A Guide to Freelance Success

Setting up a successful freelance business requires guts, determination and buckets of self-belief. Freelancing is a career choice that ultimately gives you the freedom and flexibility to run your own business the way that you want. But there is a lot to learn along the way. Lack of organisation and inattention to detail can be the downfall of any small business so it is essential to keep a close eye on the administrative side, as well as the creative one.

Whether you are just starting out as a freelancer or already run an established business, you will need to find creative ways of maintaining the momentum of your business. This involves getting to grips with marketing yourself and your business, networking with other freelancers, and carrying out regular research to ensure you are staying ahead of the competition.

The following will help guide you towards achieving freelance success:

A Good Fit. Freelancing will suit you if are disciplined, determined, business-minded, hard-working and willing to deal with people from all walks of life.

Financial Affairs. Managing your finances, handling your taxes, and keeping your admin in order are all key to running a successful freelance business.

Rates. Setting appropriate rates for the work you are doing will ensure your business is competitive but will also increase your income.

Marketing. A defined marketing strategy with a set budget goes a long way in helping you to promote yourself and your freelance business.

Website. Being internet savvy is imperative to your freelancing business – a professional and regularly updated website will help attract a wide range of global clients.

Digital marketing. Blogging, launching your own viral marketing campaign, social networking – the sky’s the limit when it comes to increasing your freelance presence online.

Networking. Attending industry events, joining clubs and societies, and taking courses are all ways to meet other freelancers, and provide a forum for swapping ideas and building relationships.

Clients. Freelancing involves dealing with different types of client and always being professional in your working relationships.

Your Skillset: The freelance world is entirely fluid; depending on your skillset, it is possible to add to your existing services by taking on different freelance roles and exploring new avenues.

By Emma Murray and Charlie Wilson, authors of How to Succeed as a Freelancer in Publishing, see www.how-to-succeed-as-a-freelancer-in-publishing.co.uk