20 Freelancer Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviewing for a job at Freelancer, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, our interview process is designed to assess your skills and abilities related to the job you’re applying for. Second, we want to get to know you as a person, so we’ll be asking questions about your experience, your goals, and what you’re looking for in a new role.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common interview questions we ask at Freelancer. We encourage you to take some time to think about your answers to these questions before your interview, so you can be sure to put your best foot forward.

Freelancer Interview Process

The interview process at Freelancer can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like Graphic Designer or Software Engineer, you may have to go through a technical interview. For others, like Virtual Assistant or English Teacher, the interview may be more focused on your experience and goals. Overall, the process is typically two to three weeks long, with multiple rounds of interviews.

1. Tell me about a time where you had to work on a project without much direction.

Freelancers often work on projects with little direction from their clients. This question helps employers understand how you handle working without a clear outline of what to do. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to new situations.

Example: “I once worked for a client who gave me very little direction about the project I was working on. The only information they provided was that they wanted a website designed, but didn’t provide any details about the design or layout. I used my creativity and research skills to create a website that met all of their needs.”

2. Describe your experience working with clients.

Freelancers often work with clients to complete projects. Employers ask this question to learn more about your experience working with clients and how you handle challenges that may arise during the process. In your answer, try to highlight any skills or traits that make you a good freelancer.

Example: “I have worked as a freelance writer for five years now. I started out writing articles for small websites but eventually gained enough experience to write for larger publications. Throughout my career, I’ve learned how to communicate effectively with my clients. If I ever encounter an issue while working on a project, I always contact my client immediately so we can discuss solutions.”

3. Do you prefer working in team or by yourself? Why?

Freelancers often work alone, but they also need to collaborate with clients and other freelancers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can work well on your own as well as in a team setting. In your answer, explain that you are comfortable working both independently and collaboratively. Explain how you enjoy both types of work environments.

Example: “I am equally comfortable working by myself or collaborating with others. I find that I learn new things when I work in a team because my colleagues have different skills than me. However, I also like the freedom of working alone so I can set my own schedule and pace. I feel confident that I can do either type of work environment well.”

4. What is the most important thing when it comes to communication between you and your client?

Freelancers need to be able to communicate effectively with their clients. This is because they are often working remotely and may not have the opportunity to meet in person. The interviewer will want to know that you understand how important communication is when it comes to freelancing.

Example: “I think the most important thing when it comes to communication between me and my client is being clear and concise. I always make sure to write clearly and use language that is easy for my client to understand. I also try to respond quickly to any questions or concerns that my client has.”

5. How would you deal with a difficult client?

Freelancing is a job that requires you to work with clients. Some of them may be difficult, and the interviewer wants to know how you would handle such situations. Your answer should show your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure.

Example: “I have had some challenging clients in the past, but I always try to solve their problems as quickly as possible. If they are not satisfied with my work, I will do whatever it takes to make sure they are happy. In one instance, I was working on a project for a client who kept changing his mind about what he wanted. I told him that if he could give me more details about what he wanted, I would be able to complete the project faster. He did so, and I completed the project within two days.”

6. Are there any types of projects that you wouldn’t want to work on?

Freelancers often have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re willing to take on any type of project that they offer. In your answer, explain which types of projects you wouldn’t want to do and why.

Example: “I would prefer not to work on adult content or gambling websites. I’ve never worked in those industries before, so I’m not familiar with them. If an employer wanted me to work on one of these projects, I would need more time to learn about it.”

7. Which type of web development do you specialize in?

Freelancers who specialize in a specific type of web development can be more efficient and effective than those who are generalists. The interviewer wants to know which types you’re familiar with so they can determine if your skills match the job requirements.

Example: “I have experience working on all aspects of web development, including front-end and back-end coding, database management, server configuration and optimization, user interface design and development, usability testing and improvement, SEO implementation and content creation. I also have some experience with mobile app development.”

8. Do you have any mobile application development experience?

Freelancer is a mobile-friendly platform, so it’s important that you have experience with developing apps. If you do not have any app development experience, consider mentioning other types of software or website development projects you’ve worked on in the past.

Example: “I don’t have any specific mobile application development experience, but I have built several websites and developed many different types of software applications for clients in the past.”

9. Have you worked with responsive design before?

Freelancer is a platform that allows users to find freelance jobs and hire freelancers online. The website must be mobile-friendly, so the interviewer may ask you this question to see if you have experience with responsive design. If you do, share an example of how you used it in your previous job. If you don’t, let them know that you’re willing to learn.

Example: “I’ve worked on several projects where I had to use responsive design. In my last position, we were tasked with creating a new website for a client who wanted their site to be mobile-friendly. We created a website using WordPress, which allowed us to create a website that was easy to navigate from any device.”

