2024’s most wanted freelance skills
Emily Ward As we step into 2024, the demand for freelancers’ skills continues to surge, and adapting to the latest trends is more important than ever. From the unavoidable demand for AI and e-commerce development to virtual assistants and email marketing, being aware of in-demand freelance skills is a sure way to benefit your business. In this guide, we’ve shared the 10 top freelance skills we think will be on the rise in 2024.
10 Most In-Demand Freelance Skills 2024
- AI
Artificial Intelligence is no longer confined to sci-fi narratives; it’s a pivotal force in the freelance industry. Skills in AI, including machine learning and natural language processing, are becoming increasingly essential. Freelancers who grasp the power of AI, particularly ChatGPT, can offer innovative solutions for clients. This could be anything from the likes of creating customer service systems such as chatbots to image and content creation for successful email marketing, or coding solutions and data analysis – the list is endless! Freelancers who have these unique AI skills are likely to meet the evolving needs of businesses in 2024 and this is a top freelancer skill to watch out for.
- E-commerce Web Development
As online shopping continues to dominate consumer habits, e-commerce web development remains a cornerstone skill for freelancers. The ability to create seamless and secure online shopping experiences is invaluable. Knowledge of popular platforms like Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento, coupled with expertise in mobile responsiveness and user experience, is what makes this a sought-after freelance skill in 2024.
- SEO
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) has been a crucial skill for freelancers, and it continues to reign in 2024. With search engines becoming smarter, the demand for SEO experts who can navigate the intricacies of algorithms is higher than ever. Staying updated on the latest SEO trends, mastering keyword research, and understanding technical SEO will not only be invaluable to your marketing strategy but will set you up for success in an overcrowded online market.
- Marketing Automation
In an era where efficiency is key, marketing automation has become a game-changer for businesses. Freelancers with skills in platforms like HubSpot, Marketo, or Mailchimp are in high demand. Automation of repetitive marketing tasks, lead nurturing, and customer segmentation are vital freelance skills that are in demand.
- Affiliate Marketing
As businesses look for cost-effective ways to reach a broader audience, affiliate marketing has gained prominence. Understanding how to create and manage affiliate programs, identify potential partners, and optimise commission structures are crucial skills for successful affiliate marketing. These professionals are a valuable asset to companies looking to expand their online presence. In 2024, expect the demand for skilled affiliate marketers to soar.
- Virtual Assistance
The OG of PeoplePerHour freelancers, virtual assistants were the first freelance skill sold through our platform – and they’re still in demand 17 years later. Virtual assistants are the go-to professionals for businesses needing remote support. Time management, communication skills, and the ability to handle diverse tasks remotely are essential for freelancers in this field and a top freelance skill for 2024. Freelancers who can master tools like Slack, Trello, and Asana will enhance your efficiency and productivity as a business and this skill is becoming invaluable to businesses.
- UX/UI Design
User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design continue to be pivotal in web and app development. Ensuring that digital products are aesthetically pleasing, intuitive, and user-friendly is a skill that businesses value highly. Keeping up with design trends, understanding user behaviour, and proficiency in tools like Figma and Sketch are the top freelance skills that you should be looking for when scouting a UX/UI Designer for your next project.
- Graphic Design
Visual content remains a powerful tool for marketing, making graphic design a perennially in-demand skill. From creating eye-catching social media posts to designing compelling branding materials, freelancers with a strong grasp of graphic design principles and proficiency in tools like Adobe Creative Cloud will continue to be sought after in 2024.
- Video Marketing
Video content has become a dominant force in digital marketing, and freelancers skilled in video production and editing are in high demand. Video marketing freelancers who create engaging social media videos, promotional content, tutorials and stay on top of the latest social media trends are what businesses look for.
- Email Marketing
Despite the rise of various communication channels, email marketing remains an effective way for businesses to connect with their audience. Freelancers with expertise in crafting compelling email campaigns, understanding email analytics, and using tools like Mailchimp or Constant Contact will find themselves in high demand in 2024.
