How to Work with a Freelancer (and What to Have Ready Before You Start)

Working with a freelancer can be one of the best investments you make in your business. Whether it’s a designer, copywriter, photographer, or strategist, freelancers bring fresh eyes, specialized skills, and flexible support that can help you level up without hiring a full-time team member.

But to make the most of the partnership — and to save everyone time, stress, and money — there are a few things you’ll want to have ready before your project begins.

Here’s how to set yourself (and your freelancer) up for success.

1. Know Your Goals

Before you reach out to a freelancer, get clear on why you’re hiring them. What problem are you trying to solve? What outcome are you hoping for?

Instead of saying, “I need a new website,” think about what you want it to do:

• Bring in more client inquiries?

• Better reflect your rebrand?

• Improve SEO or conversions?

  
  

Freelancers love clarity — the more specific your goals, the more strategic their work can be.

That said — no freelancer (myself included) can guarantee that your goals will be met. We can create a strong foundation, offer expert strategy, and give you the tools to get there, but your long-term results depend on how you use what we build together. Think of it as teamwork: we help set the stage, and you keep the show running.

2. Do Your Research

Before you hire anyone, take some time to research. Look at their portfolio, read through their website, check their expertise, and make sure their style aligns with what you actually need.

Freelancers aren’t one-size-fits-all — we each have our own niche and creative strengths. If you’re hiring someone to design your website (like me!), you’ll want to see examples of websites they’ve actually built, not just a general design portfolio.

You wouldn't hire an abstract painter to build a lifelike sculpture. The same logic applies to freelancers: choose someone whose skills and experience fit your project and your goals.

Doing this upfront saves you time, money, and a lot of frustration later on.

3. Know Your Budget

Money talk doesn’t have to be awkward — it’s part of the process. Before you start sending inquiries, figure out what you’re comfortable investing.

Here’s why that matters:

• It helps your freelancer tailor their proposal or suggest the right package for your needs.

• You avoid wasting time exploring options that aren’t realistic.

• It sets clear expectations from the start (no surprise quotes or ghosting required).

If you’re unsure what’s reasonable for the service you need, ask for a general price range or check a few freelancers’ websites — most list starting rates.

💡 Pro tip: Be transparent. A good freelancer can often adjust the scope, recommend phases, or find creative ways to work within your budget if they know what it is.

4. Gather Your Brand Materials

Have your basics ready — logo files, fonts, colors, imagery, and any brand guidelines you already have. Even if it’s a DIY setup, your freelancer will appreciate seeing what you’ve been using so they can keep your look and messaging consistent.

5. Outline Your Vision (and Your Boundaries)

Pull together examples of designs, websites, or brands you love — and ones you don’t. Sharing visuals or references helps your freelancer understand your taste and direction faster than any long explanation ever could.

6. Have Your Content Ready (or at Least Planned)

If your project involves copy, photos, or product descriptions, your freelancer will likely need those early on. Even if it’s just a rough draft or list of key points, start gathering your materials before the project kicks off — it helps keep things moving smoothly.

And if you don’t have content yet, ask if your freelancer offers strategy or writing help. Many do (and it’s worth it).

7. Communicate Openly and Promptly

Responding to messages, giving clear feedback, and meeting deadlines go a long way. Freelancers work best when there’s consistent, honest communication — not radio silence or last-minute changes.

8. Trust Their Process

You hired them for their expertise, so let them guide you. Ask questions, share your thoughts, and collaborate — but try not to micromanage every pixel or sentence.

When you trust your freelancer’s process, you’ll usually end up with something even better than what you imagined.

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A great freelancer relationship feels like teamwork — both sides bring their strengths to the table. When you show up prepared, with your goals, content, and budget in place, you create the space for real creativity and progress.

Your freelancer wants your project to succeed just as much as you do — so set them up to do their best work.

Thinking about hiring a freelancer for your next project? Here’s everything to get in order before you do — so you can save time, money, and sanity.

If you’re ready to partner with a freelancer who gets small creative businesses — and can help you bring your vision to life through custom web design, social media strategy, or email marketing — I’d love to chat.

Get in Touch with Me