Top 5 Highest Paying Freelancing Jobs in India [For Freshers & Experienced] | upGrad blog (2024)

“How well do freelance jobs pay?”

Though the freelance economy is still emerging and developing, this particular question is always lurking in the mind of every freelancer and aspiring freelancers. Often, we tend to think that one must only consider freelance profiles when in-between jobs or looking to earn a few extra bucks.

The truth is, the freelance economy is way bigger than we think. In the US, nearly 57 million Americans are enthusiastic contributors to the country’s freelance economy, of which 51% state that nothing (no amount of money or financial security) can make them accept traditional job roles.

Learners receive an average Salary hike of 58% with the highest being up to 400%.

In fact, the US’s freelance economy accounts for 5% of its GDP, thereby outpacing industries like the information sector, construction, and transportation. Following closely behind is India that ranks as the “2nd largest freelance workforce after the US with over 15 million people working independently in various sectors,” including IT, design, animation, finance, sales, marketing, and content writing, to name a few. Another interesting fact about the Indian freelance sectors is that one in every five Indian freelancers is a woman!

Freelancers hail from different educational and professional backgrounds. The best thing about choosing a freelance career is that you get to determine your professional value according to your skillset and experience, your clients, and your working hours.

Not just that, you also decide from where you work – while many freelancers work from home (especially now as the pandemic rages on), many others work from coffee houses, libraries, and coworking spaces.

As for the pay, freelancers can make good money. According to a ZipRecruiter report, the average yearly salary for freelance writers stood at US$ 63,488 in 2019 in the US. In another study conducted by PayPal, including 500 respondents, it was found that nearly 37% of the respondents said they earned more than ₹20 lakhs annually!

The bottom line is – freelance jobs offer exceptional flexibility, independence, and income opportunities. You can earn hefty annual compensation, provided you have the right skills, qualifications, and experience. The secret to increasing your professional value is always to stay updated with the latest industry trends and never give up on upskilling.

Freelancers occasionally earn per job by charging daily or hourly rates for their work. Although many companies don’t consider freelancers their professional employers, they can be subcontracted. Skilled freelancers can easily find the best freelance jobs matching their skills, educational background, and work schedule.

Currently, many freelancers are getting paid well for freelance jobs like copywriting, graphic design, website development, etc. However, you may find many freelancers working in businesses like architect design, interior design, translation, etc.

The freelancing economy is increasing at a high rate in the country. Many high-paying freelancing jobs exist in India that freelancers can take up to earn extra cash with their regular jobs. With the prevalence of social media platforms, freelancers can now easily find the best freelance jobs matching their skills.

If you’re thinking of choosing freelancing as your next career move, we’ve compiled a list of the five highest paying freelance jobs in India!

5 Highest Paying Freelance Jobs in India

1. Content Writing

Being a digital age resident, the modern consumer always performs thorough research before they put in their hard-earned money on a product/service. According to a study by The ROBO Economy, 82% of smartphone users rely on their phones for information, and almost 45% read customer reviews before making in-store purchases.

The Internet is replete with information on a wide range of issues. Be it is product review or information on a particular disease – you can find anything on the Web. And all forms of content that you read or view on the Internet are designed and prepared by talented professionals, Content Writers.

Content Writers create content for websites, blog posts, articles, white papers, newsletters, eBooks, webinar scripts, email copies, product descriptions, and social media posts. Their primary aim to write such content that can grab the attention of the right audience base.

Anybody with a fondness for words or research skills can outshine this profession. Keep in mind that there are various categories to choose from if you aim to begin your freelancing career in content writing. For example, they can work on writing website content, articles, blog posts, newspaper content, product reviews, webinar scripts, and more. But to constantly get the best writing-based freelance jobs, keep in mind that the content should be unique, appealing, and engaging to attract more opportunities.

A freelance content writer can access some of the best freelancing jobs after assessing their content quality, writing speed, and ability to meet project deadlines.

Skills:

• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Good time management and organizational skills
• Proficient in working with content platforms like Drupal, WordPress, Joomla, etc.

Salary:

According to PayScale, freelance writers in India earn an average hourly pay of ₹487.22, and as per Indeed, freelance writers can earn ₹16,343 per month.

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2. Digital Marketing

Digital Marketing is a broad umbrella encompassing SEO, SMM, SEM, content marketing, email marketing, PPC advertising, lead generation, etc. Naturally, Digital Marketing offers plenty of freelancing options such as content strategist, SEO & SEM specialist, UX designer, email marketing specialist, and social media marketer. Since these are niche skills, they promise high compensation packages to qualified talent.

