What contributes to being a successful freelancer?
Interview with Chloe, a customer support freelancer and multi-project expert
In order to be a successful freelancer, the key is to communicate.
The client and the freelancer alike need to be in constant communication. If something comes up, or there is a delay in getting the work done, most clients are sympathetic as long as they are aware of what is going on.
Another key to being successful is to ask questions and take notes. Make yourself a cheat sheet for common issues or questions so you can refer back. The skill of organization is also imperative, as mentioned above.
Chloe uses the flexibility of freelancing to her advantage—see how she successfully manages multiple projects at one time.
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Interview with Pamela, a travel writer adjusting to freelancing
I have to admit, it’s pretty scary and not an “add water and stir” experience. I keep telling myself it’s like learning a new language, and I just need to keep moving forward.
I listen to TED Talks and podcasts to keep me motivated. My favorite podcasts include “Quit Happens,” “Don’t Keep Your Day Job,” “Great Escape Radio,” “Careers by Jenn,” “The Daily Meditation Podcast,” and “Life Through Transitions.”
Of course, I lean on my family and friends for support. I have to say; I’m meeting so many great people. One of the biggest surprises has been getting to know more people from the Millennial generation.
We have been pitted against each other in the workplace, and I’m finding them to be an amazing source of knowledge – they were raised on technology, and the educational programs they have completed blow away my college experience!
I have a Millennial mentor who teaches me about websites, apps, and acronyms. If you want to know something, ask a Millennial!
Pamela is new to the world of freelancing. In this interview, she shares the ups and downs of adjusting to the gig economy.
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Interview with Emma, a freelance marketing consultant
For me personally, it’s the fact that I tried freelancing years ago and failed – mainly because there just wasn’t the ecosystem online that exists now.
You didn’t have Upwork or the other freelance sites, for example!
So I knew that coming into this stint how I was going to do things differently. And that involved having a constant pipeline of new opportunities always there.
That’s probably one of the most difficult things as a freelancer as you have to be your own salesperson too – but I’d say it’s one of the most important aspects, i.e. always having a plan b or even a plan c because you never know what will happen with your existing clients from one week to the next.
Emma is thriving as a freelance marketing consultant—see her tips on managing client demands & making yourself marketable as a freelancer.
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Interview with Vernon, a freelance technical writer
In a word, discipline. Ultimately, that's what it all comes down to. Ideally, it'd be nice to have talent regarding whatever profession you choose or whatever service you strive to deliver but, even then, the discipline still trumps talent.
You need to be diligent and have the discipline to keep to your schedule, to adhere to your lists, to update your lists regularly, to do the work and to get it delivered when it's due and at the highest level of quality, you can achieve.
You need to have the discipline to study and learn on a regular basis, to keep your skills up to date, to stay informed on the trends in your chosen industry and to be aware of the latest standards in technology relevant to your field.
As I think about it, tenacity is also important. You need to have the tenacity to stick with it, to keep searching, to keep pushing, to keep getting better at your craft. But then, depending on how you look at it, tenacity can also be a result of discipline.
If you discipline yourself to constantly practice these principles then, from the outside, it will most definitely look like tenacity. And maybe, in a way, that's what tenacity, at its core, really is: Discipline.
Vernon is a freelance software technical writer that uses lists to organize his hectic freelance schedule—see how he maximizes his time throughout the workday.
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Interview with Alyssa, a copywriter and content strategist
To be a successful freelancer, you have to be flexible. Every project and client will be different. Processes can help your business run smoothly but know that things don't always go as planned. Adapting to changes is key.
Alyssa has found her rhythm as a freelancer and founder of the blog, Freelancing Flow—see her tips for keeping it all running smoothly.
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Interview with John, an international business writer sharing 15 years of insights
In my experience, a passion for your work will see you want to maintain that freelance and remote life. Also, it’s important when necessary to take a break from remote and from freelancing.
Going back to a regular schedule, or a contract role, performed in one city— can be as refreshing as working remotely. I recommend this as a means by which to sustain a remote work life long-term.
For over a decade, John has worked as an international business writer. See his insights on the state of remote work, freelancing, and attracting clients who are the right fit.
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Interview with Kati, a co-founder shares her tips for juggling multiple side hustles
Hustle, hustle, hustle. One of my mission statements for Step Up is “Always Be Selling.” I think having an entrepreneurial mindset helps a lot!
Also, traveling, meeting new people, and making new connections worldwide has contributed to my success.
Finally, my honesty and empathy are key.
I truly want to and enjoy helping others succeed (whatever that looks like to them), and I believe that comes across when I am communicating with others.
Kati has made a career at using the internet and gig economy to her advantage—see how she successfully manages multiple side hustles and a business.
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Interview with Wilbert, an ESL teacher that remotely teaches English to kids
In order to get more job offers, it is very that you treat your clients well.
Be friendly, be more responsive and meet deadlines.
Because once a client is satisfied with what you’ve done, and plans to have more projects in the future, this will help assure that you would be one of their first options.
Wilbert is an ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher that made the jump to remote work to gain more freedom from his office job.
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Interview with Erin, a videographer who found her freelancing niche
I think there are a whole lot of different things that can go into being a successful freelancer. Ultimately, I think the most important thing to do is to figure out how you work best. Whether you are working remotely or are a full-time freelancer, you have to be your own boss.
So, if you can figure out when you’re naturally more excited to work and when you struggle, you don’t always have to be fighting yourself to get things done.
I also think that you need to spend some time planning both in the short term and in the long term. I’ve found myself only focusing on what jobs I’m working on right now, and then all of a sudden realize that I have no plan for when the projects are over.
With all types of projects and goals, I like to make sure I’ve mapped out a plan to keep myself on track.
Erin is a videographer who carved out a successful freelancing niche—see how she optimizes her time and plans for the ups and downs of freelance work.
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