Meet Ansar Ahmed, a seasoned professional in recruitment consulting and web development. With a career that spans continents and industries, Ansar’s journey from India to Belgium, and his evolution into a successful freelancer, offers valuable insights into building a thriving freelance business.

From Corporate to Freelancing

Ansar’s freelance journey began after a five-year stint in telecom in Belgium. Initially a front-end developer, Ansar expanded his expertise into full-stack development and recruitment consulting. The decision to start freelancing was partly driven by a desire for greater independence and also by personal circumstances. His daughter’s happiness in Belgium, where she was settled in school, played a significant role in his decision to stay and build his freelance career.

The transition from a corporate job to freelancing involved navigating new challenges. Ansar utilized online resources and sought guidance from an accountant to establish his freelance business. While he had the technical skills, he quickly learned that networking was crucial for securing contracts and building a successful freelance career.

Key Lessons and What He Would Do Differently

One of Ansar’s major lessons was the importance of networking. Although he initially relied heavily on online research and his existing skills, he realized that building and leveraging a professional network was essential for gaining new opportunities and contracts. Networking, he discovered, is not just about meeting people but also about being actively involved in the community.

Reflecting on his early experiences, Ansar acknowledges that he could have planned better. For instance, a partnership he started in another country faced issues due to a lack of clear documentation and procedures. This experience highlighted the need for structured planning and defined roles in business ventures.

Another significant lesson came from turning down a large project due to a lack of confidence. Ansar’s initial hesitation was a missed opportunity, but he learned from this experience and later successfully undertook a similar project by gradually building his confidence and team. This reinforced his belief in embracing challenges and growing from them.

Client Relations and long-term sustainability

Ansar’s approach to client relations focuses on providing excellent service and building long-term trust. A notable example involved a situation where a candidate wanted to transition directly to a client, bypassing his recruitment agency. Despite the breach of contract, Ansar chose to accommodate the request, prioritizing client satisfaction over strict contract enforcement. This gesture strengthened the relationship with the client, leading to continued business and enhanced trust.

For long-term sustainability, Ansar suggests that freelancers should allocate time for personal growth, such as reading and community engagement. These activities help refresh the mind and provide new perspectives that can be beneficial in both personal and professional realms.

Advice for Aspiring Freelancers

Ansar’s advice to aspiring freelancers is to be prepared and proactive. He emphasizes the importance of networking and suggests that those considering freelancing should thoroughly prepare and seek advice from experienced professionals. Networking, in particular, is crucial for finding opportunities and building a support system.

He also advocates for leveraging community resources and learning from others in the field. Ansar is actively involved in guiding friends and colleagues, sharing his knowledge and encouraging them to explore freelancing if they seek independence and growth.