The Basics To Being A Freelancer

This course will begin by outlining some of the basic features of freelance work.

The fundamentals details of a freelance business plan will be outlined in the next chapters, however, it would be remiss to discuss the basics of freelance work without stating unequivocally that, as a freelancer, you are also a business owner. You will be responsible for all elements of your business, which is why you need to have a solid understanding of what it means to be a freelancer.

Is a freelance career right for you?

Chances are, if you are listening to this course, it is. Starting a freelance business requires courage and investment; two things you already have by choosing to listen to this content.

The remainder of this chapter will be discussing some of the most important things that you need to think about before starting your new business.

What skills do you have?

First of all, you need to start by thinking about what skills you have. These skills are likely things you have gained throughout your life and your career. Your freelance business will be most successful if you play to your strengths and your skills.

It can include, of course, any education and training you have received, as well as things that you excel in.

What interests you?

As well as your skills, you need to recognize what interests you. What are your passions and your interests? What kind of work do you enjoy?

What about your free time and hobbies? What do you do then, and what is it about them that you enjoy?

Your business will be most successful if you are doing work that you are genuinely passionate about.

Most importantly, what kind of work makes you happy?

You should think about, and reflect upon, the past projects that you have most enjoyed. What elements of your past work have you enjoyed? Is it in the customer service element, or the collaborative effort of a team?

Or, if you have been stuck doing work that you hate, reflect on why, and determine what you can do to make sure it does not happen again.

Concentrating on doing work that makes you happy will improve your quality of life and give you a spark that other freelancers do not have.

What will your service be?

As well as determining what you do, you also need to determine what you do not. This will ensure that you are only doing quality work in areas of your expertise that you want to do.

When you begin freelancing, you should really think about what you actually want to do. You may have an idea of the vague industry or area, but you should think about what specifically the kind of work that you want to do. It should lie at the intersection of your skills and passions—this will be the key to the success of your business.

Freelance work ideas

There are a plethora of freelance business ideas, that can be tailored to your skills and interests. Chances are you already have an idea of what you would like to do, however, below, in no particular order is a list of potential freelance business ideas.

• Writing
  • Copywriting
  • Editing
  • Proofreading
  • Blogs
  • Journalism
  • Ghost-writing
  • Content writing
• Web development
  • Web design
  • Website creation
  • Software programming
• Graphic design
• Photography
• Transcribing
• Translating
• Teaching
  • Online English teaching
• Tutoring
• Social media marketing
  • Content creation
  • Brand management
• Search Engine Optimization
• Data entry
• Admin
• Bookkeeping
• Virtual assistant
• Marketing

Once you have an overall idea of what you would like to do, you can narrow it down to a specific niche. This is not something that you need to do immediately, but it is something that you should keep in mind as you grow your business. Specialization is essential to business growth—but your niche can evolve as your direction changes.

Who are your clients?

Once you know what your business will be, you will need to consider who your target market will be. Clients will be discussed in more detail later in this course, nevertheless, you should be considering who your target audience will be as you plan your business.

It is important to remember that, in terms of clients, you should be aiming for quality over quantity. While (and this occurs especially when you are starting out) it can be tempting to take any and all clients you encounter, you should know that you are allowed to say no. If someone is rude or trying to rip you off, move on. There are plenty more out there. Allocate your time to clients and projects that you enjoy and believe in. in particular, it is recommended that you try to gain long-term clients.

One of your primary business goals should be to retain quality clients and build good relationships with them—regular work is fantastic.

Hidden costs

There may be hidden upfront business costs that you will need to invest in. Obviously, this is dependent on your industry and the things that you already own, but nevertheless, there are things that you need to consider. Will you need new software or technology? How about office equipment?

Can you work from home or do you need to rent somewhere? If you are thinking about using a coffee shop as an office—remember to budget in the coffees (and snacks!).

Working these out in advance is the best way to not get caught out with unexpected expenses.

Motivation

Having a freelance business requires motivation and discipline. You will no longer have a boss hovering around demanding that you work harder; you are now that boss. Being self-motivated and having good time management skills are quintessential traits of successful freelancers.

It also cannot be stated enough that you need to know your worth. If you feel undervalued or underappreciated, you will also likely feel unmotivated.

Figure out what motivational strategies work for you and utilize them to smash your goals.