“The world wide web is opening the door for freelancers, publishers, musicians, artists, writers, teachers, librarians, fashion designers, photographers, models, public relations people, therapists, computer specialists, financial planners and many more” by MANJULA SUNDARAM.
By the way, freelancing is different from running a small business operation, being a freelancer. Person who runs a small business is his/her own boss and a employer.
Marian Faux in her book “Successful Freelancing” defines a freelancer as some one who sells his/her own services rather than a product.
To succeed in freelancing you should enjoy going out hunting for your livelihood rather than grazing on the same patch of grass every day.
- Develop expertise
Take stock of your life experience, the jobs you have held, any volunteer organizations you have worked for or other projects you can possibly think of that can serve as a means to locate possible areas in which you can specialize. Carve a niche for yourself. It may take some trial and error, but eventually you learn what sort of work you enjoy. Promote your self accordingly.
- Develop portfolio that showcases your skills and talents effectively
Collect samples of your work and craft a portfolio showcasing your accomplishment that corresponds to the job you are looking for through your website.
- Get references from people to whom you have provided service
Most people hire freelancers based on a trusted recommendation. Establish a relationship and build a reputation with people with whom you have worked. Getting a referral becomes an easy task once you have built a good rapport with your business associates. Even you co-workers or friends/professor from college can become sources of referrals.
However, don’t expect miracles overnight. It takes time to build contracts in the freelance world. Aim to deliver quality service and you will find it easier to get your clients to recommend you to their allies. Once you get those references, remember to add them on your website to boost your credibility.
- Use Keywords
If you are client, how would you go about searching for a freelancer in your industry? Most of them use keywords to search. Hence come up with keywords that explain what is it that you do and what you are capable of doing.
- Update
As you complete as new job, ensure you update your online profile. As your interests and industry conditions change, keep your profile and portfolio current in order to attract the jobs you seek.
- Participate in online forums
Participate in forums might give you as insight into the freelancing world online.
Popularity: 1% [?]
January 16th, 2006 at 12:29 am
Awesome propaganda !