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The Freelance Introvert: Work the way you want without changing who you are
Are you an introvert?
If you're happy in your own company most of the time, have just a few really close friends and prefer to work alone, the answer is probably yes.
Introverts find external stimulation overwhelming, so they look for ways to retreat from it. A situation that’s easy or fun for one person can be way too much for an introvert.
That's fine as long as they have a choice. But that can change when they go to work.
Modern working styles like open-plan offices, brainstorming and teamwork can be really hard on introverts. The hands-on work is OK, but the emotional labour of working with others can be draining.
Freelancing offers introverts a way out – a chance to work alone, control their workload and create their own workspace. It can be ideal.
However, it also takes work.
Going freelance means running a one-person business. It means setting direction, organizing your schedule and setting priorities. It means hustling for work and setting prices. And it means building a network that will offer vital support.
Doing all that is hard enough for anyone - but particularly for introverts. To make a success of freelancing, you'll need to learn some new skills, push yourself to meet some challenges and build up your confidence.
The Freelance Introvert will show you how to make that happen. It will teach you all about creating and managing your freelance business, from setting aims and getting set up to time management, working with clients and marketing.
Written by Tom Albrighton - author, veteran freelancer, ProCopywriters co-founder and a confirmed introvert - The Freelance Introvert is the book you need for the life you want.
If you're happy in your own company most of the time, have just a few really close friends and prefer to work alone, the answer is probably yes.
Introverts find external stimulation overwhelming, so they look for ways to retreat from it. A situation that’s easy or fun for one person can be way too much for an introvert.
That's fine as long as they have a choice. But that can change when they go to work.
Modern working styles like open-plan offices, brainstorming and teamwork can be really hard on introverts. The hands-on work is OK, but the emotional labour of working with others can be draining.
Freelancing offers introverts a way out – a chance to work alone, control their workload and create their own workspace. It can be ideal.
However, it also takes work.
Going freelance means running a one-person business. It means setting direction, organizing your schedule and setting priorities. It means hustling for work and setting prices. And it means building a network that will offer vital support.
Doing all that is hard enough for anyone - but particularly for introverts. To make a success of freelancing, you'll need to learn some new skills, push yourself to meet some challenges and build up your confidence.
The Freelance Introvert will show you how to make that happen. It will teach you all about creating and managing your freelance business, from setting aims and getting set up to time management, working with clients and marketing.
Written by Tom Albrighton - author, veteran freelancer, ProCopywriters co-founder and a confirmed introvert - The Freelance Introvert is the book you need for the life you want.
176 pages, Paperback
First published July 4, 2020
118 people are currently reading
269 people want to read
About the author
Tom Albrighton
10 books11 followersTom Albrighton is a copywriter and author of 'One for Joy', 'How to Write Clearly', ‘Copywriting Made Simple’, ‘The Freelance Introvert’ and 'The Freelancer's Business Brain’.
Tom has been a freelance copywriter for over 12 years. In that time, he’s written about everything from cupcakes and cameras to spectacles and solar panels.
Tom was an original co-founder of ProCopywriters, the UK alliance of commercial writers.
In a 2015 DMA survey, he was ranked the #7 ‘Copywriter rated by copywriters’.
Tom has been a freelance copywriter for over 12 years. In that time, he’s written about everything from cupcakes and cameras to spectacles and solar panels.
Tom was an original co-founder of ProCopywriters, the UK alliance of commercial writers.
In a 2015 DMA survey, he was ranked the #7 ‘Copywriter rated by copywriters’.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 6, 2022
3.5/5
Nice 👍🏼
Nice 👍🏼
August 6, 2020
Really good stuff. First, as a self-promoting effort: it worked. I now follow Tom online and he's full of good tips and reactions that are worth reading, for the form or the subject.
It was odd reading a book written in the time of coronavirus, and actually start seeing the word printed on paper with the freelancer anguish of not having work. Speaking of which, Tom has very appropriate and enlightening reactions to people asking freelancers for lower price.
Anyhow, I really enjoyed the book and dotted it throughout with post-it notes to come back to later; because of the few exercises proposed, but mostly the tips. I am not giving it a 5-star review because I feel like it fell just shy of being perfect. I was left wanting for more; namely a more complete chapter on how to actually engage with new prospects and find clients. Don't get me wrong, it's in the book... but I just wanted more practical tips.
The book does feel short (which is both a good and a bad thing) and you can definitely tell it's printed by Amazon (in Poland if that matters to anyone). The physical object itself felt a bit cheap. The content however is really good, and a very good introduction for any introvert out there, freelancing or not. I guess I'll get my fifth star out of following Tom on social medias.
