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In this article, I’ll share four practical reasons why I believe every aspiring or current freelancer should join a community.
Freelancing is tough.
Starting out in 2015, I faced many challenges: questions about pricing, client management, niching down, what to focus on, and others.
It was overwhelming.
A few months in, I realized the power of having an accountability partner. I shared my goals with a friend and we set up monthly calls to track progress. This was a game-changer that helped me so much!
It kept me focused and motivated — especially in that critical year, when I was close to quitting.
I’m glad I didn’t quit. 🙂
The journey of a freelancer is filled with ups and downs, but with the right support system, it’s easier to navigate these challenges.
This approach not only helped me persevere but also grow in my career. It taught me the importance of community and how invaluable it is to have support as a freelancer.
Communities Foster Relationships
Joining a community offers more than just networking; it’s about building lasting relationships. Over my five years in various communities, I’ve formed incredible bonds. Some members have become close friends, while others have turned into valuable work colleagues.
Remember, freelancing isn’t a solitary journey. Being part of a community means connecting with people who understand your struggles and challenges. It’s comforting to talk with those who relate to your experiences. These relationships go beyond professional benefits. They provide emotional support, practical advice, and sometimes lifelong friendships.
Engaging in communities also opens doors to collaborative opportunities, enhancing both personal growth and professional development.
It’s about sharing knowledge, resources, and sometimes, just a listening ear.
This aspect of community involvement is often underrated but is crucial for a fulfilling freelance career.
Freelancing Can Be Lonely
Working from home offers flexibility, but it can also lead to feelings of isolation for many freelancers.
While being part of a team or company can alleviate this to some extent, there’s a unique comfort in interacting with others who share your freelance journey.
Finding your “tribe” — a group of like-minded freelancers — is key. This connection fosters a sense of belonging and collaboration, making the freelance path less solitary.
Engaging with your tribe can bring new perspectives, shared experiences, and even joint ventures.
It’s about creating a support network where ideas, challenges, and successes are shared.
This sense of community is vital, ensuring you never feel like you’re navigating the freelance world alone.
Scaling Your Freelancing Business
Did you know you can get clients within a community? I’ve hired several community members myself from FreelanceFam.
Here are four tips on how to get hired within a community:
- Share your work and progress.
- Participate in challenges and engage actively.
- Respond to comments by offering your expertise.
- Help fellow members achieve success.
Remember, freelancers often collaborate, and agency owners are constantly seeking talented individuals.
A simple example is that I have a monthly Wix Studio website design challenge, and the winner gets $200.
From these challenges, I’ve worked with Anthony, Fega, and Issac, purely because of their web design skills. And I know other agencies who hired members because of the challenge.
By actively contributing to the community, you showcase your skills and dedication.
This effort doesn’t go unnoticed.
It’s about more than just finding work; it’s about building a reputation. When you add value and share your knowledge, you open doors to new opportunities.
Engage genuinely, and you’ll be surprised at the connections and projects that come your way. So, dive in, contribute, and watch your freelancing business grow.
Achieving Your Goals
Joining a community isn’t just about networking and client acquisition; it’s a powerful tool for achieving your goals.
The hardest part? Sharing those goals and holding yourself accountable to others. It means being vulnerable, confronting imposter syndrome, and pushing beyond your comfort zone.
The success stories within my community are numerous, but Andy’s journey is particularly inspiring.
He started his freelance career in January 2023, and by August was earning $10,000 per month.
His rapid success wasn’t just luck or skill; he credits a significant part of his achievement to being part of a community.
Communities provide support, resources, and motivation, all crucial for reaching such milestones. They offer a platform for learning, sharing experiences, and receiving constructive feedback, which can accelerate personal and professional growth.
Andy’s story is a testament to the transformative power of community in a freelancer’s journey.
Concluding Thoughts
The advantages of joining a community for freelancers are clear.
If you’re unsure where to start, a simple Google search can lead you to various communities. Try a few before deciding on the one that feels like your “tribe”.
Once you find your tribe, commit to it. Engage actively, be accountable, and immerse yourself in the shared journey of freelancing.
Remember, freelancing doesn’t have to be a solitary path. Your tribe can offer support, advice, and camaraderie, making the challenges more manageable and the successes more enjoyable.
In a community, you’ll find a wealth of resources, from potential clients to invaluable mentorship and peer support. It’s a space where you can share your experiences, learn from others, and grow both personally and professionally.
So, take the leap, find your community, and embrace the collaborative spirit of freelancing.
You’re not alone in this journey, and with the right community, you’ll find the journey much more rewarding.
And if you’d like to join my community, join us at FreelanceFam.com.
Cheers for now, and thanks for reading. 🙂
