What to Expect When Working with a Freelancer
- Taryn McManus
- Oct 8
- 2 min read
If you’ve read my post on How to Work with a Freelancer (and What to Have Ready Before You Start), you already know how important preparation and communication are. But once you’ve hired your freelancer, what happens next?
Working with a freelancer can be one of the best moves you make for your business — you’re bringing in specialized expertise, fresh perspective, and flexible support without the commitment of a full-time employee. That said, the dynamic is a little different, and understanding that upfront can make the entire experience smoother and more successful for both sides.
1. They’re not your full-time employee
Freelancers are independent professionals who balance multiple projects and clients. That doesn’t mean you’re not a priority — it just means their schedule and workload are managed differently than an in-house hire. They’ll communicate clearly about turnaround times, availability, and deadlines, but they aren’t “on call.” Respecting their process helps them deliver their best work.
2. Communication is everything
Because freelancers aren’t in your office or on your team Slack channel, communication needs to be intentional. Be upfront about expectations, feedback, and timing. Most freelancers will outline their preferred communication methods and update cadence at the start of your project — stick with those systems to keep things streamlined.
3. Billing works differently
Freelancers operate as separate entities or vendors, not employees. That means they’ll invoice you based on agreed-upon milestones, hours, or packages, and payment terms are usually outlined in your contract. Many require a deposit before work begins (which helps secure your project spot).
4. Collaboration, not control
A good freelancer is your creative and strategic partner — not someone to micromanage. You’re hiring them for their expertise, and they want your input, but mutual trust is key. Clear goals, constructive feedback, and open communication foster better results than daily check-ins or over-direction ever could.
5. Respect boundaries and business hours
Freelancers have working hours, too — and while they may offer flexibility, that doesn’t mean 24/7 availability. If your project has a tight turnaround or specific schedule needs, bring that up early so it can be built into your contract and timeline.
6. Feedback is part of the process
Most freelancers expect rounds of feedback — just make sure yours is specific and actionable. Instead of “I don’t like this,” try “Could we explore a softer color palette?” or “This copy feels too formal for our brand voice.” The clearer you are, the faster your freelancer can deliver what you need.
In short: Working with a freelancer is a professional-to-professional collaboration. You’re hiring them for their skill and experience — not to be an extension of your internal team. When expectations, boundaries, and communication are clear, you’ll both walk away with work you’re proud of and a partnership worth repeating.
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