Chapter 1: My Freelance Journey

For nearly a decade, I have worked as a freelance translator. After earning my degree in Languages and Translation, I quickly dove into the freelance world. Initially, I aimed for partnerships with translation agencies but later moved towards companies that could provide long-term work and a consistent income. As a newcomer, I valued the chance to learn while also enjoying the security of a steady paycheck.

I formed a partnership with a company that guaranteed a regular workload, which translated to full-time hours—8 hours a day, 5 days a week—almost like being an employee. This arrangement kept me so occupied that I struggled to build relationships with other clients. However, the company compensated me well, allowing me to earn approximately 3,000 euros monthly. It offered a taste of freelancing's flexibility without the constant anxiety of seeking new projects. They even provided opportunities to participate in webinars and training sessions led by their localization team, making it seem like the positives outweighed the negatives.

So, what was my misstep?

I mistakenly believed this arrangement would be permanent!

In my defense, I had just graduated, was inexperienced, and needed immediate financial stability. This collaboration was an attractive starting point, providing the security I craved while still allowing for some flexibility in my work life.

The Hard Reality: Freelancers Are Often the First to Go

When economic downturns occur, companies usually slash expenses, which often means freelancers face abrupt job losses, despite years of dedicated service. This was my experience one Friday afternoon in June 2022. After 8.5 years of loyal work and just months after a meeting where we were assured our roles were vital, my colleagues and I received a stark email notifying us that our contracts would end in 10 days due to the company's inability to sustain high translation costs.

Lesson Learned: The Importance of Diversification

I felt foolish for being so naive, and I suddenly found myself in a precarious financial and professional situation. Surely, I should have anticipated this!

However, mistakes, while uncomfortable, can be valuable teachers. They encourage us to be cautious and to grow. I learned the hard way that one must remain vigilant, always ready for unexpected changes, and never allow oneself to become overly reliant on a single client.

Chapter 2: Rebuilding My Freelance Career

I'm now channeling my energy into seeking new clients and partnerships, refining my skills, and enhancing my professional presence. It's a time for reinvention, and I'm optimistic about the possibilities ahead.

Currently, I'm embarking on two exciting ventures: starting a company with two colleagues and sharing my writing journey here on Medium. Who knows where these new paths will lead me?

My Advice: Diversify for Long-Term Success

Avoid concentrating your efforts solely on companies that promise a consistent workload, especially those with large translator pools. As a localization manager once remarked, "When we need to scale, we rely on agencies and LSPs and move away from freelancers." Focus on building relationships with agencies, LSPs, and individual clients.

While it's fine to collaborate with certain companies, continue seeking new opportunities. Maintain your current client relationships and actively pursue new ones. Above all, don't fall into the trap of believing your income is secure; it can vanish in an instant!

In the video "My BIGGEST Freelance Mistake," I reflect on the lessons learned from my experience and the importance of diversifying income sources as a freelancer.

"The Biggest Freelancing Mistake I Ever Made | Freelance Tips and Advice" offers insights into common pitfalls and strategies for maintaining a successful freelance career.