Are you a freelancer looking to improve your skills and expand your knowledge? Do you want to stay ahead of the game? Look no further than SkillShare, an online learning platform with thousands of classes for creatives and professionals alike.
As a freelance writer specializing in content, copy, and corporate communications, I know firsthand the importance of continuous learning and upskilling in today’s competitive landscape. I recently signed up for SkillShare and have been taking several classes.
The learning platform offers informative and engaging classes taught by industry experts. It’s a great place to learn and grow with expert instructors, practical assignments, and a supportive community. And you can learn at your own pace and schedule, which is perfect for busy freelancers.
With so many classes available, choosing which ones to take can be overwhelming. That’s why I’ve narrowed it down to seven top picks. This article will explore SkillShare’s best classes for boosting your freelance career. Whether starting or looking to take your freelancing to the next level, these SkillShare classes provide the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.
1. ChatGPT For Creatives: AI-powered SEO, Marketing, and Productivity
By Peggy Dean
Skillshare Staff Pick
Beginner level
11 lessons
1 hour 19 minutes
This crash course teaches you how to integrate AI into your workflow using ChatGPT effectively. The class covers giving the right prompts to ChatGPT with detailed examples and how to reinforce the desired output. Peggy also shares tips and the best practices for using ChatGPT effectively, including prompt engineering and commands. The key takeaway: AI tools can be applied to any creative workflow, allowing you to achieve the desired result.
2. Content Marketing: Blogging for Growth
By Eric Siu
Skillshare Original
Beginner level
11 lessons
1 hour 21 minutes
In this 80-minute class, Eric shares his proven process for creating compelling blog content. He emphasizes the importance of creating content that serves a purpose and helps you achieve your goals. The class covers three easy blogging styles, brainstorming topics, outlining and writing posts, and brainstorming exceptional headlines. Eric’s tried-and-true methods will give you the confidence to enter the world of content marketing even if you have yet to gain blogging experience.
3. Context is Key: Social Media Strategy in a Noisy Online World
By Gary Vaynerchuk
Skillshare Original
Beginner level
24 lessons
1 hour 31 minutes
This class highlights the importance of telling a good story and building a powerful brand through a results-driven social media strategy. Gary breaks down the right kind of story for every major platform, including Facebook and Instagram. The same tactics he has used to grow brands like GE and PepsiCo are also shared in this class.
4. Getting Paid For Your Work: The Debate Over Working For Free
By Jennifer Nelson Artists
For all levels
11 lessons
42 minutes
This must-watch class is designed to help creatives navigate the tricky waters of requests for free work. Jennifer Nelson Artists, a leading art agency, shares their experience and insights into handling such requests. Getting Paid For Your Work covers the top three ways potential clients try to entice artists to give away their work and advice on determining your boundaries. Additionally, the class provides an effective tool for politely declining requests.
5. Going Freelance: Building and Branding Your Own Success
By Working Not Working
Skillshare Original
Beginner level
9 lessons
51 minutes
The rise of freelancing has created a need for creatives to learn how to make it on their own. Working Not Working’s Justin and Claire cover the essentials of freelancing through stories, examples, and tips in this overview. Each video lesson also explores how to develop a strong portfolio, market yourself on social media, pitch to traditional media, seize opportunities, and set yourself up for financial success.
6. Real Productivity: How to Build Habits That Last
By Thomas Frank
Skillshare Original
All levels
10 lessons
1 hour 6 minutes
Productivity expert Thomas Frank offers a comprehensive class on building sustainable habits. Drawing on his research, experience, and trial and error, Frank has laid the groundwork for lasting habits. This entertaining and step-by-step class teaches you how to set reasonable and realistic goals, reach them, and handle failure. Additionally, Frank shares his favorite habit-tracking and reflection systems and helps you gain a better understanding of taking ownership of your habits.
7. Unlocking Your Potential: 5 Exercises to Build Creative Confidence
By Emma Gannon
Skillshare Original
All levels
8 lessons
43 minutes
Unlocking Your Potential is perfect for anyone looking to break through a creative block and approach each project purposefully. In this 45-minute class, creative superstar Emma Gannon shares her framework for overcoming self-doubt and unlocking creative potential. Using insights from the science behind self-sabotage, Emma shows how to identify patterns, let go of unhelpful habits, and silence inner critics. With examples from her journey, Emma’s class gives creatives a pep talk and extra push.
Get started with Skillshare today
As a freelance writer and entrepreneur, balancing work and personal life can be challenging. That’s why I love SkillShare’s online learning platform. It provides in-depth content, practical skills, and social support to help equip you for freelance work.
I highly recommend Skillshare to anyone looking to boost their creative or business skills. Whether you have years of freelancing experience or are learning the ropes, these seven handpicked classes can help you get ahead and set yourself up for success.