Freelance Digital Marketer Job Description, Role & Income

Thinking about working as a freelance digital marketer? Learn what you need to know about income potential and how to become a freelancer.

  • Freelance digital marketers create and manage online marketing campaigns for various clients.
  • Essential skills include SEO, social media, content creation, and paid advertising.
  • Earnings vary; experienced marketers can make up to six figures annually.
  • Find gigs on platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and through direct client outreach.
Brett Helling
Founder, Gigworker.com

Brett Helling is a gig economy expert who has been running his own small business for over 10 years.

Do you have a knack for online marketing?

Are you always keeping up with trends in social media and search engine optimization?

If so, freelance digital marketing might be the career for you.

This article will educate you on what it takes to become a freelance digital marketer.

We'll also discuss how much freelance digital marketers can earn and what type of skills they need to get hired.

So if you're interested in learning more about this exciting and growing field, keep reading.

What Is a Freelance Digital Marketer?

A freelance digital marketer creates and manages online marketing campaigns for businesses, organizations, or individuals.

They use various methods to reach potential customers and clients, such as SEO (search engine optimization), email marketing, social media, content creation, and more.

What Does a Freelance Digital Marketer Do?

A freelance digital marketer typically works with clients from small local businesses to large international corporations.

What Does a Freelance Digital Marketer Usually Focus On?

You might develop marketing strategies using online tools and tactics.

These may include pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, social media marketing, website design, and more.

Your clients may ask you to decide on the platforms and methods that work best for their businesses.

You would look through all available software solutions and decide which options will provide the most effective result for a particular campaign or project.

You might also need to manage campaigns, monitor results, and make changes.

It can include sifting through data and analytics to determine effective strategies.

Freelance Digital Marketer Job Description

The following is a typical job description for a freelance digital marketer.

We need a digital marketing expert who can display the following skills.

Develop and execute digital marketing strategies that help our company reach its business goals.

Research various online platforms to determine the most effective methods for campaigns.

Design and manage website content, search engine optimization, social media campaigns, and more.

Generate reports on campaign effectiveness and make changes as needed.

Other required tasks include the following.

  • Monitor and analyze ad data
  • Stay on top of current best practices
  • Work closely with other departments

Top Freelance Digital Marketer Jobs and Careers

Consider these three career examples you can pursue when freelancing in digital marketing.

  • Digital project manager: In this role, you would oversee the whole process of a digital project.
    You will manage the entire project from start to finish and ensure it meets customer needs and budgets.
  • Search engine optimization specialist: An SEO specialist uses various methods to optimize websites.
    You would research keywords and optimize content for search engine results.
  • Paid media specialist: As a paid media specialist, you would create campaigns on various platforms to target potential customers and drive leads.
    You would need to constantly monitor the performance of these campaigns as well as make changes where necessary.

Where Can a Freelance Digital Marketer Work?

You can freelance in digital marketing from any part of the world.

You may work remotely for a single company or multiple clients.

Keep in mind that gig economy companies need marketing.

As long as you have access to the internet, you can thrive as a freelancer.

There are endless possibilities when you consider the industries you can work for.

You can freelance for companies in sectors such as e-commerce, retail, fashion, technology, travel, tourism, education, and hospitality.

Overall, freelancing is a great side hustle.

What It’s Like To Be a Freelance Digital Marketer

Before you become a digital marketing freelancer, gain an understanding of the day-to-day experiences.

Is Being a Freelance Digital Marketer Hard?

The freelance digital marketing field is a competitive one.

You need to stay on top of the trends, understand the latest technology, and build relationships to stay successful.

You might find that you can start freelancing as a digital marketer with minimal experience.

However, it will take dedication, hard work, and creativity to succeed in the freelance digital marketing field.

The digital marketing landscape changes often. Staying on top of trends is only the beginning.

You also need to think strategically as algorithms change, buying habits adjust, and different social media platforms emerge.

Is a Freelance Digital Marketer’s Job Stressful?

The freelance digital marketing field can become stressful at times.

However, it is ultimately up to you how much stress you decide to take on.

