The Freelancer’s Dilemma: To Niche or Not to Niche?

And is it possible to do both? (Hint: I think it is.)

As a freelancer, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to be a specialist or a generalist. It’s a question that has plagued the minds of freelancers since the dawn of the gig economy.

Okay, maybe not that long, but it’s definitely a hot topic in the freelance world. (just look up “niche” on your freelance social media of choice.)

I know as a freelance writer, I undulate somewhere between “Hey, I’ll take the gig — it’s all about the adventure for me!” and “If I have to write about ‘how to keep your sewer lines clear’ one more time…”

Yeah, it can be a bit maddening at times. But isn’t that why we got into the freelance gig?

Generality — The Spice of Life?

It’s a constant push and pull between the thrill of tackling new subjects and the desire to establish myself as an expert in a particular niche.

On one hand, being a generalist allows me to explore a wide range of topics and industries. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, except instead of candy, I’m sampling different writing styles and subject matters.

One day I might be writing about the latest trends in sustainable fashion, and…