Lately I have been thinking about how different freelancing is from any other kind of job. I’ve always worked retail and while there are changes here and there, I pretty much know what I’m getting into when I arrive to work each day. Now that I’m freelancing more, it’s a whole new world where I get to make my schedule (for better or worse) and projects are different every week. Because no one is providing me with a list of priorities, a number of hours, or a pay rate, I have to embark on that road of trial and error.
We’re getting theme-y with resources this week so here are some tips for all of you fellow freelancers! (Most of these apply to everyone. Especially #4.)
1. I love writing lists and creating daily schedules, but then life always happens and my schedule falls apart. Corina has some excellent tips on her blog about how to manage a freelance schedule! What I love most about this post is that she encourages you to experiment with how you manage your time since everyone is so different in their productivity methods.
2. Talking about money with clients can feel really awkward. You might have set prices in mind but find yourself lowering them for family and friends. And maybe friends of friends. And some non-profit organizations. And before you know it, you’re selling yourself short and feeling sad and burnt out. I love this post on Freelancers Union about how to get paid what you’re worth. The article ends with a short and sweet note about the importance of communicating your value and educating your clients. Such amazing advice.
3. Receiving negative feedback is never easy, especially if you’re the sensitive type. Breanna Rose has a really healthy perspective on how negative feedback can be a catalyst for productivity and positive change. For me, managing negative feedback can be even trickier than managing a schedule (see #1). Both can either set us back or push us forward.
4. I’m all about Yemima’s list of things every creative entrepreneur should do for maximum success. Most of the time, I roll my eyes when I read about tips to “success”. But I wholeheartedly agree with each of Yemima’s tips because they all relate back to staying positive and believing in yourself. No matter what kind of entrepreneur you are, eliminating negative self-talk will do something good for you.
Freelancers out there, what are your thoughts on these topics? Any advice to throw in?
(ps Happy Spring Equinox, friends!)
Ashley says
Great round up of posts this week! I’m off to check them all out. :)
Kassandra says
These posts are great! Not only am I finding new blogs, but my ultimate dream is to be a freelance web developer so these articles are relevant to my life! Thank you!
Jennifer says
Glad you liked them, Kassandra! That’s my dream too! I’ll probably be sharing some more relevant posts in the near future. :)
Yemima says
Wow!! Thank you for the love! It makes me so happy to be part of this week’s round up! xoxo
Alexandra says
I adore these round up posts – pinning it! I miss your linkups and twitter chats xo
Warm Regards,
Alexandra
http://www.littlewildheart.com