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Managing projects as a freelancer means juggling multiple clients, deadlines, and workflows—often without the support of a full project management team. However, this becomes less overwhelming with freelance project management software. These tools help you streamline task management, client collaboration, and invoicing so you can focus on delivering great work instead of chasing down details. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one?

I’ve tested a variety of tools to identify the best solutions for freelancers, ensuring they offer essential features like time tracking, task automation, and seamless communication.

The Best Freelance Project Management Software Comparison Chart

Here is a table where you can compare the tools we just covered in the overviews.

Overviews Of The 10 Best Freelance Project Management Software

Below, I review the best freelance project management software. I’ve included screenshots, standout features, integrations, information on pricing and trials, and the pros and cons of each.

Best for small teams with a limited budget

  • 10-day free trial + free plan available
  • From $4/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.2/5

Zoho Projects is a project management platform that enables project managers to organize and budget their projects. This includes creating tasks, assigning them to team members, estimating costs, and tracking progress.

Why I picked Zoho Projects: Zoho Projects is one of the top-notch simple project management software that streamlines upcoming work and tasks. It provides all the essential tools for project management, such as Gantt charts, resource management tools, and timesheets at an affordable cost. 

Zoho Projects is easy to use, but it may take a while to understand all its features fully. I found this platform to be an ideal choice for small teams with limited funds.

Zoho Projects Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include time-tracking, Gantt charts for visualizing data, file management systems, and extensive integration capabilities. Zoho project stood out as one of the simple and easy-to-use platforms to organize tasks and projects with a single click.

Integrations include Google Calendar, Google Tasks, Google Spreadsheets, Google Drive, Microsoft Excel, OneDrive, Outlook Calendar, Office 365, Microsoft Teams, Dropbox, and Slack. There is also an integration with Zapier that you can use to connect to thousands of additional applications (at an additional cost).

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Task and project tracking is effective.
  • Billing and time-tracking capabilities are great functionalities
  • The pricing is reasonable and convenient

Cons:

  • The functionality of the dashboard lacks quality
  • Searching for tasks requires improvement

Best for visual collaboration & innovation

  • Free plan available
  • From $8/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.8/5

Miro is a visual collaboration and innovation tool that offers a wide range of features such as process mapping, diagramming, and content visualization, making it the best tool for organizations looking to improve their collaboration and innovation processes.

Why I picked Miro: I chose Miro because it provides a comprehensive workspace that enhances creativity, collaboration, and productivity, which are essential for managing freelance projects. What makes Miro different is its capability for easy formatting, an infinite canvas for expansive planning, and seamless integration with popular tools such as Asana and Slack. I believe Miro is best for visual collaboration and innovation due to its support for real-time collaboration, enabling teams to track project progress and milestones effectively, and its adaptability to projects of any scale.

Miro Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include real-time collaboration tools, such as sticky notes and comments, an infinite canvas, custom frames and shapes, presentation mode, TalkTrack to record process explanation videos, Miro Assist AI, document and image embedding, voting and polling features, mind mapping tools, screen sharing, timeline and roadmap planning, access control and permissions management.

Integrations include Zoom, Figma, Asana, Microsoft Teams, Jira, Slack, Monday.com, Confluence, Google Drive, Box, Airtable, Notion, Azure, and Webex. Some integrations are limited to paid plans only.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy to use and implement
  • Unlimited planning and brainstorming space
  • Customizable templates

Cons:

  • Potential learning curve for new users
  • No way to save custom templates

Best freelance project management software for client contracts

  • Free trial available
  • From $5.99/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.7/5

Indy is an all-in-one project management tool that provides user-friendly productivity tools tailored for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small teams. The software includes ready-made templates for proposals, contracts, forms, and invoices. 

Why I picked Indy: Indy simplifies project management by providing to-do lists and Kanban boards to effectively handle any project. It has automated time tracking, an easy-to-use calendar app, and file storage — allowing you to manage the entire project timeline in a single location. 

I like this platform because of its functionality that helps freelancers and small businesses to consolidate all their workflows in one place, including contracts and invoices.

Indy Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include user-friendly productivity tools, templates for proposals, forms, contracts, and invoices that allow you to handle projects using boards and lists. Indy stands out from competitors for its easy communication with clients directly through the app's messaging feature. 

