The hottest Freelancing Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Hey, thanks friends!

Disaffected Newsletter • 2238 implied HN points • 17 Jul 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Content creation Freelancing Subscriptions Personal Stories
  1. The creator is thankful for their subscribers and the support they provide. It's great to have people interested in the work.
  2. Having subscribers helps with finances, especially after transitioning to freelancing. It means a lot to get paid for their content.
  3. New essays will be coming soon, despite a busy week with work and shows. The creator wants to keep engaging with their audience.

Big Tech's AI shock troops came for us

Disaffected Newsletter • 1278 implied HN points • 31 Jul 24
🕹 Technology AI Big Tech Media Freelancing
  1. Big Tech is using AI significantly, impacting jobs in various sectors. Many workers, including freelance writers, are losing their jobs because of AI advancements.
  2. The rise of AI poses challenges for those in industries reliant on human creativity and labor. It raises questions about the future of work as more tasks get automated.
  3. There are concerns about the influence of Big Tech, especially regarding political leanings and job security for workers in media and similar fields. The landscape is changing, and many feel it's not in their favor.

How To Actually Make Money Freelance Writing as Beginner in 2024

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 919 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Writing Marketing Entrepreneurship Content creation
  1. You can make good money as a freelance writer, even if you're just starting out. Many companies want real human writers because they bring creativity that AI can't.
  2. It's important to clearly define what services you offer and how you can help potential clients. This helps you stand out in a crowded market.
  3. Guest posting can still be a great way to showcase your writing and attract clients, so don't underestimate its value in building your portfolio.

How To Give Yourself A Promotion And Grow Your Business Beyond Solo Freelancing

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 99 implied HN points • 09 Sep 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Marketing Management Growth Strategies
  1. To grow beyond solo freelancing, you need to stop doing everything yourself. Focus on what you do best and outsource the tasks that take up too much of your time.
  2. It's important to package your services in a way that clients understand and can buy easily. This means creating fixed-fee services that have clear pricing and deliverables.
  3. You should regularly audit how you spend your time to figure out what tasks can be delegated. This helps free up your schedule for the high-value work that you enjoy.
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From $147 to $1.5M Writing Online | Interview with Ayodeji Awosika

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 779 implied HN points • 11 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Writing Entrepreneurship Online Courses Community Building
  1. Writing can be a real career path; look at those who have succeeded and learn from them.
  2. Building a strong community and engaging with followers is crucial for success; it's better to be known and have strong opinions than to be ignored.
  3. Having an email list is key to connecting with your audience and making money; start building yours today!

My Newsletter Just Became a Substack Bestseller (Although I Was Hesitant to Get Paid First)

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1858 implied HN points • 22 Mar 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Marketing Online Writing Content creation Freelancing
  1. Building a subscriber base takes time and effort; it's not an overnight success. You have to be patient and keep working hard to grow your audience.
  2. Going paid from the beginning can be beneficial. It’s important to trust your content enough to ask for support early on.
  3. Understanding the difference between followers and subscribers is key. Subscribers want your content directly in their inbox, which is more valuable than just having followers.

How I Identify Clients From Hell

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 159 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
💼 Business Client Management Freelancing Pricing Strategy Service Industry Marketing
  1. Choosing clients based on shared values and respect makes work more enjoyable. It's important to list what matters most to you in a client relationship.
  2. Your portfolio should showcase work that you are proud of and leads to future opportunities. Focus on clients who will help enhance your portfolio, rather than just any client.
  3. Pricing should reflect the value of your work and your beliefs. Be firm on your rates, but consider flexibility if a client aligns with your values and can enhance your portfolio.

How To Start A Business With No Money

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 339 implied HN points • 22 Jul 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Freelancing Personal Finance Marketing Networking
  1. Finding your unique skills and what people need can guide you to success. Ask yourself what you enjoy and what others are looking for.
  2. Starting with offering free services is a smart way to build trust and gain clients. It helps you showcase your skills and connect with potential customers.
  3. Visualizing your goals and where you want to be in the future can keep you motivated. Focus on what you can achieve step by step, rather than stressing about big leaps.

Why I Gave Up Solo Freelancing And You Should Too.

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 79 implied HN points • 26 Aug 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Outsourcing Income Work Life
  1. Freelancing offers flexibility, but it can also mean you have to work constantly, even when you're not feeling well. There can be no breaks without risking your income.
  2. Life changes can force you to reevaluate your work style, like having to care for a family member or dealing with personal health issues. It shows that relying solely on freelancing can lead to financial instability.
  3. Building a business that runs independently allows you to have more freedom. By outsourcing tasks, you can focus on what you love and still earn money, instead of trading your time for every dollar.

How Much Money Can You Make Writing on Medium in 2024?

