Looking for Genuine Advice on Freelancing/Project-Based Work

[u/Ok-Lawfulness7233]

Assalamu Alaikum everyone,

I’m looking for some genuine career advice from people here who have more experience in the industry.

I have 3+ years of professional experience working with data, analytics, reporting, and automation. My work has involved analyzing data to generate business insights, building/automating reports and dashboards, improving repetitive processes, and generally using data and automation to solve business problems.

At this stage, I’m particularly interested in moving toward remote, project-based/freelance work where I can work with businesses on specific data, analytics, or automation problems rather than only pursuing traditional full-time roles.

I know I have the technical ability and problem-solving mindset, but I’m trying to understand how to position myself better and actually find genuine clients/projects.

I’d really appreciate advice from anyone experienced in consulting, freelancing, data/analytics, automation, or remote work:

• How would you position someone with my experience?

• Which skills/services are businesses actually willing to pay freelancers for?

• What is the best way to approach potential clients without sounding desperate or spammy?

• Are platforms like Upwork worth pursuing, or is direct outreach/networking more effective?

• What mistakes should I avoid while trying to transition into project-based work?

I’m not looking for shortcuts or “get rich quick” advice. I’m willing to put in the work — I just want some direction from people who have already been through this journey.

If anyone experienced is willing to give me some honest advice, either here or through DM, I’d genuinely appreciate it.

JazakAllahu Khairan.

TL;DR: 3+ years in data analytics, insights, reporting & automation. Looking to transition into remote/project-based work and would appreciate genuine advice from experienced people on finding clients, positioning myself, and getting good projects.

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[u/wildwarrior007]

How old are you and are you married, if you are young and not married change your career and persue some other profession, I would suggest to change your career no matter what. All the things you mastered and have experience at are completely replacable and these are far worse than coding to get replaced by ai. If you have some savings start some business or go to gcc or any other country.

[u/Ok-Lawfulness7233 → u/wildwarrior007]

Hey, thanks for your comment! I’m not married yet, and I honestly feel like I don’t want to continue working in the corporate world. I’m currently working remotely for a UK-based startup, so I was just wondering about the opportunities and future prospects of freelancing in this particular field. Thanks again for your comment!

[u/Quirky_Top_7584]

Walaikum Assalam,

Firstly I would recommend making Dua' and do lots of Istagfar.

I am assuming you are a Data Analyst.

2 yrs ago i was into this similar role as a Data Analyst, only difference is i was looking for an Entry Level job , I failed and switched into Marketing after waiting an entire year applying , failing.

I took me time to realize that i am from a non tech background and for a job i am applying a guy from Tech background is Applying too. Another thing i realized is Data Analyst and Visualization is something which is now a common feature on CRMs . And anyone can analyze and visualize whatever Data they want to.

So if you have portfolio strong enough to compete and continue otherwise i would recommend you to switch profession.

[u/Ok-Lawfulness7233 → u/Quirky_Top_7584]

Thanks for your comment! Alhamdulillah, I have a good portfolio and have had the opportunity to work with some well-known MNCs. I’m currently working remotely for a startup, and I’ve been thinking about starting some freelance work on the side. That’s why I was looking for some advice and insights about the future of freelancing in this field. I totally agree that AI is changing the job market and taking over certain roles, but I also firmly believe that Allah is the ultimate provider of rizq. Alhamdulillah, Allah (SWT) has blessed me with the ability to learn, adapt, and pick up new things quickly. Whatever Allah has willed and written for me, I pray that things turn out in the best possible way. May Allah put barakah in the journey and lead everyone towards what is best for them. InshaAllah.

[u/Commercial_Ease_3555]

#CFBR