freelancer
freelancer

Have you been thinking about starting freelancing? Then you’re not alone – working as a freelancer is something that more and more people find attractive. Here are a few good tips and tips on how to find freelance assignments and how to succeed as a freelancer.

Freelancing is really just another word to start your own business and become self-employed, that is to work without permanent employment. The term is often used in conjunction with freelance journalists and freelance photographers but covers many more areas.

A relatively recent survey in a collaboration between the American Freelancers Union and Elance oDesk showed that four out of five full-time employees in the United States could think of paying freelance jobs, while 36% of those already had a willingness to engage in full-time full-time job placement.

The interest in becoming one’s own employee is the greatest in the younger generations. Not only because you may be more flexible in young years but also because younger ones generally have more energy and are more likely to take risks to realize their own dreams. But it should be added that even the interest in starting companies among retirees is increasing. Retirement age is just a number and many feel that they still have a lot to give, while accumulating a lot of experience over the years.

If you know, as an employee of a company, go around dreaming of starting your own, perhaps without any resources other than your own ability and willingness to succeed, what is required to dare take the leap from safety to the unknown?

The very first condition is quite obvious but must be said clearly. You must be convinced and prepared to do what is required to succeed. It must, therefore, be a well-thought-out decision where you have been through each step and you are aware of all the consequences. This is actually the most difficult and important phase. Take time. Resonate with your family and your closest friends as you trust. Then take the decision yourself.

11 things to consider before starting

1. Is the money enough?

If you are not sure that you can begin getting paying customers from day one, you must secure your income stream until the day the first dollar begins to roll in. Since a true entrepreneurial injury always overestimates your income and thus underestimates costs, you should ensure that you have enough money to cover your own household expenses, including the necessary financial commitments, for at least six months.

2. Ask for help.

Whether you intend to quit your job or work part-time, you should talk to your current employer. If this is a wise person who has appreciated your work but understands your needs, then you may be able to get your first assignments directly at your old job. It offers a perfect start. Do not be afraid to ask for help or advice.

3. Find out if your product/service is requested.

If instead, you want to develop an idea that your current employer does not want to invest in, you may think a bit differently. Start by talking with someone you think will be one of your most important customers and show off what you’ve been thinking about. Just guessing and chasing others to like what you have is a dangerous tactic.

4. Be prepared to work for free for a while.

This is especially true if it is a new and untested service or product. Show that it works and invite people to discover it for themselves. If it is interesting enough for the customer, you can start talking price. Even then it should be sensitive to what they may be prepared to pay. It is often less than you hope.

5. Spread your message. 

Spread your message about where you are on your way and make sure everyone who you know gets information about you and your business. Business card, e-mail address, Facebook account, and all other contact information should be disseminated. New customers can come from the most unexpected places.

6. Join local business organizations and networks.

Tell people and organizations about your new business and share your contact information. There are usually a variety of networks that meet where you get the chance to meet like-minded people.

7. Social Media: Check if there is any suitable Facebook group where you can join.

Social media is a tremendous place where you can find customers as well as stay up to date on what’s happening in your industry.

8. Talk to an accountant or other knowledgeable advisers about the appropriate business form.

You must initially arrange the accounts so that you can distinguish between your private account and the company. In any case, you must be able to document all expenses and income in a legal manner.

9. Review your contact list and start calling.

It may feel awkward for a while, but the vast majority will find it exciting and would like to give a helping hand or come up with an encouraging piece of advice. Direct voice contact is often the best way to get contact and build relationships. Following up with an email or visiting will strengthen it even more.

10. Keep an eye on the agreement.

If you work with written contracts; Make sure to copy from the best in the industry. Often, any colleague or your accountant can give tips. Just make adjustments based on your requirements.

11. You always represent your company and your products.

Remind yourself wherever you are. You are your company. Everything you do or show in privacy will be associated with others, either in positive or negative terms.

3 advice on how to succeed

1. Learn sales

Sales scare a lot but it does not have to be that difficult. Think of “customer care” and “service” because that’s exactly what it’s all about. Each customer contact, email, quotation, and phone call is an opportunity for you to stand out among the number of freelancers. It’s all about making it all the time for your customers. Your sense of customer service is crucial to how thick your wallet will be.

2. Think long-term

It takes time to learn entrepreneurship and there are few shortcuts other than reading and learning and doing it by chopping and starting work. Dare to test new ways and ways to work, eventually, you will find it right.

3. Get started

You’ll learn the rest as you go.

Also Read: Jobs for Stay At Home Mums