Professionals in the Digital Marketing domain have to perform a host of marketing-oriented activities, including planning marketing campaigns, creating engaging social media posts and emails, writing educational and informative content using SEO and technical SEO strategies, analyzing KPIs like traffic volume, bounce rate, loading time, etc.

Whatever be your Digital Marketing job profile, the goal is to improve SEO ranking, capture the right audience, generate leads, and convert them into loyal customers using a combination of Digital Marketing concepts.

The ideal pathway to gaining Digital Marketing skills is to enroll in a certification program like PG Certification in Digital Marketing and Communication. This course covers relevant topics like Content Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Marketing Analytics, and Public Relations, etc., to help you master the domain of Digital Marketing. Read more on digital marketing salary in India.

Digital marketing is currently one of the highest-paying freelance jobs in India. It covers different job opportunities related to content marketing, search engine marketing (SEM), search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing (SMM), email marketing, PPC advertising, and lead generation. Furthermore, freelance digital marketers can constantly get the best freelance jobs in this domain if they can effectively handle multiple tasks simultaneously. It means that they must be able to handle various tasks ranging from social media posts to creating an effective digital plan.

Various advanced digital marketing courses are available offline and online in India to get the best freelancing jobs in India. It is always recommended to first avail of a suitable online or offline course and kick-start a career as a freelance digital marketer. The choice of a reliable institute also matters a lot.

Freelancing in digital marketing is a good decision because the salary is decent. You should be proficient in certain key skills to become an efficient digital marketer. Some of these key skills are a good understanding of SEM and SEO, excellent editing and copywriting skills, familiarity with Google Analytics and other analytical tools, and decent video marketing and video production skills.

Skills:

• Excellent grasp on SEO and SEM.
• Outstanding copywriting and editing skills.
• In-depth knowledge of video production and video marketing.
• Experience in working with analytics tools like Google Analytics, Moz Pro, KissMetrics, etc.

Salary:

According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for freelance Digital Marketing specialists in India ranges anywhere between ₹574,152-959,353 LPA. As for specialized job profiles like UX Designers, can make around ₹7-10 LPA either at full-time or freelance jobs. On platforms like Upwork, talented professionals can charge between $10 – $60 per hour for lending their Digital Marketing skills.

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3. Web Development

Anyone aspiring to enter the tech domain, particularly the IT sector, a career in Web Development is a perfect choice. As an increasing number of companies are shifting to the digital realm, the demand for Web Developers is soaring. The best part is that Web Developer salaries are incredibly high in the present market, especially for skills like Python, Java, JavaScript, PHP, Ruby, etc.

Web Developers may choose to work under IT corporations, or they may work independently as freelancers. Typically, the everyday job responsibility of Web Developers involves designing and building websites and maintaining them.

Web Developers may specialize in front-end development that focuses on developing the interface the users interact with or back-end development that focuses on creating the code that powers a website’s functionalities. Web Developers also roll out timely updates, provide user support, and perform troubleshooting actions as and when required.

The demand for freelance web developers has elevated due to the increased use of online tools in well-known companies to leverage their digital presence. The freelancer jobs in web development are in the hunt for web developers knowledgeable in various programming languages like HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Python, PHP, Ruby, etc. In-depth knowledge of UI/UX and backend development is also essential.

Apart from the understanding and working of core programming skills, you should have skills like debugging, testing, and interpersonal skills. Showcasing these skills through your past projects can help you attract potential freelance clients. The ability to communicate effectively with other developers and clients is also required.

Two common types of web developers are front-end and back-end developers. The former creates the user interface, whereas the latter develops the website’s software.

Although freelance web developers’ working schedules differ depending on the specific project, an average workload of 35 hours/week is considered a regular working schedule. Following this schedule can help freelance web developers to excel in their freelance careers.

upGrad has numerous short-term courses on Web Development like PG Diploma in Software Development (specialization in Full Stack Development), PG Diploma in Software Development (specialization in Cyber Security), PG Certification in Full Stack Development. Each course is designed to train candidates relevant skills like developing back-end APIs, incorporating agile methodology, data structures & algorithms, application security, cryptography, etc.

Skills:

• Good interpersonal skills.
• Testing and debugging skills.
• Proficient in HTML/CSS and JavaScript.
• In-depth knowledge of back-end development basics.
• Excellent design and UI /UX skills.

Salary:

According to Indeed, freelance Web Developers in India can earn a monthly salary ranging between ₹16,000-23,500. LinkedIn stats state that the salary of freelance Web Developers is in India is ₹37,500 per month. Learn more on web developer salary in India.

