18 Best Freelancing Skills in 2024: Stay Ahead of the Game!

Are you bored with your 9 to 5 job? Do you want to become your own boss? Learning freelancing skills is one of the best options to earn money in today’s digital era.

First, what is freelancing? Freelancing is doing a particular job as an individual without being employed full-time. As a freelancer, you will sign a contract with your client before starting the assignment. You will get paid per project, assignment, or hourly basis.

You can work with many clients at the same time, not committing to a single client. If you offer top-notch services, you might even pocket a retainer client. 

Initially, freelancing was considered a way to monetize your passion as a side hustle. But, with a boom in the gig economy, freelancers are considered self-employed, which is a rapidly growing industry. 

Successful freelancers in India earn over INR 40 lakh annually. But, first things first. What are the best freelancing skills in demand in 2024? This article is a comprehensive guide on the best freelancing skills for beginners.

The Rise of Freelance Work

The pandemic has changed the way talents are hired. The barriers to remote work became negligible. Organizations shifted to remote work, opening a spree of opportunities.

The geographical borders were erased, enabling companies to hire a global workforce. This trend was especially noticeable with creative and skilled talent. On the other hand, organizations downsized, and scores of employees lost their jobs. They shifted to freelancing to utilize their high-paying skills and make extra money.

This trend has increased the demand for freelancers with the best freelancing skills. With one of the world’s highest young populations, India can use this trend to its advantage. Millennials are identifying the best freelancing skills to upskill themselves.

18 Most In-Demand Freelance Skills in 2024

Learning the best freelancing skills is necessary to survive this competitive job market. Investing in the right training can make you competitive in today’s digital economy. Becoming a freelancer has many perks and opportunities available in today’s market. Let us look at the most in demand 18 freelancing skills that will help you earn a six-figure income.

1) Data Science

Data Science is one of the most in-demand freelancing skills in 2024. With the exponential growth of data, it is not just tech companies hiring Data Scientists. Big and small companies from all kinds of industries hire them.

Data Science is needed for effective decision-making and strategic planning. The Data Scientist’s role is to uncover actionable insights hidden inside countless pieces of data. They pick the relevant questions and find answers amid countless pieces of data. 

Data Scientists should possess the skills to mine, refine, and present data. These refined results are used in strategic decision-making. It is one of the best freelancing skills to learn in 2024.

Key Skills:

• Programming skills
• Statistical and mathematical skills
• Storytelling and data visualization
• SQL
• Machine Learning, etc.

 Average Salary

According to Glassdoor, the average hourly pay of a data scientist in India is ₹292.

 2) Data Analytics

Data Analytics is one of the best freelancing skills in India. Data Analysts will bridge the gap between Business Analysts and Data Scientists. They will assess the information to find answers to specific questions. It helps in solving a particular problem or achieving a specific goal.

They present these trends or patterns through charts and other visuals. The analysis can be descriptive, diagnostic, predictive, or prescriptive. Some applications are risk management, budgeting, forecasting, etc.

Key Skills:

• Data visualization
• Statistical analysis
• SQL
• Data wrangling
• Programming skills

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for data analysts in India is ₹494.

3) Cyber Security

As global businesses are inching towards digitalization, security is a common concern. Almost every company collects and stores customer information. Securing this data is the responsibility of every business. This makes cyber security one of the top 18 freelancing skills.

Cyber security works towards keeping this data secure. So, the demand for cyber security specialists is on the rise. Acquiring this best freelancing skill will be a beneficial option.

Key Skills:

• Scripting
• Analytical skills
• Diagnostic skills
• Intrusion detection
• Network security control
• Operating Systems

Average Salary

According to Payscale, the average hourly pay for a cyber security analyst in India is ₹509.

4) Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Getting discovered by prospective customers online is as important as your product. Optimizing websites for search engines will help in better search engine rankings.

An SEO specialist ensures the website is shown on the Search Engine Result Page (SERP). An online survey result reveals that the first 5 results on SERP get 62% of clicks. Generating the right traffic is critical to the success of SEO efforts. It is one of the best freelancing skills in demand in 2024.

Key Skills:

• Analytical thinking
• Writing ability
• Technical and programming skills
• Networking skills
• Data skills, etc.

Average Salary 

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for search engine optimization in India is ₹303.5.

5) Online Tutoring

With more people opting for e-learning, online tutoring is the best freelancing skill. Generate one of the most profitable passive income streams by tutoring students online. Your area of expertise can be anything under the sun. Earn by sharing your knowledge with a global audience.

