How Freelancing Shaped My Strategic Thinking
Freelancing has been a pivotal part of my career journey, offering more than just flexibility—it has been a fast track to learning and adapting in diverse industries. From consulting in the retail sector to managing digital tools for operations, each freelance project demanded quick, strategic thinking and a deep understanding of client needs.
The Core Experience
While freelancing, I’ve worked on 3 projects in one year, each presenting unique challenges. For instance, developing customer journey maps for Dora Livestock wasn’t just about understanding the retail dynamics; it was about aligning the customer experience with digital transformation in a traditionally offline industry. The variety of tasks—from designing apps to strategizing digital workflows—honed my ability to deliver results within tight deadlines and budget constraints.
Key Learnings
Adaptability is Essential: Freelancing exposed me to rapid changes, where I had to pivot strategies on short notice. This adaptability is now a core part of how I approach strategy in any setting.
Client-Centric Mindset: Each project demanded not just a solution, but one that truly aligned with the client’s business goals and user needs. I learned that understanding the client's vision is the first step in delivering a strategy that drives impact.
Strategic Prioritization: With limited resources, I often had to make strategic decisions about what would deliver the most value. This experience has shaped my ability to focus on high-impact actions in my work today.
Freelancing has not only enhanced my strategic skills but has also expanded my ability to work across sectors, understand different business models, and deliver meaningful results. As I transition into a full-time strategic role, these lessons serve as the foundation of my approach to complex problem-solving and innovation.
