Becoming a freelancer is a great way to build a career or supplement your income. With the potential to set your own hours and do something you enjoy, the flexibility and control of being part of the gig economy is becoming increasing alluring. However, there are some core tools and resources you’ll need to kickstart your career as a freelancer, such as:
- Your own website
Promoting your services is the only way you’ll consistently attract new clients, so you’ll need your own website to succeed as a freelancer. Furthermore, potential new clients will want to see examples of your work and find out more about you before they sign any contracts. A well-designed website can have a massive impact on your success, so be sure to spend time honing your design and content.
Of course, site functionality and security are top priorities too. With a cheap Windows VPS, you can avoid the hassle of using a public hosting company and optimise your site for success. With complete control over your online presence, you can minimise the risk of security threats and keep your site running smoothly.
- A professional network
Working as a freelancer can be a somewhat lonely experience, particularly if it’s your full-time occupation. Although some people thrive working alone, others struggle with making the transition. However, having a professional network gives you a sense of camaraderie and has an important practical purpose too.
Many freelancers refer clients to other freelancers in their professional network. If you can’t offer a particular service that a potential client needs or you simply don’t have the time to meet their deadline, being able to recommend someone else helps you to forge a connection. When members of your network support one another, you’ll find that your client base increases exponentially.
- Accountancy software
When you’re a freelancer, you’ll spend a surprising amount of time performing administrative tasks. Marketing your business, sending invoices, chasing accounts and filing tax returns are just a few of the things you’ll need to take care of. For most subcontractors, account management and invoicing is an on-going burden. To minimise the amount of time you spend on these issues, find the right accountancy software.
By automating your invoicing and billing, you can spend more time focusing on your core business activities and generating profits. What’s more, the right accountancy software will ensure your data is ready at the end of the tax year and avoid a last-minute rush to prepare your accounts before they need to be submitted to HMRC.
Launching Your Career as a Freelancer
The internet has turned the world into a global marketplace, which means it’s easier than ever to launch a career as a freelancer. However, you’ll face a lot of competition so it’s important to understand what it takes to be successful. Being a freelancer does mean you can choose your own hours and specialisms, but it also means you’re ultimately responsible for the success of your enterprise. By making the most of the tools and resources designed specifically for today’s freelancers, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy your new career path.
