How a diverse skill set can lead to more creativity and job freedom

As a freelancer, having a diverse skill set is incredibly valuable. It not only allows you to be more creative in your approach to projects, but it also gives you the freedom to choose which jobs you want to take on. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of being a multidisciplinary freelancer and how it can lead to a more fulfilling and successful career.

The Advantages of a Diverse Skill Set

Having a wide range of skills set can help you approach projects in more creative ways. When you have a range of skills and experiences you can bring a unique perspective to each project leading to more innovative solutions and a greater understanding of the project as a whole.

For example, if you are a designer and a writer, you can combine your skills to create a more visually appealing and informative website. Or, if you are a developer and a marketer, you can use your skills to create a more user-friendly and effective marketing campaign.

The possibilities are endless when you have a diverse skill set that’ll help you think outside of the box. So, if you are looking to be more creative in your work, consider expanding your abilities by watching a how-to video on YouTube and seeing what inspires you!

Learning new skills can also open up new opportunities and help you avoid burnout by allowing you to take on a wider range of projects or even larger projects. Regardless of which skill you’re getting paid to utilize you’ll be making more because your perceived value is higher. For example, your client may need a logo designed by a graphic designer but they want it animated too. If you have the basic skills needed to operate AfterEffects you can most likely get paid for the entire project vs just the logo design.

Additionally, having more knowledge and skills gives you more leverage to be selective about the projects you take on. When you have a wide range of skills and experience, you get to pick projects that align with your values, interests, and career goals. This can lead to a more fulfilling career and a sense of purpose in your work.

How to Build a Diverse Skill Set

Building a diverse skill set takes time and effort, but it is well worth it in the long run. Here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Identify your strengths: The first step in building a diverse skill set is to understand what you are naturally good at. This can be anything from design to writing, programming to marketing. By understanding your strengths, you can focus on building up your skills in these areas.
   
   
2. Try something new: Once you have identified your strengths, it’s time to experiment with new skills. This can be done through online courses, workshops, or simply by trying something new on a project. The key is to be open to new experiences and to not be afraid to fail.
   
   
3. Complimentary Skills: Think of the work you already create and how you might be able to elevate it. What type of creatives are usually hired alongside you? If you’re a photographer learning videography would definitely expand your client base.
   
   
4. Collaborate with others: Collaborating with others is another great way to build up your skills and experiences. I highly recommend workswaps where you and another artist trade services. In the past, I’ve re-designed a resume in exchange for a new bio, and I took photos for video editing services.
   

Overall, being a multidisciplinary freelancer can lead to a more fulfilling and successful career. With a diverse skill set, you have the freedom to approach projects in a more creative manner, take on a wider range of projects, and choose which projects align with your values, interests, and career goals. you can build up your skills and experiences and establish a successful freelance career that allows you to work on your own terms.

Guest Writer

Audrey Tappan is a creative branding photographer who works with brands to elevate their visuals for marketing campaigns. From colorful product photos to animations and graphic design, Audrey had the desire to bring playfulness into her work. Check out her work on www.AudreyTappan.com and say hi on IG.