The Newbie Freelancer’s Getting Started Checklist – From Online Banking to Finding a Job – So, you’re getting started in the world of freelancing and aren’t sure how to get organized. As in any business, planning is critical.
You’ll need to pay attention to several different areas as you start your new venture. The following tips can help give you direction as you start your freelancing journey.
Have Your Website and Portfolio Ready
Your portfolio and website represent you to potential clients. You’ll want to make sure they are well-organized and ready for viewing.
Look at your marketing material through the eyes of prospective clients. Work to make your website and portfolio as captivating as possible to grab their attention.
Manage Time Carefully
As a freelancer, you’re both the boss and the employee; you manage the tasks and get them done. You also do all the public relations work and pay yourself.
It can be complicated to wear so many hats at a time. You’ll need to hone your time management skills to meet all the demands. It can be a lot of hard work, but in the end, it will pay off.
Decide on Apps and Tools
Today’s marketplace offers a wide range of tools that can be useful to you in your freelance business. Take the time to study different apps and choose those that work best for you.
You may need software or support for managing the financial end of your business. You’ll want something you can use on the go as well. Phone-based features that transform your business are important, believe those at Amaiz.
Remember to Get Paid
Sometimes clients will get behind on payments and will need a friendly reminder. While nobody likes making calls to request money, it’s an integral part of this type of work. In the end, your bank account will thank you.
Always Use Contracts
In general, you’ll find clients easy to work with, and you may be inclined to believe a contract isn’t necessary. However, the few people who are exceptions to that rule will make you glad you had one in place.
Contracts help guide work during a project and allow either party to address any issues that may arise. If your client doesn’t take the initiative to draw up a contract, don’t hesitate to ask for one.
File Quarterly Taxes
Since freelancers are self-employed, you won’t have an employer retaining your taxes from each pay check. Waiting until tax season to pay all your taxes for the year can mean you end up owing a significant amount. There may even be penalties applicable for not paying quarterly.
To help plan for taxes, you can set aside a percentage of each project’s income. You may choose to put it in your savings account and only use it for paying quarterly taxes when they come around.
If you’re not sure how much money to set aside for quarterly payments, talk to a tax professional. It’s relatively simple to calculate your quarterly tax liability when you have an idea of your total yearly income.
Take a Break
Freelancing can be very intense work. It involves deadlines, and self-employment is hard work already. After you meet deadlines and send out invoices for a big project, don’t hesitate to take a few days off to recharge your energies.
Network with Others
As a freelancer, you’ll be working mostly on your own, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need contact with other professionals. Networking can offer you new ideas and help you improve your skills and business operations.
Many large cities have a chapter of the Freelancers Union. Look to them and to other professional organizations to find others with whom you can network and share ideas.
You can network online, as well. Join social media groups that apply to your work and sign up for email newsletters with helpful tips.
Enjoy Your New Venture
Congratulations! You’re ready to start a new chapter of your life. By following the Newbie Freelancer’s Getting Started Checklist and applying hard work and dedication, you’ll be well on your way to success as a freelancer.
Poppy Watt