Estimated reading time: 4 mins
There is nothing as great as working on your own. In other words, freelancing. More and more individuals are looking to get free from the shackles of 9 to 5 work. Not to mention all those annoying coworkers and the boss who does not want to get off your back.
Despite these wishes, it is worth noting that not everyone is capable of becoming a freelancer. And one of the biggest problems for that is because they underestimate just how much effort it takes to become on.
The following tips will help you get ahead of others and maintain your status as someone who can find gigs without any problems.
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If you want to get clients, you need to advertise yourself. The profession does not matter. Those who wait for clients to come to them are bound to fail.
Getting the word out on as many channels as possible should be the next step. Social media is as given, but something like Google AdWords could also do wonders. It is somewhat neglected these days, despite its effectiveness. Add extra help from other Google Ads Tools like CleverAds.com, and you have a much better chance of seeing an increase in clientele.
Finding the First Gig
Getting your first job as a freelancer is always the most difficult thing. You are starting out and have zero reputation. Keep in mind that you will need to build a portfolio throughout your career, so keep track of every job that you accomplish. Potential employers will ask you for some proof before they hire you.
The best course of action to solve this problem is using one of many freelancer websites out there. UpWork and Fiverr are two of the most popular ones. You can find virtually any job offer there. And once you are finished, ask for a review. It will be easier to get future jobs if you have some positive feedback on your profile.
Dedicated Work Space
There is a lot to be said about the work environment. However, as far as freelancers go, you have two options. The first one is renting out an office or sharing the space with other freelancers, and the second one is working from home.
Why would this be important? Well, it should be obvious. You will be spending a lot of time, and you want to be in the best possible environment.
Some people prefer to stay isolated from others while working. After all, this is one of the reasons why they became freelancers.
On the other hand, it might be fun to get other freelancers working with you. The dynamic would be entirely different compared to a regular job.
The bottom line is that you should be the one deciding on this one. Maybe try both, and see which one feels the best.
Finance Management
Being a freelancer means that you will have to take care of finances yourself. A company accountant will not be able to help you in case you are in need of it.
Some people hire financial help while others prefer to do everything themselves. Whichever side you are on does not matter as long as you are in control of the finances and know what you are doing.
Set Work Hours
It is easy to get distracted if you do not have dedicated working hours. Sure, your workload might not be the same as it is from 9 to 5 job, but having no control over this leads to a lot of bad habits.
Consider turning phone notifications and get rid of anything else that might be a distraction.
Learn to say “No”
There might be a time when you receive too many offers and have no time to fulfill all of them. Even if something is tempting, you should still consider your availability. Learning to say “no” to a potential client is difficult, even more so when you are freelancing. But taking up a job and not delivering would be even worse.
Relationship with Clients
Continuing from the previous point, make sure that you are in a good relationship with your clients. A small mistake could lead to a loss, and it’s never enough to emphasize how important clients are for freelancers.
Continue to Progress
There will be competition, no matter which niche you choose. If you want to continue working like that, make sure that you are learning and making progress all the time. Falling behind is so easy, and you will be overtaken by a brand-new and hungry freelancer in no time.
In a word, the path of a freelancer is not something easy. Nevertheless, those who continue to persevere usually end up in a great position, with no intention of coming back to their old job. If you feel like freelancing is your ideal form of work, then follow these tips and you should be able to achieve your dream sooner rather than later.
