17 Easy Freelance Jobs for Beginners: Start Your Independent Career Today

Last Updated on September 18, 2024 by Katie

Freelance work offers location freedom, flexible work schedules, and the chance to dodge office politics. But, how do you break into this industry? Well, this big list of easy freelance jobs is a good place to start – so keep reading!

This article will guide you through a variety of beginner-friendly freelance jobs, helping you find options that match your skills and interests.

Whether you’re a stay-at-home Mom, a college student, or an average person looking to break away from the chains of the 9-5, a freelance career is possible if you know how to get set up the right way.

I love working as a freelance writer and enjoy being my own boss, as well as the time and freedom it gives me.

But, I won’t lie to you and say it’s been easy.

In the beginning, it took months of relentless cold pitching to get my first few clients.

And, over the years I’ve lost clients and gone short periods without work.

But, the positives outweigh the negatives for me and I wouldn’t want to go back to working for someone else again!

Let’s dive in!

 

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* Work at Home as a Transcriptionist – Learn Transcription Skills with Transcribe Anywhere and Open Doors to New Remote Jobs.

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The Best Easy Freelance Jobs for Beginners to Get Started Working from Home

Let’s take a look at some of the best easy freelance jobs for beginners.

The majority of these jobs are entry-level and don’t require you to have a degree or experience.

However, it will help if you build up a strong portfolio and take relevant online courses if you have never worked in the industry.

 

1: Transcription

Transcription is a flexible freelance job ideal for beginners interested in converting spoken content into written form.

You could be hired by various clients, including law, media, education, and medical sectors. Many companies value text records for documentation and accessibility.

To succeed, you’ll need strong typing skills, attention to detail, and good listening abilities.

A basic comprehension of grammar and punctuation is helpful. Speed and accuracy are important to increase your earnings and efficiency.

Daily tasks might include:

• Listening to and transcribing audio files
• Editing and proofreading transcriptions
• Researching terms and phrases to ensure accuracy
• Meeting deadlines

While experience isn’t always necessary, you may be asked to take a short typing and transcription test, so do your homework for any company you want to get a job with.

You can find transcription jobs on platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, and GoTranscript.

Pay varies by company and project, typically ranging from $0.25 to $2.50 per audio minute.

This equals approximately $15 to $150 per audio hour, translating to an hourly rate of $5 to $25 based on speed and experience.

Check our guide on how to become a general transcriptionist for more information.

If you don’t have the right skills, check this FREE 7-lesson mini-course to jumpstart your transcription career

 

2: Data Entry

Data entry is a popular freelance job for beginners that can be started with no experience.

Businesses such as marketing firms, healthcare providers, and administrative services frequently hire for these positions and you will be tasked with inputting data into computer systems, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

Attention to detail is crucial for success in data entry. You will need basic computer skills and familiarity with standard office software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets.

Accuracy and speed are important, but typing experience will develop with time.

You can search for these jobs on this big list of data entry sites hiring beginners today.

Daily tasks may include:

• Input data into spreadsheets or databases
• Verify and update existing data
• Organize and categorize received information
• Manage and process forms or records

For a beginner in data entry, you can expect to earn between $15-$20 per hour although this rate may vary based on the complexity of tasks and the client’s budget. 

 

3: Freelance Writing

Freelance writing offers a variety of opportunities for beginners, covering areas like blogging, copywriting, and social media content.

Many businesses, from tech startups to online retailers, hire freelance writers to create engaging content that resonates with their audience.

To succeed, you need strong writing skills, creativity, and an ability to tailor content to different audiences.

Understanding SEO can also be beneficial in enhancing content visibility.

Many platforms, such as BloggingPro, offer freelance writing opportunities and you can check these lists of freelance writing jobs for beginners and easy online typing jobs.

Daily tasks for a freelance writer include:

• Writing blog posts and articles
• Creating product descriptions
• Crafting engaging social media posts
• Developing copy for advertisements
• Conducting research for content ideas

Earnings for beginner freelance writers typically range from $15 to $50 per hour. Rates can vary based on complexity and the client’s industry.

Learn more in our guide on how to become a freelance writer with no experience.

 

4: Virtual Assistant

It’s simple to enter the freelancing world by learning how to become a virtual assistant with no experience.

