Freelancing tips from 4 seasoned freelancers

4 MUST KNOW TIPS
FROM SEASONED
FREELANCERS
7 September 2017
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CONTRACTING IN THE UK UPDATE
If you’re new to freelancing or contracting and you’re after some advice from seasoned
professionals then today’s your lucky day!
We recently took some time to gather a few of the best tips a new freelancer or contractor
could possibly wish for.
We spoke to a number of contractors and freelancers who have all been there and done it.
Read on for their advice.
Daniel Wilson – IT Contractor | Wilson-Etheridge IM Solutions
www.w-eimsolutions.co.uk
• Aim Low: conquer the small hurdles first. Like a skyscraper the foundations you create
build your future.
• Reputation is your best asset when starting out alone, don’t get greedy.
• I set my foundations doing free work for charities, as well as providing my skill set free
of charge. I started to build my reputation, creating my first layer of foundations.
Sarah Henderson | Freelance Copywriter and Proofreader
www.shendersoncopywriter.com
My piece of advice to a new freelancer would be, make sure you pick a good working
environment for yourself. Don’t just assume you can work on the sofa in front of your TV –
although, if you can, then great!
You may find working at the kitchen table is fine, or you may need to set up an office in your
spare bedroom. There are also options like working at your local library or renting some coworking
space which can be helpful if you prefer to work out of the house.
Once you have the right environment, it’s relatively easy to work efficiently and distractionfree!
http://blog.kingsbridge.co.uk/4-must-know-tips-from-seasoned-freelancers/
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Nic Morgan – Freelance Video Producer | Creative Pie Films
www.creativepiefilms.co.uk
When you first start a business or go it alone you need to get yourself out there! One way is
through networking. It’s essential, but it’s also a minefield.
Make sure you find the right networking activity for you. Don’t be drawn in by figures and the
amount of business that’s passed each week as I almost was.
Find one you can be yourself at! People will invest in you over your business so be true to
yourself.
If you are a creative get yourself in with other creatives from different disciplines.
I have met and made some ace friends on LinkedIn who I regularly meet for a cup of tea
(without paying a yearly subscription.)
I’m still finding my way after two years but I’m getting wiser to the “too good to be true”
networking opportunities.
Right, go and get yourself out there!
James Henderson – Independent Freelance IT Consultant
www.james-henderson.com
• Get a thorough agreement template drawn up that you can use with new customers to
save time starting work and to ensure you are covered
• Have a fixed pricing structure but also implement some discounts for larger projects
• Consider retainer agreements for a steady flow of income
• Maintain existing clients and generate positive word of mouth
• Hire an accountant to help make tax savings
• Get yourself insurance so should the worst happen you’re protected
• Get testimonials and case studies of existing work to win new clients
• And, finally, don’t over book your services. Everyone needs time to rest and to develop!
To learn more about our competitive freelance and contractor insurance package, head over
to our ‘why us?’ section where you can read all about our products! Then, stop off over at the
website for a quick quote?
If you have any questions you can get in touch with us on 01242 808740, or by using the live
chat service on our website.
This excerpt was taken from http://blog.kingsbridge.co.uk/4-must-know-tips-from-seasonedfreelancers/
http://blog.kingsbridge.co.uk/4-must-know-tips-from-seasoned-freelancers/
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