Are you a freelancer? Have you ever hired a freelancer?
On October 17, we celebrate International Freelancers’ Day, held every year on the third Thursday in October. It’s a day dedicated to recognizing the immense contribution freelancers make to the global economy. Whether you’re a freelancer or an employer, it’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on how to improve collaborations and show gratitude.
Freelancers bring creativity, expertise and essential flexibility to projects, while employers offer valuable opportunities that help freelancers develop and thrive. Let’s see how both parties can strengthen their partnership and celebrate this day in a meaningful way.
For freelancers: How to stand out in every project
As a freelancer, your success depends on your ability to deliver exceptional work and build strong relationships with your customers. Here’s how to maximize your collaborations:
1. Understanding the brief
Make sure you understand the project’s objectives, deliverables and deadlines before you start. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if necessary. The clearer the brief, the smoother your work will run.
2. Communication is the key
Effective communication keeps you on the same wavelength as your customer. Be proactive in providing updates, ask questions if necessary, and confirm deadlines or revisions.
3. Respect deadlines (or communicate in advance if you can’t)
Deadlines are crucial to your customers’ success. Respect them, or if there are problems, communicate well in advance.
4. Valuing and applying feedback
Constructive feedback is an opportunity for growth. Listen carefully to your customer’s suggestions and incorporate them into your work where appropriate.
For Employers: How to get the most out of freelancers
Employers who know how to collaborate effectively with freelancers generally achieve better results. Here are a few tips for creating a positive and productive relationship with your freelancers:
1. Write a clear project brief
Freelancers are skilled professionals, but they can’t read your mind. Provide a detailed brief including objectives, deliverables, and examples to guide their work.
2. Set realistic expectations
Freelancers often juggle several clients. Pay close attention to their schedules and avoid last-minute revisions.
3. Maintain open and respectful communication
Communication should be two-way. Use clear language, respond quickly and provide constructive feedback.
4. Show your appreciation
Your freelancer is an essential partner in your business. A simple “thank you”, a tip, or a positive review goes a long way towards building trust and a long-term relationship.
Tips and mistakes to avoid (for both parties)
Freelancers : To do
- Communicate quickly and professionally.
- Meet deadlines and provide updates.
- Be open to feedback and revision.
- Set realistic expectations for what you can deliver.
- Stay organized and manage your time efficiently.
Freelancers: What not to do
- Don’t take on too many projects without reporting any delays.
- Don’t deliver a job without fully understanding the project.
- Don’t ignore customer feedback or requests.
- Don’t miss deadlines without explanation.
Employers : To do
- Provide a clear brief with defined objectives and deadlines.
- Respond quickly to questions or updates.
- Respect the freelancer’s time and schedule.
- Show your appreciation for a job well done.
- Offer constructive and precise feedback for revisions.
Employers: What not to do
- Don’t be vague about project objectives or requirements.
- Don’t micromanage every aspect of the freelance process.
- Don’t demand excessive revisions at the last minute.
- Don’t give harsh or unconstructive criticism.
- Don’t disregard the freelancer’s advice or expertise.
How freelancers can show their appreciation to employers
Just as freelancers deserve recognition for their hard work, it’s also important to thank your customers/employers. Here are a few ways freelancers can show their appreciation, even if it takes a little extra effort:
1. Deliver a little more
If possible, add a little extra to the delivery: an extra graphic, an idea for a post on social networks, or extra insights. It may be a small touch, but it will be greatly appreciated.
2. Send a thank-you message
Take the time to send a personalized message thanking your customer for trusting you with the project. Employers appreciate knowing that their partnership is valued.
3. Offer a discount for future projects
Offer a small discount on future projects or an exclusive rate for your loyal customers. It shows you appreciate their loyalty.
4. Deliver early whenever possible
If you can deliver a project ahead of schedule without compromising quality, it’s a great way to impress your customer and show your commitment to their success.
5. Share testimonials or case studies
When appropriate, ask permission to feature their project in your portfolio or a case study. This promotes their business and shows that you’re proud of your collaboration.
How employers can show their appreciation to freelancers
Customers can also show their appreciation beyond payment. Building positive, long-term relationships with freelancers can improve results and strengthen collaboration. Here’s how employers can thank freelancers:
1. Leave a positive review
Freelancers rely heavily on reviews to win new business. A positive, thoughtful review can help them secure more clients and boost their credibility.
2. Offer recommendations
If you’re satisfied with their work, recommend the freelancer to your network or colleagues. Recommendations are one of the most meaningful ways of showing your appreciation.
3. Give bonuses or tips
If a freelancer has exceeded your expectations, consider offering them a small bonus or tip. It’s a simple but very effective way of recognizing their effort.
4. Provide constructive feedback
Honest, constructive feedback helps freelancers improve. Offering positive, actionable feedback shows that you care about their long-term success.
5. Propose future missions
The best way to show your appreciation is to offer future projects. A steady flow of work from a trusted customer is good for both parties.
Celebrating long-term relationships
For both freelancers and employers, building lasting relationships is essential to success. Freelancers must demonstrate reliability and dedication to the task in hand. Employers, for their part, need to respect and value freelancers’ contributions by establishing a climate of trust and loyalty. A simple “thank you” can make all the difference!
Whether you’re the one delivering the service or the one receiving it, International Freelancers’ Day is the perfect time to appreciate the unique, flexible and innovative nature of freelancing. Let’s celebrate together the success and mutual growth that both parties create by working hand in hand.