Businesses or entrepreneurs often hire virtual assistants to handle a variety of administrative tasks.

They value skills like organization, attention to detail, and proficiency in office software.

To thrive as a virtual assistant, you should be familiar with tools like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace and possess strong communication skills.

Reliable internet access is also essential.

Daily tasks might include:

• Managing email correspondence
• Scheduling appointments
• Organizing digital files
• Conducting research
• Data entry
• Blog and social media management

Beginners in this field typically earn between $10 to $15 per hour.

You can find beginner virtual assistant jobs on sites like Belay and Fancy Hands.

Consider joining networks such as VANetworking.com for resources and job opportunities tailored specifically for virtual assistants.

 

5: Proofreading

Proofreading is an excellent freelance job for those with a keen eye for detail and a passion for language.

It involves reviewing written content for grammatical, spelling, punctuation, and typographical errors.

Companies, publishers, authors, and academic institutions often hire freelance proofreaders.

To succeed, you need strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with style guides like APA or MLA.

Experience with digital tools such as Grammarly or Microsoft Word’s tracking changes feature can enhance your efficiency.

Learn more in our guide on how to become a proofreader with no experience and check this list of proofreading jobs for beginners.

Daily tasks a proofreader may work on:

• Correcting spelling and grammatical errors.
• Ensuring consistency in style and formatting.
• Collaborating with writers to clarify inconsistencies.
• Reviewing documents for clarity and readability.

Beginner proofreaders can typically earn between $15 to $25 per hour, depending on the client’s requirements and the nature of the content.

Need more help?

Check out this how to start a proofreading business webinar from Proofread Anywhere.

 

6: Voice Over

Voice over work is an accessible freelance job for beginners interested in using their voice professionally.

Companies in the media, entertainment, advertising, and education sectors often hire voice over artists for various projects.

Basic skills needed include clear diction, the ability to convey emotion, and basic recording equipment knowledge.

A quiet space for recording is essential, and versatility across different voice styles can expand your opportunities.

To find jobs, you can explore platforms like Backstage, or explore this big list of no experience voice over jobs

Many online job boards also have sections dedicated to voice acting gigs.

Daily tasks might include:

• Recording scripts for commercials or educational content
• Editing audio files for clarity and quality
• Interacting with clients for direction and feedback
• Marketing your services to find new clients

For beginners, expected earnings can range from $20 to $50 per hour, depending on the project and client.

As you gain experience and a portfolio, potential earnings can increase substantially.

Learn more in our guide on how to start a voice over career with no experience.

 

7: Social Media Management

In social media management, you handle a company’s presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (X).

Businesses and individuals hire social media managers to enhance brand awareness and engagement.

Key skills include creativity, strong communication, and analytics proficiency. Familiarity with social media tools like Hootsuite and Buffer can be beneficial.

Tasks you may be asked to do include:

• Creating and scheduling posts
• Engaging with followers
• Analyzing social media metrics
• Developing content strategies
• Monitoring trends and conversations

Beginners in this role can expect hourly earnings ranging from $15 to $25.

 

8: Bookkeeper

As a freelance bookkeeper, you will handle financial records and ensure transactions are accurately recorded.

Small businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs often hire bookkeepers to maintain their financial health without the expense of a full-time employee.

To succeed in this role, you need a strong grasp of accounting principles and excellent attention to detail.

Familiarity with bookkeeping software like QuickBooks or Xero is also beneficial.

Daily tasks may include:

• Recording financial transactions
• Managing accounts payable and receivable
• Reconciling bank statements
• Preparing financial reports

For beginners, hourly earnings typically range from $17 to $25, but, as you gain experience, your rate can increase significantly.

 

9: Customer Support

Freelance customer support roles offer a flexible entry point into the freelance world.

Businesses across various industries hire freelancers to manage customer interactions without bearing the cost of full-time employees.

Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential in this role, but many companies will train you on the job for specific skills.

You need to handle inquiries efficiently and professionally. Familiarity with customer support software can boost your prospects.

You can find freelance customer support opportunities on platforms like Upwork and check out this list of companies offering customer support jobs from home.

Daily tasks might include:

• Responding to customer queries via phone, email, or chat
• Resolving product or service-related issues
• Documenting customer interactions
• Providing feedback to improve customer experience

As a beginner, you can expect to earn around $15-$20 per hour, depending on the complexity of tasks and your level of expertise.