Key Skills:

• Expert in the subject
• Knowledge of the teaching platform
• Ability to plan a curriculum
• Effective communication and leadership skills
• Compassionate about teaching
• Listening skills

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for an online tutor in India is ₹287.9.

6) Social Media Marketing

Who does not like attention on social media? Social Media platforms have become indispensable components of online marketing. This has made Social Media Marketing a profitable job opportunity. The main goal of a Social Media Manager is to improve customer engagement. 

This improves brand visibility, gains trust, and even increases sales. There is a growing demand for SMM professionals. They create and implement effective social media strategies. It is one of the best freelancing skills for students to develop a profitable side hustle.

Key Skills:

• Creativity
• Writing skills
• Effective communication skills
• Marketing skills
• Networking skills
• Strategic thinking
• Analytical thinking

Average Salary

According to Payscale, the average hourly pay for social media marketing in India is ₹287.57.

7) Graphic Designing

Graphic design is an important aspect of Digital Marketing. Graphic designers make your website more attractive and engaging. The main goal is to make your marketing campaigns visually more attractive.

Graphic design makes the brand more attractive. So, the demand for Graphic Designers is growing. It is one of the best freelancing skills that can make you earn more.

Key Skills:

• knowledge of Graphic design tools
• Sketching and drawing
• Layout making
• Creativity
• Planning and organizing
• Time management
• Color theory

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for a graphic designer in India is ₹289.48.

8) Application Development

More people are spending more time on mobile devices. And, most online shopping is happening via phones. App Development is one of the best freelancing skills that every business needs. Businesses need to have a user-friendly application that offers easy navigation.

With the boom in the e-commerce sector, brands are moving towards e-store. So, brands are increasingly hiring App Developers to design and test their apps. Demand for a wide range of apps, from gaming to productivity, is on the rise.

Key Skills:

• Knowledge of programming languages
• Computer skills
• Back-end computing
• UI/UX design
• Website design and development
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Analytical thinking

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for application development in India is ₹300.

9) Artificial Intelligence

AI developers build systems that interact with end-users, making online interactions easier. It includes Machine Learning, procedural content generation, etc., to develop applications and systems.

The goal is to improve efficiency, cut costs, improve profits, and make better decisions. Any system or application that mimics human actions is considered AI. Problem-solving and learning are examples of AI. As more and more data is input, the algorithm is trained, and the system’s performance improves.

Key Skills:

• Programming
• Math and analytics
• Problem-solving
• Database management

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for AI and ML  in India is ₹774.

10) Blockchain

Blockchain technology is rapidly gaining popularity. It is becoming the most in-demand freelance skill in 2024 and is used to store and manage information about cryptocurrency transactions. Highly secured and capable of completely restricting external modification.

It is still an emerging technique, and newbies can benefit from it. Invest in learning the technology, and it will be a highly paid, top freelancing skill in the future.

Key Skills:

• Expertise in blockchain technology
• Programming languages
• Knowledge of cryptocurrency

Average Salary

According to Upwork, the average hourly pay for blockchain development is ₹2500.

11) Low Code Development

Low Code Development is a platform to design applications through a visual approach. When you learn low-code development, apps can be developed quickly with minimal coding. The Low Code Development platform has easy, drag-and-drop features. It enables you to create an application easily with drag-and-drop features.

Key Skills:

• Knowledge of programming languages
• Experience in low-code tools
• Knowledge of database management

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for code development in India is ₹497.

12) Voice User Interface Design

The voice user interface is gaining popularity because of its sophistication. TVs, phones, smart home appliances, and many more products use VUI. It is very different from designing a Graphic User Interface (GUI).

Designing a VUI requires a great understanding of how people communicate. The main goal is to recreate the feeling of interacting with human beings rather than technology. It is an emerging trend, and talents are scarce in this field. Invest in learning this competitive skill, and you will become a successful freelancer.

Key Skills:

• Knowledge of VUI design
• Knowledge of Natural Language Processor
• Creating interactive models
• Knowledge of web Services, Databases, and APIs
• Scripting languages
• Sound design principles, etc.

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for user interface design in India is ₹484.

13) Digital Currency Development

Are you an expert with cryptocurrencies? This might be an interesting freelancing skill to learn. With the rise of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, digital currency development has become an in-demand freelance skill.