You can minimize any potential stressors by staying organized and practicing good time management.

Communicating well with clients goes a long way in alleviating stressful situations. Make sure to meet deadlines.

Tell clients ahead of time when a project may go longer.

Take time to understand expectations from the start.

Common Freelance Digital Marketer Work Day

A freelance digital marketer’s typical work days vary depending on their clients and workload.

You may work on content creation for one client in the morning, then switch to developing a marketing strategy for another later in the day.

Most freelance digital marketers work an average of 8-10 hours a day, with some days lasting longer and others shorter, depending on deadlines and job requirements.

Freelance Digital Marketer Tasks & Duties

Tasks for freelance digital marketers include creating content such as web copy, blog posts, articles, press releases, and more.

You might also get hired to design and manage a website, set up email campaigns, run ads, conduct keyword research, maintain social media accounts, and more.

Freelance Digital Marketer Work Hours & Schedule

As a freelance digital marketer, you have the freedom to set your working hours.

However, depending on the needs of your clients and deadlines, you might find yourself working extended hours.

It’s important to set aside time for breaks and remember to take care of yourself.

Does This Career Field Embrace Work/Life Balance?

Yes, freelance digital marketing allows for a work/life balance.

You have the flexibility to plan your hours, take time off, and pick when and where you work.

Working freelance also provides more opportunities to network with potential clients, explore new concepts, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends.

Do Freelance Digital Marketers Make Good Money?

A freelance income will vary in the world of digital marketing.

If you’re just starting, you will most likely charge lower freelance rates than someone with a lot of experience.

As you gain more experience and build up a marketing portfolio, you can start charging higher rates.

How Much Do Freelance Digital Marketers Make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that marketing managers earn between $153,000 and $191,000 per year.

These are employment positions.

However, it gives you an idea of what to expect.

When freelancing, you can work your way up to a six-figure income and beyond.

Try raising your rates over time once you're established and obtain quality ratings on job sites.

Payscale.com reports that search engine optimization specialists earn an average of $59,000 per year.

That means some earn six figures and above.

Here are other average salary numbers from Payscale.

  • Digital marketing specialist: $51,000
  • Search engine optimization manager: $74,000
  • Marketing director: $83,000

How Do Freelance Digital Marketers Get Paid?

Freelance digital marketers typically get paid through freelance job sites or directly from clients.

Payments are generally made via PayPal, direct deposit, or check.

It’s essential to agree on payment terms before starting a freelance project to ensure clients pay you on time.

Requirements, Skills, and Education Required for Freelance Digital Marketers

If you want to work as a freelance digital marketer, you not only need specific skills but also have to keep your education up-to-date.

Who Should Consider a Freelance Digital Marketer Career Path?

People who feel passionate about digital marketing, enjoy working independently, and have the necessary skills should consider freelance digital marketing.

Optimally, you should have some experience working in online marketing.

Even if you haven't formally worked at a digital marketing agency, you can get hired in this field.

Have you successfully built a blog with high traffic numbers?

Or do you have a highly-engaged social media account?

You can point to these accomplishments when bidding for freelance work.

Who Should NOT Consider a Freelance Digital Marketer Career Path?

If you don’t like working on your own and lack some of the required skills, freelance marketing work may not be for you.

Is It Hard To Become a Freelance Digital Marketer?

It is not hard to become a freelance digital marketer.

It does require dedication, however.

You need to build your portfolio, reach out to potential clients, and perfect your freelance digital marketing skills.

Develop a thick skin when potential clients decline your job bids.

Keep persisting until you start gaining clients.

What Do I Need To Become a Freelance Digital Marketer?

To become a freelance digital marketer, you need the following skills and experience.

Requirements for Becoming a Freelance Digital Marketer

While not a requirement, a college degree in marketing or a related field can help you compete against those without a degree.

You should know how to communicate well and manage your time efficiently.

What Skills Does a Freelance Digital Marketer Need?

It’s essential to have a good understanding of digital marketing concepts, as well as the ability to create effective campaigns that reach the desired target audience.

