Freelancing on the world wide web
WITH OUTSOURSING and contracting becoming common, freelancers (otherwise known as independent professionals/ self employed) are experiencing a welcoming change in the new work world. The world wide web (www)is opening doors for freelancers - publishers, musicians, artists, writers, teachers, librarians, fashion designers, photographers, models, public relations people, therapists, computer specialists, financial planners and many more.
What exactly is freelancing?
Is it the same as running a small business? Pointing out the difference in running a small business operation and being a freelancer, a freelance set designer confesses, "I watched my father run a small business. He had employees and he worried about their payroll. He was his own boss in one sense, yet he had obligations as an employer. I as a freelancer have the freedom to sell my services at my own pace. I like my independence and my smallness. I would like to keep it that way."
Marian Faux in her book "Successful Freelancing" defines a freelancer as someone who sells his/her own services rather than a product. It is typically a one-person operation although some people grow to form a partnership or incorporate a company.
True, like so many things in life, freelancing comes with its own pros and cons. To succeed in freelancing you should enjoy going out hunting for your livelihood rather than grazing on the same patch of grass every day. Since it is often the freelancer's job to leap into things mid-flow, you need to be a self -starter, be good at time management and should be flexible enough to work well with a wide variety of companies, situations and people.
To have a constant supply of assignments, you need to learn where to look on the Internet. Freelance job sites like www.Elance.com, www.freelanceworkexchange.com,www.contractedwork.com and www.guru.com offer a wide range of freelance assignments. Once you sign up with these sites, you are no longer restricted to those freelance employment options, which are within easy reach by car or train. You can literally work for people on the other side of the world.
But of course, there will be other people competing for the same freelance assignments. How do you stand out from the pack?
1. Develop expertise
Take stock of your life experiences, the jobs you have held, any volunteer organisations you have worked for or other projects you can possibly think of that can serve as a means to locate possible areas in which you can specialise. Carve a niche for yourself. It may take some trial and error, but eventually you'll learn what sort of work you enjoy. Promote yourself accordingly.
2. Develop a portfolio that showcases your skills and talents effectively
Collect samples of your work and craft a portfolio showcasing your accomplishments that correspond to the job you are looking for. Post your portfolio online through your website.
Include high quality screen captures. Consider including a short explanation of each job and if the work appears online, link to it. It will increase your power to communicate your worth to employers/clients. Explain the way you worked with past clients. How did you solve past problems? What accomplishments are you most proud of? If you are new in your field, volunteer to work for free, or offer your service for a minimal charge to get the experience you need. Educate yourself and build the skills you need to compete in your field.
3. Get references from people to whom you have provided service
Most people hire freelancers based on a trusted recommendation. Establish a relationship and build a reputation with people with whom you have worked. Getting a referral becomes an easy task once you have built a good rapport with your business associates. Even your co-workers or friends/professors from college can become sources of referrals.
However, don't expect miracles overnight. It takes time to build contacts in the freelance world. Aim to deliver quality service and you will find it easier to get your clients to recommend you to their allies. Once you get those references, remember to add them on your website to boost your credibility.
4. Use Keywords
If you are a client, how would you go about searching for a freelancer in your industry?
Most of them use keywords to search. Hence come up with keywords that explain what is itthat you do and what you are capable of doing.
5. Update
As you complete a new job, ensure you update your online profile. As your interests and industry conditions change, keep your profile and portfolio current in order to attract the jobs you seek.
6. Participate in online forums
Websites like freelancers.net allow you to view and post views on freelancing and the freelancing jobsites. Participating in such forums might give you an insight into the freelancing world online.
Ultimately, the one person you must always make comfortable is yourself because that's the shadow that will be leaning over your shoulder when you are working on your own. .
Once you have found your strengths and learnt to tackle the challenges of freelancing, you will find success more often.
MANJULA SUNDARAM
faqs@cnkonline.com
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Opportunities
