.

As a student getting an education at college and freelancing at the same time you may need some help. You can go to an online writing service and ask “Write me an essay as per my specifications.” Professional help is available in the form of well-vetted writers with an educational background and experience. You can choose a writer who is best suited to write on your subject and give instructions. The writer will closely follow these instructions and write a custom, plagiarism-free paper for you. Prices are reasonable and unlimited revisions are included. The writer will make sure you receive a quality paper on time.

Marketing yourself is more important than you think

The competition on freelance websites like Upwork or Freelancer is high and you have to bid against other freelancers to get gigs. There are currently over 70 million freelancers in the US. If you want to find consistent freelance work while you’re in school you will need to actively market your services. Finding clients is the most important aspect of being a freelancer. Here are some of the ways to find them.

Connect on social media

Networking on social media sites can help you to get the word out about what you do. You may come across clients in Facebook groups or by taking part in a Twitter chat. Running inexpensive ads on social media can help you promote your services to a vast audience and find remote work.

Register on freelance and remote work platforms

Registering on top freelancer platforms will expose you to a vast client base and enable you to find gigs and remote work. The top sites include Fiverr, Upwork, TaskRabbit, MTurk by Amazon, PeoplePerHour, Zippia, Flexjobs, Freelancer.com, and many more.

Create a website

Creating a website helps clients to learn more about you and what you do. They can access your portfolio and read client testimonials. You can write a blog where you share information. Posting your blog posts on social media sites with a link to your website will drive traffic to it. Your blog can position you as someone who potential clients would want to work with. Add a contact form on your website so they can get in touch with you.

Use a freelance business management platform

You need to stay organized as a freelancer. Freelance business management software can help you to do so. It will allow you to keep track of past and potential clients. You can see who it’s worthwhile to stay in contact with etc.

Work on your portfolio

Your portfolio is what will convince clients that they want you to work for them. Make sure it looks professional and show off your best work. If you don’t have much work to show, you can create mockup work. This is work you would do for clients if you were hired. (Make it clear that these are mock-ups and that you haven’t actually worked for these clients).

Participate in communities and forums

Joining a community and participating in conversations helps to position you as someone who knows what they are talking about. When you start attracting attention, you can mention that you do freelancing work.

Ask for reviews and referrals

When you finish a project for a client, ask if they wouldn’t mind writing a review. You can post reviews on your website and use them on social media. Prospective clients trust reviews written by your current clients.

Networking with other freelancers means you can ask them to refer clients to you if they are overloaded with work. You can do the same for them. Word-of-mouth can be a very effective way to market.

Pitch your services

Make a list of clients you would like to work for. Write a personalized email to them where you introduce yourself and highlight what you have to offer.

Hone your skills

If you take on jobs in different fields, you can find out which career path interests you most. You can get insights into a career you’re considering pursuing and find out whether it's right for you.

Education and remote work can complement each other. It allows you to stretch yourself and expand your skill set. If you’re resilient and persistent you can handle the challenges.

Gig work options for students - the summary

There are many opportunities for you to find online freelance work as a student. For you to stand out from the competition, you will need to market yourself to find clients. Doing so can help you to earn money and gain experience. You can also hone your skills and get a better idea of what you want to do after graduation.