Integrations include Google Calendar, Mailchimp, PayPal, TeamChat, Slack, Stripe, Xero, Gmail, QuickBooks Online, and Google Drive. Additionally, you can access many more apps using a paid subscription with Zapier. These tools integrate to create an easy and efficient workflow.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • It's an all-in-one tool
  • It is affordable to users
  • Easy to use and simple to navigate

Cons:

  • Insufficient time tracking capabilities
  • Limited project management tools

Best for intuitive task management

  • Free trial available
  • From $8.25/user/month (billed annually) + free plan available
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

MeisterTask is a task management tool that utilizes Kanban boards to help users visualize their workflows and manage tasks effectively. The platform is designed to be intuitive and secure, with features that support various use cases such as agile project management and remote team coordination.

Why I picked MeisterTask: MeisterTask is particularly useful for freelancers due to its cloud-based nature, allowing for easy access and management of tasks from anywhere. Moreover, the software provides a customizable dashboard, enabling freelancers to tailor the interface to their specific workflow needs.

The tool also facilitates project creation, task assignment, and team collaboration, with the ability to add team members and communicate effectively within the platform. Its flexible project boards support instant information sharing among team members, which is essential for freelancers who often work with various clients and projects. 

MeisterTask Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include project documentation, which allows users to attach files directly to tasks, SSL encryption and GDPR compliance, a comprehensive onboarding process, productivity and ROI tools, and roles and permissions features.

Integrations include Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, Slack, Gmail, Zendesk, GitHub, Spark, Microsoft Teams, and PomoDone.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Mobile app for on-the-go access
  • Offers task automation and recurring tasks
  • Provides good value for money

Cons:

  • Inability to assign multiple people to a task
  • Lack of advanced project management features

Best for its simple time-tracking solution

  • 30-day free trial + freemium plan available
  • From $10/user/month
Visit Website
Rating: 4.6/5

Toggl Track is an online time-tracking app for teams of one to a thousand people. Users can monitor their work tasks to measure productivity or determine project and client profitability. 

Why I picked Toggl Track: While it is not full-fledged project management software, it helps individuals and teams stay within budgets and track time spent on multiple projects. It focuses on time tracking and provides insights into project profitability, cost projections, and realistic budgets. 

It is ideal for freelancers, project managers, and business owners who value accurate labor data and time-tracking simplicity. I like the platform for its intuitive and easy-to-use features. It saves time by remembering previous entries and providing detailed reports. 

Toggl Track Standout Features and Integrations:

Standout features include time tracking, detailed reports, team management, mobile apps, Pomodoro timer, and billable hours. These features make Toggl Track stand out for its ability to provide users with insights, simplified workflows, and accurate labor data.

Integrations with third-party apps include Asana, Evernote, GitLab, Google Calendar, Jira, Salesforce, Slack, Track, Trello, and Xero. You can also access thousands of additional apps via Zapier.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • It easily syncs information between devices
  • Works on mobile apps, tablets, and PC
  • The platform is easy to use

Cons:

  • Lack of extended functionality like invoicing, or contract creation
  • Doesn't have repeat functionality

Best for freelancers and small agencies

  • 7-day free trial
  • From $9/user/month (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.5/5

Bonsai is a robust tool used by over 500,000 freelancers and agencies. It is an all-inclusive workflow management solution that enables self-employed people to monitor clients, create invoices, receive payments, and handle tax-related matters. 

Why I picked Bonsai: This tool has user-friendly time tracking and workflow features that streamline and automate business operations. It is particularly best for freelancers and small agencies to help them create and manage their businesses. 

For me, I found this tool so easy to use and might save a lot of time when managing invoices. Using this tool definitely makes it easier to focus on projects.

Bonsai Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features that make this platform stand out from competitors include CRM features, which help track leads and existing clients. In the client's menu, add your contacts and tag them as clients or leads. You can also easily track their progress in your workflow.

Integrations include ClickUp, Gmail, Google Sheets, Google Drive, Trello, QuickBooks Online, Google Calendar, Slack, HubSpot CRM, Xero, and more. Additionally, you can access thousands of apps using a paid subscription with Zapier. And if you are interested in building custom integrations, it has an API available for it too.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Multiple payment and payout alternatives
  • Use client portals to provide user-friendly interfaces for clients
  • Easily handle projects and tasks
  • Create and send professional proposals and invoices to potential clients

Cons:

  • Automated expense tracking limited to US and Canada
  • Payment options depend on the location
  • Limited only in the English language

Best for individuals and teams looking for an easy-to-use solution

  • 7-day free trial + free demo available
  • From $3/user/month (min 5 seats)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.4/5

nTask is a platform that combines all the tools teams use for task and project management. It allows collaboration, tracking, monitoring, reporting, and feedback. 

Why I picked nTask: After examining nTask, I discovered it is a user-friendly tool for managing projects and has excellent organizational features. This platform can track time for multiple projects. Additionally, nTask has a free plan for up to five people that includes unlimited workspaces and tasks.

nTask Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include Gantt charts, risk management, monitoring your budget, time tracking, Kanban boards, keeping track of timesheets, and more. Unlike other PM software, nTask allows users to communicate, share files, and leave comments on the task dashboard.

Integrations include Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Google Calendar, Slack, Zoom, Microsoft Outlook, Gmail and more. Additionally, you can use an integration with Zapier to connect to thousands of other apps.



Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Allows users to customize all features, providing personalized workflows
  • Promote team communication and collaboration by providing chat features
  • Helps users plot and manage projects

Cons:

  • The application lacks advanced reporting capabilities
  • Not suitable for teams exceeding 50 members

Best for PowerPoint timelines

  • Free plan available
  • From $21/year (billed annually)
Visit Website
Rating: 4.3/5

Office Timeline is a project presentation tool that allows users to create timelines and Gantt charts directly within Microsoft PowerPoint. It is available as a PowerPoint add-in and as a web-based application, enabling users to craft visual project timelines and track progress with ease. 

Why I picked Office Timeline: Office Timeline simplifies the creation of timelines and Gantt charts, which are essential for project planning and tracking. The tool allows for the integration of data from project management software such as Microsoft Project, Excel, and Smartsheet, enabling the automatic generation of visuals that reflect real-time project information. Freelancers can therefore use the software to quickly generate professional visuals that can be shared with clients or team members. They can then customize their timelines and Gantt charts with different styles, colors, and formats to suit their presentation needs.

Office Timeline Standout Features and Integrations

Standout Features include a timeline maker, a Gantt chart maker, swimline diagrams, a variety of pre-designed templates that users can select and customize to create their timelines quickly, and online collaboration tools that enable multiple users to view and edit timelines in real-time.

Integrations include Jira, Microsoft Project, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Wrike, and Smartsheet.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface
  • Creates professional-looking timeline
  • Reduces manual data entry and saves time

Cons:

  • Steep learning curve for some users
  • Some issues with customer support services

Best for freelancers looking to streamline their workflow

  • Free trial available
  • From $16/month

Moxie is a customizable personal app curated to streamline workflow and boost productivity. It offers features such as task creation, task assignment, and time tracking. 

Why I picked Moxie: By using this platform, freelancers can simplify their workflow and be more productive. It enables you to organize all your work in a central location. With this software, I could merge multiple web browser windows with multiple user accounts and apps into one window with one account. This allows me to manage my business more effectively.

Moxie Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include project management, client management, time tracking, invoicing, and customizable apps. These features are user-friendly and suitable for both new and experienced freelancers.

Integrations include FreeAgent, Trello, Asana, Basecamp, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Google Calendar and more. These integrations enable you to manage all aspects of your business on a single platform.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Easy to use and navigate
  • Offers affordable pricing
  • It combines all you need in one location

Cons:

  • It doesn’t go too deep into some features it supports
  • Various features may be ''too simple'' for some users

Best for businesses seeking robust features on a tight budget

  • 14-day free trial
  • From $3.17/user/month (billed annually)

ActiveCollab is an integrated project management software that automates busy work and helps you arrange your work into tasks and subtasks, establish priorities, and work together with your team and clients in real-time. 

Why I picked ActiveCollab: I picked ActiveCollab for its extensive features and easy-to-use interface. It provides the flexibility to create unlimited projects, enabling freelancers to handle multiple projects simultaneously, regardless of the number of clients. 

In addition, this tool provides robust task management capabilities where freelancers can create tasks, assign them to team members or clients, set due dates, and track progress. One thing I like most about this platform is the quality of service versus the cost. I found it to be one of the best on the market for its easy-to-use and time-tracking features.

ActiveCollab Standout Features and Integrations

Standout features include tracking time, generating reports, in-app chat, task dependencies management, automatic rescheduling, supporting real-time communication, and file-sharing. For me, what stood out from this platform is the appealing user-interface features that minimize distractions and enable efficient work.

Integrations include tools like TrackingTime, QuickBooks, Online Advanced, TimeCamp, Google Drive, Hubstaff, Xero, Paypal, Basecamp, and Asana. You can also access more apps via Zapier, but it will require a paid subscription.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Enable users to assign tasks for easy filtering and organization
  • Users can upload files to tasks and share relevant documents
  • Allows users to receive notifications whenever someone comments on tasks

Cons:

  • Tasks cannot have their own hours and deadlines
  • Staff members cannot work part-time

Other Freelance Project Management Software Options

Here are a few more alternatives that did not make it to my top shortlist but are worth your consideration:

  1. Dubsado

    Freelance project management software to collect payments

  2. ClickUp

    For customizable project views

  3. Project.co

    With a free-forever plan

  4. Scoro

    For end-to-end project management

  5. Hive

    For freelancing teams

  6. Wrike

    For client management and project organization

  7. Worksuite

    For a complete freelancer management solution

  8. Hub Planner

    For comprehensive resource management

  9. HoneyBook

    For freelancers who want an all-in-one client management solution

  10. Paymo

    Freelance project management software for growing businesses

Selection Criteria For Freelance Project Management Software 

Here’s a summary of the main selection and evaluation criteria I used to develop my list of the best freelance project management software.

Core Functionality

I started by reviewing the best project management software according to reviews and positive feedback from users. I verified that each offered the following essential features:

  • The ability to track time spent on tasks and projects, helping with accurate billing, productivity analysis, and resource allocation.
  • Tools for organizing and sharing project-related documents, ensuring easy access and better organization.

Key Features

To deliver the core functionality highlighted above, I believe your freelance project management software should have the following features:

  • Real-time reporting: Real-time reporting allows you to receive immediate updates on project progress, missed deadlines, and changes to ongoing projects. This enables you to address issues proactively and prevent them from escalating into serious problems.
  • Time tracking: Tracking the time your team spends on tasks and projects is valuable for planning. This feature helps identify team members who require additional time management support.
  • Billing management: The tool should be able to help you track project costs, generate invoices, send quotes or any other financial-related tool that helps you run your freelance business.
  • Data analytics: The data analytics component provides tools to analyze your team's efficiency and work process. This enables you to identify areas for improvement by leveraging factual data.

Usability

Freelancers need to track their time accurately to ensure proper billing and project profitability. The usability of project management software should include features such as time-tracking, real-time reporting to allow freelancers to log their hours and generate detailed reports for clients and personal use. 

Software Integrations

Some cloud-based freelance project management software on this list incorporate third-party integrations, which enhance the platform's capabilities by linking it with external tools. These can include CRM platforms, Slack, Google Meet, and Google Spreadsheets. There are also third-party integration services like Zapier that will give you additional integration possibilities.

Pricing

I examined the pricing details to find out if there are any trial options, free trials, and the initial cost of paid plans. The software on this list includes some with free and premium plans.

However, the pricing varies depending on the specific tool and its features.

How to Choose Freelance Project Management Software

It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:

FactorWhat to Consider
ScalabilityEnsure the tool can grow with your business. If you plan to expand your freelance work or take on bigger projects, check if the software supports larger workloads.
IntegrationsLook for software that connects with tools you already use, like Google Drive, Slack, or Trello. Seamless integration can save you time and keep your workflow smooth.
CustomizabilityChoose a tool that allows you to tailor workflows and dashboards to fit your specific needs. This flexibility can enhance productivity and project management.
Ease of UseOpt for a user-friendly interface that doesn’t require extensive training. This is crucial if you need to get up and running quickly without a steep learning curve.
BudgetConsider your financial constraints. Look for software that offers the features you need at a price you can afford, and check for any hidden costs or fees.
Security SafeguardsProtect your client data by selecting software with strong security measures like encryption and regular updates. This is essential for maintaining trust.
SupportReliable customer support can make a big difference. Look for providers that offer 24/7 assistance, live chat, or comprehensive help documentation.
Mobile AccessIf you work on-the-go, ensure the software has a mobile app or responsive design so you can manage projects from anywhere.

Honestly, it's a lot to digest—and there's a lot of pressure to get it right so I'd suggest using our project management software advisory service to help you shortlist project manager tools that'll be a good fit for you and your organization's specific needs.

In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different freelance project management software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:

  • AI-Driven Insights: AI is being used to analyze project data and provide actionable insights. This helps freelancers make informed decisions quickly, optimizing project workflows. Some vendors are integrating AI to predict project risks and suggest mitigation strategies.
  • Remote Collaboration Tools: As remote work becomes the norm, tools that facilitate virtual collaboration are gaining traction. Features like virtual whiteboards and real-time chat are being enhanced to support freelancers working with global clients.
  • Sustainability Features: Vendors are adding features that help track and reduce the environmental impact of projects. This includes tracking carbon footprints and promoting sustainable practices, appealing to eco-conscious freelancers.
  • Enhanced Security Protocols: With data privacy concerns on the rise, software vendors are focusing on strengthening security measures. Features like end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication are becoming standard to protect sensitive client information.
  • Custom Workflow Builders: More tools are offering drag-and-drop workflow builders, allowing freelancers to create custom project pipelines. This flexibility helps tailor the software to specific project needs and enhances overall productivity.

