I just stumbled upon this recent article from Forbes: Top 10+ High-Income Skills For Freelancers To Learn In 2024 which revealed the 2024 top 10 freelance job titles to be writer, editor, photographer, producer, director, translator, copywriter, graphic designer, creative director, and camera operator. According to the article eight of these roles pay more on average than the U.S. median pay rate of $28 an hour—suggesting the skills required for those roles can be defined as high-income skills.
I find myself thinking that a lot of the skills listed under each of the roles apply to nearly all freelancing gig across the board. Like, I don’t see how 1) stakeholder relationship management, 2) time management and 3) clear communication skills only specifically apply to " High-Income Skills To Be A Freelance Writer/Editor"…? And how project management and budgeting skills is mentioned only under roles like Freelance Producer and Director?
The article suggests that freelancers who invest in these areas can better position themselves for higher earnings and long-term success. I would argue that without those skills a freelancer would struggle to earn anything at all… Hot take, I know… But really curious to hear your take on this. Am I the only one thinking Forbes simplified “high-income skills” just a tad?
I didn’t find the original article that listed these but found it weird that IT professionals are not even considered for the top 10, seems highly subjective.
I completely agree. That was so strange to me as well. I guess companies still prefer to have their developers employed full time and on fixed contracts - at least that’s what the numbers seem to claim.
After reading this article, I realized there are a few skills I’m missing that could significantly enhance freelancing opportunities. For instance, strengthening skills in data analysis and digital marketing could be crucial for freelancers looking to stay competitive and meet the demands of the industry.
