the complete beginner’s guide to freelancing in 2025

[@malayka2175]

This came at the perfect time. My freelance copywriting business went on hiatus last December because of the holidays and I'm slowly inching back into normalcy. Hoping I hit the $10K milestone this year (and soon!) ❤

[@sh-ehmed]

10K a month 🤩 or 10K overall 🤩?

[@MyNameIsDeya]

cheering you on!!! good for you for taking the small steps to get back into it. :)

[@samtetteh6002]

I’m struggling with starting in a niche and I’m overwhelmed and over complicating the process, any tips?

[@hachikaizen]

@@samtetteh6002 i think she has some videos about that aswell, not sure but you could try checking!

[@wakiwama6348]

How is it going??

[@gosuperva]

Freelancing is like building a bridge, one plank at a time. Each project is a step forward, and the view from the top is worth every challenge along the way.

[@NeuroGlob]

I am a long-time business owner who has hired many freelancers. Unless you're a relative of the client, I suggest... You don't want to quote an hourly rate to reduce risk, as it's meaningless to them since they don't know how much time a job will take to do and they're not watching you work. They are referring to the pro, which is you to tell them. Instead, you should quote a flat rate and start with smaller jobs that are semi-cookie cutter and not custom "whatever the client wants" jobs. Get examples of their goal or provide examples of what they will get.

[@melvin4829]

I agree. People will expect to get scammed and overcharged even if they don’t.

[@freelancerrimon627]

Agree with you❤

[@FindNewModels_com]

Custom work can be a nightmare, it is very difficult to get a client to decide on something and then stick to it. This is why I don't deal with front end, its a nightmare.

[@RahulBhalley]

I agree. I chose to go with flat amount for same reason.

[@Belle536]

Great tip. Thank you I’m about to take my first step into the freelance space and, this is a very helpful information.

[@lawrenceulat1243]

this is literally one of the best videos ive seen about starting in freelance! subbed! im a photo&videographer tryna make it but this is great, love the video game aspect! make more pleasssse

[@FalloutUrMum]

Were you able to figure out how to freelance in photography and video?

[@mariagiullia4158]

you're so creative, i just "landed" on your profile and i'm amazed of the way you present your ideas ✨

[@MyNameIsDeya]

that's so kind, Maria. thank you so much! really appreciate it

[@deoriginalhiba]

your editor deserves a raise!

[@MyNameIsDeya]

gave her one in february!

[@krowkovtuber]

i LOVE how all her videos are PACKED TO THE BRIM with useful info and insights!!!!!!! the only entrepreneur whose videos i actually enjoy watching!

[@MyNameIsDeya]

that means a lot!!!

[@businessoldier2132]

Of all the the "experts" I see giving only tid bits of information, and asking you to buy their course, you come across so different. Honest, and without the ego, just giving great advice and value, I really appreciate your approach to these vids! Subbed.👍

[@lavanyaarya5108]

I am finally able to get myself to start freelancing full-time, and even though I did 3 projects, the Level 1 strategy looks pretty solid! Thanks for being our freelancing buddy Deya! 🥰

[@MyNameIsDeya]

congrats!!! that's so exciting. The first few projects are the hardest to sign so I hope you're celebrating your wins properly! :)

[@kamhaq]

One biggest Mistake most freelancer do: I earned more then quarter million doing freelancing as Software Engineer in two years but, today i cant get any work for last three month, because:: MISTAKE: - Once i get a client paying me 2kUSD per week and work was hardly 3 hours per-day I STOP searching for WORK - i should have continue looking for small one time job, - small jobs will keep you floating in market, with multiple feed back instead i have almost 0 feed back with 2000+ hours of work - MUST get feedback, this is where soft skill play major role give always something extra to make your client happy.