 

10: Graphic Design

As a freelance graphic designer, you have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of creative projects.

Companies in advertising, marketing, and media often seek talented graphic designers to create visual content.

To succeed in this role, you’ll need strong skills in design software like Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and Illustrator.

You can find freelance graphic design jobs on platforms like Behance and Dribbble.

Tasks you might work on daily include:

• Designing logos and brand identities.
• Creating marketing materials such as brochures and flyers.
• Developing social media graphics and content.
• Crafting custom illustrations and infographics.
• Editing and retouching photos.

For beginners, hourly earnings typically range from $15 to $30 depending on experience and project complexity.

As you expand your portfolio, there is potential to increase your rates significantly.

If you are creative, you might also enjoy this guide on how to get paid to color.

 

11: Resume Writing

Resume writing is a fantastic freelance opportunity for beginners, as many individuals and professionals seek help to craft compelling resumes.

Often, job seekers, career changers, and recent graduates hire resume writers to refine their resumes and enhance their chances in a competitive job market.

To succeed in this field, you need strong writing skills and the ability to showcase a candidate’s experience effectively.

Familiarity with different industry requirements and a keen eye for detail are essential.

Check out ResumeWriters and ResumeSpice for freelance resume writing opportunities.

Daily tasks may include:

• Crafting and editing resumes and cover letters
• Conducting client consultations
• Researching industry-specific keywords
• Formatting documents professionally
• Communicating with clients for feedback and revisions

As a beginner in resume writing, hourly earnings typically range from $20 to $40, depending on your expertise and clientele.

 

12: Web Designer

As a web designer, you help create the visual layout and aesthetic design of websites.

Businesses, startups, and individuals seeking to establish an online presence might hire you for these services.

Through your work, you contribute to crafting user-friendly and visually appealing sites.

Skills in graphic design, knowledge of various design software like Adobe Photoshop, and an understanding of HTML/CSS are crucial.

Familiarity with user experience (UX) principles can also enhance your capabilities in this role.

Daily tasks might include:

• Developing website mockups and prototypes.
• Designing page layouts and graphics.
• Collaborating with clients to meet their visual expectations.
• Ensuring mobile responsiveness.
• Updating existing website designs.

Beginners can find web design jobs on platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer. These sites host a variety of projects for different experience levels.

For someone just starting out, expected hourly earnings typically range from $20 to $40 but rates will increase with experience, a robust portfolio, and specialized skills.

 

13: Online Tutoring

Online tutoring is one of the best freelance jobs for beginners as many platforms hire tutors with little experience.

However, it will help if you have knowledge in subjects like math, science, languages, and test preparation.

Many companies are hiring tutors who can deliver lessons effectively online, sometimes even without prior teaching experience.

To succeed as an online tutor, you should have strong knowledge of the subject you teach and good communication skills.

Patience and the ability to explain complex concepts in a simple manner are crucial.

Platforms to explore include Tutors.com and other online marketplaces for educational services.

Daily tasks may include:

• Preparing lesson plans
• Conducting live tutoring sessions
• Providing feedback on assignments
• Tracking student progress
• Adjusting teaching methods based on student needs

Beginner tutors can expect to earn between $15 to $25 per hour, with the potential to increase rates as experience and expertise grow.

Learn more in this guide on where to teach English online with no experience.

 

14: Online Chat Support

Online chat support is a flexible and accessible freelance job, suitable for those with strong communication skills.

Tasks involve responding to customer queries through typed messages and emails, providing information, and offering solutions.

To succeed as an online chat support agent, you need strong typing skills, empathy, and problem-solving abilities.

For job openings, visit platforms such as Chatdesk check out this guide on chat moderator jobs hiring today.

Daily tasks might include:

• Responding to customer inquiries
• Troubleshooting basic issues
• Collecting customer feedback
• Escalating complex problems

Earnings for beginners in online chat support typically range from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on the company and your expertise.

 

15: Video Editing

Video editing is one of the best easy freelance jobs, especially with the increasing demand for video content across platforms.

Companies, content creators, and marketing agencies often hire freelance video editors to enhance their video projects.

To succeed as a freelance video editor, you need strong skills in editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

If you don’t have these skills, check out these free video editing classes on Alison.

