New year, new opportunities to develop your customer network! It might be a year with some challenges due to economic challenges. However, there are some positive predictions for freelancers in the business world. Check out the business trends in the near future and how to improve your career in the upcoming year.
Be up-to-date with digital transformation
New tech solutions have been provided in the last few years. Does that sound familiar to you? Recently, several recent discussions have focused on AI, which is evolving at incredible speed. Other technologies are coming as well, for example, Virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) in the upcoming year. AI will become more intuitive and use several “senses” at the same time, according to LinkedIn’s 41 big ideas that will change our world in 2023.
Many fields have started to use AI, such as supply chains, marketing, and even art. It may sound scary, but there is nothing to be afraid of. It’s the other way around! AI can help freelancers work faster and more efficiently. The digital transformation is still going on. Small business owners and big business owners need help with the process. This is a great opportunity for you to get new clients!
The number of freelancers is increasing
The gig economy is growing. Some 25% of Gen Z have a side gig, according to a recent McKinsey survey. They are more likely to work in multiple jobs and do independent work. According to Fiverr, freelancers are an essential resource for businesses. Their research shows that 81% of business owners already hire freelancers to fill team gaps, and 38% of them think that freelancers are more productive than employees. Up to 78% of entrepreneurs say that they are likely to hire freelancers to fill staff gaps during the economic crisis.
For some projects, it is even more cost-effective for the business to hire freelancers than a full-time employee. Freelancers have the skills and equipment. They are ready to start the job right away. Many businesses can work with talents to grow their business.
Keep the focus on the customer experience
In 2023, ensure a positive customer experience for your clients. The quality of your work can become a competitive advantage. It’s not just a buzzword! Here are some ideas to provide a positive experience:
- learning about your customers’ needs and limitations,
- proposing a collaboration in a meeting (not only via email),
- get timely feedback from the client
The most in-demand skills for freelancers in 2023
New technology, new social platforms, and new businesses. All this means that more specialists are needed. Planning to learn a new skill? Here are the 5 most in-demand freelance skills.
UX design
UX designers are becoming more and more popular. They play an important role in the creation of online shops and company websites. They take care of the user experience for online shoppers and offer designs for different devices.
Copywriting
Copywriters create nice content for different channels. Talented writers, storytellers, content creators, editors, journalists, technical writers, and UX writers are in high demand.
SEO
More and more companies are using organic SEO to improve their websites. They require help from SEO experts to rank higher and appear in search engines.
Graphic design
Great designers create nice materials, including e-books and illustrations. They create nice visuals to catch the audience’s attention. This is a job for creative people with aesthetic skills.
Social media marketing
Many industries have social media accounts. Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and TikTok are just some of the social media platforms. Each has different characteristics. Working as a social manager can be interesting, as you have to constantly adapt to trends and be creative.
Become a digital nomad
Hybrid work is here to stay. Work conditions for freelancers are getting better all over the world. Many brands prefer to employ talented people from around the world. Remote work is a great option for people who like to travel. The digital nomad lifestyle has recently become very popular. This is the reason many countries are introducing legal facilities for people who wish to work remotely from different corners of the world. However, to become a digital nomad, you must prepare properly. Our ultimate guide for relocating as a freelancer has been prepared to make it easier for you.
The new year comes with more chances. Artificial intelligence will be helpful and help you work effectively. A positive customer experience can be your advantage. For sure, our talented freelancers will achieve even more in 2023!