[@JahzyrahAbrams-xj8py]

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and your mistakes! A lot of people only show the shiny part of freelance but you’ve shared what you’ve learned and this will help so much more! Thank you so much

[@AnggiSahamCantik]

I close 2023 with my first 2k invoice as freelance writer 🎉 I can't believe this can be real ❤😊 I learn so much from your video, Deya. Thx.

[@MyNameIsDeya]

congrats!!! that's amazing. good for you!

[@reaganjagi]

Would you mind sharing how you did it?

[@stephprader]

Heya! I’m new here so if you’ve already been told this, ignore me. If you get sick of saying “soft” skills, I heard Simon Sinek call them “human” skills. He got sick of it too and decided he wanted to change it in ppl’s minds. Just found you and loving all of your content! Thank you for making it! ^_^

[@MyNameIsDeya]

oooo love that steph! thanks for sharing & thank you for the kind words!

[@m.ismail01]

You truly rock the digital training world! Your expertise and energy are inspiring. Keep shining bright!

[@LightningBoltForever]

Your channel has been one the best I've found in 2024 so far. Thank you for your wonderful videos! Having done a few one-off VO projects last year, it's nice to see an accessible formula for actually getting a freelance business going and moving along consistently. You've got a sub from me!

[@MyNameIsDeya]

that's so kind - thank you so much for watching!

[@chandaojha_says]

This KZbinr is making my life easier, great value!

[@thinkaplo]

I recently discovered your channel and now I'm marathoning your videos 😂. Great work, and very inspirational for someone starting in this world of self employment! Hats off! 🎩

[@MyNameIsDeya]

so happy to hear that - thank ya!

[@BlamKreations]

already $300 into my freelance CC journey. no shout out yet, but I'm getting there!

[@amosjuliantampubolon2413]

What is CC?

[@nenemori8424]

Maybe... Content Creator. I'm not sure, but it does fit it 😂😂 ​@@amosjuliantampubolon2413

[@sodenwiththis6702]

Just commenting here so I can come back to this once I earn that first £10K! I've done a couple websites for people but your video's really helping with how to reach more potential clients :) amazing video, you've earned a sub and a binge watch on a rainy saturday evening lol

[@chillydoog]

Just curious, what type of web design do you do? Do you use a page builder or wordpress?

[@sodenwiththis6702]

@@chillydoog I do it from scratch, depending on if they want a dynamic site or not If they want a static site - HTML, CSS (with Sass) and JS If they want any sort of backend interaction (e.g. contact form) I use Laravel

[@MarkFreedmanNY]

I love your energy! I'm in my 60s, feel like I'm in my 40s, but you make me feel like 30! I will repeat watch this to catch everything (I may have to slow down the video 😁). Been in software for decades, and want to move to freelancing now. Subscribed immediately.

[@teaser1064]

This video pop-up in right time. For months I stuck in one really big problem. That is how can I start freelancing to make extra money for my university fees. Now I realize how can I start freelancing thanks to you.❤

[@fatoubbalde]

I love how informative this video is but I also love the way it's presented. Gamifying it is absolutely genius and I'm so hooked

[@christopherandrovich5398]

I know I’m a bit late to this but the “huge add add” mix up made me burst out laughing. Love the little bloopers you leave in, feels so down to earth and approachable.

[@federica4829]

Wow this was actually helpful. Kudos to you for keeping things concise and straight to the point

[@williamleung9217]

I absolutely loved how you made this whole video like video game gamification journey lol. Making work "feel fun" lol but everything you talked about is spot on.

[@lifewithvicx]

I ACTUALLY LOVE how you edited this its soooo fun

[@queenwaffIes]

just came across your channel and binge watching all your videos now!!! so much value and love your personality too ❤ glad i found your channel! :)))

[@rebijordan]

This was by far the best, in depth video guide I've come across on the topic. Great channel and videos! Keep 'em coming!

[@aliceduanra7539]

Thank you so much ! I just set up my freelancing profile and got two translation jobs very quickly. Still trying to set up my profile but i was very impressed with the demand .

