Freelance Life

Wrestling dreams and finding your niche can be challenging. It has been 5 years since I graduated from University and stepped into the workplace. What a roller-coaster! There is nothing better than being free in the world to follow your dreams… right?

Getting set up as a freelancer is a good way try different things, work with different companies, gain experience and be actively involved in numerous projects. However, getting started can be a little daunting. Here are my top 5 survival tips:

1. Chocolate and tea. Helps every situation.

2. Have confidence. Being your own boss is awesome. Pat yourself on the back and never feel ‘unemployed’. I spent years feeling like I wasn’t quite on the job ladder yet. I even used my hard-earned money to do an MSc in Communications at Robert Gordon University because I felt like a headless chicken. Don’t get stuck in the trap of feeling ‘unemployed’ and know your self-worth. I love looking back on everything I have done and feel pretty chuffed. I am now starting to write about my projects and use my blog more.

3. Stay organised. You do not need to spend all your money on business school like I did. There are lots of places that offer free advice and friendly people willing to help. Spend some time educating yourself and formulate a plan. I have my long-term goals, weekly task list and I set aside admin time.

4. Building relationships and networking. There are always jobs being advertised and funding opportunities. Start building your network and apply for things that suit. Create a database of contacts and keep in touch with useful contacts. Also, be selective and don’t undersell yourself. I have learnt from past mistakes that it is good to have a contract or letter of agreement before you undertake work. One company offered me work and then refused to pay what was initially agreed. Not cool and I couldn’t pull out otherwise I would upset my workshop participants. Sort out the good eggs from the bad eggs. It is a tough world out there which brings me to my next tip.

5. Toughen up. There are LOTS of knockbacks. It is not easy and can be disappointing when you don’t get things. Keep going. The right project will be out there for you. Keep looking for funding opportunities, building your network, scanning the job market and try again. Also, there is no rush. Everyone is on their own journey and you should never compare yourself to others. If you are being proactive the right thing pops up.

Having a business is exciting and a great way to create opportunities. Just because you wear jeans and get to take your dog to work doesn’t mean you are not a working professional. Freelancing is hard work, but also extremely rewarding.