How to Start with Freelancing

In my previous article i already wrote about

• Common misconception about Freelancers
• Some reality checks
• Why company hires freelancers
• What qualities you should have if you want to start freelancing.

if you have missed that article you can read it here.

In this article i will suggest some ideas about how can you start freelancing safely.

1: Pre Check Phase

This is the prepare phase to start your first freelancing assignment. You are already searching for assignments and getting ready in case you get one.

• Check if you have the right skills. You are expert enough on certain subjects and can work stand alone if given a task.
• Start preparing for Interview, brushing up your skill is always good.
• You should have atleast financial backup for six months. So you can survive without any assignment.
• Check if you can arrange the expenses, Tax and VAT administration on your own or find some one who can do it for you.
• You should only resign from your current job once you have signed your first contract.
• Learn how you can register your company at Chamber of Commerce and opening bank accounts.
• Prepare how you will be building up your pension.
• Learn about insurances that you will need (Liability, Disability etc).

2: On flight Phase

After securing and starting freelancing assignment, you need to

• Try to learn company’s Domain knowledge. its very important for your growth.
• Brushing up your skills where you are lacking so far on the assignments.
• Keep your knowledge up to date. Learn new upcoming technologies otherwise you will become obsolete very soon.
• Always leave a company at good node. Its a small world and you might be coming back for another assignment.

3: Next Flight

While freelancing, you will need to find the job much often as compared to regular job. Keep your CV and Linkedin Uptodate.

• Announce on Linkedin about your availability.
• Search and apply for jobs on LinkedIn and on other website of recruiting agencies.
• Inform your direct and indirect network about your upcoming availibility.

I wish you success for your next Flight :)