When I started freelancing back in 2019, I had no idea what I was doing or what I was getting myself into. I had just left my 9-5 job as a Senior Designer for a Toronto-based startup and wanted to start something of my own—something that I could build from the ground up and call mine. After a year of freelancing and realizing that this dream could be a reality I launched Studio Oros in the summer of 2020.

Still unaware of how to run a design business, I felt surrounded by an amazing online community of other women designers that felt like they were in the same boat. We were all trying different things, experimenting with our processes, posting helpful tips, and it felt like home.

Fast forward a few years, and there are definitely some things that I wish I knew at the start of this journey. Whether you’re at the start of your career or somewhere in the middle, here are some things I try to always keep in mind:

REJECTION IS PART OF THE PROCESS
As designers and business owners, we are pitching ourselves to potential clients everyday. Whether that’s through our online presence or discovery calls, we are constantly trying to connect. Sometimes these connections are meaningful and sometimes they are not a good fit.

NEVER UNDERSELL YOURSELF
I’ve been there, we’ve all been there—in business and in life. Confidence is a process, but it’s also a necessity for building and growing a business. There are plenty of people out there that are more under qualified than you, doing the things that you think you can’t. Trust your talent, charge what you are worth, and do it with confidence because no one is like you.

LEARN TO SAY NO
At the start of my freelance journey, I said yes to every project. I wanted to work, I wanted to make money, and I wanted to prove that working for myself was possible. But not every client is a good fit. When your gut says no, try and follow that. Taking a project that doesn’t feel like a perfect fit will cost you in the end. Strive to attract and collaborate with like-minded individuals who value you. The process will be so much better!

JUST START
Even if you feel like you aren’t ready.

—G