When starting your independent career, one of the first questions you might ask is, “Should I call myself a freelance [your profession] or a freelancer?” The terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences that can impact how you present yourself to clients.
In this blog post, we’ll explore:
- The difference between “freelance” and “freelancer”
- Which term is better for branding and SEO
- How top professionals label themselves
- Tips for choosing the right title for your business
Let’s dive in!
What’s the Difference Between Freelance and Freelancer?
Freelance (Adjective)
“Freelance” is an adjective used to describe the nature of work. For example:
- Freelance writer
- Freelance designer
- Freelance developer
This term emphasizes what you do rather than your role as an independent worker.
Freelancer (Noun)
“Freelancer” is a noun that refers to the person doing the work. Examples include:
- I am a freelancer.
- She hired a freelancer for the project.
This term focuses on your identity as an independent professional.
Which Term is Better for Branding and SEO?
SEO Considerations
Both terms are widely searched, but “freelancer” tends to have higher search volume, according to Google Trends. However, pairing “freelance” with your profession (e.g., “freelance graphic designer”) can help with long-tail keyword rankings.
Professional Perception
- “Freelance [profession]” sounds more formal and is commonly used in job titles.
- “Freelancer” is more casual and may be better for social media bios or networking.
For example:
- LinkedIn headline: Freelance Content Writer | SEO Specialist
- Twitter bio: Digital marketer & freelancer helping brands grow.
How Successful Professionals Label Themselves
Looking at industry leaders can provide insights:
- Upwork uses both terms but leans toward freelancer in their blog.
- Fiverr often uses freelance in-service listings (e.g., freelance video editor).
Many professionals switch between the two based on context:
- Portfolio Website: Freelance Web Developer
- Social Media: Web Developer & Freelancer
Tips for Choosing the Right Title
1. Consider Your Niche
- Creative fields (writing, design) often use freelancers.
- Tech and business freelancers may prefer freelancing.
2. Test for Clarity
Ask potential clients which term they recognize more:
- “Do you search for ‘hire a freelancer’ or ‘hire a freelance [job]’?”
3. Keep It Simple
If in doubt, use:
- “I’m a [profession] working freelance.”
Freelance or Freelancer?
Both terms are correct, but your choice depends on:
✅ Formality – Freelance [Job Title] for professionalism.
✅ SEO – Freelancer for broader searches, Freelance [Job] for specificity.
✅ Audience Preference – Check what your clients use.
Need More Help?
Whether you call yourself a freelance professional or a freelancer, what matters most is the quality of your work. Test both terms, see what resonates with your audience, and refine your branding over time.