The case for diversification (and why one “perfect niche” might be keeping you underpaid)

Priscilla Rivera

20d • General discussion

Hot take: Over-niching too early is costing freelancers money.

Yes, niche down in SKILLS.

DON'T lock yourself into one role, title, or industry and call it strategy.

In the 2026 freelance economy, calling yourself a “VA” is like saying you’re “good with computers.”

Crowded. Underpaid. Easy to replace.

Meanwhile? Roles tied to revenue (marketing, sales, ops, e-commerce) are growing fast—because when businesses get nervous, they cut support, not money-makers.

Add AI to the mix, and the bar just got higher: If you’re not AI-savvy, systems-minded, and revenue-adjacent, you’re competing for the lowest-paying work.

And here’s the real risk no one talks about 👇Putting 100% of your income in one niche = fragile finances.

One market shift.

Two paused clients.

And suddenly your mortgage is relying on “good vibes.”

The smarter move? Diversify with intention.

Example:

• One premium anchor role

• One adjacent ops role

• One lighter support role

That’s real stability. Real income. No burnout.

Bottom line:

The goal isn’t “booked & busy.” It’s diversified, paid well, and unbothered.