Skills Required:

• Blockchain development
• Cryptocurrency trading
• Smart contract development
• Cryptography, etc.

Average Salary

According to Upwork, the average hourly pay for digital currency development is ₹2500.

14) Video Editor

Video content is becoming increasingly popular among consumers. Hence, video editing has become one of the most in-demand freelance skills. Video editors are responsible for assembling raw footage into a polished final product. You are also responsible for incorporating special effects, music, and sound effects.

Key Skills:

• Video Editing Software Skills
• PC skills
• Color grading
• Soundtrack selection
• Attention to detail

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for a video editor in India is ₹488.43.

15) Voice-over Acting

If you have a great voice, make money by becoming a voice-over acting freelancer. There are opportunities for voice-over actors in many industries. e-learning, animated video production, audiobooks, podcasts, etc., are some examples of opportunities.

Key Skills:

• Versatile voices
• Acting skills
• Interpret and convey emotions

 Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for voice-over acting in India is ₹977.69.

16) Content Writing

Content writing is one of the most in-demand freelance skills in 2024. Companies and individuals are looking to create engaging and informative content. There are numerous forms of content like blogs, social media, articles, newsletters, etc.

The main goal of content creation is customer engagement and triggering a call to action. It could be a signup, filling up a form, or sales.

Key Skills:

• Excellent writing skills
• Research skills
• Storytelling and communicative skills
• Understanding the audience
• Empathy and conveying emotions

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for content writing in India is ₹405.11.

17) Web Design and Development

With digitalization becoming a norm, website design and development is a demanded skill. Anyone with the required technical knowledge and creativity can become a Freelance Web Designer and Developer.

You can become a front-end developer, back-end developer, or full-stack specialist based on your skill set.

Key Skills:

• Technical know-how
• Knowledge about the principles of design
• Typography and composition
• Knowledge of CMS platforms
• UI/UX design
• Graphic design
• Editing skills
• Communication skills

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for web development in India is ₹350.

 18) Information Technology

Information technology (IT) is a broad field encompassing software development, database management, etc. Areas like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning are in high demand. You can hone your freelancing skills to earn hefty pay according to your area of expertise.

Key Skills:

1. Database management
2. Cyber security
3. Cloud computing
4. Systems analysis
5. IT project management
6. Data analysis
7. Troubleshooting
8. Software development

Average Salary

According to PayScale, the average hourly pay for a cyber security analyst in India is ₹489.

Also read: Top 22 Freelance Jobs for Students to Earn Money in 2024

Essential Soft Skills for Freelancers

The global demand for creative and skilled professionals is growing. Organizations are taking advantage of remote working opportunities. Freelancers in software development, UI and UX design, writing, etc., are in high demand.

The work environment of a freelancer is different from that of a full-time employee. Apart from their domain knowledge, freelancers should have certain soft skills. Here are some of the key skills a freelancer should have:

1) Communication

Effective communication is crucial in freelancing. It helps you to understand client requirements, convey your ideas, and manage expectations.

2) Time Management

Managing time effectively is crucial to maintaining discipline in freelancing. This will allow them to meet deadlines and juggle between work and self-development.

3) Marketing and Branding

Freelancers are brands by themselves. Freelancers have to market themselves to attract clients and build a strong brand.

4) Project Management

They have to plan, execute, and deliver the projects on time. Being able to manage projects from start to finish is essential.

5) Flexibility and Adaptability

The main benefit of being a freelancer is the ability to work with different clients. Juggling between varying expectations and maintaining flexibility is the key to success.

Also Read: 22 Best Freelancing Sites For Finding Your Next Gig: 2024

Upskill and Kickstart Your Freelancing Career

People are moving towards a flexible work atmosphere. Similarly, organizations are hiring talents globally without any restrictions on boundaries. So, it is high time to hone your freelancing skills to live your dream life.

However, freelancing is not a shortcut to overnight success. It requires a lot of commitment and dedication to be a successful freelancer. Staying up to date with changing industry trends is a critical factor for success. Remember to continuously upskill and stay up to date with emerging trends to remain relevant. Seek learning opportunities, whether through online courses, industry events, or networking with fellow freelancers. By embracing the best freelancing skills in 2024, you are not only ensuring your success but also opening doors to exciting and rewarding opportunities in the freelancing world.

Also Read: Looking to add a few bucks to your monthly income? Learn how to do that with our guide on Passive Income.

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