If you have googled things like “work from home jobs”, “flexible remote careers”, or even “how to start a freelance business” you are exactly where you need to be!

I’ve been there!! 

I’m Abbey Ashley, and I replaced my income in just 30 days through freelancing. 

In 2015 I was a new mom, living in a 1000-square-foot basement apartment. We were STRUGGLING.

Something had to change.

That’s when a friend suggested I look into virtual assistance.

What makes freelancing SO powerful is that you can start with the skills you already have. Whether it’s data entry, email management, or social media scheduling, there are endless opportunities. 

I started small, marketed my services BOLDLY, and soon found myself signing my first client just a week into my freelancing journey. 

Starting was the BEST decision I ever made. I had completely booked out my services within 30 days.

I was literally asking my husband to pinch me every day… it just didn’t feel like it was reality.

Fast forward to today, I’ve built a thriving multimillion-dollar business and helped thousands of people replace their income through freelancing. 

Now, let’s walk through the exact steps I took to make this happen.

 

How to Start a Freelance Business: Why Virtual Assistance is the Perfect First Step

Before diving into the seven steps to replace your income as a freelancer, it’s crucial to understand the value of having a clear, step-by-step plan or guide. 

Every major leap and success in business, from scaling from a small basement apartment to leading a multimillion-dollar company featured in Forbes and Inc. Magazine, has been achieved by following a course, mentor, or proven system. 

Having structure and mentorship on your journey is invaluable – that’s where I come in!!

These steps are rooted in the path to becoming a virtual assistant, though they can apply to any freelancing business. Virtual assistance is an excellent starting point because of its versatility. 

Under the virtual assistant umbrella, you can explore a variety of services like general administration, social media management, copywriting, website building, and more! 

This flexibility allows you to tailor your offerings based on your skills and interests, while also keeping doors open to specialize later in high-demand services like copywriting, Pinterest Management, or Facebook ads.

Starting as a virtual assistant gives you the chance to explore multiple areas, build experience, and define your niche over time while establishing yourself in the freelancing world.

Now let’s jump into these Seven Steps to Start a Freelance Business!

 

Step 1: Choose Your Freelance Business Services

The first step to start a freelance business is deciding what services you’ll offer.

Start with the skills you already have. For instance, general virtual assistant services might include:

• Email and calendar management
• Social media posting
• Customer service
• Research and data entry

Remember, your services don’t have to be set in stone. As you learn and grow, you can refine what you offer.

Action over perfection is the mantra here!

 

Step 2: Choose Your Freelance Business Rate & Design Packages

The second step, decide how much you want to charge and package your services. 

For getting started as a beginner freelancer, I recommend a simple hourly rate—perhaps $30 per hour. You can create packages based on hours, such as:

• 10 hours/month = $300
• 20 hours/month = $600
• 40 hours/month = $1,200

 

 

Make sure your packages are “use it or lose it” to ensure your time is valued. Tools like Toggl can help you track your hours with ease.

 

Step 3: Decide How Much Time You Have to Start a Freelance Business

The third step is to determine how much time you can dedicate to freelancing, keeping in mind your available hours directly impact your earning potential. 

For example, if your hourly rate is $30 and you can commit 10 hours per week, your income may be capped at $1,200 per month, unless you scale your efforts.

Some freelancers prefer to work a few hours a week to earn supplemental income while handling other responsibilities, being home with their kids or even working a 9-5.

Whereas, others grow their businesses into full-scale agencies, generating $20,000 to $80,000 per month! 

Crazy RIGHT!?

The beauty of freelancing is that you have the freedom to tailor your business to fit your lifestyle and goals. Whether you want a part-time side hustle or a full-time agency, the choice is yours. 

You get to decide!

 

Step 4: Choose a Freelance Business Name

The fourth step is one of my faves! Here’s my advice….don’t overthink your business name. 

Simple is often best — my first business was called “Ashley Assistance” and I had no problem booking out my services!

You can always change it later if needed, so focus on starting instead of getting stuck in perfectionism.

“Action over perfection” is the motto around here!

(If you want a little more help with naming your freelancing business, check out this previous blog post.)

 

Step 5: Decide on Your Freelance Business Processes

Step five is very important and often overlooked!

Before you start marketing your freelancing services, you need to set up your client onboarding process. 

You may be a freelancing beginner but you want potential clients to see you are prepared and professional! 

Here’s a basic workflow to help get to start your freelancing business:

1. Create a form to gather information from potential clients.
2. Schedule discovery calls to discuss their needs and how you can help.
3. Prepare a contract and invoice once they’re ready to move forward.

Having these processes in place will ensure you come across as professional and prepared, even as a freelancing beginner.

 

Step 6: Set Up Your Freelance Business Legalities

The sixth step is one of the most important steps to start a freelance business.

If you don’t have a contract, now’s the time to get one. A solid contract is essential to protect yourself and your business. 

If you’re not ready to invest in a full course, don’t worry—we’ve got an affordable option for you.

Our VA Toolbox is designed specifically for freelancers and virtual assistants, providing you with a customizable contract and essential templates. Plus, if you have any questions, you can email the lawyer who created it to ensure everything is crystal clear. 

 

 

Grab it now and have peace of mind while you move forward on your freelancing journey!

 

Step 7: Set Freelance Business Goals!

Step seven to start a freelance business is to take some time and dream a little!

Where do you want to be in 12 months? 

Do you have a debt pay-off goal?

Trying to take your family on a dream trip?

How about quitting your 9-5 and working for yourself full-time?

Write those goals down and make them real.

Digging in and discovering your “Why” will keep pushing you forward, even when the road gets bumpy!

 

How to Start a Freelance Business Bonus Step: Start Sharing, Not Selling

Surprise!! This is my favorite part of teaching freelancing beginners!

It’s finally time to start marketing your services! 

Now here’s the thing, marketing doesn’t have to feel like “selling.” Instead, think of it as sharing something you’re excited about.

You probably already rave about your favorite coffee or the new toothpaste you love, right? Treat your services the same way.

You’re passionate about helping small business owners, so start spreading the word!

If you’re wondering how to find clients and market effectively, check out my free 60-minute Become a Booked Out Virtual Assistant training!

 

 

In the FREE training above, I break down exactly how I booked out my business and hit those $10k months!