Nearly 57 million Americans are turning to freelancing careers. The results are in and the job market is headed towards more self-sustaining start-ups. People want more job security and to have more control over their own destiny.
Learning how to become a freelancer is the best thing you can do for yourself. No matter your age, income, or skill level, start freelancing now. The internet is filled with success stories and examples that you can follow.
Here are five tips on how to become a freelancer to get you going.
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Get Active on Social Media
Freelancing and social media go hand-in-hand. Whatever product or service that you want to sell, you have to have a presence. Establish yourself on all the major platforms, like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can try Social Media Calendar Management.
This is where you’ll build your brand, which is integral for any freelance business.
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Make Contracts
Any business that you’re going to do between clients online has to have legal backing. Don’t rely on email correspondence alone. You should look up some templates for contracts and invoices.
Any client who has a problem signing these online documents is not worth your time. You can use PaystubCreator.net for documenting anyone working for you, too. It’s important to keep a paper trail for taxes as a freelancer; otherwise, you’re in for a rude awakening.
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Start Freelancing with Others
Freelancing doesn’t mean you do everything by yourself. Being self-made requires a lot of networking and outsourcing work. If you want to scale big, you have to think big by attending networking events.
This is also a nice way to gauge the competition in your respective niche.
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Build Your Reputation
Most freelancers start out with such a small following that it’s hard to find their first clients. A great way to boost your chances of getting noticed is to get some testimonials. You can ask family and friends to become your first orders.
Their reviews create a level of trust needed to secure your first clients. Always try to collect feedback after every order to build your reputation.
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Don’t Accept Low-Balls
Know your value as a freelancer. Never sell yourself short because you’re new and need work. If you set your sights too low, you’ll never get out of the cycle of exploitation.
There are clients out there who prey on new freelancers because they want cheap work. Don’t be afraid to say “no” to obviously bad deals. Reply to low-balls with examples of market-value rates that you won’t go under.
Stand Out From the Crowd
With so many new freelancers out there, it’s important to brand yourself. Start freelancing after you’ve come up with your name, a logo, and a bio section. A personalized brand will stand out more than a by-the-book company.
Build your portfolio, invest in some good graphic design, and build your following. There are no shortcuts to becoming a successful freelancer if you want to run an honest business. People respect authenticity, so give them the best version of you.