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4. Graphic Design

As a profession, Graphic Design refers to the art of visual communication that combines the power of words, images, and carefully portrayed ideas to express specific information to a target audience.

Thus, Graphic Designers are experts in designing and developing visual solutions for brand promotion and marketing. A career in Graphic Design offers you the choice of specializing in media & advertising, publishing, public relations, industrial design, etc.

Graphic Designers are often referred to as Graphic Artists or Communication Designers. Their primary responsibility is to create eye-catching visual concepts and designs by mixing art and technology.

The goal is to communicate the product or brand goals to the target customer to capture their attention and drive sales. Graphic Designers design the layout and production design for websites, advertisem*nts, brochures, magazines, and reports. They work in close collaboration with advertising, marketing, and public relations teams.

Brands require appealing visuals to mark an influence in the digital world. Graphic design combines images and words and proficiently conveys accurate data to the audience. It is a visual communication art that assists brands market themselves. So, this profession is regarded as a famous freelancing job in India.

You must be skilled in design tools like Photoshop, Adobe Creative Cloud, and many others to get well-paying freelancer jobs. Moreover, you should be well-versed in communication and networking skills to embark on a successful career in this arena.

A bachelor’s degree with decent grades and an impressive work portfolio are the two major parameters to judge a candidate for a graphics design job. Freelance graphic designers usually work 37 hours/week, from Monday to Friday. The extra hours are expected to fulfil critical project deadlines.

A graphic design career proves fruitful if you are fascinated by appealing web designs, development, digital selling, and digital advertising strategies. The application style, mobile style, and various transmission and virtual styles are demanding in this field.

Initially, the graphic design job may seem easy, but it involves many challenging tasks. You can pursue one of the best freelancing courses in India to learn all the fundamentals and skills effectively. The skills imparted in these courses help graphic designers to design the layout of websites, reports, and magazines. Moreover, some of these courses focus on imparting advanced graphic design skills that help candidates to design appealing graphics for games and 3D projects.

After completing one of the best freelancing courses in India can unlock job freelance opportunities from reliable clients/companies with admirable pay rates.

Skills:

• Creative flair with a passion for design.
• Organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Excellent networking and people skills.
• Proficiency in working with design tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, etc.

Salary:

Glassdoor maintains that the average annual salary for freelance Graphic Designers in India is ₹5,21,505 LPA, whereas according to PayScale, the average hourly pay for freelance Graphic Designers is ₹295.90 in India.

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5. Blockchain Development

In the past decade, Blockchain technology has sprung from the confines of the BFSI sector to the foreground. It is now a next-generation and advanced solution for multiple industries, including healthcare, education, retail, supply chain & logistics, transportation, etc. The rapid inclusion of Blockchain tech across different industrial sectors is raising the demand for Blockchain expertise, especially Blockchain Development.

Since Blockchain is a relatively new domain, there’s a prominent demand-supply gap for Blockchain skills. Naturally, companies using Blockchain technology are ready to pay hefty compensation to skilled and certified Blockchain professionals.

Blockchain Developers are experts having a healthy mix of specialized skills like software development, computer networking, cryptography, and data structures & algorithms. They perform a host of Blockchain-centric functions such as developing smart contracts, develop Decentralized Applications (DApps), design interactive front-end designs for DApps, and supervise the research and analysis operations for innovating new tools.

Every industry needs a blockchain to secure its confidential data while defending its operating website and systems. Therefore, blockchain developers are demanding. It is one of the challenging freelance careers because it demands candidates to be well-versed with blockchain technology and the prevailing trends. You must know the fundamentals of cryptography, open source projects, and large codebases.

The freelance blockchain developers must be proficient with computer networking, cryptography, software development, data structures, and algorithms. Some of the freelance jobs in India related to blockchain technology demand candidates skilled at creating decentralized applications (DApps), smart contracts, and designing engaging front-end designs for DApps. Certain freelance jobs also require freelancers with analytical and research skills for building new tools.

Blockchain certification courses like Executive Program in Blockchain Technology Management, PG Certificate in Blockchain Technology, and PG Diploma in Software Development (specialization in Blockchain) are an excellent choice for Blockchain aspirants.

Skills:

• Strong background in software development.
• In-depth knowledge of data structures and algorithms.
• Well-versed in the fundamentals of cryptography.
• Experience in working with open-source projects and large codebases.
• Proficient in multiple programming languages like C++, Java, JavaScript, Solidity, PHP, etc.

