In this article, we’ll walk you through how to become a freelance product designer. Whether you’re just starting or transitioning from a full-time role, freelancing offers the flexibility and opportunity to work with diverse clients across industries and from any location.
Let’s get started!
What Does a Freelance Product Designer Do?
A freelance product designer combines creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise to create products that address user needs and business objectives.
Unlike in-house designers, freelancers work independently with various clients and projects, creating designs for apps and digital products like Facebook, Gmail, etc.
The process typically begins by understanding the client’s vision and conducting user research through interviews, surveys, and competitor analysis. This helps you identify user pain points and define the scope of the project.
After the research phase, the next step is to begin sketching and wireframing ideas. This is usually known as creating low-fidelity designs. In this stage, you use your skills as a UI/UX designer to create various screens for the product. Starting with low-fidelity designs helps you explore different design possibilities before moving on to more refined and detailed prototypes.
A skill that sets many product designs apart is your ability to balance aesthetic appeal with functionality. Every product you create/design must be visually appealing and perform all the functions it is designed for.
You’ll also need to know how to work cross-functionally. This means collaborating with developers, engineers, and marketing teams to ensure the final product aligns very closely with the design.
Key Skills for a Freelance Product Designer
Hard (a.k.a Technical) Skills
These are some of the most important technical skills to have as a product designer;
1. Proficiency in design software
You need to be well-versed in various design software like Adobe XD, Figma, Sketch, and InVision for wireframing, prototyping, and creating high-fidelity interfaces. Having good knowledge of these tools helps you to bring all your creative ideas to life.
2. UI/UX design
UI/UX design is fundamental for freelance product designers, as it helps you to understand user flow, wireframes, and prototyping for creating engaging user experiences. This skill helps to ensure that digital products are easy to navigate and meet user needs.
3. Graphic design fundamentals
This involves having basic knowledge of typography, color theory, and layout principles to effectively communicate a brand identity.
4. Information architecture
This means knowing how to organize and structure information in a way that doesn’t lead to information overload and mental exhaustion.
5. User research
A systematic way of studying user needs, pain points, and behaviors to get insights into creating the best designs fit for purpose.
Soft Skills
Having technical skills isn’t enough. Combine them with these soft skills to be an exceptional product designer.
Here are the soft skills required for a freelance product designer:
1. Communication
Knowing how to effectively communicate with clients and team members helps to ensure synergy on the team. Even more, design expectations are clear and feedback is implemented accurately.
2. Creativity
Succeeding as a product designer means you have to be creative. This doesn’t just mean out-of-the-box thinking, but also thinking of better ways to represent and show things.
3. Time management
As a freelancer, you get to work with multiple clients and projects. Knowing how to manage your time properly ensures that you don’t miss deadlines.
4. Problem-solving
While design may seem straightforward, you can face complex challenges that require creative problem-solving skills. For example, when designing the dashboard for an e-commerce store with lots of features, you’ll see various sections that will require more than just your knowledge of design. In such cases, it’s up to you to figure out how to solve the problem without compromising on functionality and aesthetics.
5. Attention to detail
Every element must all come together properly to provide the best user experience.
How to Become a Freelance Product Designer
Here are some of our best practices for getting started as a freelance product designer;
1. Hone your design skills
You can’t become a freelance product designer if you don’t have good design skills. The only thing clients would give money for is your design skills. So if you don’t have them, there’s nothing to exchange. Learn various design principles such as color theory, typography, and layout design, how to use various tools such as Adobe XD, Figma, InDesign, etc, and how to create user-friendly interfaces and experiences through wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing. All of them help make you an all-round designer.
2. Build an impressive portfolio
As you apply your skills to various projects, it’s time to build your freelance product design portfolio. A good portfolio includes several design case studies that show your process of approaching various tasks, and the results recorded. According to Dribbble, each case study should have the following components;
- Client background. First, introduce your client. This brief section should name the company and explain what industry it operates in and what products or services it sells. If you can’t name the business due to a nondisclosure agreement, just describe what it does.
- Design problem. The next step is to explain the client’s design problem in simple terms. This section should help the reader understand why the client hired you in the first place.
- Constraints. Tell the reader if you were working with a tight deadline or a limited budget.
- Solution. Before you share the complete description of the project, provide a short description of the solution to the client’s problem.
- Design process. Walk potential clients through your design process. Provide as much context as possible to explain your decisions.
- Results. Now, tell readers how your design helped the client. Did it solve the problem it was supposed to solve?
- Conclusion. Summarize the main points of the case study.
If you’re just starting, include at least three case studies in your portfolio. If you don’t have any, consider working on pro-bono projects, volunteering, or just redesigning your favorite apps.
Experienced designers should have about five. Any more than that and it becomes too much information. For each case study, make sure you have high-quality photos, screenshots, wireframes, and other graphics.
3. Market yourself
As a freelance product designer, social media is one of the easy ways to market yourself. You can easily create an account and share your designs, letting people know your process and the results you’ve achieved.
Engage with online design conversations and never miss an opportunity to share your knowledge with others online.
LinkedIn is a good place to start, as it allows you to connect with senior executives in various organizations. That means you’ll have a chance to interact with business owners and decision-makers at large companies.
Facebook, is also a great way to reach a millennial audience and promote your services to them. Instagram focuses on visual content, so it’s a great place to show off your design work. If you decide to promote yourself on Instagram, make sure you take high-quality photos of your work.
You don’t have to write long paragraphs about your work. You can simply just post your design processes.
4. Network
Networking is a powerful way to build your career as a freelance product designer. Engaging with other professionals through LinkedIn, industry conferences, or online communities can open doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and client referrals.
