There are plenty of reasons to begin a career as a freelancer.
Particularly in industries that include more creative work, and many people do weigh up the pros and cons before making such a big leap.
However, if you’ve decided that going freelance is the right move for you, there are a few things you need to do to get started.
Check finances
One of the biggest reasons most people put off starting a freelance business is because they’ll no longer have a guaranteed income at the end of the month.
When you find new clients, it’s important that you get paid for your services. Make sure you agree upon a payment with your clients (either on an hourly basis, or on completion of the project), and then keep a detailed account of all your work.
Once you’ve sent your clients a detailed invoice, ask them how long until they pay you. Keep chasing them until they have paid you what they owe; you gave them your time and your services as promised, so you are entitled to this money.
Some might have to make ends meet with a second job, or they might not quit their day job until they start making enough money to pay all their bills.
Taxes
Nobody likes doing it, but everyone has to pay taxes. However, taxes get a little more complicated when you’re a freelancer working by yourself.
Are you self-employed, or do you technically have an employer if you mostly do work for one client? Then again, if you’re not on payroll then maybe you are self-employed.
You can easily check out your employment status for tax purposes through the government website. However, many people have wondered “Is HMRC’s IR35 tool up to scratch?” so it might be worth double checking your status with other expert platforms.
Reputation is everything to a freelancer, so the last thing you want is a tax violation on your record.
Identify your target audience
You have a general idea of the services you’re going to offer, so try to identify your target audience first. Determine their problems, goals, and budget, then figure out how you’re going to fulfill their needs, while also paying yourself a fair price.
Advertising
The only way your clients will find you is if you advertise your services really well. Most businesses, big or small, have a website to promote their company and connect with their customers, and it can work just as well for a freelancer.
Setting up a website is so easy, the almost everyone now has one; just go to a web hosting site, find a unique and memorable domain name that reflects your business idea, and start designing an eye-catching website with engaging content.
The purpose of your website is to set yourself up as an expert and demonstrate why people should use your services over someone else. If it’s possible, include a few testimonials from previous clients so that people know that you are worth the cost to their business.