Salary:

Since Blockchain expertise is highly valued in the Indian market, freelance Blockchain Developers can earn around ₹475,620–793,039 LPA. The hourly salaries of freelance Blockchain Developers can range anywhere from $10 to $25 and more. Read more on blockchain developer salary in India.

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Why Opt for a Freelancing Job?

• Appeal to Millennials

Freelance jobs cater particularly well to millennials, the generation accustomed to smartphones and digital connectivity are more bend towards freelancing jobs. Millennials value innovation and novelty, making them prime candidates for freelance work. Their comfort with technology and adaptability to modern ways of working make them an ideal fit for the freelance landscape, especially when there are best freelancing jobs in India.

• Efficiency in Project Completion

Hiring freelancers streamlines the process of project completion, and having good freelancer earning doing best freelance jobs in india. Unlike traditional methods that involve time-consuming searches and high costs, hiring freelancers is as easy as browsing through portfolios on trustworthy online platforms. This streamlined approach saves both time and money, making it an attractive option for companies.

• Focus on Specialized Talent

Companies increasingly seek specialized skills for their projects, and freelancers often possess the expertise required. With diverse experiences and a range of clients, freelancers offer a depth of talent that companies find valuable. This emphasis on specialized talent benefits both parties, ensuring high-quality work and successful project outcomes, as there is no limit of how much a freelancer can earn in india.

• Flexibility Over Job Security

While job security may be a concern in freelancing earning, the flexibility it offers outweighs this drawback with the highest paid freelance jobs. Freelancers have the freedom to pursue their passions and ambitions without being tied down to a single job or routine tasks. This flexibility fosters creativity and personal growth, empowering freelancers to pursue fulfilling careers on their own terms.

• Flexible Work Arrangements

Freelance jobs often allow for remote or work-from-home arrangements, providing unparalleled flexibility and no limit to how much a beginner freelancer earn in india. Freelancers can set their own working hours, allowing them to balance professional commitments with personal responsibilities. This flexibility enables individuals to work from the comfort of their homes while enjoying the freedom to manage their time effectively.

• Cost-Effective Solutions

Freelancing earning benefits both companies and workers by reducing expenses associated with traditional office setups. Eliminating the need for daily commutes and office overheads, freelancing offers a cost-effective solution for businesses. Additionally, freelancers can save on commuting costs and enjoy a better work-life balance without sacrificing productivity.

• Improved Work-Life Balance

Balancing work and personal life is essential for overall well-being, and freelancers excel in this regard. With the flexibility to set their schedules, freelancers can prioritize family time while still earning a living. This improved work-life balance contributes to greater job satisfaction and overall happiness, with hourly rate for freelancer in india and how much freelancer earn in india per month.

Best Tips to Write a Freelance Resume That Wins Clients?

In the competitive world of freelancing, a standout resume can make all the difference in attracting clients. Your resume is your first impression, showcasing your skills, experience, and professionalism. Here are some practical tips to help you create a freelance resume that grabs attention and wins clients with highest paying freelance skills.

• Clear and Concise Formatting

Keep your resume clean and easy to read. Use a simple, professional font and stick to a consistent format throughout. Use bullet points to highlight key achievements and skills, making it easy for clients to scan quickly.

• Tailor Your Resume to Each Client

Customize your resume for each client and job opportunity. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that match their needs and demonstrate how you can add value to their project.

• Showcase Your Skills and Experience

Focus on showcasing your skills and experience that are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. Include specific examples of projects you’ve worked on and the results you’ve achieved. Use quantifiable metrics whenever possible to demonstrate your impact on freelancer salary per month.

• Highlight Your Unique Selling Proposition

What sets you apart from other freelancers? Whether it’s your expertise in a niche industry, your creativity, or your excellent communication skills, make sure to highlight your unique selling proposition on your resume.

• Include Testimonials and References

Client testimonials and references can provide valuable social proof of your skills and reliability. Include a section on your resume with quotes from satisfied clients or colleagues, along with contact information for references if requested.

• Showcase Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is often the most important part of your freelance resume. Include a link to your online portfolio where clients can see examples of your work. Make sure your portfolio is well-organized and showcases a variety of projects that demonstrate your skills and expertise.

• Highlight Your Education and Certifications

While your education and certifications may not be the most important factor for every client, they can still help to establish your credibility and expertise. Include relevant degrees, certifications, and training programs on your resume.

• Use Keywords

Many clients use automated systems to screen resumes, so it’s important to include relevant keywords in your resume. Look at job descriptions for the positions you’re applying for and incorporate relevant keywords into your resume to increase your chances of being noticed.

