Once you have a little experience you can show your potential clients its time to start looking for them. The simplest way to to this is to create and maintain a client list.
To get your client list started, research what companies you would like to work for. Check out their websites, especially any employment section they may have, as they may have freelance opportunities listed. If they already use freelancers you'll have a much easier time getting them to consider you than if they are unfamiliar with freelancers.
Study their needs. Even if they don't have any job listings on their website or don't have a website, you can research what the company does to determine where you could help them. You need to know how to present yourself and your skills when you write your query letter. Showing that you understand what their business does shows that you are a professional.
Expect rejection. It's simply a fact of life as a freelancer. Maybe they just don't need you at the moment or maybe your style doesn't appeal to them. Whatever the reason there are plenty of other things you can do.
Do not pester companies to hire you, but don't give up too quickly either. Monthly is about right when it comes to checking to see if their needs have changed.
Even though you now have experience, don't neglect the online resources mentioned before. Now is the time to start going for the higher paying assignments and more challenging employers. Clients who appreciate professional work don't mind paying for a good job. They may not always be easy to find but they are out there.
If writing articles is your style, don't forget to buy Writer's Market. It's one of the best resources out there for freelance writers. There are similar resources for other freelance careers.
If you aren't getting enough work, just use the time you would like to spend working for pay practicing your skills. Pretend you have an assignment. Interview family members, write articles, reports, instruction manuals for software you own, whatever you hope to do for an employer do on your own.
Above all else, keep your habits professional. Maintain a solid work schedule and don't treat your business as a hobby or that is all it will be.
Stephanie Foster runs www.find-freelance.com/ as a resource for freelancers to get their careers started. She offers more advice on being a freelancer at her website |
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