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 1099 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
💼 Business Writing Income Content creation Online Platforms Freelancing
  1. You can make money writing on Medium, but it takes time, effort, and a good strategy. Many writers don't succeed because they rush or lack a clear plan.
  2. Medium has a large potential audience and a payment program that can benefit writers. However, most writers earn less than $100 a month because they don't utilize this platform effectively.
  3. Many new writers quit after a year due to slow growth and unrealistic expectations. It's important to stay committed and focus on improving your writing and promotion strategies.

The Decentralised Workforce

Workforce Futurist by Andy Spence • 586 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
💼 Business Gig Economy Freelancing Digital Platforms Entrepreneurship Workforce Trends
  1. Many people are choosing gig work instead of traditional jobs for more freedom and better moral alignment with their work. This shift is especially notable among younger workers who value flexibility.
  2. The gig economy is growing rapidly, with more specialized platforms allowing skilled workers to connect with clients and earn substantial incomes. It's not just about food delivery anymore; many people are making good money in diverse fields.
  3. Despite the opportunities, there are challenges, such as platform fees and lack of benefits for workers. There's a need for policies that support gig workers to ensure they have fair earnings and access to health insurance.

From $5 to $200,000 Writing on Fiverr — Interview with Maya Sayvanova

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 679 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
💼 Business Freelancing Marketing Entrepreneurship Success Strategies
  1. Freelance writers need to prioritize marketing themselves. It helps build their reputation and success in platforms like Fiverr.
  2. Quitting a regular job can offer freedom and opportunities, but it requires dedication. Choosing the right clients can lead to better pay and work-life balance.
  3. To succeed as a writer, commit fully and be resourceful. It's important to overcome excuses like lack of time or money to pursue your goals.

Coming in Through the Back Door

Rethinking Software • 349 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Open Source Software Development Freelancing Programming Innovation
  1. Working in traditional software jobs can feel unfulfilling because you mostly deal with old code and follow orders. Many developers wish for more creativity and control over their projects.
  2. Open source software (OSS) offers a way for developers to work on things they are passionate about without the pressure of market demands. It allows them to create freely and build things that interest them.
  3. Getting involved in OSS can provide personal satisfaction and potentially lead to financial opportunities later. It’s a great way to control your work and share it with the world.

You Can Meet 6-Figure Fiverr Writer Maya Sayvanova Who Got Featured in Business Insider LIVE

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 539 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
💼 Business Freelancing Writing Marketing Entrepreneurship Content creation
  1. Maya Sayvanova is a successful freelancer on Fiverr who has earned over $200,000. She went from making just $5 to becoming a top-rated writer, showing how hard work pays off.
  2. Despite her success, she faced challenges and failures along the way. It's important to keep pushing through tough times and not let setbacks define you.
  3. There's a live event where you can learn from Maya's experience and ask her questions. It's a great chance to get inspired and improve your writing skills.

From his brother's couch to $300/hour on Upwork

Kenny’s Sub • 179 implied HN points • 24 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Marketing Consulting Remote work
  1. Starting as a freelancer on platforms like Upwork can lead to great success, as experienced by those who raised their rates significantly while building a solid reputation.
  2. Building a strong profile on Upwork is important because positive reviews and job history can make you more visible to clients, even if it costs you some fees.
  3. Handling difficult clients is part of freelancing; offering refunds quickly can help maintain your reputation when problems arise.

Movers, Shakers, & Money Makers (8/5)

Human Capitalist • 119 implied HN points • 06 Aug 24
💼 Business Job Market Employment Trends Executive Changes Workforce Insights Freelancing
  1. Many people switch jobs frequently, which shows how dynamic the job market is. Keeping track of these changes can help companies and recruiters find top talent.
  2. Some job changes were from traditional sectors like news to tech-focused roles. This highlights how industries are blending and evolving.
  3. Freelancing is on the rise, and there are many reasons people are opting for this kind of work. This trend can change how businesses approach hiring and project work.

The corporate solopreneur

Kenny’s Sub • 159 implied HN points • 18 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Consulting Networking Project management
  1. It's important to understand the context of your clients' businesses. Many small businesses don't have complex plans like big corporations do.
  2. Asking detailed project questions can be unhelpful when working with smaller clients. They may only need basic support for their immediate needs.
  3. Using the right tools for each specific job is crucial. If your current skills don’t fit, it's okay to seek help or adapt your approach.

Operation Liberate Programmer

Rethinking Software • 399 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Software Development Artificial Intelligence Freelancing Agile Methodology
  1. Scrum and its new version, Extreme Agile, focus too much on speed without considering the quality of work. This prioritization can lead to worsening job conditions for programmers.
  2. Programmers have the option to explore freelancing or starting their own businesses, especially with AI tools making it easier. This could provide more freedom and control over their work.
  3. Instead of waiting for companies to change, programmers should take action to create their own opportunities, sharing their experiences and insights to help others along the way.