Ways for Freelancers to Stay Motivated During Work-from-home

Working from home as a freelancer offers flexibility and freedom, but it can also present challenges, especially when it comes to staying motivated. Here, we’ll explore practical strategies for freelancers to maintain motivation and productivity while working remotely with types of freelance jobs.

• Establish a Routine

Creating a structured daily routine can help freelancers maintain focus and stay motivated. Start by setting regular working hours and sticking to them as much as possible. Designate specific times for tasks such as checking emails, working on projects, and taking breaks.

• Set Clear Goals

Setting clear, achievable goals gives freelancers something to work towards and helps maintain motivation. Break larger projects into smaller tasks and set deadlines for each. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep momentum going.

• Create a Dedicated Workspace

Having a dedicated workspace separate from personal areas can improve focus and productivity. Set up a comfortable and organized workstation with essential tools and supplies. Minimize distractions by keeping the area tidy and free from clutter.

• Take Regular Breaks

Taking breaks throughout the day is essential for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout. Schedule short breaks to rest and recharge, and make sure to step away from the computer screen. Use breaks to stretch, take a walk, or engage in activities that help relax the mind.

• Stay Connected

Working from home can sometimes feel isolating, so it’s essential for freelancers to stay connected with colleagues, clients, and other professionals in their field. Schedule regular check-ins via video calls or phone meetings to stay updated and maintain a sense of community.

• Stay Organized

Keeping track of tasks, deadlines, and projects is crucial for staying motivated and productive. Use tools such as to-do lists, calendars, and project management software to stay organized and prioritize tasks effectively. Break down projects into manageable steps and create a roadmap for completion.

• Seek Inspiration

Feeling uninspired can dampen motivation, so it’s essential for freelancers to seek inspiration regularly. Surround yourself with sources of creativity, such as books, podcasts, or art. Take breaks to engage in activities that spark joy and fuel your passion for your work.

• Stay Healthy

Maintaining physical and mental well-being is vital for staying motivated and productive as a freelancer. Make time for regular exercise, healthy meals, and adequate sleep. Practice stress-relief techniques such as meditation or deep breathing to manage any feelings of overwhelm.

How to Become a Freelancer in India?

• Identify Your Skills and Passion

Before diving into freelancing, take some time to assess your skills, interests, and expertise. Identify your strengths and areas where you excel. Whether it’s writing, graphic design, programming, digital marketing, or any other skill, choosing something you’re passionate about will keep you motivated and engaged in your freelance career.

• Build Your Portfolio

Once you’ve identified your skills, start building a strong portfolio to showcase your work to potential clients. Create samples or projects that highlight your abilities and demonstrate your expertise. Your portfolio acts as your professional identity in the freelance world, so make sure it’s well-curated and visually appealing.

• Set Your Rates

Determining your rates is a crucial step in freelancing. Research the market rates for your services and set competitive yet reasonable prices based on your experience, expertise, and the complexity of the projects. Remember to factor in expenses such as taxes, overhead costs, and your desired income when setting your rates.

• Create a Professional Online Presence

Establishing a professional online presence is essential for attracting clients and showcasing your services. Create a professional website or utilize freelancing platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr to create profiles that highlight your skills, portfolio, and experience. Make sure your online profiles are complete, up-to-date, and optimized for relevant keywords to improve your visibility in search results.

• Network and Market Yourself

Networking is key to success in freelancing. Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook to connect with potential clients, industry professionals, and fellow freelancers. Join online communities, forums, and networking events to expand your network and build relationships with potential clients. Additionally, consider investing time in content marketing by sharing valuable insights, tips, and resources related to your niche to attract clients organically.

• Start Pitching and Bidding

Once you’ve established your online presence and network, start actively pitching your services to potential clients. Customize your pitches according to the client’s needs and demonstrate how your skills can add value to their projects. Utilize freelancing platforms to bid on relevant projects and showcase your expertise through compelling proposals. Be proactive, persistent, and professional in your communications to win clients’ trust and projects.

• Deliver High-Quality Work

Once you’ve secured projects, focus on delivering high-quality work that exceeds your clients’ expectations. Communicate effectively with your clients, clarify any doubts or concerns, and adhere to deadlines to build a reputation for reliability and professionalism. Positive client feedback and testimonials will further enhance your credibility and attract more opportunities in the future.

Conclusion

The key to landing a well-paying freelance job is to acquire the in-demand industry skills and, of course, actively apply for freelancing gigs. Platforms like Upwork and TapChief are excellent sources for hunting promising freelance job opportunities.

Furthermore, there’s always the option to expand your freelance career opportunities by attending offline events to connect with industry mentors and potential business partners.

We hope this helps!