Freelancing is growing in popularity as a way to make money. Many reasons make this possible, but one of the most important is that freelancing gives professionals more control over their careers. You can decide when, where, and how you work, and with that freedom comes great responsibility. To experience success in freelancing, you must possess the best skillset and discipline.
This topic covers five essential steps to take to ensure success in your career. Regardless of your industry, you can gain more clients, earn more, and save for future investments. You can only measure success if you can set goals, create a plan to achieve those goals, and stay organized.
1. Develop Your Freelancing Skills
What used to work in 2000 may not be valid in 2022. For instance, mobile app development was not a thing during the release of the iPhone. Therefore, you must stay updated on the latest technologies, trends, and best practices to ensure success in your career. Some areas require specialization. You also need certification for your skills and to stay updated on current certifications.
Ensure you have the best skillset. You must demonstrate your proficiency in a unique way that sets you apart from other freelancers. That requires regular practice and development. Determine the skills you need and get to work. Include new skills and knowledge in your learning plan. Set apart adequate time to practice and master each one.
2. Create a Secondary Income
No one can predict the future. It is wise to create a secondary income stream as a security measure in case your primary source of income dries up. Freelancing has challenges, including low seasonality, late payments, and spending capriciously. Your secondary source of income will help you stay afloat when faced with unexpected events.
Various options are open, such as investing in mutual funds, bonds, or stocks. You can also start a small business venture and work on it during your free time. Crypto is another viable and prospective venture. The most important thing is diversifying your income sources and creating a safety net to guarantee your financial security. Read here for more about making money online to create an additional income.
3. Build an Online Presence
Your clients want to know who they want to engage in their projects. The internet allows you to showcase your skills and capabilities. You should create a website or blog where potential customers can view and assess your work. Your website should contain a portfolio of work, customer reviews, current rates and availability, certifications, etc.
Social media can also help you create an online presence. Dedicate some time each week to post on social networks, including Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. You can also create a YouTube channel and post tutorials about your work or services. Use social media to establish relationships with potential customers, partners, and influencers.
Various platforms also open avenues to meet clients. Newbies will find gig websites and job boards ideal starting points. Upwork, Fiverr, and PeoplePerHour are the most established platforms where freelancers meet clients. Create accounts on these websites and set up your profile. Remember to add all your qualifications, certifications, and experiences.
4. Stay Organized
Time management, prioritizing projects, and staying organized are mandatory for success. Create a working schedule to meet deadlines and satisfy customers’ needs. Set limits on how much work you want to take at once and the hours you are willing to devote to each project. That helps you to stay focused and increases the chances of completing tasks within the given timeline.
Organize your files, folders, and documents. Having everything in one place will help you save time. Use cloud storage services to back up your work and have easy access where needed. Sometimes, you may want to edit a document on the go if the client requests. How can you do that if you cannot remember where you saved it?
5. Consider Subcontracting
You may receive a project from a client with tight deadlines. Completing it within the given timeline may be impossible, particularly if you have others pending. You can ruin your reputation if you often miss deadlines and deliver low-quality work. Subcontracting allows you to manage the project and have someone to help you.
Subcontracting is not only beneficial but also allows you to expand your reach. You can do more projects and increase your revenue. For instance, graphic designers can subcontract writers, copy editors, proofreaders, illustrators, and photographers. The resources provide more opportunities to explore various projects and expand your business.
Summary
Freelancing allows you to work on something you are passionate about while making a living. It is an opportunity to maximize your potential and increase your revenue. But never misuse the freedom it gives you. Delivering projects late will not be acceptable. Neither is it wise to use shortcuts. Ensure you have a second source of income to support you during low seasons. Also, prioritize work, stay organized, and consider subcontracting. All these will ensure success in freelancing.
