The freelance landscape is evolving, and staying ahead of the curve requires harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 9 AI tools that are set to transform the way you work, boost your productivity, and elevate the quality of your services as a freelancer.
The Freelancer’s AI ToolBox
As a freelancer, you’re no stranger to the ever-changing demands of the gig economy. The past few years have seen remarkable advancements in AI technology, and these innovations are reshaping the freelancing landscape. AI tools are no longer a luxury but a necessity for those seeking a competitive edge.
From enhancing your writing to automating administrative tasks, these AI tools are designed to empower you. They’re not here to replace your creativity and expertise but to amplify them. Let’s dive into the top 9 AI tools that every freelancer should have in their arsenal.
The Top 9 AI Tools for Freelancers in 2024
1. Dall-E
Dall-E, developed by OpenAI, is an AI image generator renowned for its ability to transform text prompts into visuals. It’s a valuable tool for various professionals:
- Video editors can use Dall-E for crafting title card images.
- Web designers find it handy for generating website graphics.
- Scriptwriters can employ Dall-E to visualize scenes and fictional settings.
Free users receive 15 image generation credits monthly, with each prompt consuming around one credit, producing four images. Additional credits can be purchased, starting at $15 for 115 credits. ChatGPT Plus users can access Dall-E within their chats, combining text and image generation.
2. Stable Diffusion
Stable Diffusion by Stability AI is another image generation tool that’s available for free. Independent professionals across various domains rely on Stable Diffusion for creative inspiration:
- Logo designers use it to create original concepts.
- GIF creators find it valuable for generating animated elements.
- Elementor designers expedite their WordPress templates by adding placeholder images.
Stable Diffusion is part of Stability AI’s Clipdrop service, which offers a free trial. Subscription plans for ongoing use and access to more tools start at $9 per month.
3. Midjourney
Midjourney is an AI image generator accessible via Discord. Users can create and modify images based on text prompts. What sets it apart is the ability to view others’ prompts, offering creative insights:
- Jewelry designers visualize pieces in different metals.
- Fashion designers brainstorm ideas and sketches visually.
- Branding specialists use it to generate mood board images.
Midjourney plans are available at $10 per month or $96 per year through Discord.
4. Lumen5
Lumen5 represents an AI-driven video generation platform primarily designed for marketers. It facilitates the creation of two distinct types of videos:
- Auto-captioned talking head videos that utilize user-uploaded footage.
- Marketing videos generated from written presentations, documents, or blog posts.
When crafting marketing videos from documents, only the text is required—no filming of additional footage is necessary. Lumen5 plans initiate at $19 per month (annual billing) and encompass the capability to generate both videos and AI-generated voice-overs.
5. Scribe
Scribe is designed to help users create step-by-step guides with screenshots. These guides serve various purposes, including:
- Internal process documentation.
- Standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Client tutorials.
- Customer support materials.
- Team training resources.
Scribe requires a browser extension, recording clicks and text inputs with screenshots while you work. It’s free to use, but documents include the Scribe logo. Custom branding necessitates a paid plan starting at $23 per month (annually billed).
6. Jasper
Jasper is an AI writing assistant leveraging natural language processing (NLP) for content marketing support. It caters to both content creators and non-writers alike, offering:
- Blog post creation.
- Facebook ad copywriting.
- Social media caption generation.
- Email subject line suggestions.
Jasper plans begin at $39 per month (annual billing). Upwork talent can access an extended 30-day free trial.
7. Timely
Timely stands as an automated time-tracking application catering to teams and individual professionals. It operates seamlessly by automatically monitoring computer activities, encompassing time spent on:
- Websites.
- Desktop applications.
- Document editors.
- Video conferencing software.
This tracked data can then be allocated to specific project budgets, ensuring precise and up-to-date timesheets and invoices. Editors may employ Timely to review their document-centric work hours during the workday. Developers can effectively gauge their time allocation between Figma and code editors using the app. Kindle Direct Publishing professionals find Timely data invaluable for cross-referencing project hours across various clients. Individual users can commence their time tracking journey with Timely at $9 per month (annual billing).
8. Tome
Tome is a document design application powered by AI, transforming text prompts into assets for various purposes, such as:
- Presentation slide decks.
- PDFs.
- Microsites.
- Brand mood boards.
An advantage of Tome is its ability to embed content from websites like Figma, YouTube, Twitter, and Miro. It’s versatile for creating multimedia presentations.
It’s free to sign up and use Tome, but limitations include 500 AI generation credits and Tome branding on documents. Unlimited use and white-labeling require a paid plan, starting at $8 per month (annual billing).
9. Boomy
Boomy is an AI music generator that aids creators in producing streaming-ready tracks, including Dolby® remastering. While musicians and podcasters benefit from Boomy, it’s versatile for independent professionals across fields:
- Comic artists can create soundtracks for animations.
- Digital marketers can find suitable audio for promotional videos.
- Game designers create audio tracks to enhance gaming experiences.
Boomy offers free plans for experimentation but limits commercial use. Commercial use requires a Pro plan, starting at $29.99 per month.
Conclusion: Your Freelance Future with AI
As you explore and integrate these top AI tools into your freelancing toolkit, you’ll discover a new level of efficiency and quality in your work. AI isn’t here to replace you; it’s here to be your trusty assistant, helping you handle tasks more effectively and allowing you to focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional value to your clients.
The freelance landscape is evolving, and those who embrace the power of AI will find themselves not only thriving but also shaping the future of freelancing. So, dive in, experiment, and embrace the AI-powered future of freelancing in 2024 and beyond. Your clients will notice the difference, and your freelance career will reach new heights.
About the Author
Simon Chou is the Vice President of Operations and Growth at BCjobs.ca. Throughout his career, he carved a niche in brand development, marketing strategy, and online presence for startups. Additional to BCJobs.ca, Simon is hosting unfiltered conversations with marketing experts in our podcast “Marketing On Mars”. Tune into our last episode to hear from Marketing Leaders how they approach work and how they grew in their careers.
