Imagine trying to cut down a tree with your fingernails because you are unaware of better tools that would make it easier. This is what freelancing often feels like when you don’t have the right tools. It makes simple tasks frustrating, time-consuming, error-prone, and unprofessional.
In this article, we will be arming you with the right tools to simplify various freelancing tasks to help you optimise your productivity and get the best results as you work with clients worldwide.
Communication
Clear communication is important when dealing with global clients to avoid disputes, especially with language and time differences. Here are some tools to simplify your interactions.
- Zoom: Essential for video calls, screen sharing, and meetings. It supports real-time translation subtitles in multiple languages, helping bridge gaps with non-English-speaking clients. Free for basic use, with scheduling features to accommodate global time zones.
- Slack: A messaging app for ongoing discussions, file sharing, and integrations with other tools. Channels can be organised by project or client, and the mobile app keeps freelancers connected on the go. Great for asynchronous communication across continents.
If you are using a freelancing platform, we recommend using its communication channel for your safety.
Also read: 5 underrated tools for managing remote freelance work
Project management and collaborations
Having a clear sight of the tasks at hand is essential to keep things organised, especially if you are working with multiple clients. Project management tools help you keep track of your tasks and help you stay coordinated. Freelancing might also entail working on a project with a team. Collaboration tools help you stay up to date on what others are working on
- Trello: This is a visual board-based system that uses cards for tasks. It has a simple drag-and-drop interface that makes it user-friendly for teams. You can label tasks by priority and add due dates adjusted for time zones. The free version often suffices for most freelancers.
- Asana: This is more structured for tracking workflows and timelines. It integrates with calendars and supports guest access for clients, ensuring everyone stays aligned regardless of their location.
- Notion: This is an all-in-one workspace for your notes, databases, and tasks. There are customisable templates to help manage briefs, feedback, and deliverables in one place, with sharing links for easy collaboration.
File sharing
You might also need to work on various aspects in real-time or share files with one another. File-sharing tools help securely exchange files, especially large documents.
- Google Drive: Free storage with real-time editing in Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Perfect for collaborative work with clients in different countries, as it handles version control and access permissions effortlessly.
- Dropbox: Reliable for file syncing and sharing large folders. Its request feature allows clients to upload without an account, and password-protected links add security to sensitive international transfers.
DocuSign, Adobe Acrobat Sign, and HelloSign are great for signing legally binding contracts and proposals.
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Time tracking
If you’re charging per hour, you will need some proof to back up your claims, keep you on track, and ensure productivity. Time-tracking tools provide some evidence for your logged hours.
- Toggl: This simple timer app generates reports for clients and projects by time. You can export data for invoicing and give your service a professional outlook.
- RescueTime: Tracks app usage automatically to highlight productivity patterns, helping freelancers manage distractions across time zones.
Managing payments
Handling payments from global clients requires tools that efficiently manage currencies and fees.
- Digital payment tools: Digital payment options like Wise, Grey, and Payoneer offer low-cost international transfers and multi-currency accounts that allow you to receive payments in various currencies from your global clients.
- Automated invoicing tools: Automating your invoicing saves you the stress and errors of billing and manually following up on payments. With Wave, FreshBooks, or Grey’s invoicing tool, you can easily streamline your invoicing, track payments, and file financial reports.
Also read: How to budget as a freelancer and manage irregular income
Other support tools
Here are some other tools that can help you with your freelance work.
- Grammarly: This helps ensure all client communication and deliverables are professional and error-free, especially when working across different language nuances.
- Calendly: a scheduling tool that eliminates the back-and-forth of scheduling meetings across different time zones by allowing clients to book available slots in your calendar automatically.
- 1Password: If you are working with client accounts, you need a tool like 1Password to securely manage numerous client logins and sensitive information.
Why freelancers choose Grey
Working with clients from around the world doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right mix of tools, you can manage projects, communicate clearly, and get paid seamlessly. If you regularly receive payments in USD, EUR, or GBP, you need a Grey account. It’s a simple, secure way to accept global payments, hold multiple currencies, and convert money at mid-market exchange rates. Grey also integrates seamlessly with global freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to simplify your earnings withdrawal. You can also automate your invoicing without having to chase clients for payments.
Get started on Grey today for freelancing made easy.
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