10. When are you available to start working?

Freelancers often work on a variety of projects and clients. Employers ask this question to make sure you can start working as soon as possible. They also want to know that you are willing to work long hours when necessary. In your answer, explain how quickly you can get started and what your availability is like.

Example: “I am available immediately to start working for you. I have no other commitments at the moment so I can dedicate all my time to this position. I understand that sometimes there may be last-minute changes or emergencies. If that happens, I will do whatever it takes to accommodate those changes.”

11. If hired, how often would you like to communicate with us?

Freelancer.com is a platform that connects freelancers with employers, so it’s important to be available when your employer needs you. An interviewer may ask this question to make sure you’re going to stay in touch and respond to messages or emails quickly. In your answer, try to show that you are reliable and will communicate often enough to keep the job moving forward.

Example: “I would like to check in at least once per week. I know there can be some back-and-forth communication during projects, so I want to make sure I’m checking in regularly to see if there are any questions or concerns about my work. If something comes up where I need more time between communications, I’ll let you know.”

12. What motivates you to complete a project successfully?

Freelancers are often motivated by money, but there are other factors that can motivate them to complete a project successfully. Consider what motivates you and how it helps you succeed in your work.

Example: “I am highly motivated by the opportunity to learn new skills and gain experience. I find that freelancing is an excellent way for me to develop my skills as a writer and editor. In fact, I have learned so much from working on freelance projects that I now teach others about freelance writing and editing.”

13. Give an example of a situation where you failed to meet a deadline.

Freelancers often have to meet deadlines for clients, and employers want to know that you can handle the pressure of a tight schedule. In your answer, explain what steps you took to ensure you met future deadlines.

Example: “In my last freelance position, I was hired to create a website in two weeks. However, after one week, I realized that I had not completed enough work to complete the project by the deadline. I immediately contacted my client and explained the situation. They were understanding, so I worked overtime each day until the website was finished.”

14. How many hours per week would you be willing to dedicate to your freelance work?

Freelancers often work long hours to meet deadlines and complete projects. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the commitment freelancing requires. In your answer, explain how you plan to balance your freelance work with other responsibilities.

Example: “I would be willing to dedicate 40 hours per week to my freelance work. I have a full-time job that I enjoy, but I am looking for additional freelance opportunities to earn more money. I know that working as a freelancer means dedicating most of my time to my work. However, I am committed to meeting all deadlines and producing high-quality work.”

15. What was the last project you worked on?

This question is a great way to see how you apply your skills and experience in the real world. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention what you enjoyed about the project and any challenges you faced.

Example: “The last freelance job I worked on was for an e-commerce company that needed help with their website design. The client wanted to update their site’s look and feel while also making sure they could still sell products online. We decided to redesign the entire website from scratch, which took some time but was worth it in the end.”

16. Tell me about a time where you had to motivate someone.

Freelancers often work with clients who may be having a hard time completing a project. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with others and motivating them to complete their tasks. Use your answer to show that you can help others stay motivated and focused on the task at hand.

Example: “I once had a client who was having trouble finishing a website design project. I talked to him about his goals for the website, and we came up with some strategies he could use to keep himself motivated while working on the project. He ended up finishing the project before the deadline.”

17. How would you handle a project you don’t have enough knowledge for?

Freelancers often work on projects they’re unfamiliar with, so employers want to know how you’ll handle this situation. They also want to know that you can learn new things and apply them quickly.

Example: “I would first ask the client if there’s any information I need to have before starting the project. If not, I’d do my best to research the topic as much as possible. I’d try to find similar projects online to see what others did in a similar situation. I’d also reach out to other freelancers who may be able to help me.”

18. What are your rates?

Freelancers often have different rates for their services, so employers want to know what your rate is. They also want to make sure you’re not too expensive or too cheap. You should be honest about your rates and explain why they are the way they are.

Example: “I charge $50 per hour for my work. I chose this rate because it’s a fair price that allows me to earn enough money while still being affordable for clients. It also gives me room to negotiate if needed.”

19. How many languages do you speak?

Freelancers often need to communicate with clients and other freelancers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can speak the language their company uses. If they use a specific language, let them know that you are fluent in it. If not, tell them what languages you do speak.

Example: “I am fluent in English and Spanish. I also have some knowledge of French and German.”

20. Do you have any experience with graphic designing?

Freelancer.com is a freelance marketplace that connects freelancers with employers to complete projects online. Employers post jobs on the site and hire freelancers to complete them, so it’s important for you to have experience in graphic design if you’re applying for this role. If you don’t have any professional experience, consider mentioning your personal interest in graphic design or other relevant skills.

Example: “I’ve always had an interest in graphic design, but I haven’t had the opportunity to work professionally as a designer yet. However, I do have some experience creating graphics using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop at home. I also completed a few courses on Udemy where I learned how to use these programs.”