Ad land’s young guns: Saheli Chatterjee, Freelance 101 Academy

23-year old Saheli Chatterjee started her career as a Marketing Strategist five years ago, when she was just 18. She specialises in Social Media and Content Marketing and has executed two multiple-5 figure launches with a client-centric online marketing strategy and helped his clients hit $10k in a few months. She has also consulted 200+ people to get clients on Social Media freelancers in service-based industries.

In conversation with Adgully, Saheli Chatterjee, Marketing Strategist and Founder of Freelance 101 Academy, speaks about creating the ultimate freelance community with her venture, the power of developing a strong networking prowess, the challenges and rewards of operating in the freelancing industry, and more.

Please tell us about your venture Freelance 101 Academy.

We are the ultimate freelance community, where you’ll learn the secrets of success while having a blast. Our curriculum is packed with practical tips, tricks and no-nonsense strategies to help you slay the freelancing game and stack that paper.

But we don’t stop at skills alone. We also teach you how to brand yourself, market like a boss, and create a killer personal brand that will have clients flocking to you.

And obviously, we have a very strong community and network, so once you’re committed, making money becomes easy.

What particular skill sets do you think you bring to the table to excel in your venture?

I have the ability to quickly adapt to changing situations, market trends, and new technologies. Also, my networking prowess is like a secret weapon for expanding opportunities. This helps me connect good people together for powerful collaborations. And obviously, I understand people, psychology, and how to use it for success.

Icons in this field whom you look up to and how they have influenced you and your work?

I really admire Vanessa Lau. I think she was everything I wanted to be, and I learned a lot from her growth trajectory. Here in India, I love Sudha Murthy. I believe that becoming a well-rounded person – both professionally and personally – is important to me.

What are the five most productive things that you do in your everyday routine?

• Find Your Personal Prime Time: Discover your most productive hours, commonly known as your “personal prime time”. It’s the time of day when you feel most energised and focused. Schedule your most challenging and important tasks during this period to capitalise on your peak performance.
• Build a happy hour: For me, it’s reading, playing with my dog, or doing something that fills me with energy.
• A cold shower whenever I feel demotivated.
• I talk to high-income people, so I feel the push to do better.
• I have a Content Hour to create content; this is what keeps my business alive!

Do you think a career in this freelancing is a viable one in the long term?

Absolutely! Freelancing is a highly viable long-term career choice. With its flexibility, diverse income opportunities, global market access, and continuous demand for specialised skills, freelancers can thrive and enjoy independence. The ability to scale, adapt, and maintain a healthy work-life balance further contributes to long-term sustainability. Embracing the freelancing lifestyle opens doors to entrepreneurial opportunities and ensures a fulfilling professional journey for anyone who wants to make a strong mark.

What does it take to succeed in a career?

Patience and making smart moves.

What would be your advice to youngsters planning to enter this industry?

Entering the freelancing industry as a youngster can be exciting! Define your goals, develop in-demand skills, and build a strong portfolio. Network with peers, professionals, and potential clients. Price your services wisely, embrace marketing, and effectively promote yourself. With dedication, discipline, and a proactive mindset, you can build a successful freelance career. Enjoy the freedom, creativity, and opportunities that freelancing offers as you carve your own path in the professional world.

Where do you see yourself and your company in five years’ time?

In the next five years, Freelance 101 Academy will:

Lead the Industry: We will be the global authority for high-income freelancers, setting the standard for excellence and innovation in the freelancing world.

One-Stop Solution: Our portfolio of courses and programmes will cover everything freelancers need to succeed, from honing skills to mastering business strategies.

Grow the Community: We’ll build an engaged and supportive community where freelancers connect, collaborate, and celebrate their achievements – probably in the tens of thousands.

Drive Thought Leadership: Through insightful content and research, we’ll shape industry trends and influence the future of freelancing.

Host Impactful Events: We’ll organise and participate in global events, conferences, and workshops that inspire, educate, and connect freelancers worldwide.