It was odd reading a book written in the time of coronavirus, and actually start seeing the word printed on paper with the freelancer anguish of not having work. Speaking of which, Tom has very appropriate and enlightening reactions to people asking freelancers for lower price.
Anyhow, I really enjoyed the book and dotted it throughout with post-it notes to come back to later; because of the few exercises proposed, but mostly the tips. I am not giving it a 5-star review because I feel like it fell just shy of being perfect. I was left wanting for more; namely a more complete chapter on how to actually engage with new prospects and find clients. Don't get me wrong, it's in the book... but I just wanted more practical tips.
The book does feel short (which is both a good and a bad thing) and you can definitely tell it's printed by Amazon (in Poland if that matters to anyone). The physical object itself felt a bit cheap. The content however is really good, and a very good introduction for any introvert out there, freelancing or not. I guess I'll get my fifth star out of following Tom on social medias.
March 9, 2021
"The Freelance Introvert" goes through the obstacles the introvert faces in work environment in general. Then, what it looks like for an introvert to work as a freelancer; the advantages and difficulties it comes with.
Personally i related to every sentence in this book. I think any introvert, and even if he/she did not do any freelancing work before, will be easily able to see himself through the pages.
I find the book well structured and touches on the important aspects of freelancing from the point of view of introverts. It encourages you and shows you that you can have a tranquil stable work environment without giving up who you are or having to fit yourself in the precast molds of society and its ideal success models.
It is a smooth read and very good reference for introverts who wonder what the challenges of freelancing are or for those who are afraid to try it.
Personally i related to every sentence in this book. I think any introvert, and even if he/she did not do any freelancing work before, will be easily able to see himself through the pages.
I find the book well structured and touches on the important aspects of freelancing from the point of view of introverts. It encourages you and shows you that you can have a tranquil stable work environment without giving up who you are or having to fit yourself in the precast molds of society and its ideal success models.
It is a smooth read and very good reference for introverts who wonder what the challenges of freelancing are or for those who are afraid to try it.
July 25, 2021
Broad, not deep
I saw this book as having great promise given how tailored to introverts it appeared to be. The reality is however unless you are looking for an helicopter view, this book will leave you wanting and hungry for more.
There isn't much that is tangible enough to really go out there, apply and land those mythical clients which is what is so challenging for an introvert at freelancing. A shame, I genuinely believe the author wants to help out but by not sharing his outreach secret sauce, his book couldn't stand much and deliver on its promise.
I saw this book as having great promise given how tailored to introverts it appeared to be. The reality is however unless you are looking for an helicopter view, this book will leave you wanting and hungry for more.
There isn't much that is tangible enough to really go out there, apply and land those mythical clients which is what is so challenging for an introvert at freelancing. A shame, I genuinely believe the author wants to help out but by not sharing his outreach secret sauce, his book couldn't stand much and deliver on its promise.
August 3, 2021
Yes, you can build a successful business without sacrificing who you are
This book felt like it was written just for me.
As a child, my introversion was mistaken for shyness and I was pushed in many situations where I had to be in the spotlight so I'd have to 'overcome it'. Needless to say, while I can put on a performance, I still prefer being alone, and reading this book made me feel seen, particularly when it comes to the issues I struggle with when running my business.
In some respects, freelancing is perfect for those who prefer their own company. But it also comes with its own set of problems and pitfalls, like overthinking or focusing too much on client work at the expense of thinking about the bigger picture.
This book is chock full of practical tips on how to overcome these issues.
I found Tom's advice on dealing with high-stakes interactions like sending out quotes and chasing payments especially helpful. Similarly, it never even occurred to me that alongside physical work boundaries I also needed mental ones. I also plan to take some time out to reflect on where I'm at and use the advice in this book to tweak the direction of travel so it's more in tune with who I am.
Yes, 6 years into this freelancing lark I still got a whole lot of value out of this book. And I bet you will too — whether you're a seasoned freelancer or someone who is still thinking about taking the plunge.
If you're an introvert, this is essential reading. But even if you're an extrovert, there's lots of thought-provoking advice in here to help you evaluate where you are, where you're going, and what steps you need to take to get to a place where you're getting what you want out of your freelance career.
This book felt like it was written just for me.
As a child, my introversion was mistaken for shyness and I was pushed in many situations where I had to be in the spotlight so I'd have to 'overcome it'. Needless to say, while I can put on a performance, I still prefer being alone, and reading this book made me feel seen, particularly when it comes to the issues I struggle with when running my business.
In some respects, freelancing is perfect for those who prefer their own company. But it also comes with its own set of problems and pitfalls, like overthinking or focusing too much on client work at the expense of thinking about the bigger picture.
