Having taken the plunge into the world of independent contractual work, better known as freelance or consultancy services, I have experienced enough highs and lows to want to guard this corner of the rat race that I have carved out for myself.
No matter how much knowledge, expertise, and skills one has and continues to build to make oneself marketable and relevant, it's a competitive world. On top of that fact, there will always be naysayers, bullies, and unbelievers of the freelancer, even if we continue to be called on and get paid for valuable work.
To continue to do what you love doing, without the hassles of the 9-5 and overhead concerns, you must make sure to secure and equip yourself with these:
1. contract. Always work under a contract. Before this, you need the necessary documents like permits, licenses, official receipts, etc.
2. competitive fees. Know how much industry rates are, how much you deserve, then adjust.
3. uniqueness. You have to find an area or service, or manner of your work that you do exceptionally well, then market and capitalize on this.
4. dependability. Once you've secured your account, make sure you can be relied on to deliver. Especially early on, consider this your true business capital; you are creating your own reputation.
5. image. You are as good as not just how you look and sound, but as good as your last work. Live up to the standards you've set. Remember this because you can bet your clients do.
No matter how much knowledge, expertise, and skills one has and continues to build to make oneself marketable and relevant, it's a competitive world. On top of that fact, there will always be naysayers, bullies, and unbelievers of the freelancer, even if we continue to be called on and get paid for valuable work.
To continue to do what you love doing, without the hassles of the 9-5 and overhead concerns, you must make sure to secure and equip yourself with these:
1. contract. Always work under a contract. Before this, you need the necessary documents like permits, licenses, official receipts, etc.
2. competitive fees. Know how much industry rates are, how much you deserve, then adjust.
3. uniqueness. You have to find an area or service, or manner of your work that you do exceptionally well, then market and capitalize on this.
4. dependability. Once you've secured your account, make sure you can be relied on to deliver. Especially early on, consider this your true business capital; you are creating your own reputation.
5. image. You are as good as not just how you look and sound, but as good as your last work. Live up to the standards you've set. Remember this because you can bet your clients do.