Getting Started as a Contract Instructional Designer: An 8 Step Guide to Launching Your Freelance Career

Getting Started As A Contract Instructional Designer - By Trainingpros

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Thinking about becoming a contract instructional designer—but not sure where to start?

This step-by-step guide was created just for you. Whether you’re leaving a full-time role or exploring contract work for the first time, this resource walks you through everything you need to confidently launch your consulting career. From defining your niche to building a portfolio, setting your rates, networking effectively, and delivering on your first project, we cover the essentials in a practical, approachable way.

You don’t need to have it all figured out.

Many successful consultants started right where you are: with strong skills, a willingness to learn, and a desire to work on meaningful projects. This guide gives you the structure, tips, and tools to make that leap with space to think through your goals, shape your offerings, and prepare to connect with the right clients.

If you’re ready to move forward, we’re here to help.

At TrainingPros, we specialize in matching experienced L&D professionals with the kinds of projects that let you do your best work. Download the guide today and when you’re ready to take the next step, register with us! 

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Does your L&D team have more projects than people?

Many organizations in this position turn to contract instructional designers to scale training without overloading internal teams. If you’re exploring options or comparing eLearning development companies, you should learn more about how organizations design and scale these solutions. 

TrainingPros is a learning and development company that connects organizations with experienced instructional designers, eLearning developers, and performance consultants. We’ve been named a Top 20 Staffing Company by Training Industry and a Champion of Learning by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), recognition that reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality, tailored learning solutions. To hear ongoing conversations with senior learning leaders, listen to our Learning Leader Spotlight podcast: Apple | Spotify | YouTube 

If your learning initiatives require additional support, whether for a single project or a large-scale rollout, our relationship managers can help you find the right expertise quickly and confidently.

When you have more projects than people™ , TrainingPros can provide the right L&D consultants to ensure your projects are a success.

TrainingPros is able to fill the gaps with someone who is professional and someone who has worked with us before.
Diana RivenburghSeniorlink Incorporated
I appreciate the accounting of hours, appropriate billing and accurate invoicing that Training Pros provides. It is always delivered on time which is great!
Ellen GrayFairfax County Government
“Other vendors are not as responsive as Training Pros. I have worked with 15 talent suppliers. I would rank Training Pros at the top of this list.​”
Ed FussellAT&T
I have always felt like I am a partner with TrainingPros and Cheryl has never been viewed as a vendor.​
Leslie Jones Nike
TrainingPros is very thorough to understand the skill requirements I'm looking for and they have presented me with candidates that have been on par with those requirements.
Tamara Deloatch-WarrenCox Automotive
I would highly recommend you check TrainingPros before checking anyone else. No matter where I go or where I am, you guys are on the top of my lists for recommendations.
Sesi ColemanNike
I look at TrainingPros as an extension of our team. You make it easy!
Nadine FrankKeysight Technologies
My favorite thing about working with TrainingPros is the level of expertise and the response. TrainingPros RMs are world class, years of experience, they get it!
Lisa AurandCollections Training Manager
This morning, I feel lighter than I’ve felt since starting at Scooter’s Coffee 8 weeks ago because we’re delivering a better product to the front-line staff. Thank you!!
Mandi DillingScooter's Coffee
One of the things that I like about TrainingPros is the "one stop shop" aspect. I would describe you as a company that can help you meet your Learning & Development with a variety of different options.
Katie KellyProctor & Gamble
They're a great resource when you have more projects than bandwidth. When I think about working with TrainingPros I think...Confidence and Easy.
Candy WilliamsAtlas Roofing
I’m so very grateful for your partnership on this. You helped us go WAY faster than I expected.
Mandi DillingScooter's Coffee
"I feel deeply fortunate to have your professional friendship for so many years."
Julie ThomasSAP - Senior Director of Instructional Design
"Working with TracyDee Lufkin at TrainingPros was an absolute pleasure. We had an urgent need to fill two instructional designer roles, and TracyDee immediately demonstrated her remarkable ability to understand our requirements. "
Jennifer FirstenburgDirector, Talent Development, PPG
"I've enjoyed working with you, and I especially appreciate your ensuring our needs were met and that Lisa, Jason, and Kevin received the support they need. Your insights and support have been invaluable."
Mary ViersMHSH
I appreciate so much the support received from the IDs by TrainingPros and for all the great support and flexibility that Chenier continues to provide.
Tamas BarassevichBlackrock
A personal and professional goal of mine was to be recognized in some way for the great programs we’ve put together. In partnering with Chenier and TrainingPros, we were globally recognized and earned our first L&D award and achieved gold.
Nicole SandovalEuropean Wax Center
Thank you, Chenier. It’s been amazing working with you. As I reflect on my first 6 months at Scooter’s Coffee, I can’t imagine how I’d have survived without your designers.
Mandi DillingScooter's Coffee
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