Top 11 Most in Demand Freelance Skills [For Beginners]

Embarking on a freelance career? Explore the 11 most in-demand skills for beginners in 2024. From Digital Marketing to UI/UI Design, find high-paying opportunities and choose your path today.

Importance of choosing right freelance skills

When it comes to freelancing for beginners it becomes so difficult to choose the best skill for an individual. Freelance industry is expanding equality, increasing competition in the industry. That’s why newcomers are facing high competition to get success in freelancing. If you are at this stage then look no further you are at the right place.

We are going to discuss about 11 most in demand skills in the freelance industry. We have made this list after extensive research and analysis. After reading this article you will be a confident freelancer who has chosen a perfect skill for his freelance career.

11 most in demand freelance skills

We have listed 11 most in demand freelance skills in this article. We have analyzed the history of the last 5 years of every skill. We have considered growth, demand,  earning potential and competition level of the skill to include in this list.

You can earn 1k to 6 figures or may be more than that based on your expertise with any of this skill. also we will show some of the important information with the skill list. We have included a subcategory of every skill so that you can choose your freelance skill in a more specific way to minimize competition in your journey.

Skill #1. Digital Marketing

Digital marketing field has evolved. It is indispensable for staying competitive and relevant within any industry. If any business has a lack of a digital presence, it is missing out on countless opportunities to reach its target audience.

Millions of people searching for specific information to find a job and maintaining an online presence on social media platforms. As online media usage continues to soar, digital marketing has become essential for almost every company. Digital marketing has become essential to the global economy. Digital marketing skills will surely lead to high-paying careers in 2024.

Most in demand categories of digital marketing you can start with

• Social media management
• Data Analytics
• Search engine optimization (SEO)
• Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
• Email marketing

Skill #2. Content Writing and Copywriting

What is content writing? Content Writing is creating written content for brands, websites or blogs.  Copywriting is writing content for the purpose of product advertising and marketing. Many businesses have dedicated content writers and copywriters on their marketing teams that write their content. Even businesses that have in-house writers will hire freelancers for certain projects. And you could be one of those freelancers! 

Today’s writing is a whole different game than in the past. Not only there’s a lot more competition But the content quality standards keep getting higher. If you’re a generalist, specialists will crush you. You’ll never stand a chance. 

Creating content is no longer an optional marketing strategy for brands. It’s now a proven method for establishing authority in the industry. Companies are boosting their brand recognition and driving traffic with the help of content creation.

Most in demand categories of Content Writing and Copywriting you can start with

• Blog writing
• Article writing
• Website copywriting
• Email newsletters
• Marketing collateral

Skill #3. Graphic Design and Branding

Graphic design meaning is the creation of visual compositions. Designers solve problems and communicate ideas through graphic design. Graphic design includes typography, imagery, color and shapes. The design industry is changing very quickly. Designers must be updated and continue to learn. They are adding specializations through their journey.

Graphic design and branding is a mandatory need for every potential brand. Graphic design needs are consistently increasing in companies around the world. Because of demand so many people are choosing it as a career and this industry is becoming competitive. 

Graphic designers have to specialize in specific niches nowadays because of the increased competitive industry. It can be competitive but graphic design still has the potential for high earnings. Just you need to choose perfect research and choose the perfect niche.

Most in demand categories of Graphic Design and Branding you can start with

• Graphic design
• Brand identity development
• Marketing materials design
• Infographics
• Packaging design

Skill #4. Web Development and Design

Web development is one of the most lucrative career choices in this world today. Web developers create and maintain websites for brands and individuals. Web development includes coding, design and content management and website security. Complexity and competition is increasing in this industry due to its higher demand and earning potential.

To compete in this field web developers have to be highly skilled and have a niche based career. Several types of web development are in high demand. Keep in mind that the technology landscape can change rapidly before diving into this.

Most in demand categories of Web Development and Design you can start with

• Custom website development
• Responsive web design
• E-commerce development
• User experience (UX) design
• Content management systems (CMS) customization

Skill #5. Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO meaning is “Search engine optimization”. SEO is a process of increasing website visibility on search engines like Google, Bing, yahoo and others. In simple terms, SEO means pushing a website forward to visitors and attracting them so that they can engage with the website and become customers or clients.

Google is always changing its ranking algorithm to make search results better for user experience. This factor makes SEO an interesting part of digital marketing. Each year has the opportunity for SEO specialists to shape their projects according to trends.

