10 Tips on How to Be a Successful Freelancer

By Samantha Romero ‘16

Perhaps you have already dabbled in freelancing or would like to know what’s required to become one. Here are some tips to consider before delving into the world of freelancing.

1.Be Organized

As a freelancer, you are your own boss and you set your own schedules. However its just as equally important that you keep your work organized because no one else is going to tell you to do so. From using a planner to schedule meetings to maintaining organized files on your desktop, organization will save you time in the long-run. For instance, a planner allows you to use your time wisely by keeping a tab on your availability to schedule meetings. More meetings equals more work and more work equates to a happy freelancer.

2.Be Professional

Being professional requires a variety of key points such as being on time, being prepared, completing tasks before deadlines, and dressing in appropriate attire. As your own boss you need to remember that clients pay close attention to these details and your work ethic and how you carry yourself are factors that are taken into consideration whether that client decides to work with you again. Timeliness is also extremely important, always be on time with deadlines because a client’s time is just as valuable as yours so if they expect the work to be done by a certain date then it needs to be done by that date. If you think that the job may require more time, you must address this in the initial meeting to inform your client.

3.Be Flexible

Although it’s ideal to create your own hours of availability, your schedule may not work with the clients. Thus, you must sacrifice some of your time and be willing to adjust your availability. As a result, your client will appreciate your flexibility.

You may also have to be flexible with pricing. Not all clients are the same so you may need to work with their budget and adjust the service or product that you are offering them in return.

4.Business Cards

It’s vital to have your own business cards. A business card serves the purpose of giving a potential client access to you. Your business card should include but not limited to: your name, number, email, and website. If you don’t have time to design your own business card, try Moo’s Customizable cards. You can choose from a variety of templates and even create your logo with the site. Nonetheless, business cards are an important tool when attending networking events so always have one on hand.

5.Build Your Clientale

Create an emailing list of your clients. It’s important to follow up with your clients to remind them of your services or perhaps to even offer a special promotion. With an emailing list you can send your clients updates on services that you provide. It’s also a great way to keep in touch with your clients. It also doesn’t hurt to give them a call and follow up with how they liked your work, it helps create a stronger business relatinship.

6.Have Your Website

No matter what field of business, it’s important to have a website. It’s the perfect way to display your work all in one place. A sleek design is also easy on the eye and makes your work easily accessible for your client. My favorite website host is Squarespace, I love their minimal yet modern designs. Plus, the designs are versatile so they adjust to whichever digital device you are viewing the site form. Other website hosts you can consider include Wix, Wordpress, and Weebly.

7.Save

Freelancing can be a rollercoaster at times, one month you can have several of bookings while the following month you are scrambling to book more clients. Thus, it’s important to save so on your down time you don’t wound up in a desperate situation.

8.List Yourself on Freelancer Sites

There are multiple websites and apps where you can list yourself as a freelancer. By inserting yourself into a directory of freelancers it will make yourself discoverable to businesses and potential clients.

9.Use Social Media

Social media has become intrinsic to businesses. Take advantage of social media platforms to promote yourself. If you’re photographer in Los Angeles for example, you can publish your work on Instagram, and use hashtags like #LAPhotographer to make your work discoverable. Constant publishing on social media platforms also allows increases brand awareness and discoverability.

10.You are a Business

Remember above all else that you are your own business and it’s important to take care of your business. Don’t underestimate your value because your work is meaningful.