I’ve just picked up an email from one of my loyal readers…
She thinks she might like to freelance from home - with repeat clients (that’s how I did it and it makes working so much nicer), but doesn’t know what steps to take to get started.
I suppose there are many people who have similar thoughts so I’ve decided to write more about freelancing for a few days. It sure takes my mind off the garage anyway!
First off, apart from shelling out a whopping $7 for a great ebook on the subject (see: Freelancing Online, which will take you to the knowledge and inside information that gets you making money quicker, I’ll write a few tips about my own journey.
Freelancing is a lot like any other legitimate home based business. Right through to tax season where you are able to write off a portion of your rent or mortgage, a portion of your internet connection fee, a portion of your travel (when it’s business related, etc.) and much more.
I won’t go into all the tax savings and why doing business from home is just sound economic sense because I don’t want to make myself liable for other people’s lack of knowledge on taxes - please consult an accountant or grab a great book on saving on taxes with a home based business.
Let’s get back on track…
One of the first things you want to do once you’ve decided what freelance jobs to take is to create a resume. I know, I know, we all hate doing them and when you’re in business for yourself you shouldn’t have to create a resume, but it is the quickest route to landing the freelance job you’ve set your sights on. It’s your introduction, so to speak, to the client.
Clients who Hire Freelancers Want A Resume
Your freelancing resume might include samples of your work, past experience, and any special training you’ve had - relevant to the job. And never forget testimonials or letters of reference if you have them! Nothing beats that form of ’social proof’.
Again, there are pages in the ebook on crafting the best freelance job resume - a resume created to impress your potential online clients. Without the book though, I’m sure you can put yourself in the client’s shoes and create a resume that you’d want to read if you were in their situation.
A Few Tips for a Professional Online Resume
Keep your resume looking nice, easy to read, and your introductions personable. Especially so if you’re hoping to keep that client as a repeat customer of your services.
You should appear trustworthy, efficienct and dedicated to your work. You should always submit your query or resume well before the deadline. Deadlines online are of the utmost importance! If you can’t apply on time, chances are good you won’t have their assignment done on time.
That’s all for today, stop back in again tomorrow and we’ll talk about how to land that freelance job you saw online.