Additionally, it helps you to stay informed about industry trends, new tools, and best practices. More importantly, you can establish your reputation in the design community and increase your visibility to potential clients.
5. Find and retain clients
Freelance platforms like Expaat can help you connect with clients and higher-paying opportunities. You may also choose to cold email potential clients till you get a desired response. However, we recommend sticking to freelance platforms like Expaat, as it makes it easier to find potential clients in need of your skills. Once you secure clients, retaining them is even more important.
READ THIS GUIDE on How to Get & Retain Clients as a Freelancer in Nigeria
How to Find Freelance Product Designer Jobs
Here are the best places to start to find freelance product design jobs;
- Freelance platforms
Websites like Expaat offer opportunities to connect with clients looking for freelance product designers. Create a detailed profile highlighting your skills, experience, and past projects to attract potential clients.
- Social platforms
Platforms like LinkedIn can also help you find freelance product design roles in various locations.
- Networking
Attend design meetups, participate in online communities, and engage with professionals on LinkedIn. Over time, networking can lead to client referrals or collaborations on larger projects.
- Cold outreach
If you have specific industries or companies in mind, consider cold-emailing potential clients. Offer your services with a clear value proposition, and demonstrate how your skills can address their business challenges.
- Portfolio
Building a strong portfolio showcasing your past work will make you stand out to potential clients. Include examples of projects that highlight your top skills and results.
How Much Can You Earn As a Freelance Product Designer?
How much you earn as a freelance product designer can vary depending on factors such as experience, specialization, geographic location, and clientele.
On average, freelance product designers can earn anywhere from $50 to $100 per hour, though highly skilled professionals in niche areas or advanced analytics may charge significantly more.
For those working with well-established companies or larger organizations, project fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the work involved.
Entry-level Freelance Product Designers typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, earning around $25-$50 per hour. However, as you gain experience and build a solid portfolio, you can increase your rates to as high as $100 to $200 per hour.
Additionally, freelance platforms such as Expaat offer opportunities to earn competitive rates, though these platforms often come with service fees that can affect earnings. Overall, your earning potential as a freelance product designer depends largely on your ability to market your skills, find and retain clients, and continually learn and improve.
Setting Your Rates as a Freelance Product Designer
One of the most challenging aspects of freelancing is determining your rates, as they may vary depending on various factors.
Here are several ways you can set your rates;
- Hourly vs. project-based
Freelance product designers often charge by the hour or by the project. Hourly rates typically range from $50 to $200, depending on experience. Project-based pricing is also common for more complex jobs, where the client pays for the final deliverable rather than the time spent.
- Industry standards
Research what other freelancers in your industry and region are charging. Websites like Glassdoor provide insights into average salaries. Use these benchmarks to help position yourself competitively.
- Experience level
If you're just starting, you may need to charge lower rates to attract clients or work pro-bono jobs. As you gain experience and build a solid reputation, you can gradually increase your rates.
- Time
How long will the project take? Knowing the timeline can help you set the right rates to compensate for the time spent.
Challenges of Being a Freelance Product Designer
While freelancing offers flexibility and independence, it comes with some challenges.
Here are some common challenges to expect;
- Inconsistent income
Freelance work often comes in waves, with busy periods followed by slower times, making it challenging to maintain a steady income.
- Managing multiple clients
Since freelancing allows you to work with various clients, it can be challenging to manage everyone properly. Every client has unique expectations, which can lead to stress when balancing their needs and managing deadlines.
- Client miscommunication
Poor communication or unclear client expectations can lead to additional work beyond the agreed-upon scope, often without extra compensation.
- Time management
Without the structure of an office, freelancers must independently manage their time and productivity, which can be difficult to balance with personal life.
Tips for Succeeding as a Freelance Product Designer
To succeed as a freelance product designer, certain strategies can enhance your career and help you thrive. Here are some tips:
- Develop a strong portfolio
Your portfolio is your most powerful tool to showcase your skills and creativity. Make sure it highlights your best work, demonstrating your versatility and expertise across different projects.
- Nurture client relationships
Building strong, lasting relationships with clients can help you get referrals. To do this, always submit your best work.
- Be selective with projects
It’s important to choose projects that align with your expertise and values. Taking on more projects than you can handle can lead to burnout and affect the quality of your work. So instead of accepting every project that comes your way, focus on projects that will help you grow professionally and creatively.
- Set clear boundaries and expectations
Clearly define project scope, timelines, and payment terms from the beginning. This will help avoid misunderstandings and ensure both you and your clients are on the same page.
- Invest in continuous learning
Everyday technology evolves, so stay updated with new trends, technologies, and tools. Take courses, attend webinars, or participate in design communities to keep your skills sharp and competitive.
- Network and market yourself
Actively network with other professionals, either online or in-person to gain exposure and find potential clients. Engage with design communities online and always showcase your work to attract opportunities.
Product Design Resources
Numerous online tools, courses, and communities provide both beginners and experienced professionals with valuable information and skill-building opportunities.
Platforms like Learn offer comprehensive product design courses from beginner to advanced levels, helping you refine your skills.
Networking and community engagement are equally important, and various forums allow you to ask questions, share insights, and stay informed about industry trends. Check out these resources to develop your expertise and deliver high-quality work to clients.
Find Your Next Client on Expaat
Becoming a Freelance Product Designer offers an exciting opportunity for those with the right skill set and determination. However, it comes with its own challenges. Use the tips listed in this article to navigate your journey as a freelance product designer.
Ready to begin? Kickstart your freelancing career and work with top clients today by signing up on Expaat.
