Thanks, in part, to the rise of the gig economy, the way we work is changing. The field of instructional design is no exception.
Today, more professionals are exploring freelancing as an opportunity to gain flexibility, diversify their income, and take greater ownership of their work and careers. If you’ve ever wondered how to get started but don’t know where to begin, you’re not alone. The idea of freelancing can feel simultaneously exciting and overwhelming.
A recent episode of The Instructional Designer Lounge podcast, produced by Southern Nazarene University (SNU)’s Center for Learning and Innovation, featured guest Christy Tucker. Christy, a Learning Experience Design consultant with more than 20 years of experience, shared practical insights and advice for transitioning from more traditional roles to freelance work. Her journey and the wisdom she has gained from it offer a helpful roadmap for anyone considering this path.
Start Where You Are: The Power of a Side Gig
For many instructional designers, freelancing doesn’t start with a giant leap, but rather a small step.
Christy began her freelance journey as a side project while working full-time. This approach allowed her to build experience, invest in essential tools, and gain confidence without the immediate pressure of replacing her full-time income.
An important takeaway for aspiring freelancers? You don’t have to have it all figured out before you begin. Starting small can provide the stability and momentum you need to take bigger steps.
Understanding the Basics: W2 vs. 1099
Before diving into freelancing, it’s important to understand how different types of work arrangements operate.
- W2 contracting typically means an employee works full-time for an organization or agency, often on longer-term assignments.
- 1099 freelancing refers to independent contract work in which individuals manage their own clients, schedules, and business operations.
While each path has its own pros and cons, understanding the difference between the two can help you make informed decisions as you explore employment opportunities.
Where the Work Is: Finding Your First Opportunities
Many new freelancers ask the same question: “Where do I find freelance work?”
According to Christy, freelance opportunities come from a variety of places, including:
- Mid-size to large organizations
- Nonprofits and associations
- eLearning agencies
For instructional design (ID) professionals new to freelancing, subcontracting through an agency can be especially valuable. Agencies often handle the heavy lifting of managing client relationships, project scope, and logistics. This allows newcomers to focus on what they do best while learning the ropes of ID freelancing: designing and developing excellent learning experiences.
Your Digital Presence Matters More Than Ever
A strong digital presence is a non-negotiable for freelance instructional designers.
At the center of that presence is your portfolio. A powerful portfolio goes beyond showcasing your work and builds trust. When skillfully constructed, it shows potential clients that you know how to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world projects and scenarios, reducing the perceived risk of hiring you.
Christy also recommends maintaining a “rainy day list” of portfolio updates. This way, you can use slower periods or times when you’re waiting for feedback from subject matter experts to refine and expand your portfolio, keeping it current and relevant.
Networking Without “Selling”
Many professionals feel uncomfortable with the idea of selling themselves, but freelancing doesn’t have to mean aggressive self-promotion.
Instead, Christy encourages a different approach: networking and being a “good online neighbor.”
This includes:
- Engaging thoughtfully on platforms such as LinkedIn
- Commenting on others’ work and sharing insights
- Participating in professional communities
She also highlights the idea of “stealth mentoring,” or building relationships by creating value over time. The connections made through these interactions often lead to opportunities in a more natural and authentic way than more traditional sales tactics.
Where AI Fits In
As instructional design continues to evolve, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a larger part of the conversation.
AI can be a helpful tool for freelancers when it comes to brainstorming ideas, drafting content, and improving efficiency; however, it’s important to realize that AI cannot replace the core of instructional design. Real ID professionals are still necessary for the important work of understanding learners, applying learning science, and creating meaningful instructional experiences.
Taking the Next Step
Freelancing in instructional design offers flexibility and many exciting possibilities. And, like most career paths, it requires preparation, skill, and intentional growth.
Whether you’re exploring ID freelancing as a side opportunity or considering a long-term transition, building a strong foundation is key. Developing your skills in learning theory, design strategy, and technology can help you stand out in a competitive field.
Southern Nazarene University’s Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology (MSIDT) equips graduates with the tools needed to design effective, engaging learning experiences in a variety of settings, including freelance environments.
Get started on your instructional design degree with SNU.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, you don’t have to figure it out alone. With the right training and support, you can build the skills and confidence to move forward in instructional design, wherever your path may take you.
Want to dive deeper? Listen to Episode 004 of The Instructional Designer Lounge on SNU’s MSIDT program page, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts. And be sure to stay tuned for Part Two, featuring insights from Christy Tucker about the rapidly changing world of artificial intelligence.
