How To Start Freelancing

Freelancer, How To Find Clients
Talent is not enough, you need strong networking skills and client list

By James P. Ong
Editor, 88DB.com

FIRST of all, let's be clear what we mean by freelance.

According to Dictionary.com, a freelancer is "a person who works as a writer, designer, performer or the like, selling work or services by the hour, day, job, etcetera, rather than working on a regular salary basis for one employer."

Advantage: You’re your own boss, you control your time. Disadvantage: You’re your own boss, yet your own paycheck is not guaranteed.

Is being a freelancer difficult? No, after all, you will still be using the same skill sets you used to in your previous job. But it can be challenging, because you will need to multi-task and take care of such things as billing statements, bookkeeping, and filing. Just think of it as preparing yourself to become a business owner.

In the current economic scenario where people are losing jobs, some have no choice but to become a freelancer. Take heed, it’s not just the creative fields that employ freelancers. If you are an accountant, sales agent or a banker, you can also make a living out of freelancing or consultancy. And because companies are also working on a tighter budget, they are more open to outsourcing jobs to freelancers.

You still need to work hard at getting gigs, however. Talent is not enough, you also need to know people who can refer you to potential clients. Tell everyone what you’re doing, post ads online and in community billboards. Spread the word.

Here are more tips from Entrepreneur.com on how to find clients:

1. Develop a portfolio to demonstrate the scope of your skills. If that means working for no pay or low pay initially, do it. Samples of your work will be your best calling card.

2. Tell everyone you know―colleagues, friends, family, neighbors―about your new freelance gig. Referrals will make up the bulk of your business initially.

3. Join professional organizations―online or in the community―that serve your field. In addition to all the other benefits you'll gain, you'll also pick up insider tips of where to find work.

4. Join local organizations, like the chamber of commerce or Rotary club. "Creative people often overlook organizations like these, thinking they'll be filled with stiff bankers and businesspeople,” notes an authority. “And they may be―but that's who'll be hiring you to do your creative work.”

5. Volunteer in the community doing something you love, and you'll broaden your network of potential clients.

6. Cold call. Yes, everyone hates cold calling, but the reason freelancers need to do this is because it works. Another important point to remember is that freelancing doesn't solely mean doing the thing you love. It also means knowing how to sell and market your services. When starting out, about 90 percent of your time will be spent on sales and marketing tasks.

Source: How To Start Freelancing