Have you decided to start as a freelancer? Congratulations! The path to self-employment as a freelancer can be challenging, but also very rewarding. In this guide, you will learn which steps are necessary to become a successful freelancer. The information comes from a comprehensive video tutorial and offers you a clear, structured step-by-step guide so you can get started right away.
Key Insights Before you get started, here are the key points summarized: You need to choose a legal form, register your business, register with the tax office, define your services, and develop marketing strategies.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Choosing the Right Legal Form
Before you can start a business, it is important to choose the right legal form for your business. The most common options are the sole proprietorship and the limited liability company (LLC). A sole proprietorship is often the simplest and quickest option to get started. You simply need to ask yourself whether you want to make a profit with your freelance activity. If so, you should generally start a business.
2. Business Registration
After deciding on a legal form, the next step is business registration. This is usually done online through the website of the business registration office in your city. You will find information about the registration fees, which can range from 20 to 60 euros depending on the city. Download the business registration form, fill it out, and submit it. Once you receive confirmation, you will have your official business registration, completing this step.
3. Registration with Elster
Once the business registration is complete, you need to register with Elster, the online interface of the tax office. This is important because you will have to submit all tax documents and declarations digitally in the future. The registration with Elster is free and does not take long. After registration, you fill out the tax registration questionnaire to provide important information about your business to the tax office.
4. Choosing a Platform for Freelancers
Now it's time to choose the right platform to offer your freelance services. The most well-known platforms include Fiverr and Upwork. Both allow you to present yourself as an expert and offer services that can be utilized by clients. Fiverr is especially popular as you can get started quickly and easily. Consider whether you also want to be active outside of platforms by marketing your services directly.
5. Creating a Profile on the Platform
After choosing the platform, the next step is registration and setting up your profile. Make sure to create a professional profile that clearly highlights your strengths and qualifications. This will help you stand out from other freelancers and convince potential clients.
6. Defining Your Services
Once your profile is set up, you need to think about the services you want to offer. Consider what you want to provide, how you will price your services, and how much time you will need for each service. It is important to formulate your “why”: answer the question of why someone should use your services and what makes you different from other providers.
7. Marketing and Sales
The next step involves marketing and sales strategies to attract clients. Here you can apply various techniques to achieve your first sales. Consider how you can reach potential clients and which channels you want to use. This way, you can continuously expand your freelance activity.
8. Creating Marketing Materials
An appealing presentation of your service is crucial. Use tools like Canva to create visual content that attracts clients. Additionally, ChatGPT can help you formulate sales texts and profile descriptions that truly convince.
Summary – How to Become a Successful Freelancer
In summary, the path to becoming a successful freelancer is well-structured. You should first choose the appropriate legal form, then register your business and register with Elster. After that, select the platform, create your profile, define your services, and employ effective marketing strategies. With a solid plan for client acquisition, nothing stands in the way of your success as a freelancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right legal form?Consider whether you want to make a profit. A sole proprietorship is often the best option to start.
Where do I register my business?The registration is done online through the website of the business registration office in your city.
What is Elster?Elster is the online interface of the tax office through which you submit tax documents.
Which platform is best for freelancers?Fiverr and Upwork are popular platforms for offering services.
How do I define my service?Consider the time required, pricing, and the “why” behind your offer.