You also need creativity and attention to detail. These skills will help you produce engaging content that aligns with clients’ expectations.

Building a portfolio showcasing your best work is crucial for attracting clients.

Daily tasks for a video editor often include:

• Edit raw video footage for clarity and quality
• Add special effects and transitions
• Sync audio with video
• Collaborate with clients to meet specific goals
• Review and make necessary adjustments based on feedback

As a beginner, you can expect hourly earnings ranging from $15 to $25 but, this can vary depending on your skills and the complexity of the projects. 

 

16: Translation

As a freelance translator, you convert written content from one language to another.

Companies, authors, and international businesses often seek freelance translators to localize their materials for new markets or audiences.

To succeed, you need proficiency in at least two languages, cultural understanding, and strong writing skills. Experience in specific industries can be beneficial.

Check out platforms like ProZ and TextMaster to find translation jobs.

Daily tasks for translators often include:

• Translating documents, articles, or books
• Proofreading and editing translations
• Researching industry-specific terminology
• Communicating with clients to understand project requirements

Beginner translators can expect to earn around $10 to $30 per hour, depending on the language pair and complexity of the task.

Learn more in our guide on how to become a freelance translator.

 

17: Email Marketing

Email marketing is a promising freelance job for beginners as you can learn what you need to know pretty quickly.

Check out these free email marketing courses for beginners on Alison.

Many businesses, including e-commerce stores, digital agencies, and startups, hire freelancers to create and manage email campaigns.

As a freelancer in this field, you’ll need skills in content creation, basic HTML, and analytics.

Familiarity with popular email marketing platforms like Mailchimp or Constant Contact is beneficial. Upwork and Indeed are good places to find email marketing jobs.

Daily tasks might include:

• Crafting engaging email content
• Targeting specific customer segments
• Analyzing campaign performance
• Adjusting strategies based on analytics
• Coordinating with graphic designers for visual content

Beginner hourly rates generally range from $15 to $25, depending on your expertise and client demand.

 

Easy Freelance Jobs Frequently Asked Questions

Starting a freelance career can present challenges but also offers opportunities for growth.

Take a look at a few frequently asked questions that will help you succeed.

 

Is freelancing tough for beginners?

Freelancing can be challenging when you are just starting out.

You may face difficulty in finding jobs and establishing a steady income.

However, with persistence and dedication, you can gradually build a reputation and client base.

 

How can I work as a freelancer without any experience?

You can begin by focusing on jobs like data entry or transcription which are the easiest jobs to acquire with no experience.

Focus on building a strong portfolio, seeking testimonials, and being active on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr can enhance your chances of getting hired.

 

What are the pros and cons of freelance work?

There are multiple pros and cons of freelance work to be aware of.

These include:

Pros

• Flexible work hours
• Work from anywhere
• Can enjoy work diversity
• Work for anyone globally
• Unlimited potential income
• Only work on projects you like
• Can build an interest-led career

 

Cons

• Unpredictable income
• May experience isolation
• No company benefits
• Have to motivate yourself
• May encounter clients that won’t pay
• Work is not guaranteed

 

What is a good hourly rate for a beginner freelancer?

A good hourly rate for beginners can vary by field and location but typically ranges from $10 to $25 per hour.

In fields like transcription and data entry, starting rates are often lower. As you gain experience, you can adjust your rates accordingly.

 

How can I ensure I get a steady flow of freelance clients?

To maintain a steady flow of clients, consistently apply to jobs and network with potential clients.

Building a professional website, maintaining an updated portfolio, and encouraging referrals can also enhance your visibility and attract more clients.

Check out these expert job search tips and job search mistakes to avoid for more information.

 

Final Thoughts on Easy Freelance Jobs for Beginners

After reading that list of easy freelance jobs for beginners, it’s over to you to get started.

Begin by assessing your skills and interests to decide which freelance career would be best for you.

And, if you don’t have the right skills, take free online courses with certificates and diplomas to show prospective employers you have made the effort.

Also, build up a portfolio to show prospective clients by working on your own projects or offering to work for free.

I can confirm – taking the time to build a freelance career IS WORTH IT.

So, get out there and build a freelance career you love!

Not sure which career path is right for you?

Check out this guide detailing the simple steps to finding your career path.