[@ivankrysiuk9393]

Deya you are incredible! I've been following you recently and I've learned a lot thanks to your videos! I hope to be able to dedicate myself fully to freelancing in the near future because now I am in a factory as a routine job and in my free time as a Freelance Motion Designer! Thank you and good luck! Greetings from Argentina!😊

[@iamnottswift]

Thank you so much Deya! These videos are changing the game for me in terms of organizing what I need to do get things done. I kicked off level one this weekend and I'm almost finished with my portfolio! 🤩

[@jonasbingil9899]

Tysm! gotta start at level 1. Keep sharing! ❤❤❤

[@RingingBro]

Hello Deya, Why is your vibe so AMAZING?

[@Shockocksthegreat]

The amount of value in your channel is 💯💯💯🍾. I found you yesterday and am fully vibing. I'm like the type A Trello guy no one wanted in their workplace, so your specific freelance path looks like the most exiting thing. I'm excited to learn more about it and your stuff!

[@_carissahope]

learning more in this than i ever learned in my marketing classes

[@davidfernandeztejedor5132]

Wow. Actual thought and energy was put into this superhero guide (can't find this anywhere). I discovered my superpower, compromised on my superhero fee and targeted innocent civilians in need of my rescuing. And now I'm fully invested in my journey. Can't wait to see where the upcoming levels take me!

[@DeniseReedis]

Finally! Thanks for gamifying building a business! The steps are simple but not easy. Keep following your dreams.

[@Designerdan397]

This was a goldmine of info and the roadmap really tackled all my jumbled thoughts starting my freelance, cheers!

[@samanthayes]

this is the third video of yours that I have binge watch and I´m sold, I just subscribed to you! thank you for all the info!!!

[@moobear_kat]

Thank you Deya! Just found your channel and had to subscribe to everything, your advice is the best I've seen about freelancing on KZbin!

[@andrewkagwa8601]

This is the most amazing video about freelancing it really gave me goosebumps and kept wondering on how some one can have so much organised information really, big Deya may God bless you as I also get moving with my freelancing as a Graphics designer

[@psrelated2010]

Loved the idea of turning this into a video game. You are hella talented!

[@hiyka]

can't wait for her next projects, her creativity is unmatched

[@mysticalfoxie]

I help the game industry porting games to consoles and make way more than 5k a month :) Its really like you say it. Increase your skills, level up the stats that are important for your business type, and iterate! Thanks, Deya, for your motivation boost! Sometime you just need to hear it over and over again until you really get it. 😂❤

[@badboykintan]

OMG I LOVE YOU SO MUCH I'M GETTING INTO FREELANCING RN

[@CaptRabbit]

really nice to have you.. lot of a new things. thats really motivated

[@LamyaaMady]

Thank you so much, Deya. You're great. Extremely helpful content and cheerful personality. Love your step-by-step guide to the overwhelming freelance world.

[@Luxemaven8686]

Thank you! The best free-lancing video I have watched.

[@semper_femina]

Deya, this video is on another level. Thank you so much. I'm just now stating to consider become a freelancer and this is incredibly helpful. Now, I'm gonna go binge watch the rest of your content 😃

[@MyNameIsDeya]

so happy to hear that!!! :) don't forget to take action too!

[@TheAmazinRaven1]

Pls this video is so cute & you are so precious omg tysm for this free tea!

[@serendipityglory]

This is sooo good and realistic. Thanks Deya, glad I found and subscribed to your channel

[@goosgoos4571]

okay so ive made a decision to make july the month i start taking shit seriously again after failing so many times bc i get so overwhelmed💀 and omg the way you put things in this video makes the most sense in my brain thank you thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge for us to know how to start! it really means so much to me. now to see how the rest of this month goes

[@MyNameIsDeya]

cheering you on!!!

[@HiChange]

This is amazing and I am hoping in the coming months I can come back and let you know I successfully completed each level - also love the animal crossing background music ;)

[@MyNameIsDeya]

please do!!!

