When you’re a freelancer or independent contractor, being able to organize and manage your time is important. From there, knowing how to effectively communicate with clients and employers, setting your own schedule, and adhering to deadlines is invaluable—but often difficult—which is why it’s important to know the best apps for freelancers.
Whether you’re just starting out as a freelancer or been in the industry for years, here are seven of the best freelancing apps to help you keep your head clear, your schedule set, and your stress levels low.
1. Toggl.
When it comes to keeping and clocking your time, as a freelancer, you most likely aren’t working in an office space or been provided time sheets; rather, you are required to keep track of your own hours and report them at the end of your contract. If you’re working on several projects at once, or just want to be focused on work, rather than the clock, Toggl is an excellent app that both tracks for you, and helps create a sheet you can reference in speaking with your employer later.
2. Freedom.
Freedom is one of the best apps for freelancers because it allows you to shut down social media accounts while you’re working (as well as turn off text or app notifications!) while keeping your phone on for emergency calls or specific settings. Instead of having to turn your phone off, on silent, or on airplane mode, you can customize what you’d like to have on or off, keeping you focused, but not totally removed.
3. Evernote.
Evernote is one of the best apps for freelancers because it helps with both note-taking and record-keeping. For example, if you’re on a phone call or interview, you are able to take notes easily, preventing you from being distracted or missing something important. This site offers a free plan, too.
4. Focus Booster.
Focus Booster is a free app, which, of course, is great. It’s main feature is a countdown/time clock, which can help you manage and control how many minutes or hours you’re spending working on a specific task vs. others, or how long you want to be working overall. This is especially useful for individuals who take on longer term projects, or more than one at a time.
5. Coffitvity.
This app has quickly become one of my favorites. If you’re like me and enjoy the soft ambiance of a coffee shop, but are tired of spending money just to get the wifi perks, then this is a great solution for you. Coffitivity brings the sounds to you, for free. Play it off your computer, phone, speakers, and anywhere you choose to work!
6.Canva.
Canva, hands down, is one of the most useful resources for freelancers as it allows you create your own artwork, logos, pictures, quotes, texts, graphics, etc. This is especially handy when you want to throw something quickly together to send to a client, provide some drafts, or even produce a final project. The site itself is free, with options to purchase credits, photos, and packages.
7. One Note.
OneNote is a tool + app that is compatible on both your computer and phone. There is a seamless transition between the two, and as it functions as a notebook, you are easily able to sync new info across devices—a great perk for a freelancer on the go.
[PS: Here are the best apps to keep on you task if you’re looking to save yourself time.]
Featured Image Credit: Kevin Bhagat
