The "I should have known that" guide for you, to earn more.

Welcome to Whatever Matters' - Saturday Startup Weekly, where I bring in strategies, case studies & stories about entrepreneurs, businesses and how to build your own.

Before we jump into today’s edition I want you to take 5 minutes to help me craft this Newsletter for your 2024 goals. This will help me personalise the editions for you and get you the best jobs, strategies, career and life hacks available.

Over 15000 subscribers have already filled it. It helps me understand you better. All the questions are generic (I don’t ask for any personal details)

5 Lucky subscribers will get a chance to join my $500 coaching on LinkedIn branding for free.

---

"Freelancing is not for everyone."

We've all heard this, right?

And maybe a part of you has even believed it when faced with rising costs of living, challenging workplaces, and that constant hustle for more.

But what if that statement is outdated? What if everyone – yes, even YOU – have the potential to thrive with freelancing?

Let’s bust the myths around Freelancing first.

Myth #1: "It's too risky & unstable"

Freelancing does involve some risk, but so does any job! Companies downsize, and projects get cancelled. The key is creating stability through smart strategies:

• Diversify your income: Offer multiple services, and work with a mix of clients.

• Build a financial buffer: Aim for 3-6 months of living expenses saved.

• Treat it like a business: Manage finances, set work hours, and market yourself (more on this later!)

• Don’t quit your job - keep this as a secondary income.

Myth #2: "I don't have the right skills"

You might be surprised! Freelancing needs way more than just technical skills. Think:

• Problem-solving: Clients don't just pay for work; they pay for solutions.

• Communication: Being clear and responsive builds trust.

• Self-management: You're your boss – time management is key!

One of my Mumbai-based clients, Rhea, was a teacher struggling to make ends meet. She turned her passion for organization into a virtual assistant career, now earning twice her previous salary. All of this at her convenience - without negotiating on personal time over weekends.

Myth #3: "The market is too competitive"

The freelance market is BOOMING! Companies here are outsourcing more than ever. The trick is standing out:

• Niche down: Focus on a specific skill set or industry (e.g., tech writing, social media for e-commerce).

• Showcase your expertise: Create a portfolio, and blog, and offer free consultations.

• Leverage networks: LinkedIn and industry-specific groups are goldmines.

Another client of mine from Chennai, Vikram, was tired of the corporate 9-5 grind. He specialised as a Shopify developer and now works with global clients, earning way more than his previous job.

To take the first steps, here is what you can do.

1. Skills Audit: What are you REALLY good at? List technical skills, soft skills, and even hobbies. You might find hidden freelance gems.

2. Market Research: Who NEEDS those skills? Browse freelance platforms ([Upwork, Fiverr, etc.]), job boards, and even social media for trends.

TOP FREELANCING OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE IN THE MARKET TODAY

• Website Development - You can make anywhere between 5000 to 50,000 depending upon the tech stack and the project.

• Copy/Content writing - You can make between 10,000 to 30,000 per month from a single client.

• Paid Advertisement (on Google/FB) - You can easily make 15,000 per month from this.

If you’re interested, please fill out the survey or reply to the email and my team will curate a list of opportunities for you every Saturday. In case you ever get stuck in your startup journey book a 1:1 coaching call with me visit: www.topmate.io/chalkmeout