This book is chock full of practical tips on how to overcome these issues.
I found Tom's advice on dealing with high-stakes interactions like sending out quotes and chasing payments especially helpful. Similarly, it never even occurred to me that alongside physical work boundaries I also needed mental ones. I also plan to take some time out to reflect on where I'm at and use the advice in this book to tweak the direction of travel so it's more in tune with who I am.
Yes, 6 years into this freelancing lark I still got a whole lot of value out of this book. And I bet you will too — whether you're a seasoned freelancer or someone who is still thinking about taking the plunge.
If you're an introvert, this is essential reading. But even if you're an extrovert, there's lots of thought-provoking advice in here to help you evaluate where you are, where you're going, and what steps you need to take to get to a place where you're getting what you want out of your freelance career.
August 15, 2025
I enjoyed the writer’s previous book on copywriting, and follow his social posts which are regularly thoughtful and constructive, so I thought I'd give this a go.
I liked the positive intent behind this book to help freelance introverts. The writing is clear and well structured, and it certainly has some useful tips and advice on the practicalities of being a freelancer.
Yet, it didn't quite deliver on its promise as much as I expected it to. For example, it's very light on one of the big challenges introvert freelancers face - namely, finding and winning new customers. Plus, some of the marketing / branding advice feels fairly obvious and stuff that introverts have probably already thought of.
None of this put me off, but I didn't come away with any major revelations or surprise from it. It's probably of most help for those just starting out in this area.
There was also the odd section that bordered on self-help and woo woo territory (e.g. mentions NLP, discusses the power of positive beliefs) which wasn't overly distracting, but it you're looking for more practical tips, you might find these off-putting.
On the whole, there's enough in here to make it a decent read, and the author comes across as genuinely trying to be helpful. However, it didn't quite deliver the level of insights and interest I'd expected going into it.
I liked the positive intent behind this book to help freelance introverts. The writing is clear and well structured, and it certainly has some useful tips and advice on the practicalities of being a freelancer.
Yet, it didn't quite deliver on its promise as much as I expected it to. For example, it's very light on one of the big challenges introvert freelancers face - namely, finding and winning new customers. Plus, some of the marketing / branding advice feels fairly obvious and stuff that introverts have probably already thought of.
None of this put me off, but I didn't come away with any major revelations or surprise from it. It's probably of most help for those just starting out in this area.
There was also the odd section that bordered on self-help and woo woo territory (e.g. mentions NLP, discusses the power of positive beliefs) which wasn't overly distracting, but it you're looking for more practical tips, you might find these off-putting.
On the whole, there's enough in here to make it a decent read, and the author comes across as genuinely trying to be helpful. However, it didn't quite deliver the level of insights and interest I'd expected going into it.
December 1, 2020
I'm embarking on the very scary journey of becoming a freelance writer and Tom Albrighton's book really hit the nail on the head with all the things that feel very overwhelming to my introverted nature.
It was super easy to read and jam-packed full insights into my soul! First of all understanding the strengths and weaknesses I might have for this kind of work and how to make my skills fill in any gaps I might fear I have because of my perceptions about being an introvert. Then he unpacks those nagging negative self-beliefs and gives tools to work better, smarter and truer to who you are.
Really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants to take the plunge into the freelance world but is unsure if they will be able to make it work.
It was super easy to read and jam-packed full insights into my soul! First of all understanding the strengths and weaknesses I might have for this kind of work and how to make my skills fill in any gaps I might fear I have because of my perceptions about being an introvert. Then he unpacks those nagging negative self-beliefs and gives tools to work better, smarter and truer to who you are.
Really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who wants to take the plunge into the freelance world but is unsure if they will be able to make it work.
June 23, 2022
The Freelance Introvert is a gem of book for newbie freelancers (if you haven't read other books about freelance tips). Some of it might resonate only with introverts, but much of the content is relevant to every freelancer.
It started off concentrating on the problems of freelancers. But became a book of generic freelance tips as it proceeded. You can find everything... OK, almost everything, online. Every freelancer repeats those same things today, about finding clients, pricing, and setting up a freelance business. Yes, of course, it collects everything as a book, which can be valuable for newbies.
For someone, who has been active online... the book is skippable. Even if you're an introvert.
It started off concentrating on the problems of freelancers. But became a book of generic freelance tips as it proceeded. You can find everything... OK, almost everything, online. Every freelancer repeats those same things today, about finding clients, pricing, and setting up a freelance business. Yes, of course, it collects everything as a book, which can be valuable for newbies.
For someone, who has been active online... the book is skippable. Even if you're an introvert.
January 27, 2021
Not just for introverts!
