The 2025 State of Gig Work Report by Zety paints a tough picture for gig workers: 88% are taking on extra gigs to keep up with inflation, 91% face unexplained deactivations or penalties on platforms, 47% lack health insurance or retirement plans, and 24% struggle to cover basic living expenses. Despite the flexibility and autonomy gig work offers, the hustle can lead to a chaotic career with unstable income and limited growth. To thrive, gig workers need a strategic approach to turn freelance projects into a reliable, long-term career. Here are five ways to do it.
1. Secure Ongoing Retainers for Financial Stability
Constantly chasing gigs to cover rent or groceries makes it hard to be picky about projects. A cash reserve of six months or more provides a buffer, but targeting ongoing retainers is even better. These steady contracts with clients can cover your baseline expenses, giving you the freedom to choose higher-value projects.
How to Do It: Reach out to past clients with ongoing needs and pitch retainer agreements, even if it means a slight discount for the predictability. Check job boards for full-time roles you could convert into part-time retainers—companies may prefer the flexibility of hiring you for set hours. Retainers also keep you top-of-mind for additional work.
2. Price Benefits into Your Rates
Unlike traditional jobs, gig work rarely comes with benefits like health insurance or paid time off. You can customize your benefits package, but you need to bake those costs into your pricing to afford them.
How to Do It: Calculate the cost of your priorities—like healthcare premiums or contributions to a self-employed IRA/401(k)—and spread them across your projects. For example, if you want four weeks of paid time off, price your work based on a 52-week year but plan to work 48 weeks. This ensures you’re covered without compromising your lifestyle.
3. Schedule Time for Career Growth
A packed schedule of client work can leave no room for building your career. Without time to strategize, upskill, or pursue new opportunities, you risk stagnation.
How to Do It: Block out time weekly for career-building activities. Start with an hour on Mondays to plan your week and an hour on Fridays to review progress and tweak your approach. Dedicate regular slots for tasks like learning new skills (e.g., AI tools), outreach to potential clients, or brand-building through writing or speaking. These efforts keep your career moving forward.
4. Move Client Relationships Off Gig Platforms
Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr are great for finding initial gigs, but they tie you to their terms, fees, and client pools. If a platform changes its rules or a key client leaves, you’re vulnerable.
How to Do It: Build direct connections with clients to bypass platforms. Create a strong LinkedIn profile with clear contact info and a call-to-action. If you have a portfolio or media mentions, set up a simple website. For local gigs, join chambers of commerce or professional groups to network and attract clients who hire you directly.
5. Set Ambitious Goals for Growth
To avoid getting stuck in a cycle of repetitive gigs, regularly reassess your business and aim higher. Monthly and quarterly reviews help you evaluate your finances, client mix, and project types to ensure they align with your goals.
How to Do It: Set stretch goals, like landing larger or more complex projects, raising your rates, or diversifying your client base. Use your reserved career-building time to pitch bigger engagements or connect with high-value clients. This proactive approach keeps your portfolio dynamic and competitive, protecting you from economic downturns or client loss.
Build Your Own Path
By prioritizing retainers, pricing for benefits, scheduling career growth, owning client relationships, and setting bold goals, you can transform gig work into a sustainable career. These strategies help you stay in control, adapt to challenges, and carve out a path that reflects your ambitions.