I was thinking the other day about how because I’m in LA, it often feels like I have the most traditional job of many of my peers–being a freelancer and blogger with two super steady gigs. It made me think of how different I’d feel being self-employed in another city. Those of you who are freelancers and small biz owners, what’s it like to do your thing where you live? For me, sometimes it’s hard to wade through all the info out there for those forging their own paths. Thats why we thought it’d be a nice time to narrow that info down to four resources, helpful for a variety of careers.
1. This post from Cleanline Studio is literally about keeping those clients from wasting your time. I think we all know what that means! We had to add this one because it’s so true–sometimes there are clients that you end up losing money on (or your sanity) if you don’t set up specific ground rules.
2. I really love how thorough Jess from Love + Color’s posts are. Her guide to being a happier business owner is spot on. I work closely with a few business owners and they’re all guilty of many, if not all, the things on that list… Especially not taking days off (or scheduling calls on those days off)! I’m seriously going to send this post to some friends :)
3. Everyone prices their services at least somewhat differently, which is why I loved taking a look at White Corner Creative’s tips for setting up your own structure. It’s easy to think pricing is as simple as an hourly rate or a flat fee, but there are so many factors involved. Let me tell you, this is something you want to have figured out as early on as possible!
4. Along the lines of the other resources is a post from Intentionally Designed on setting boundaries between work and life. I know a lot of creatives whose job + personal life are hardly separate at all–and they LOVE it that way. And people who need that balance in order to be happier in both areas. Personally, Jennifer and I have talked about how we kind of need to set boundaries or we end up getting carried away with the work part. You can love your job, but still not want to do it 24 hours a day! Another great thing to read up on early on.
Are freelance + business tips helpful for you? I really think all of these things are so important so I’d love to know if it applies to you too. Have a wonderful weekend!
Melissa says
Thanks so much for including my Freelance Pricing Strategy! Sharing!
Anna says
Just read all of these articles and found them incredibly useful, thanks for sharing!
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