How I Made Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars as a Freelancer (And the Exact Checklist I’d Follow to Do It Again)

Freelancing has been a life-changing journey for me. Over the years, I’ve made hundreds of thousands of dollars, working with over 40 clients across various industries. But if I had to do it all over again from scratch, I would follow a clear, structured approach to hit those milestones faster.

Here’s the exact checklist I would follow in 2025 to grow my freelance business and scale quickly:

1. Choose Your Niche and Master It

The first step is always to choose a niche. When I started, I spread myself too thin, offering general services. It wasn’t until I focused on a specific skill set that my business took off. Whether it's web development, copywriting, or digital marketing, pick something you're passionate about and commit to becoming the best in that field.

2. Build a Portfolio That Sells

Clients want to see proof of your work. I didn’t have a lot of projects at first, but I created a few sample pieces to showcase my skills. Today, having a strong portfolio is non-negotiable. If you’re just starting out, work on a few personal projects or offer your services at a discounted rate in exchange for testimonials and case studies.

3. Network Relentlessly

Freelancing is all about relationships. I didn’t just rely on online platforms like Upwork or Fiverr; I also networked with people in my industry, attended virtual events, and reached out to potential clients directly. The more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you’ll attract.

4. Perfect Your Proposal and Pitch

Your pitch needs to stand out. I learned early on that a generic pitch won’t work. Tailor each proposal to the client’s needs, showcasing your knowledge of their industry and how you can solve their problems. A strong proposal is half the battle.

5. Set Your Rates Right

Knowing your worth is crucial. I started underpricing my services, but over time, I learned to increase my rates as I gained experience and success stories. Charge what you're worth, but be prepared to justify your pricing with results and value.

6. Deliver Exceptional Work

The quality of your work will always be the final differentiator. Clients come back when they are satisfied, and they recommend you to others. Always go the extra mile and exceed expectations, even if it means putting in a little extra effort at times.

7. Focus on Client Retention

Once you’ve built a solid client base, don’t just focus on new leads. I spent a lot of time making sure I maintained strong relationships with my existing clients, ensuring they were happy and consistently returning with new projects. Retained clients are a reliable source of income and often become your biggest advocates.

8. Keep Learning and Evolving

The freelancing world is dynamic, and it’s essential to stay on top of industry trends and new tools. Regularly invest in courses, certifications, and resources that keep you ahead of the curve. The more you learn, the more valuable you become.

9. Manage Your Finances Wisely

Freelancing can mean inconsistent income, so I made it a point to save a portion of my earnings for lean months. Managing your finances is essential for long-term success, so set aside money for taxes, retirement, and emergencies.

10. Stay Consistent and Be Patient

Finally, consistency is key. Success doesn’t happen overnight. Keep working, stay disciplined, and remember that every successful freelancer has been where you are now. Stay patient, keep improving, and the results will follow.