What Is Freelance Project Management Software?

Freelance project management software is an online freelance tool with features designed to streamline and optimize the work of freelancers working on multiple independent projects. With freelancer project management tools, you can organize and track tasks, collaborate with clients and team members, set deadlines, and monitor project progress.

Freelance project management software features include task management, communication tools, file sharing, time tracking, and reporting capabilities. These features streamline project workflows, improve productivity, and ensure effective project delivery.

Features of Freelance Project Management Software

When selecting freelance project management software, keep an eye out for the following key features:

  • Task management - Effective task management capabilities allow you to break projects into smaller, manageable tasks. You can create to-do lists, set priorities, assign due dates, and track progress, ensuring that no deadlines or deliverables slip through the cracks. Advanced features may include task dependencies, recurring tasks, and automation to streamline workflow.
  • Time tracking - Integrated time tracking helps you log billable and non-billable hours accurately. This feature ensures transparency in client billing, allows for better time allocation, and provides insights into productivity. Some tools also offer automated timers and timesheet exports to simplify invoicing.
  • Client communication - A centralized communication system eliminates scattered email threads and missed messages. Look for software that provides direct messaging, discussion threads, and real-time collaboration features. This helps maintain clear and organized communication with clients, ensuring expectations are aligned throughout the project.
  • File sharing - You often handle multiple documents, contracts, and creative assets. A secure file-sharing feature ensures all project-related files are stored in one accessible location. Version control, cloud storage integration, and permission settings can enhance collaboration while keeping sensitive data protected.
  • Project scheduling - A visual scheduling interface, such as Gantt charts or calendar views, helps you plan projects efficiently. This feature enables deadline tracking, milestone setting, and workload balancing, ensuring projects stay on schedule and resources are allocated effectively.
  • Customizable workflows - Every freelancer has a unique way of managing projects. Customizable workflows allow you to adapt the software to your specific needs by setting up automation, personalized task statuses, and workflow templates. This flexibility helps improve efficiency and reduces manual work.
  • Invoicing - Billing clients efficiently is a crucial part of freelancing. Built-in invoicing tools simplify the process by allowing you to generate invoices, track payments, and even set up recurring billing. Some systems integrate with accounting software or offer expense tracking for complete financial management. There are also cost management software that help you manage your budgets efficiently.
  • Reporting tools - Having access to analytics and reports helps you assess your performance and project progress. These tools provide insights on time spent, task completion rates, profitability, and workload distribution. Customizable dashboards can offer real-time updates to help with strategic decision-making.
  • Collaboration tools - For freelancers who work with subcontractors or clients who require direct access to projects, collaboration features are essential. These may include shared workspaces, real-time editing, commenting, and team task assignments, ensuring seamless teamwork and feedback loops.
  • Security safeguards - Handling client data requires robust security measures. Look for software that offers data encryption, role-based permissions, multi-factor authentication, and secure cloud storage to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access.

Choosing the right freelance project management software ensures you can efficiently manage tasks, track time, communicate with clients, and streamline your workflow—all while keeping your projects on schedule and finances in order. By selecting a tool with the right mix of features, you can stay organized, improve productivity, and deliver high-quality work with confidence.

Benefits of Freelance Project Management Software

Implementing freelance project management software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:

  • Improved Organization: Task management tools ensure that all assignments, deadlines, and responsibilities are clearly structured, while integrated file-sharing systems keep important documents accessible and well-organized. This minimizes lost files, overlooked tasks, and unnecessary back-and-forth communication.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Time tracking, scheduling, and workflow automation help freelancers manage their workload efficiently. By visualizing deadlines and monitoring time spent on tasks, you can prioritize effectively, minimize distractions, and optimize your daily workflow.
  • Better Client Relationships: A centralized communication system streamlines client interactions by consolidating feedback, discussions, and updates in one place. This reduces misunderstandings, keeps clients informed, and fosters transparency—leading to stronger, more trusting professional relationships.
  • Accurate Billing: Integrated invoicing and time-tracking features help freelancers track billable hours precisely and generate invoices seamlessly. This reduces disputes over payments, improves cash flow, and ensures that every hour worked is accounted for.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Reporting and analytics tools provide valuable insights into project progress, resource allocation, and profitability. By analyzing key performance indicators (KPIs), you can identify areas for improvement, optimize your processes, and make informed business decisions.
  • Increased Flexibility: Customizable workflows allow freelancers to tailor the software to their specific needs, whether they follow Agile methodologies, manage multiple clients, or handle diverse project types. This adaptability enhances efficiency by streamlining processes that align with your unique working style.
  • Secure Data Management: With sensitive client data at stake, robust security features—such as encryption, role-based access controls, and multi-factor authentication—help safeguard critical information. This ensures compliance with data protection standards and builds client trust in your professionalism.