The independent landscape

Kenny’s Sub • 119 implied HN points • 02 Jul 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Freelancing Product Development
  1. Making money independently is tough, and there's no one clear way to do it. Each person has to try different methods and find what works for them.
  2. Starting with client work is often easier than jumping straight into creating products. It allows for earning money quickly while learning about business.
  3. Whether you choose to work alone or start an agency, finding balance is key. You need to manage time, energy, and ensure your projects get the attention they need.

What price are you willing to pay?

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 13 May 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Finance Work Life Career development Freelancing
  1. Understanding the effort needed for success can help you avoid disappointment. It's important to know what you're getting into before committing to a new venture.
  2. Trial and error are essential when exploring new hobbies or career paths. Try different things with low commitment to see what fits you best.
  3. Pursuing your goals requires a realistic view of the effort and resources involved. Being aware of what it takes can help you make smarter decisions.

Drawing his way to 100k

Kenny’s Sub • 199 implied HN points • 27 May 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Drawing Creative Process Business Strategies Freelancing Content creation
  1. Experimenting is essential. Janis Ozolins tried many different ideas before he found success with drawing. He learned a lot through mistakes and kept exploring until he found what worked for him.
  2. The grind is part of the job. Even if you love what you do, there are always some tasks that can feel tedious, like answering emails or bookkeeping. It’s important to find a balance between fun work and those less enjoyable tasks.
  3. Building an audience matters. Janis didn't rely heavily on freelance work at first. Instead, he focused on creating valuable content and engaging with his audience, which naturally led to opportunities without having to chase them.

Are kids compatible with running a business?

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 28 Apr 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Work-life balance Parenting Freelancing
  1. Running a business while parenting is tough. It can be hard to find time to focus on work when taking care of kids.
  2. It's important to balance motherhood and work. Many moms need to realize they can't do everything at once, and that's okay.
  3. Challenges will always arise in both motherhood and entrepreneurship. Learning to adapt and stay resilient is key to managing those tough times.

Do/Don't Give Me Money

Yassine Meskhout • 393 implied HN points • 09 Feb 24
💼 Business Freelancing Monetization Writing Income Sustainability
  1. The writer turned on paid subscriptions, but values being read over being paid and doesn't plan to put writing behind a paywall.
  2. The writer mentions not needing money due to getting paid well in their job, expressing gratitude for readers' interests and potential financial support for more writing time.
  3. The writer's writing schedule is irregular due to their job, but hopes it can become financially sustainable in the future to write full-time.

Is now really the right time to start?

Kenny’s Sub • 199 implied HN points • 22 Apr 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Freelancing Productivity Startups Goal setting
  1. It's a good idea to start projects now, even if it's small. This allows for progress to begin and builds momentum over time.
  2. Starting small can lead to important gains. Just like planting a fruit tree, the benefits will come later if you start today rather than waiting.
  3. Taking small actions today can help reduce stress in the future. Even simple tasks, like planning or writing a title, can make a difference.

Quitting freelancing to build products

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 01 Apr 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Product Development Marketing Client Management
  1. Freelancing can consume a lot of time and energy, making it hard to work on personal projects. Focusing entirely on building your own products might be a better choice for growth.
  2. Getting paid as a freelancer can be tricky and often requires chasing clients. Having good platforms can help with payment security and reduce the hassle.
  3. When developing products, it's important to try out various ideas. Finding what works best often means experimenting and adjusting based on feedback and demand.

What Is A Productized Service

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 99 implied HN points • 12 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Consulting Entrepreneurship
  1. Productized services offer a way to package and standardize services, making them easier to sell and manage. Instead of customizing everything for each client, providers can offer fixed services at set prices.
  2. By defining specific services and hiring skilled professionals, businesses can scale their operations. This means they can serve more clients without overwhelming themselves.
  3. Selling productized services can lead to more consistent income through subscriptions or recurring payments. It's a simpler approach that can work for freelancers as well as larger companies.

Shaina Anderson Chats with Ellen: All things scaling your expertise

The Ask Newsletter — by Ellen Donnelly • 2 implied HN points • 18 Jun 25
💼 Business Consulting Entrepreneurship Freelancing Coaching Startups
  1. Generalists can successfully find contract work and build freelance careers. It's all about believing in your skills and pushing past doubts.
  2. Having clear structure and storytelling in your business helps avoid burnout and leads to greater opportunities. It’s okay to start without a perfect plan.
  3. You can create multiple income streams from just a couple of strong skills. Focus on what you do best and find ways to package that for different clients.

Future of Work in 2024 – Latest Scores

Workforce Futurist by Andy Spence • 244 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
💼 Business Workplace Freelancing Technology Remote work Automation
  1. In 2024, there were a lot of layoffs, mainly justified by technology and AI, which made the job market more competitive for workers.
  2. Freelancers became more common as many companies turned to them instead of hiring full-time staff, which made rates for their services drop.
  3. The debate about working from home shifted back to office work as companies started requiring employees to return to the office, which changed how people view remote work.

