If you're looking to go freelance or you're already out
there running your own business, we've put together these top tips on
how to make a success of yourself and your work.
With the ongoing economic downturn affecting all of us; a lack of
jobs on the market and more creative graduates qualified and looking for
work – the industry is saturated with freelancers. And that's why it's
so important to be at the top of your game, so you not only attract
clients, you retain them.
And retaining them is key because you'll also benefit from referrals
and great reviews. And that can only bring yet more clients. If you make
a success of freelancing, you can make a success at anything...
Chasing payments
When you post or email your invoice, remember the 30 day terms. But
don't start chasing right away. It's off-putting, unprofessional and can
leave a bad taste in your client's mouth. Even worse, it makes you
appear desperate and like you really need the money. Instead, build up a
reserve to gain some cash flow and only chase after the 30 day period
is over.
Don't just take, take, take
A working relationship, particularly one with a larger agency, is all
about giving and taking. You give, they take. But if you give a bit
more, you'll reap the rewards as your client bends over backwards to
help you and keep feeding you a regular dose of work.
Be available
Don't be elusive and difficult to get hold of. Be available! Answer
emails quickly to keep your clients happy, even if it's just to tell
them that you've received their email and will be responding to their
query later that day. If someone calls, answer if you can! And always
respond to jobs asap. You'll gain a reputation for being reliable.
Get your rates right
Your day rate is one of the most important things to get right. And
it will change dependent on your skills and experience, as well as the
client you're working for. Judge how much you think you can charge given
the size of the client and always aim high, never low. Remember, they
can always barter down your rate. But be warned – if they say yes right
away, you're probably too cheap!
Put in appearances
Don't hide behind emails, social media and phone calls. Pop in to see
your clients or suggest regular meetings to keep face-to-face
communication ongoing. That's whether they're commercial clients or
larger agencies who hire you for your services. Nothing beats actually
meeting people to keep a relationship strong.
Market yourself every day
Be active with your marketing every day. Get out there to raise your
profile. That's whether you use social media, optimise your website for
the search engines or send out marketing letters to potential clients.
Never give in! It takes time to build a business, but once you're
established, the work will come flooding in.
Be professional
If you work from home, try to create a space that helps you to stay
productive. Dress for work as well – don't wear pyjamas all day. If you
can afford to, get an office and move away from your home environment
entirely. It's good to keep home and work separate.
Keep the balance right
Freelancing is fantastic. You're your own boss, can work whatever
hours you like – it's complete freedom. But it can also be difficult to
control and you might find your work moving into evenings and weekends,
which is not good for your health. In which case, try to keep a regular
routine, take lots of breaks and leave your spare time sacred. If you're
getting stressed, join a gym or go out for a nice walk.
Don't go alone
Freelancing can be lonely, but it doesn't have to be. Get online and
use social media to meet other freelancers. Go to local networking
events or meet-ups. Do everything you can to get out there and beat the
feeling of isolation.
Be happy
Most importantly, enjoy your work and be happy. You're freelancing
and that's a fantastic achievement. You should be very proud of your
work and enjoy each and every minute. Don't sweat the small stuff and
everything will fall into place.
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