I’m FREE, Now What?

Taking the first step into the cold pool is always scary, but it is 100% worth it. Have you dreamed of freedom from the 9-5 or being your boss and setting your own rules and schedule? With a freelance life, you can have all of that and more. You will face new challenges and opportunities, and you will grow. Freelance life is not for everyone, but you can clear a successful path for the future if done correctly. So let’s talk about some of the benefits and challenges. 

Here are some benefits to becoming a freelancer full-time: 

• more time for yourself and your family 

• setting your schedule and boundaries 

• working on what you are passionate about 

• building a solid future for yourself and your family 

There are also many challenges to starting a freelance position. Challenges include:

• There are too many resources

• You are THE decision-maker

• Legal can get confusing

• Hard work, commitment, and time are all necessities in the beginning

I have crafted a guide to getting started, and I followed five steps to get where I am today. 

FIVE STEPS TO GETTING STARTED AS A FREELANCER:  

• Step #1 Create a plan

  • Understand your business model, who you want to work with, and what you want to do

  • Create a step-by-step action plan (I have a resource for this! