Whether your goal is to earn extra cash or make freelancing as your full-time career, then this article is perfect for you. According to a report, about 57 million Americans are working as freelancers, and 51% of those said that no amount of money would make them go back to a traditional job. Here are some steps on how to become a freelancer if you want to start and embark on the journey towards a freelancing career.
Determine if freelancing is for you
Becoming a freelancer is awesome and a dream for most people. However, there are advantages and disadvantages that you should consider. But with the right mindset and self-discipline, you will surely enjoy being your own boss and setting your own schedule.
Here are the things you should ponder on if you think freelancing is your next career.
- Do you have time and project management skills?
- How well can you handle rejection?
- Are you highly organized?
- How well can you cope with changes?
- Do you really want to be a freelancer?
Look for freelance platforms
Many freelancers use platforms or home-based job sites to help them easily connect with clients, and there are always available jobs on these platforms. Also, most of these platforms have privacy protection and policies to protect both the client and the freelancer.
There are thousands of platforms out there. The key to a successful freelance career is that you must choose a platform that will meet your needs and expectations. Here are some of the best freelance platforms that you can try.
Create your profile or work portfolio
Freelancer platforms allow you to create your or work portfolio and communicate those to your potential employers. Your competition is also high since millions of Americans are also looking for freelance gigs.
Therefore, you must create a profile or work portfolio that will grab the client’s attention and set you apart from your competition. You can read our previously published article through this link; if you opt to build a profile on LinkedIn.
It is also important that you update your profile three to four times a year as your skills grow.
Price your freelance work
Your hourly or project rate really depends on your work experience and skill set. If you just have a few years of experience, do not charge your clients at the same rate as those who have more than 10 years of experience.
Before you decide how much you will charge your client, you must do some thorough research first. Start by determining your target annual salary, then calculate your cost of doing the business and your living cost. Also, it would be best if you determine your other billable items to your clients, such as vacation leave, holiday, and sick leave.
You can refer to this article to help you calculate your hourly rate as a freelancer.
Apply for jobs
Submit your applications to jobs that you are confident you can do. Remember that you are building a reputation online, so it is important that you perform on your job well to secure positive feedback from your client.
You should also make sure that you craft a relevant resume and cover letter specifically for the job that you are applying to increase the chances of nailing an interview.
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