I'm finishing up my web development degree and I've recently decided to dive into freelancing. I've completed a few projects like a travel website and an interior design site with backend features, plus I've created an Android app. My skill set includes HTML, CSS, JS, PHP, and MySQL, and I'm also getting into WordPress and AI tools to enhance my workflow.
My game plan includes starting on platforms like Fiverr and PeoplePerHour with my offerings in website design and development (both WordPress and custom sites). I'm excited about using AI tools to ramp up my creativity and efficiency. Eventually, I want to explore AI automation and chatbots for businesses once I gain more experience, with the hope of transitioning to full-time freelancing.
I've already created my profiles and gig descriptions and I'm working on my portfolio. However, I'm feeling nervous about the feasibility of making a decent living as a freelancer starting in 2025.
I'm looking for your honest thoughts on a few things:
- Is this a reasonable path to pursue at the moment?
- How long did it take you to gain traction when you began freelancing?
- Any advice for landing my first clients quicker?
- If you were in my position, what would you do differently?
I really appreciate any advice or encouragement!
4 Answers
Your timing with the AI focus is great! Many freelancers stick with traditional methods while clients increasingly ask for AI solutions. You should market yourself as someone who can integrate AI with standard web development instead of just being another WordPress coder. From my experience, it took me about 3-4 months to get going, but with AI, you might find faster results. Instead of waiting passively on Fiverr, reach out to small businesses that could benefit from basic AI tools, like restaurants or service firms. If you can show a simple chatbot demo or automated system, you'll set yourself apart from the competition really quickly! Just be prepared to manage client expectations—most people don't realize AI isn't a magic bullet!
So your plan is to charge clients for solutions powered by AI? Sounds a bit risky to me.
I just want to find ways to use AI for chatbots and similar integrations, nothing shady about that!
Yes, it's definitely worth pursuing right now; there's a lot of demand for web developers! At my company, we match freelancers with clients, and new project requests come up every day. If you build a solid reputation, you can increase your project rates over time. If you have any design skills like using Figma, I’d recommend exploring Framer for quick site building. They have an expert directory but you'll need some projects to get listed. Last month, they paid out $750k to creators in their marketplace—just something to consider! Also, be sure to showcase client testimonials and the impact of your work in your portfolio to attract more opportunities!
Drupal is actually a more versatile option compared to WordPress, especially with AI integrations becoming more prominent in it.
Why is that an issue? As long as you deliver results and the client is satisfied, who cares if AI is part of the process? Real developers use AI to improve their efficiency. If you're not on board with that, you're going to lag behind the rest of us.