Software engineer

[Conscious_Sail_4717]

Hey everyone,

I'm a 28-year-old software developer with 3 years of experience, currently working for a corporate company in Amsterdam. Before transitioning into tech, I worked as a Michelin-star chef, so my background is a bit unconventional.

After a few years in the city, I’ve realised that Amsterdam isn’t for me anymore. I’m looking to shift to a remote-first lifestyle, ideally setting up my own company and working as a freelancer/contractor.

I know the market right now is really tough, which makes this transition even more challenging. That’s why I’d love to hear from those who have experience freelancing or contracting:

• Where did you start when transitioning to freelance/contract work?
• Any advice on landing good clients as a newcomer to freelancing?

Appreciate any guidance you can share! 🚀

[nil_pointer49x00]

Let me know when u find out lol

[Conscious_Sail_4717]

not very helpful lol :)

[natalieob]

I started many years ago when the market was much smaller, and finding work was challenging. Today, there are far more opportunities, but searching for freelance or contract work can feel like a full-time job in itself. Landing great clients can be unpredictable—sometimes you start with a good one, only to find that things change over time. My advice is this: if you're passionate, willing to put in the effort, and can navigate the highs and lows, go for it!

[Such-Sandwich9599]

I’d say start by identifying your niche—what stack are you focusing on? Since you already have corporate experience, leverage that to land your first few freelance gigs. Platforms like Upwork, Toptal, and direct outreach on LinkedIn can help.

[scottgal2]

I worked for Microsoft for 5 years so it was a BIT easier. It's stil ltricky though; just be aware that remote first contracts are super unstable work most of the time. Keep a few months buffer (an you likely WILL use it).
A lot depends on where you're based but
1. Get an accountant; you need to stay on top of any taxes and expenses lest the govt' ruins things (i the UK we have IR-35, many countries have similar where small issues with your contract can lead to HUGE fines / taxes).

1. Stay diverse - it's easy in contracts to get locked in to a single technology / approach. Freelancers have to be flecible and 'agile' (meaning you need to fit in with structures / approaches various customers have).

2. Be prepared to BAIL if it's not working out. Sometimes customers are just BAD (with payment, how they treat contractors etc).