Tom’s guide to freelance life contains valuable advice and shared experience that ALL freelancers can benefit from.
I’m very much an extrovert but still found his perspective interesting and helpful. I particularly enjoyed his take on the five stages of charging, and found myself nodding vigorously to his wisdom about social media and how to deal with the pressures of social media (“...social media makes a bad mood better and a good mood worse”).
This is a sound book full of practical and reassuring advice.
Tom’s guide to freelance life contains valuable advice and shared experience that ALL freelancers can benefit from.
I’m very much an extrovert but still found his perspective interesting and helpful. I particularly enjoyed his take on the five stages of charging, and found myself nodding vigorously to his wisdom about social media and how to deal with the pressures of social media (“...social media makes a bad mood better and a good mood worse”).
This is a sound book full of practical and reassuring advice.
March 14, 2021
I am an introvert and new to the freelancing world.
I have read quite a few books about freelancing in the last year, but this is by far the best. So much so, I have read it twice; the second time to highlight lots of important bits!
The book is extremely easy to read and covers all areas of running your business as an introvert, including setting and discussing prices and managing your time. It is full of hints, tips and actionable advice, and will be one I will be going back to regularly.
I have read quite a few books about freelancing in the last year, but this is by far the best. So much so, I have read it twice; the second time to highlight lots of important bits!
The book is extremely easy to read and covers all areas of running your business as an introvert, including setting and discussing prices and managing your time. It is full of hints, tips and actionable advice, and will be one I will be going back to regularly.
July 25, 2023
For newbies, this could be a great entry, surface taste. I can tell. Lots of examples.
But unfortunately for people have some freelance experience, might not find it too helpful.
I give it 2.5 / 5 for this reason.
I had about 2~3 years freelance experience. I clearly was looking for more in depth tips. Which it doesn’t exist in the book at all.
The book title seems very powerful, especially to introverts, but it isn’t covering that much.
But unfortunately for people have some freelance experience, might not find it too helpful.
I give it 2.5 / 5 for this reason.
I had about 2~3 years freelance experience. I clearly was looking for more in depth tips. Which it doesn’t exist in the book at all.
The book title seems very powerful, especially to introverts, but it isn’t covering that much.
September 5, 2020
Can't say that I have learned much from this book but that's because I'm not a new copywriter anymore, and haven't been since a good while. That shouldn't detract from the value that this book can bring to new freelancers. Some of the advice is common sense, some is well known but all of it is sound
January 4, 2021
This was very helpful, informative, and if you’re an introvert getting your feet wet with thoughts of freelance, this is a must read. The tone did get a little monotonous at times, which is the reason I gave it four stars. It’s expected with books that are loaded with information, but the chapter summaries at the end for quick recap are helpful.
July 20, 2020
I enjoyed this book from a freelance copywriter
I’m dabbing into freelance web design and as an introvert I can relate to a lot of the points Tom covers in this book. Great eye opener about how we introverts prefer to work but also how to become confident about what we do.
I’m dabbing into freelance web design and as an introvert I can relate to a lot of the points Tom covers in this book. Great eye opener about how we introverts prefer to work but also how to become confident about what we do.
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August 25, 2021Great book and worth a read
Really enjoyed this, it summarises my life ha. Definitely helps put things in perspective and makes me realise I'm doing well. Wish I'd had this book 5 years ago.
Really enjoyed this, it summarises my life ha. Definitely helps put things in perspective and makes me realise I'm doing well. Wish I'd had this book 5 years ago.
April 24, 2021
For someone starting out on a new venture (like me!) this is a useful book filled with guidance and reassurance. Even as an introvert (although myself I am an ambivert - a bit of both) you can build a solo freelance career doing what you love.
It was encouraging to read in this book a lot of the things I am already doing without realising it. Ways to interact with people in a less confrontational manner, saving lots of stress. Methods to promote your business and gain clients without having to put on an act and "talk the talk". You do can be yourself and succeed your way.
Here's to many years of working at my computer in my pyjamas! Or jeans and t-shirts! Comfortable clothing certainly means I can concentrate on the work at hand.
If you need some copywriting for your company, articles, website design and strategy, check out my business website at https://juliabarnardconsulting.com.
It was encouraging to read in this book a lot of the things I am already doing without realising it. Ways to interact with people in a less confrontational manner, saving lots of stress. Methods to promote your business and gain clients without having to put on an act and "talk the talk". You do can be yourself and succeed your way.
Here's to many years of working at my computer in my pyjamas! Or jeans and t-shirts! Comfortable clothing certainly means I can concentrate on the work at hand.
If you need some copywriting for your company, articles, website design and strategy, check out my business website at https://juliabarnardconsulting.com.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews