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Freelancing Abroad: The Ultimate Survival Guide

Our infographic guide looks at which professions are most suited to international freelancing and offers advice on how to stay on top of it all as a travelling freelancer.

The Rise of International Freelancing

A laptop and an internet connection are all that’s required for many jobs these days, as such many people have the flexibility and freedom to finance their travels through online freelancing. In fact, the international freelance economy is booming and there are plenty of opportunities to be found no matter where you are in the world.

Sunglasses, laptop, phone, and notepad on a pink desk overlooking the sea

10 Freelance Jobs You Can Do Abroad

There are some professions which are ideally suited to freelancing. Typically, these roles can be done online from anywhere in the world. Some examples include:

  1. Online Tutoring
  2. SEO Content Writing & Blogging
  3. Digital Marketing
  4. Journalism
  5. Graphic Design
  6. Software & Web Development
  7. Photography
  8. Sound & Video Editing
  9. Interpretation/Translation
  10. 3D Modelling & CAD Design

Where to Find International Freelance Jobs

Online marketplaces are the most commonly used way to find international freelance jobs. These are websites that enable employers to connect with freelancers who are looking for work. Some examples of popular freelance marketplaces include Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer. You will be competing with other freelancers, so you may need to charge low rates until you build up a solid portfolio. Reviews help to build credibility, so always ask your clients to leave a rating once you have completed a project.

When leveraged strategically, social media can be a great way to attract new business. Firstly, you will need to ensure that all your social media bios have up-to-date information about your services and include a link to your portfolio. To build awareness of your services and to position yourself as an authority in your field, engage in relevant online groups and forums.

Once you become more established, client referrals can be another excellent way of finding new work. In order to generate referrals, you will need to build a strong relationship with your clients. You can increase the likelihood of getting a referral by:

  • Sending a thank you card for any referral someone has sent you
  • Promoting your clients on your own social media
  • Following-up & keeping in touch with clients

10 Time Management Tips for Travelling Freelancers

How can you find time to enjoy your travel adventures while still maintaining and growing your online business?

  1. Communication: Before taking on a client, be upfront about what they can expect from you and set clear boundaries around your working hours.
  2. Stop Saying Yes When You Want to Say No: Know when you are at capacity and learn how to politely but firmly say no.
  3. Establish a Routine: Treat your work like any other job and establish set working hours. Define a clear work-life balance and try not to think about work during your time off.
  4. Automate Processes: Sign up to a good project management system that can automate as many menial tasks as possible.
  5. Get Professional Help: If you have a lot on your plate, consider hiring a virtual Personal Assistant (PA) to take care of time-consuming admin.
  6. Download a Time Tracking App: Use an app to monitor how much time you spend on work so you can ensure you don’t go over agreed-upon hours.
  7. Travel Slowly: Book long stays to give yourself plenty of time to work and enjoy the destination without sacrificing your sanity.
  8. Take Breaks: Self-care is important for good mental health. Avoid burnout by scheduling in lots of little breaks from work throughout the day.
  9. Find A Productive Working Space: Whether you decide to work from your accommodation or in a co-working space, make sure that the environment is quiet and has reliable access to the internet.
  10. Plan Ahead: Meticulously plan out your work and travel ahead of time to prevent last-minute scrambling.

Learn more about working freelance in another country, by checking out the below infographic guide.

Freelancing Abroad: The Ultimate Survival Guide

Liked this? Read our infographic, “The Best Places to Live as A Digital Nomad”.