Freelancing can be a rewarding career choice, offering the flexibility to manage your own time and workload. A pseudo-f**k the man mentality, no? Although freedom is loved, it also comes with the responsibility of managing various aspects of your business efficiently. For those new to freelancer or those who have been in the game for some time, we compiled a list of what we think the best tools to use as a freelancer are. Here are the best 7 ½ tools every freelancer should incorporate into their daily routine.
1. Wingleap (wingleap.com)
Wingleap is an easy-to-use platform designed to help freelancers manage their projects, clients, and time all in one place. It combines a bunch of tools freelancers most likely already use into one centralized platform. Those tools translate to features like CRM for client management, task management, invoice creation, project management tools, and time tracking, which are crucial for maintaining organization and efficiency. By centralizing these functions, Wingleap allows freelancers to focus more on their work and less on administrative tasks, giving them a chance to work more billable hours.
2. PayPal (paypal.com)
PayPal is an essential tool for freelancers due to its widespread acceptance and ease of use for handling payments. Whether you are invoicing clients or receiving direct payments, PayPal provides a secure and straightforward method to manage your finances. Its integration with numerous platforms and services also makes it versatile for different freelancing needs, ensuring you can get paid quickly and efficiently.
3. ChatGPT (chatgpt.com)
ChatGPTI, is a versatile tool for freelancers who need assistance with content creation, research, and customer communication. This AI-driven tool can help generate ideas, draft emails, generate code snippets, and even provide technical support, making it an invaluable resource for enhancing productivity. Using ChatGPT, freelancers can save time and deliver high-quality work consistently.
4. Pocket (getpocket.com)
Pocket is a must-have tool for freelancers who need to stay updated with industry trends and valuable content. It allows you to save articles, videos, and other content to view later, ensuring you can keep up with the latest information without getting distracted during work hours. By organizing your reading list and providing offline access, Pocket helps you stay informed and inspired, enhancing your professional growth.
5. FreeAgent (freeagent.com)
FreeAgent is an accounting software tailored for freelancers and small business owners. It simplifies financial management by offering tools for invoicing, expense tracking, and tax preparation. With FreeAgent, freelancers can keep their finances organized and gain insights into their business performance, ensuring they remain compliant with tax regulations and can make informed financial decisions.
6. Adobe Creative Cloud (adobe.com)
Adobe Creative Cloud is indispensable for freelancers in creative fields such as design, photography, and video production. It offers a suite of industry-standard tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro, enabling you to produce high-quality work. The integration across apps and cloud storage capabilities also streamline your workflow, allowing you to collaborate with clients and access your projects from anywhere.
7 & 7 ½ . Webflow (webflow.com) or WordPress (wordpress.com)
Depending on your technical skills, Webflow or WordPress can be the ideal platform for building and maintaining your freelance portfolio website. Webflow offers a no-code, design-centric approach, perfect for freelancers who want a visually appealing site without delving into coding. On the other hand, WordPress provides extensive customization options with plugins and themes, making it suitable for those with more technical know-how. Both platforms help showcase your work and attract potential clients effectively.
Honorable Mention
Spotify. We believe in a way where you need to relax and cut loose. Yes, even at work. Having your spotify handy while in the middle of work allows you to be versitile on whether you need to focus in and play an awesome cinematic playlist, or loosen up and really enjoy it with a good golf course mix. Whatever makes you happy, focused, determined, or straight up the bad ass we know you are. Make sure you have the tools to feel like it.
To wrap it up
Incorporating these tools into your daily operations can significantly boost your efficiency and productivity as a freelancer. From managing finances and projects to staying informed and creating top-notch work, these tools provide the support you need to thrive in your freelance career.
TL;DR
Freelancers can boost their productivity and efficiency by using essential tools such as Wingleap for project management, PayPal for handling payments, and ChatGPT for content creation and customer communication. Additional must-haves include Webflow or WordPress for portfolio websites, Pocket for staying updated, FreeAgent for financial management, and Adobe Creative Cloud for creative projects. These tools streamline operations, allowing freelancers to focus more on their work and less on administrative tasks.
Why Wingleap is on this list
We’re biased, but Wingleap's comprehensive suite of features is tailored specifically for freelancers, making it a one-stop solution for managing all aspects of your business. That’s our elevator pitch. But seriously, we love Freelancers and truly think we (as a society) need to lift up "solopreneurs" and help them grow their businesses.
Wingleap has a user-friendly design that even those new to freelancing can navigate and utilize its full range of capabilities easily and effectively. With features like project and task management, time tracking, and financial tools into one cohesive system, Wingleap helps freelancers stay organized, meet deadlines, and consolidate a large chunk of their day-to-day tools into one system that doesn’t break the bank. Seriously, Wingleap doesn’t have investors or large VC or Private Equity firms pressuring us to raise prices and increase our ASP (average sale price). We are just two guys trying to help freelancers, and we think we can.
