Top Tips to Succeed in Freelancing

Are you just starting out as a freelancer? Have you been freelancing for a while but now you’re stuck? Freelancing can be hard. Really hard! You’ll get discouraged. You may even be tempted to quit. There are challenges to be met and problems to be solved.

Here are some tips to help you stay on track. It works great as a quick reminder for the experienced freelancer or as a checklist for a new freelancer.

1. Don’t stop marketing
   

   Marketing is the key to a steady flow of new and repeat clients. Don’t stop, even when you are busy.
   
   

2. Get social
   

   Social media and other online communities are a great way to get your freelancing business in front of prospective clients.
   
   

3. Establish an effective website
   

   Having a freelancing website is almost a given these days. Make sure yours conveys your message.
   
   

4. Blog to establish expertise
   

   Blogging is a great way to show that you really are knowledgeable about what you do.
   
   

5. Know what’s unique about your business
   

   Base your marketing on how your freelancing business is better than similar businesses.
   
   

6. Keep your portfolio up to date
   

   Remember to review and periodically update your portfolio so that your best work is always showcased.
   
   

7. Don’t be afraid to cold call
   

   You don’t have to wait for clients to come to you. It’s okay to reach out to prospective clients.
   
   

8. Research potential clients
   

   Don’t enter a client agreement without knowing something about the company you will be doing business with.
   
   

9. Listen carefully and ask questions
   

   Don’t jump to any conclusions about what you think your client wants.
   
   

10. Be polite
    

    We live in a rude society but that doesn’t make it right. Being courteous will make you stand out in a good way.
    
    

11. Negotiate
    

    Don’t just accept whatever terms a prospect suggests. Nearly all aspects of a freelancing agreement can be negotiated.
    
    

12. Define scope
    

    Make sure that you understand exactly what the client wants. Be as specific as possible.
    
    

13. Price fairly
    

    Don’t base your freelancing business on being able to provide low cost services, but rather on the value you add for the client.
    
    

14. Don’t be afraid to say no
    

    Not every freelancing opportunity will be right for you. Don’t be afraid to turn work down.
    
    

15. Get it in writing
    

    A contract or freelancing agreement is a must-have. Don’t start work without one.
    
    

16. Minimise distractions
    

    Make sure that your work environment is conducive to maximum productivity.
    
    

17. Set a routine
    

    While you don’t have to keep traditional hours, most freelancers are more productive if they schedule regular working hours.
    
    

18. Keep your office neat
    

    A messy office can slow you down and lower your morale.
    
    

19. Eat right
    

    The last thing most freelancers want is to lose work time due to illness.
    
    

20. Get enough exercise
    

    You’ll feel better and work more efficiently too.
    
    

21. Take regular breaks
    

    It goes against common sense, but working too long can actually reduce your productivity.
    
    

22. Meet or exceed expectations
    

    Don’t disappoint your clients. Deliver on time and make sure that you deliver what the client wanted.
    
    

23. Invoice promptly
    

    Once you’ve delivered work, it’s time to send an invoice. If you wait, you or the client may forget.
    
    

24. Say thank you
    

    Again, people who say “thank you” are rare. If you want to stand out in a good way, say thanks.
    
    

25. Follow up
    

    Too many freelancers are afraid to check back with existing clients, but follow up is an important part of the process.
    
    

26. Set measurable goals
    

    Without goals, there is no way to measure how well your business is doing.
    
    

27. Have a plan
    

    Once you’ve set goals, devise a realistic plan to achieve those goals and revisit it often.
    
    

28. Delegate low-level tasks or specialised tasks
    

    Just because you freelance doesn’t mean you have to do everything yourself.
    
    

29. Keep learning
    

    Keep your skills and knowledge current. Regular learning is not optional for freelancers.
    
    

30. Invest in your business
    

    In the end, it is worthwhile to spend money on a high-quality machine, pay for software updates and high-speed internet.
    
    

31. Use the right tools
    

    While some freeware and shareware software is quite useful, there are times when you will need to invest in the right tool to get the job done.
    
    

32. Build a support group
    

    Freelancers usually work alone, so it’s up to you to maintain and grow your friendships.
    
    

33. Get testimonials
    

    An endorsement from a past or current client is a powerful selling tool.
    
    

34. Create products
    

    You can create an additional income stream by developing and selling products such as eBooks, WordPress themes and training modules.
    
    

35. Stay positive
    

    A good attitude is a great asset for the freelancer.
    
    

36. Believe in yourself
    

    If you don’t think you are the right person for the job, why would you expect a client to believe that you are?
    
    

37. Try new things
    

    Don’t be afraid to experiment.
    
    

38. Monitor your online reputation
    

    What you say and what is said about you online is important.