The (secret) life of a freelancer

7 things I have learnt in my time as a freelance marketer and copywriter

If you’re thinking of becoming, or using a freelancer, you might find this article about my experience of interest.

I became a freelancer following redundancy while I was on maternity leave. Having a child under one and finding very quickly that there is a lack of flexible, permanent and local jobs, I decided to take the plunge and be a freelancer.

As a marketer and copywriter with a decade of experience, CIM qualifications and an English Language degree under my belt I felt I stood a good chance – but it was still scary!

So, here are just 7 of the things I have learnt in the first 6 months of becoming a freelancer.

• Motivation is so important – find out where you work best and what time of the day and get as much done in that time as possible (even if that is in your pyjamas on the sofa or at 7am in a cafe with coffee on tap).
• Make use of your relationships and people you know – people buy from people and getting your friends to introduce you to a possible client, or asking past business contacts if you can work together is not only ok, it works.
• Get out of your comfort zone – networking is very important but so many people (myself included) find it scary. If you set yourself goals before going along to an exhibition or networking event (such as give out x number of business cards or speak to a particular person) it can help give you the push to talk to someone new.
• Be prepared for late nights and working weekends – finding the time to promote yourself and get business, and at the same time actually do the work you have, is very difficult! Starting up a business is very time consuming. Once established, some work should come from recommendations, word of mouth and your portfolio. But until then, it’s all go!
• Find time for your personal life – you might wonder where you will find time to fit your life in around the amount of work you have to do but it is important to spend a bit of time with your partner, family and friends as well. They are suffering with you and will always be there for you.
• Don’t forget the marketing – make sure you market yourself and your company – whether it’s networking, leaflet drops, website, social media, advertising or PR etc. As a wise friend once said to me, if you don’t do anything then no-one will know you are there.
• Don’t let obstacles get in your way – I took my one year old to a business exhibition and I met a great new client there. Sometimes the impossible is possible.

To all freelancers, would-be freelancers and anyone who has worked with one of use – I’d love to hear your experiences and what you’ve learnt. Share your thoughts below.