Having a website on its own won’t get you traffic. And sometimes, it’s difficult to pinpoint why websites are not getting the traffic owners want. For that reason, they might think about improving website SEO. They hire an in-house SEO specialist to rank their website.

Most in demand categories of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) you can start with

• Keyword research
• On-page optimization
• Link building
• Technical SEO audits
• Local SEO optimization

Skill #6. Virtual Assistance

A virtual assistant (VA) is an independent contractor who provides administrative, creative or logistical support to a company remotely. VAs are typically freelancers who work from home. You’ll find that virtual assistants generally communicate with their clients over the phone or via email. Virtual support helps improve its clients’ productivity by providing better project management and feedback on performance and creativity.

With remote work and advancements like cloud computing, administrative tasks have transitioned primarily online. Now, it’s no longer necessary to have an executive assistant sitting at a desk outside the boss’s office, as they can perform the vast majority of duties from a remote location.

Most in demand categories of Virtual Assistance you can start with

• Virtual Assistance:
• Email management
• Calendar management
• Data entry
• Online research
• Customer support

Skill #7. Android app development

Android app development is creating applications for Android devices for various functionalities including entertainment, productivity and education. App Developer Design, build and maintain applications for android devices. This is in high demand because of the increasing diverse user base of Android users.

The demand for Android app development has risen due to digitalization and consumer expectations. Even businesses that previously might not have needed mobile apps, They are now venturing into app development to meet changing consumer demands.

Most in demand categories of Android app development you can start with

• iOS app development
• Cross-platform app development
• User interface (UI) design
• App testing and debugging

Skill #8. Video Editing and Production

Video editor controls and sets up video clips to create a completely unique, cohesive and impactful very last video. They craft through cutting raw footage and making use of multiple layers of enhancing. Film, television, corporate businesses and social media platforms; everywhere expanding the opportunities for video editors. Video content material has come to be an important part of our lives. Increasing It’s demand for experts who can create and edit videos correctly

Video editing and production capabilities are vital in numerous industries such as entertainment, marketing, education, and more. The growing importance of video content approaches that professionals in these fields require extraordinarily skilled video editors.

Most in demand categories of Video Editing and Production you can start with

• Video editing
• Motion graphics
• Color correction
• Audio editing
• Video animation

Skill #9. AI and Machine Learning Development

AI means Artificial Intelligence and Machine learning (ML) meaning developing artificial intelligent systems which are capable of learning, reasoning and self correction. This system makes computers smart and able to understand complex tasks and commands. Main benefit of AI and Machine learning is helping humans make better decisions by providing insights and informed recommendations.

Businesses are continuously looking for AI professionals to help them implement AI solutions. AI and ML contribute to saving costs, increasing creativity, boosting productivity and overall efficiency.

Most in demand categories of AI and Machine Learning Development you can start with

• Machine learning model development
• Natural language processing (NLP)
• Computer vision
• AI chatbots
• Predictive analytics

Skill #10. Financial Consulting

Financial consultant expert on providing guidance and advice in areas related to finance and businesses. They help businesses in investment, budgeting and financial planning providing valuable guidance and advice. Consultants assist firms in filling specific requirements on short-term projects and accomplishing longer-term goals.

The consulting industry has been growing faster than ever before, especially as more businesses seek expert guidance in areas such as management, technology, marketing, and more. The main reason for businesses and individuals hiring financial advisors is their inexperience in the finance department.

The service providers consider historical data, market conditions, and the entity’s financial health to create a strategy for proper money management.

Most in demand categories of Financial Consulting you can start with

• Budgeting and forecasting
• Financial analysis
• Tax planning
• Investment advising

Skill #11. UI/UX Design

UI full form is “User Interface” and UX full form is “User Experience”. Creating interfaces that users interact with after they access websites, applications and any software is called UI/UX design. UI is designing the look and layout, while UX is designing the overall feel of the experience. UI/UX designers are responsible for creating engaging, visually aesthetic and functional digital experiences.

Thoughtful user experience design has become significant in building products, leading to increased demand for skilled UI/UX designers. The impact of great UX on revenue is significant.

Most in demand categories of UI/UX Design you can start with

• Wireframing
• Communication
• Information Architecture
• Interaction Design
• UX writing

Final thoughts

Selecting the skill is not a final stage of freelancing but it’s a start. Freelancing requires expertise on your skill, hard working, quality work and balance between work and life. Lastly, keep learning continuously, keep doing quality work and make a client base. Plan for a long run and establish a freelance business and get financial freedom. Hope you have the best luck with your freelance career.