How to succeed as an expat freelancer

If you’re emigrating without a job to go to, proving work experience is easier if you freelance or volunteer before applying for a permanent position.

For those desperate to live the expat life but without a convincing CV to offer, actually landing a job can be hard. Many job adverts require a degree of professional competence, whilst many would-be applicants are just out of uni with no knowledge of the world of work. At this point, volunteering or freelancing can give at least some weight to your CV, proving you can get at least work in on time and are working to professional standards.

In the expat world, freelancing is a better alternative than volunteering as it gives the added bonus of being paid to get the work experience you need to apply for a steady job.The only problem with freelancing is that you might get used to the freedom it gives to travel and work when you feel like it. Many expat freelancers end up making this style of work their main career, especially if the pay is enough to live a reasonably well provided-for lifestyle.

If this sounds like you, giving your CV more flair can increase your earnings by a considerable amount, especially if you build it based on your freelancing jobs. Using websites dedicated to your specific sector can help you find the right job for your specific talent, with writers finding work through Flexjobs or Upwork and designers happy with People per Hour and 99Designs. Another way forward is to build your own business simply by cold-emailing prospective clients in your sector, a strategy which can result in higher pay as well as better credits from employers.

If you’re an expat living in the Netherlands, freelance translation jobs pay well. When you’re ready for your own website, one of the most influential tools is your personal profile, which should show your soft skills as well as your professional talents and the services you provide. A good personal picture is important, as is a portfolio of your previous work and details of your skills, rates and discounts if applicable. Discounting is one way to get new work, but should be discontinued once you’re up and running. Of course, delivering quality work on time and within the agreed cost is essential, as positive feedback will attract more jobs.