How to become a freelancer? You're talented at what you do but how to turn that into a business that gives you the income, flexibility and satisfaction that comes with the freelance lifestyle? We’ve all thought about pursuing our dreams only to dismiss the idea as fantasy and end up sticking with the 'safe' option. Rent, a mortgage, kids, bills... the list of reasons not to follow your ambitions are endless. Did you know that on average freelancers earn £52,000 per year? It's how you set up your freelance business that generally dictates your success and we've 3 key tips to get you thinking.
Doing something you love may motivate you to work harder, however that alone won't guarantee you success in the business world. Here are some essential tips to get you started on that ultimate pursuit of happiness:
HOW TO BECOME A FREELANCER # 1- SET YOURSELF ATTAINABLE GOALS
It's amazing how few people set goals in life. As a freelancer, it is vital that you set yourself objectives that you feel confident of reaching. Your ultimate target may feel like a million miles away, but with your goals in place you will feel a sense of purpose and progress. Goal setting should form the basis of all your projects whilst setting up a freelance business or developing one.
Set yourself realistic goals such as 'launch my new website by May 1st' or 'have two new clients by the end of the month.' Once you've set the end goal, break it down step by step as to how you plan on achieving these.
HOW TO BECOME A FREELANCER # 2 - THERE IS A MARKET FOR EVERYTHING, FIND YOURS!
Develop a strategy tailored to your target audience. Let them know that what you’re selling is going to benefit their lives in some measurable way. Consumers pay for things they either want or need, and if your passion falls into a field that has an obvious market need, you’re already on that road of achieving success.
However, if your passion does not immediately fall into a recognisable market does that mean you shouldn’t pursue it? Of course not. We are fortunate to live in a world where there is pretty much a market for everything and a niche service can often form the bedrock for a great freelance business.
Let me give you an example, ever heard of someone called KSIOlajidebt? You probably think I just made that name up or it’s an epic typo. However, if you’ve got children then there’s a good chance they’re familiar with his work. He is a guy in his twenties who has an undeniable passion for playing online football games, in particular, FIFA and he now earns a successful living from it. He has become one of the UK’s most popular digital media superstars with close to 10million subscribers to his YouTube channel (by the way Tom Cruise only has 4,000 on his channel), and what’s more, he has a portfolio of brand endorsements that can rival the likes of David Beckham.
HOW TO BECOME A FREELANCER # 3 - BUSINESS SUPPORT
Now you've got the drive and the talent next comes the know-how. You don't need to have a Masters Degree in business to strive in a competitive world but without a strategy and understanding, the first couple of years can be rough going. As a freelancer, it’s common to spend more time on the business side than doing what you love so don’t be afraid to seek help from those who can advise on certain aspects of your business better than you can.
Should you not have the people around you who can guide and advise you in the freelance world, fear not. We have compiled articles and videos on everything you need to know about freelancing as well as essential Guides to get you started. Our member also offer themselves as Mentors with years of experience, awards, achievements and insider knowledge to help guide you through the business side of freelancing. Search the Freelancer Directory and use the Mentor filter to find someone who matches your ambition.