You should also have the skills required to come up with strategies for increasing visibility in search engine results, optimizing websites for lead generation, and managing social media accounts.

Potential clients look for digital marketing skills such as SEO, social media management, and email marketing.

They'll ask about your communication skills.

They may talk about your ability to work quickly.

If a client needs to run paid ad campaigns, then you need to know how to create, measure, and optimize those campaigns.

Skills in sifting through data and knowing how to pivot strategies based on those reports will take you far as a freelance digital marketer.

What Education Does a Freelance Digital Marketer Need?

As we mentioned above, a formal degree isn't necessarily what you need to freelance in marketing.

Instead, you should have a basic understanding of the principles and concepts related to digital marketing.

You can successfully educate yourself in digital marketing by working on your projects first.

Do you want to become a website designer?

Build your website first.

Buy courses that teach search engine optimization.

Or, join a paid ads coaching program to learn how to run Facebook ads.

Use these skills to begin building a client roster in the area you can specialize.

What Experience Does a Freelance Digital Marketer Need?

Experience helps when you're about to go out on your own as a freelance digital marketer.

You should have experience with online platforms like WordPress and Magento.

Other software to gain experience includes online shops, email service providers, analytics tools, and content management systems.

Finally, knowing the latest trends in digital marketing is essential.

It will help you stand out when bidding on freelance jobs.

The best way to stay up-to-date is by reading blogs or taking classes in digital marketing.

How To Become a Freelance Digital Marketer

Do you think freelancing in digital marketing sounds interesting?

Do your skills align with what it takes to succeed?

Are you able to meet the requirements?

If you want to start freelancing, then read the following information on how to get plenty of gig work.

Where To Find Freelance Digital Marketer Opportunities

As one of the top gig economy jobs, you can find freelance opportunities on job boards such as Upwork and Freelancer.

You can also try freelance-specific websites like Fiverr or Guru, which specialize in freelance digital marketing jobs.

Alternatively, you can reach out directly to businesses online.

Start with the companies that interest you most and contact them via email with your freelance portfolio.

It's crucial to network, whether you freelance in digital marketing or any other field.

Reach out to fellow freelance marketers and ask them for advice or tips on how they land their clients.

Build relationships with potential clients by attending industry events, conferences, webinars, and seminars.

You never know who you'll meet, what connections you can make, or the freelance job opportunities that might arise.

Bidding for the Gig(s)

When you find freelancing gigs to bid on, read the job description carefully. Include all of the freelance services you offer in your bid.

Be clear about what you can do for them, how much money you charge per hour or project, and how long it will take for you to complete the task.

If a client has requested samples of your work, then provide those as part of your bid.

Working with Clients

After you win the freelance job, have a plan in place for completing the project on time and to the client's satisfaction.

Communicate with your clients regularly and stay organized by using tools like Trello, Basecamp, and Asana.

This will help you keep track of all your freelance jobs and their deadlines.

Finally, always make sure to invoice promptly and accept payments safely by using secure payment gateways like PayPal or Stripe.

How To Increase Your Client Roster Over Time

One of the best ways to stay busy as a freelance digital marketer is by asking for referrals.

When you complete a freelance project, ask the client if they know anyone else who might need your services.

You don't need to stay on the above-mentioned sites like Upwork forever.

Build out your marketing funnels. Use paid ads and SEO to attract clients when they're searching for your services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have questions about working as a freelance digital marketer?

Which digital marketing skill pays the most?

The digital marketing skills that typically earn the most money are SEO, copywriting, and analytics.

Social media skills are also lucrative.

Which is better: Freelancing or digital marketing?

That depends on what you want to do and how much freedom of choice you're looking for.

Freelancing offers more flexibility than working in a corporate digital marketing role.

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which is best for your career goals and lifestyle.

Wrapping Up

Becoming a freelance digital marketer can turn into an exciting, rewarding, and lucrative path.

However, if you want to ensure that you're successful in this field, you need to start building up your freelance digital marketing skills and network.

Once you have the right set of skills, start looking for freelance gigs or reaching out to potential clients directly.