1. You aren’t an employee. Therefore, no one has the right to demand your undivided attention unless you are being compensated accordingly (that includes benefits and vacation time).
2. If they don’t know you’re there, they can’t hire you. Be vocal and promote yourself once in a while.
3. If you complain publicly about your clients, you’ll soon have none to complain about.
4. You’re allowed to work weekends if you want to. You’re also allowed to not work if you want to.
5. Your success is in direct proportion to the amount of effort you put into it.
6. You still have the responsibility of acting like a professional. Pretend you’re in a highly political office before you open your mouth or type that email.
7. You’re taken as seriously as you take yourself. Don’t apologize for pricing or make allowances because you don’t feel like a real writer yet. If they hire you for what you can do, you’re a real writer.
8. It’s a business, nothing personal. If they hate your copy or dodge payment, leave your emotions for venting on your friends, not your clients. Fix the copy, add late fees, and run your career like the small business it is.
9. Learn from your mistakes. We all make them. Own up to them and move on.
What are your freelance tips?
Diversify your writing. Think outside the box when looking for opportunities. Network.
Don’t set up the same parameters/boxes that didn’t work if and when you worked in an office.
You’re supposed to work in a way that’s best for YOU, not fit into the rest of the rat race.
Amen to ALL that’s been said.
Excellent advice, Lori! So sorry you had trouble accessing my blog for so long. :'( I hope it’s working better now…
I love #9. 😉
*smiles*
Michele
>>>>3. If you complain publicly about your clients, you'll soon have none to complain about.<<<<
Well said! I'm often surprised by how many people violate this rule.
never mix pleasure with business lols
Great advice, Lori, and things that many of us freelancers need to be reminded of.