How do you know you're a freelancer? Well, when in many conversations with typical 9 to 5 people you often find yourself in this conversation:


Them: So, What do you do?


You: I'm a Freelancer


Them: (Shock and horror on their faces)  Really?


You: Yes really why?


Them: How do you manage to do that in this day and age? I mean every thing is so expensive!


You: Yeah... (You shrug) Its what I do...

And that's the truth!

Wether you're a performer writer photographer or corporate freelancer you have to admit you have chosen the harder of two paths. And you know what, that's okay.

The truth is, if you're a freelancer... You work DURING work, BETWEEN work, AFTER work, BEFORE work and lets be honest you are working your hardest so that the work keeps flowing.


So let me be the first to say: WELL DONE! Not everyone is cut out for this lifestyle, you are brave. But to live the Free (lancing) life you gotta make sure you pay your bills and can enjoy life as much as the ordinary everyday grinders.

1.You're a freelancer but your work isnt for FREE

People hear the word FREE in Freelancer and sometimes think they can get you for "exposure" or any other non-paying excuse...Don't! Your skill is your skill, you worked hard to get to where you are, so never give it away for free. People take advantage and you never want a string of free gigs lined up. Work out your rate and let people know professionalism comes at a price. You have bills to pay like everyone else. So don't be a Free Freelancer.

2.Remind people of all your skills all the time

People forget! It's human. Sometimes people you know and see all the time don't exactly remember everything you can do, all the time. So remind them. Not in a forceful or in-your-face way, but subtly through casual conversation, a monthly broadcast message, a facebook wall or page. When they remember you and WHAT YOU DO specifically, there's more chance of them getting you to do it and that means more work, more clientele and more flow of your business.

3.You're Always Unemployed between gigs

The one's who are used to 9 to 5 work, when unemployed are very stressed, as they should be. But you have the upper hand, between gigs you are always umemployed. So this gives you strength and a certain composure they will not have acquired. And once you realise you are ALWAYS unemployed, the drive to find the next gig and book more clients or sell more cakes (whatever your freelancing skill) will lead you down motivated roads. NEVER STOP looking for that next gig.

4.Professionalism makes you a Pro

Because you're jumping from employer to employer, client to client, depending on the work you do, ALWAYS BE PROFESSIONAL! Great work leaves a great feeling in you and those you do it for and it guarantees them suggesting you to others and leaves your work reputation impeccable. Be the Pro... And let them know!

5.Schmooze sounds like smooch but DON'T KISS ASS for work

Alot of people believe that sucking up to people gets you work. I see it all the time, people blatantly being "sickly sweet" for the sake of getting that gig, landing that client or adding that company to their list. But that becomes obvious after a few times, and can be very embarrassing. So rather schmooze, authentically. Be yourself, present yourself in a genuine way to the right people in the opportune time and you will stand out as professional instead of a suck up.

6.Work Everyday

Never think that Freelancing means you only work when you get a gig. No! Freelancing means you work harder and more than 9 to 5 fully permanent employees. You must wake up everyday with a purpose, a plan, a list of must dos! Write, Edit, touch up a shoot you did, learn more about your craft, make your business visible online with some cool social media posts reminding people of your multi talented persona, send proposals, call protential clients and book those gigs. Operate as if you were an employee working for your own firm and the product you are selling is you and your skill.

You can do it! Freelancing is Freedom, but as long as you work for it, it will work for you.

Goodluck and Thanks for your services!

Shika

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