So you’ve finally decided that enough is enough and you’re moving out from behind that desk in that office to go completely freelance. At first it feels great – a breath of fresh air is in your lungs as you frolic down high streets and into coffee shops to get put your laptop. Then, the reality of it can kick in. Your latte is barely finished and you’re suddenly worried about how you’re going to afford your next coffee, or even worse, how will you be able to play your favourite games at https://slotsbaby.com.
Despite the scary, unpredictable nature of freelance writing, photography or whatever else, thousands of creatives are making it work. With freedom to be where you want, when you want, it can be the dream profession. But it’s not easy and it’s not all flat-whites and MacBooks in Shoreditch cafes.
Here are our 5 tips on how to make it in your freelance career.
Plan your time
If you don’t work for one company in particular, you probably work for several, but no-one can spin plates all-day long.
Good time management is one of the most important aspects of freelancing as you manage your time between different tasks, different deadlines and different locations. Get a planner and map out your work for each day or each week – it’s first step of productivity. And remember, downtime is important, too. So unwind when you get a chance whether that means playing a slot game on SlotsBaby or watching a film on Netflix.
Check those emails
Amongst all the spam and confirmations of various bookings, there are some important messages in your email inbox.
This comes into time management, too, as you need to set aside time to check each and every one of them. You never know what opportunities may arise to improve your portfolio or chase the next invoice, so be vigilant and reply to as many as you can. Which leads us onto the next point…
Network
Whether it’s an Instagram comment, an email or maybe even a real-life link-up, never be afraid of meeting new people in your industry.
Events are made with this in mind and provide the perfect chance for freelancers to meet likeminded individuals or potential clients. Don’t be scared to attend gigs, events, workshops and whatever else on your own, either. Throwing yourself in the deep end can be the most effective way to learn to swim. (Note: Don’t literally go jumping in water if you can’t swim.)
Broaden your skills
Think about what your job description would be. Are you a writer? Are you a photographer? Are you a graphic designer? Well, it turns out that when it comes to working for yourself, you don’t have to box yourself in any one profession. Learn new skills and there are no limits on the amount of different roles you can take up. Especially when working in media, those with the most skills are the most effective freelancers.
Believe in yourself
The most important tip of all is to quite simply believe in yourself.
There will be bad days and there will be good days. There will be bad weeks and even bad months. But remember, you had the bravery to break the norm and work for yourself. Be determined, work hard and never lose sight of the end goal. You can do it.
