1 Learn the concept
Freelancers often work alone, but almost every project involves a team: a client's staff, other freelancers or a mix. Being easy to work with is a competitive advantage. This lesson covers the strategies top freelancers use to fit into teams quickly, share information, handle disagreement and make the whole group better.
2 See it in action
- Learn how the team works before suggesting changes.
- Be clear about who does what and by when.
- Share work in progress so others can build on it.
- Handle disagreement by focusing on the goal, not on being right.
Worked example
Joining a client's team mid-project
Day one: ask for the style guide, project files and the name of the person who approves your work.
Day two: share a rough draft early so the team can steer you.
Ongoing: post updates where the team already communicates and use their file names and templates.
Result to look for: fewer rounds of revision and an invitation to the next project.
Check: ask the client what one thing would make working together easier.
3 Study an example
Example scenario
A freelance designer joins a client's team midway through a project. She asks for the style guide, confirms who approves her work and shares early drafts. The team treats her as a colleague and gives her more work.
4 Apply it and download
- List the people involved in a project you know.
- Write who is responsible for what.
- Create a working agreement for a team project.
Worksheet Team working agreementOpen, print or save as PDF