A peak behind the curtains of a 20k/month consultancy

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
💼 Business Consulting Freelancing Networking Entrepreneurship Client Relations
  1. Balancing client work and personal projects is important. Setting aside specific times or days to work on personal goals can help prevent getting overwhelmed by client demands.
  2. Being genuine and helping others can build strong professional relationships. Sharing experiences and engaging authentically on platforms like LinkedIn can lead to valuable connections.
  3. It's crucial to keep pushing out of your comfort zone. Reflecting on your goals and staying focused on your 'why' can motivate you to pursue long-term ambitions instead of getting stuck in the short-term grind.

The difference between making money and a hobby

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Marketing Startups E-commerce Freelancing
  1. Tinkering can be fun and educational, but it often doesn't lead to making real money. People who quit their jobs to experiment might not find traction if they aren't committed to serious efforts.
  2. If you want to succeed financially, it’s important to pick ideas with high demand. Avoid spending lots of time on small projects that don’t bring much profit.
  3. A solid marketing plan is just as crucial as having a good product. Without a way to promote what you're selling, you might just have a hobby instead of a business.

You Think Freelancing Means Freedom? Think Again

VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES • 59 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
💼 Business Freelancing Entrepreneurship Work-life balance Productivity Self-Improvement
  1. Freelancing can feel freeing, but it often leads to stressful situations, like juggling client work with personal life. It's important to recognize when to seek help or create a team you can trust.
  2. Transitioning from freelancing to entrepreneurship requires a clear understanding of your lifestyle goals and what success means to you. It's not just about making money, but building a fulfilling life.
  3. Personal growth and willingness to change are key to evolving your business. Being open to learning and shifting your role can help you create a more sustainable and enjoyable work environment.

One trick to better your freelancing

Kenny’s Sub • 179 implied HN points • 25 Mar 24
💼 Business Freelancing Hiring Contracts Client Relations
  1. Hiring others can really help your freelancing business. It lets you see how different people work and what good service looks like.
  2. The way freelancers respond to your messages says a lot about them. Good communication is key and helps you decide who to hire.
  3. Keep your job postings clear and ask simple questions. This helps filter out freelancers who aren't paying attention to what you need.

Is the market really saturated?

Kenny’s Sub • 239 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Freelancing Economics Personal Development Work Culture
  1. Blaming external factors for challenges is just a way to avoid taking responsibility. It's important to focus on what you can control to improve your situation.
  2. The difference between blame and responsibility matters a lot. Instead of making excuses about the economy or competition, focus on the steps you can take to move forward.
  3. A positive mindset and determination can help you overcome tough circumstances. Hard work and grit can lead to success, even when the odds seem against you.

Freelancers - what your ideal client looks like

The Open Source Expert • 39 implied HN points • 04 Jul 24
💼 Business Freelancing Client Management Marketing Contracts Professionalism
  1. A great client has done their research on you and knows your skills. This means they understand what you offer and how you can help them.
  2. Good clients are open about money. They discuss budgets clearly and have reasonable expectations for what they can afford.
  3. Respect is key in a client relationship. A good client values your work and understands that your rates reflect the quality you provide.

When should you offer a productized service?

Kenny’s Sub • 199 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Marketing Sales Freelancing Consulting
  1. Productized services are service offerings that are made to be like products with clear packages and prices. This helps both service providers and clients understand exactly what to expect.
  2. There are many benefits to productized services, such as easier pricing, scalability, and clearer communication. However, this model isn't for everyone and might limit customization for clients with specific needs.
  3. To create a productized service, it's important to define what you offer clearly, set up attractive packages, and build trust with potential clients through testimonials and clear terms.

One question to know if you’re truly independent

Kenny’s Sub • 219 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
💼 Business Freelancing Income Streams Client Relations Mental health
  1. Being able to walk away from a situation means you have leverage and control. It shows you can handle consequences and find alternatives.
  2. If you're not confident about walking away from something, you might want to explore other income options. This way, you create choices for yourself.
  3. Sometimes you might have to accept a lack of leverage and deal with situations you can't change. It's okay to move on and not let it affect your peace of mind.

Are you putting products on a pedestal?

Kenny’s Sub • 179 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
💼 Business E-commerce Marketing Entrepreneurship Freelancing Product Development
  1. It's easier to sell services than products. Many successful people started with client work before launching their products because it's more certain and quicker.
  2. Working on client projects helps you learn business skills. You can use these skills to market products later on more effectively.
  3. Balancing client work and product development can be tough. It's important to make time for both, or you might end up feeling overwhelmed and miss out on important parts of your life.