[@entheosmoney]

Hahahaha that Huge Ad Ad and what you did with it was brilliant! Brilliantt!! Hahahaha Thanks friend

[@JeffryChavenia]

I watched one of your video regarding the freelancing platform. I was amaze in that video and learned a lot of valuable information. Then I watch this video because I am starting my journey as a freelancer. Thanks for the step by step tutorial. lol. I will revisit this every now and then just to check the progress. I would love to pet your cat. hahaha.

[@ayeshasingh30]

Been obsessed with your channel and all the info you share ! Planning to start freelancing soon🤞🏼

[@MyNameIsDeya]

so happy to hear that!!! thanks for watching :)

[@itsbossin]

Hey Deya, I really love your energy! Great content as always

[@CPfaith]

Thank you for this video. I think it is what I need. Have a associate degree in business admin and have been unemployed for a little over a year now. Recently made some money at home by using my skills created someone's portfolio. Even did something I had not done before..... editing videos. Now I am thinking of freelancing my skills to earn income but don't know how to go about it. Will follow your steps and see what happens.

[@aditmb]

I'm just started and always hesitate about the "ghost projects" you mentioned here, but getting real projects is also hard to begin with. Thanks for the video, I'm gonna make fully working ghost projects to fill up the portfolio page.

[@reaganjagi]

I also struggled with "ghost projects" but I started thinking what if my clients start asking if I've ever done a project for someone. I would suggest you just make a friendship with someone on IG or X then offer them a free landing page in exchange of a review

[@TrueMisterJ]

I love your videos Deya, helps a lot to get some encouragement. I made a plan for myself with this video and I will follow it, wish me luck. :D

[@valisha.1111]

i love the way you deliver and present your ideas💓 thank you 🥰

[@vellyjatt7824]

You seems providing good i fo, your channel is underrated, as you speak truth.

[@DanielOmoroje]

I really enjoyed the video.I’ve been freelancing for More than a month now.hoping to achieve level three in two months time

[@umiwilfa103]

This is my first comment on yt, I've been your fan since your early video. Love your energy and anthusiast, thanks for sharing it with us.

[@jennielyra3694]

I paused it just to write down the "I help ______ do _______ so they can ________." Such a clean way to think about it.

[@abbyumaruddin1639]

How do you not have millions of followers already?? Thank you!!

[@jennielyra3694]

This is such a cute presentation idea.

[@caracochrane04]

your editing is so cute

[@AnthonyHarle-w6d]

Thank you for sharing the exact road to success 🎉

[@MerridethHawk]

FUN!!!! I wish all youtube tutorial videos were this much fun to watch 😃

[@ChaoticBrainwaves]

Best freelancing tip everrrrrr thank you so much 🎉❤❤❤

[@greatnnawuchi4282]

Your video editor is killing it🔥

[@MyNameIsDeya]

she is! love her!! :)

[@greatnnawuchi4282]

@@MyNameIsDeya She deserves her flowers. By the way Deya, (I hope this doesn't sound like a pitch..lol) I would like to work with you. I'm a copywriter & Content Marketer. I could send you my portfolio if you wish. (I'm super affordable and very reliable) So, What do you say? PS: I love your videos, your voice and the way you present things - its really organized. 👌

[@GILLSWIGWORLD]

Great video Deya! Starting my freelancing journey asap! 😊

[@MyNameIsDeya]

so happy to hear that!!! lmk any other videos that would be helpful for you in your journey!

[@isurus0]

Deya, great video. I should have done this 20 years ago. I'm starting this week.

[@MyNameIsDeya]

so exciting! cheering you on!!

[@sarab2142]

Made my first $1000 as a freelancer! 🎉🎉

[@pixiebomb28]

This such a great and cute video. Love the gamification. Also, awesome t-shirt 🤩

[@senaozbek8218]

heyy deya, could you mke a video about how and from where i could learn new skills (marketing/sales ect.) and also about whats the best way to ask for a raise in your hourly rate??

