Doing freelance work full-time can be a daunting experience at first; so it’s good to know a few things in the beginning.
Thankfully, the freelancing community on the internet is quite giving when it comes to information on being a successful freelancer. From these three articles you can read some habits from freelancers who have it working.
Market yourself: When you first start out, no one knows you. You can hang your sign above your door, or on your website, but don’t expect people to knock down your door the first day. Instead, you’ll need to constantly market yourself — something that can seem distasteful to many of us, I know. But it’s the only way to survive and thrive. Email people (don’t spam), call potential clients, go to events where you might meet potential clients, advertise if you have the money, network. Make this a regular part of your day or work week.
10 Essential Habits for Freelance Workers – [FreelanceSwitch]
Write/design every day: Many freelancers are drawn to their particular career because they love it. They love to write, design, draw – whatever it is, they would do it for free. Once they decide to freelance full time, most work at it every day. They write articles, design sites, doodle illustrations, etc. In other words, they don’t stop working on their craft just because there is no paying client.
The 7 Highly Effective Habits of Successful Freelancers – [DesignersMind]
Successful freelancers present well: To be a successful freelancer, you need to look like a professional. You may write in ripped jeans or pajamas, but your work should be immaculate. Your queries should be well-written, clean and perfectly formatted. Your finished products (and anything else the client sees) should be of equally high-quality. Every time the client deals with you, the client should feel as if that they are dealing with a professional who will deliver a professional product. Nothing you ever show the client should look rushed or casual.
The Five Habits of Successful Freelancers – [WritersResourceCenter]
If you happen to freelance full-time, please share your own wisdom. If you’re starting out, what are some things you’re worried about?
