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If you’re thinking of becoming a freelancer in 2021 then this blog post is for you! Despite Coronavirus, many people in the UK are starting out on their freelancing journey this year.
Freelancing isn’t for everyone and is a lot of hard work! You need to be pro-active, a hustler, self-disciplined, have great communication and negotiation skills, be a multitasker, flexible and have a thick skin!
As a freelancer, you certainly won’t be lounging around in your jim jams all day drinking coffee, playing with your pooch while you wait for your inbox to ping with the next well-paid assignment!
Instead, you will often be working strange hours, juggling multiple projects, burning up the keyboard pitching for work, face-palming your keyboard as you work into the early hours to meet a deadline, while simultaneously feeding the cat, eating a sandwich and paying your bills – ok that might be a slight exaggeration, but you get the picture?! It’s no easy ride!!
I started my freelancing journey in 2013 and below are my top 10 tips for becoming a kickass freelancer in 2021:
1. Network
Networking as a freelancer will help you build trust, find new clients and help you build your skillset and knowledge. Before you begin freelancing, contact everyone you know and join all the freelancing and networking groups you can find! I highly recommend joining Freelance Heroes Facebook group which now has over 10k members and growing!
2. Do a Business Plan
It’s essential to do a business plan to keep you on track. It doesn’t need to be anything fancy or formal, but it does need to set out where you are now, where you want to be in the future and how you are going to get there.
3. Create a kickass brand
If you want to become a successful freelancer it’s crucial to create a kickass brand! The freelance market is tough. Some of us are successful and others struggle. One of the key differentiators is branding so it’s worth investing time and money to ensure it’s ‘the dog’s bollocks’!!
4. Invest in decent kit
As a freelancer, you will typically be working on the go and remotely (especially now) so you will need a decent laptop. I would also recommend getting an ergonomic chair if you can afford one as you will probably be sitting on your arse for hours on end!
5. Define your USP & niche
Every business needs a Unique Selling Point (USP). When you begin freelancing, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you stand for, what you offer your customers and what makes you stand out from your competitors.
A niche is also essential. In simple terms, this refers to a small and targeted portion of a market. Defining your niche will help you attract your ideal client and makes you look like an expert in your field. Clients are more likely to trust in your ability to solve their problems if you have a niche than if you try to appeal to everyone. Furthermore, trust is essential in the sales process. If you want more sales, you need a niche – it’s as simple as that!
6. Nail your pricing
Setting your pricing is one of the hardest tasks freelancers must get to grips with! My advice is to research your competition, take into account your target market and charge based on value.
Worknotes have written an excellent guide about pricing which is well worth a read!
7. Get Online
it’s important to create an online presence as a freelancer. I would strongly recommend you get a website that includes a lead magnet and blog. And depending where your target market hangs out, create a Facebook Business page plus Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn profiles. Plus, don’t forget to create your Google My Business account.
8. Always get a signed contract
I cannot stress enough the importance of freelancer contracts. ALWAYS get a signed contract! Contracts protect you and your client plus boost accountability on the projects you are working on. They also reinforce your professionalism and credibility.
9. Find a business mentor
I highly recommend finding a mentor. Business mentoring is a worthwhile investment of your time and will help you flourish as a freelancer. Getting help, support and advice from people who have been in your shoes is a great way to learn and grow plus ensure nothing slips through the cracks! A business mentor will give also offer you encouragement and boost your self-confidence.
10. Mental Health
Freelancing can be liberating but it can also be challenging. Coronavirus has highlighted the importance of looking after our mental health. Freelancing can be stressful, global pandemic aside, so it’s important that you manage your mental health properly. Take time out for self-care, be kind to yourself, set boundaries, know your limitations plus make sure you exercise, eat properly and try and get a decent night’s sleep. As a freelancer with mental health issues, I am acutely aware of the stresses of freelancing and the importance of a healthy work-life balance.
my little purple freelancer toolkit: the secret weapon for UK based freelancers & self employed
Finally, grab a copy of ‘my little purple freelancer toolkit’ which I wrote to help newbie UK-based freelancers and self-employed get up and running without the fuss! It’s also a great resource for anyone that runs a business.