Costs and Pricing of Freelance Project Management Software

Selecting freelance project management software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in freelance project management software solutions:

Plan Comparison Table for Freelance Project Management Software

Plan TypeAverage PriceCommon Features
Free Plan$0Basic task management, limited storage, and basic collaboration tools.
Personal Plan$5-$15/user/monthTask management, time tracking, file sharing, and basic reporting.
Business Plan$20-$50/user/monthAdvanced reporting, enhanced security, integrations, and customizable workflows.
Enterprise Plan$50-$100/user/monthEnterprise-level security, dedicated support, API access, and advanced customization options.

Freelance PM Software FAQs

Find answers to common questions other people ask about this topic.

What is project management freelancing?

Project management freelancing refers to the practice of working as a project manager on a contract basis for different clients or organizations. Freelance project managers work independently and are hired for specific projects and tasks.

How do I get a freelance project?

  • Build a strong professional network: Attend industry events, join online communities, and connect with professionals in your field.
  • Create a compelling portfolio: Showcase your past projects, certifications, and relevant experience in a portfolio. Highlight your successes and outcomes achieved during previous projects to show your expertise.
  • Cold pitching: Identify businesses or organizations that could benefit from your project management services. Craft personalized pitches explaining how you can solve their specific challenges.

What are the benefits of project management freelancing?

  1. Flexibility and autonomy: Freelance project manager positions offer the flexibility to determine your own schedule, location, and work style. This freedom in your professional life enhances both your job satisfaction and overall well-being.
  2. Collaboration options: When comparing a full-time project management job to a freelance position, freelancing provides the chance to expand your network and opens up more opportunities for growth. This opportunity has the potential to enhance both your professional career and personal life, as it allows you to meet new individuals and take on additional projects to manage.
  3. Financial independence: As a freelance project manager, you have full control over your earnings and keep all profits. The more projects you handle, the more money you make. In contrast to a traditional 9 to 5 project management job, where your payment is fixed, freelance work allows for greater income potential.
  4. Choosing your clients: Freelancing project management gives you the advantage of selecting clients according to your preference. You have the freedom to decide which projects to work on and which clients to collaborate with.

Do I need a project manager portfolio to freelance?

Having a project manager portfolio can be a valuable asset when freelancing, but it’s not always a strict requirement. Whether or not you need a portfolio as a freelance project manager depends on various factors, including your target clients and the nature of your freelance work. Here are a few considerations:

  • The type of clients you are targeting can influence whether a portfolio is necessary.
  • If you have a strong reputation and extensive experience in project management, your clients may rely more on your references, testimonials, and industry reputation rather than a portfolio.
  • Certain industries may require it. For example, if you specialize in web development project management, having a portfolio showcasing successful web projects could be a significant asset.
  • A portfolio can help you build and showcase your personal brand as a project manager.

Interested in learning more? Here’s how to create a project management portfolio to showcase your experience beyond a CV.

What’s Next?

There are so many things you have to do to make freelancing a stable money machine. First, you have to find ways to build your professional network. Then you’ll probably need to decide what kind of project manager you’ll be and in which industry. Here are 8 jobs as a PM you didn’t know you could do. Finally, you’ll need a guide that you can follow to make freelancing as a PM your dream career. For this last item, you can check out our freelance PM guide.

If you want to receive other cool articles and more tips and tricks related to project management, subscribe to the Insiders Newsletter. We will increase your PM knowledge every week.

Hermann Fink
By Hermann Fink

Hermann Fink is a technology enthusiast and the co-founder of Rünna Advertising, a multinational digital agency that has been active for over a decade and served clients like Ford, AstraZeneca, Disney, and Didi. In addition to being a business owner, Hermann gathered corporate experience in project management during his time at Hewlett Packard in the mid-2010s.