[@ved.shankar]

Love the video game vibe with this video :)

[@simonesimona8317]

You are very smart and fun to listen to. Thanks for all the great tips 😊

[@coachcarenfern]

I had to subscribe because this was so good and although I play no video games I love doing my businesses like a game so bravo to you 👏👏👏👏🥳 and well done. I’m now building up my bookkeeping department and I will use some of these and report back with results. Thank you 😊

[@shawnewig7529]

This was great info. I’m struggling with imposter syndrome and not thinking I’m good enough and being nervous that people will find out my a fraud of some sorts

[@e.v.vasilkova]

Wow! So much so valuable information! Thank you so much! ❤

[@tegaralamsah]

Deya!, thank you! Your videos is so helpful!! 🤩

[@plmrlo]

loving ur personality! so great i stumble upon your video. new sub here!

[@entheosmoney]

Hey Deya, watched your video yesterday, and built my first gig page, just watched until level 1, cos imma win that first level before I go ahead. Watching the first part again, your videos have given me a lot of confidence (and could I say comfort/calm?) And.. I even structured my day level-wise, If I win this level only then I go for the next, and it is awesome! :P Thank you very much! airhug*

[@dmorenol01]

Loved your energy, style, ideas... new subscriber here!

[@NiTeLightYears]

Hidden gem of information, thankyou And serious question, for freelance, how do you get a client while using a platform that is overpopulated, that only favors the one who already at the top (due many reviews/started earlier) and if you have the same idea with others and newer upload, won't have the slightest chance? This means you should market it somewhere, better to directly reach people, but I haven't figured out where (totally instal DM isn't it) And I have an idea that can fix the biggest problem, but the key is to be widely recognized content that slips into many people algorithm in shorts, no matter what kind of content they watch, the problem cant be solved immediately, and it can be a frustrating feeling if I have to upload 20+ in a long time, (I mean I do have 10+ ideas, I am busy overall)

[@ChisomSandra]

Thanks you so much for this video I’m starting my freelance journey again for the 3rd time Third time is the charm, right? 😊

[@crash_davis]

Your videos are great. Keep up the good work 😎

[@johnroedbacting6620]

Thank you, very detail oriented :)

[@AliAhmad-so3yv]

Love your content keep it upppp.

[@Mr.B23.]

Hi Deya! I really enjoy your videos and wanted to thank you for sharing your knowledge. Your content is AWESOME! I also want to give something back, so here's my unsolicited advice (how despicable of me, I know): get rid of the vocal fry. Please don't get me wrong, is not that big of a "problem". You only use it sometimes at the end of the sentence, but you just don't need it. I find your voice pleasant, and I don't think you need to compensate for authority - knowledge and personality are enough. Best of luck!

[@AhmadFawadAzad]

nice job thanks wish you more success

[@LoveAsiaRenee]

You are so funny! The little money fingers “Is this ASMR??” moment made me chuckle and immediately hit the subscribe button 😂. 17:45

[@fairycharmcottage]

@1:28 ....but I have those same problems too 😅

[@JeanWandimi]

In minute 15 and I love you you did this whole video in gaming style. Btw do you ever hire/ need content writers for your DBM business?

[@camilalizama6267]

What a gold video I just found thanks ♥️

[@AndyBaedal]

Hi Deya good day! I wonder if u can explain more about “Type A” mean (in how to find your super power section) and how to check / get to know my type as well?

[@kareemsakr41]

What would a “digital business manager” portfolio look like? Or do you start with a subset of what a digital business manager does first?

[@chii_nik]

I love you already but I have a question. What if you have so many skills, how do you present it on upwork? With 5 years of experience (AKA entrepreneur fir 4 years so I did everything and made 4 figures monthly)

[@wame.gomolemo]

You are God send thank you Deya for this information❤ God's favour is indeed with you ❤