Thinking about freelancing in 2025? The freelance market is growing rapidly, with experts predicting that by 2027, around half of the U.S. workforce will be freelancers. Statista reports that 86.5 million people will be working as freelancers in just two years. While this represents a huge opportunity for those looking to start their own consultancy, coaching business, or other services, it also means the market is becoming increasingly competitive. Before you take the plunge into freelancing, here are three essential things you need to understand to stand out and succeed in this fast-paced, evolving landscape.

1. Freelancing is All About Sales – Whether You Like It or Not

One of the first things you need to realize about freelancing is that it’s not just about delivering a service or creating a product. To make money, you have to sell your services, and that means understanding sales and marketing, even if you have no formal training in those areas. Freelancing is a business, and you must treat it as such.

Sales skills are not optional if you want to thrive. You’ll need to master the psychology of why clients want to work with you, build a strong marketing strategy, and learn how to communicate your value effectively. This is where many freelancers struggle, but the good news is you can learn through trial and error, by connecting with other freelancers, and through courses that teach you the ins and outs of selling and business development. Upskill in this area, and you'll not only stay in the game but also scale your freelance business to new heights.

2. Your Story is Your Superpower

Freelancers often get lost in a sea of competition, but one thing that will always make you stand out is your personal story. Storytelling is a powerful tool in marketing, and when you share your experiences, both professional and personal, you humanize yourself and build a genuine connection with your audience.

Whether it’s a story of overcoming a business challenge, a lesson learned from a failed project, or a breakthrough that transformed your business, sharing your journey helps potential clients relate to you and see the value in your work. Structure your stories around a simple narrative: What happened? What did you learn? And what was the positive outcome? This creates transparency and relatability, which can lead to stronger client relationships, speaking opportunities, or even collaborations with other professionals.

For instance, if you’re a freelance SEO expert, you could share a story about how you turned around a client’s website traffic by tweaking their SEO strategy, detailing the challenges you faced and the ultimate success you helped them achieve. Stories like these resonate with audiences because they showcase real-world results and build trust.

3. Stop Calling Yourself a Freelancer – You’re a Business

A major mindset shift you need when starting your freelance business is to stop calling yourself a "freelancer." While it’s common to identify as a freelancer, this term often implies short-term work or a side gig. In reality, you are running a business, and you should treat yourself as such.

Start by rebranding yourself. Instead of saying "freelance web designer," say "web design agency" or "web design expert." This simple change will not only help you feel more confident but will also influence how clients perceive you. A business-focused mindset means setting clear revenue goals, managing your finances wisely, diversifying your income streams, and strategically planning for growth.

Additionally, consider protecting yourself legally by setting up an LLC or another business structure. Create clear contracts, set your terms and policies, and ensure you have the necessary insurance. This shift in mindset and language will help you take your business seriously and establish authority in your niche.

Conclusion: Start Your Freelance Business with Confidence

Freelancing in 2025 is full of potential, but only if you're prepared. Remember that freelancing is sales-driven, your personal story is a powerful marketing tool, and you are a business—not just a freelancer. By approaching your freelance career with a strategic, business-first mindset, you can stand out in the crowded market and build a sustainable, high-earning business.

If you're ready to start freelancing, take these tips to heart and set yourself up for success. Need more advice on growing your freelance business? Explore more of our content or leave a comment with your questions!