According to recent statistics, freelancers make up almost a third of the current global workforce, with that number expected to grow significantly throughout 2023 and beyond. The result? An increasingly competitive freelance market, with platforms such as Fiverr home to millions of freelancers vying for the attention of potential clients.
In Australia, the gig economy is growing rapidly, with the freelancing platform Airtasker reporting increased demand for freelance graphic designers, writers, and developers in the country since 2020. It may be an attractive market for budding freelancers, but like much of the rest of the world, there’s likely to be fierce competition. For those looking to tap into this market, RemoteWork is an excellent platform to find freelance opportunities tailored to your skill set. Specializing in remote roles, it’s a great resource for freelancers in Australia and beyond.
In this cutthroat landscape, then, it will become more and more challenging for freelancers to stand out and attract new business. And with only 1 in 20 of today’s freelancers possessing just a single skill set, it becomes even more important to diversify your skills in order to increase your attractiveness to clients on the lookout for top talent.
But what types of skills can set you apart from your peers in a highly competitive market such as Australia? Let’s explore 6 skills that can help a freelancer attract clients Down Under.
1. Industry knowledge
In any freelance venture, possessing comprehensive industry knowledge is paramount. Australian clients place immense value on professionals who are well-versed in market trends and have a keen eye for local cultural and business nuances. One way to deepen this knowledge is by gaining a relevant industry certification — such as becoming a certified ACS professional — which can boost your credibility.
You can also attend webinars and workshops that provide insights into evolving Australian market dynamics, while a subscription to industry-specific newsletters or journals can keep you updated on emerging trends. The ability to engage in conversations about local issues sets you apart as a well-rounded professional.
2. Communication
Effective communication is an indispensable skill for any freelancer, but especially in the Australian work landscape, which is known for valuing transparency and directness. Being able to articulate ideas lucidly, actively listen, and provide constructive feedback is vital for successful project completion.
The geographical expanse of Australia, coupled with the global nature of freelancing, also requires familiarity with digital communication tools. Popular platforms like Slack and Trello are crucial for streamlined project management, while video conferencing tools such as Airtame facilitate clear face-to-face discussions. Equally essential is timely communication, ensuring that you align with your client’s expectations and keep them regularly updated.
3. Language skills
Australia’s rich tapestry of cultures is reflected in its linguistic diversity. While English is the primary language for most business transactions, there’s a burgeoning demand for professionals fluent in other languages — languages like Mandarin, for example, are desirable due to the strong trade relationship with China.
Becoming proficient in a secondary language not only expands your potential client base, but also allows you to work on projects that require localized insights. As such, if you’re able to learn a language that helps you converse with clients and provide a more diverse range of services, you may gain a competitive edge over your monolingual counterparts.
4. Writing
Whatever their primary profession — whether it’s copywriting or web development — a freelancer’s ability to write cogently can dramatically enhance their appeal. Australia’s content landscape is expansive, ranging from digital blogs to print media, and possessing refined writing skills opens a plethora of opportunities.
Moreover, even if writing isn’t the primary service you offer, drafting articulate emails or compelling project proposals underscores your professionalism. Regularly participating in online writing workshops or seeking feedback on your work can polish your skills and broaden your appeal in the Australian market.
5. Marketing
While it’s crucial to be proficient in your craft, understanding how to market yourself is equally essential. Australian businesses gravitate towards freelancers who have a pulse on modern marketing techniques. A strong online presence, bolstered by a professional and well-curated portfolio, is more likely to attract potential clients.
Delving into digital marketing, mastering the intricacies of SEO, and understanding the algorithms of social media platforms can position you prominently in search results. Platforms like Canva, which originated in Australia, are invaluable for creating captivating visual content, while email marketing tools like MailChimp can help nurture and retain clients.
6. Research skills
Research is the bedrock of innovation and insight. For a freelancer, the ability to delve deep into subjects, analyze trends, and extract actionable insights is invaluable. An Australian business will likely have ample respect for a professional who can independently sift through data and present coherent findings.
To that end, familiarity with local resources, such as Trove or the Australian Bureau of Statistics, is beneficial. Advanced research also involves staying abreast with international trends, ensuring that the solutions you offer are not just locally relevant, but globally competitive — and this is valuable whatever industry you work in.
End note
Australia’s flourishing gig economy presents numerous opportunities, but navigating this expansive market requires more than just raw talent. As the competition intensifies, a diverse skill set becomes the differentiating factor. By honing the aforementioned six skills, freelancers can not only make a lasting impression on Australian clients, but also future-proof their careers in an evolving global landscape.
