Freelancing is not always an easy job. It is a different world from the 9-5 job, and it requires its own set of challenges and issues. It is important that one considers everything that will come with it. If you are thinking of going freelancing? Here are five things to consider.
The importance of networking
Taking part in events and chit-chatting with people might look like networking, but there’s an art to it. Keeping in touch with people in your industry is a way to get your name out there and could mean the difference between attracting new clients and eating beans for the last week of the month because you ran out of money.
When you work as a freelancer, networking becomes more essential. In no time, you will master your elevator pitch and LinkedIn connection requests. Every freelancer knows that you might land an unexpected business opportunity if you embrace networking.
Loneliness might be a problem for you.
Getting up every morning without having to commute on public transportation or the roads might be one of the best things about freelancing. However, this also means that you’ll probably only have your pets and houseplants as companions all day.
There is evidence that 6 out of 10 freelancers feel lonely at least occasionally, according to experts. Make sure you schedule a time to see friends, clients, or old colleagues during the week if you’re a social person.
Alternatively, you could set up a co-working space or use a hot desk at a client’s office; this will give you more opportunities to build relationships than you’ll get from working from home.
Building an online presence is essential.
The days of viewing cute puppies and political memes on Instagram are almost over. In addition to letting your personality shine through on your social media, it will be your biggest selling tool as a freelancer.
There is no doubt you have a portfolio of your work ready but show your work online as well. You should tweet your perspective on an industry-related event, your thoughts on industry news, and maybe leave what you did after that fourth glass of wine off of Twitter.
Think of protecting yourself
It’s important that freelancers take some steps to protect themselves if things go wrong so that if a client is at a loss because of your operations, then you’ll be financially protected. Indemnity insurance is one of the most important things to protect yourself; it means you won’t lose thousands of pounds if something goes wrong with your job.
To get started, you don’t need a large portfolio.
Consider going freelance even if you don’t have a decent portfolio or your CV isn’t stellar. Spend your time accumulating experience as much as possible, whenever you can, so that you can build your freelance portfolio.
It’s important to realise that you have skills, which will always be valuable to others. Take advantage of your first year to learn how to run a business, build contacts, and gain experience.
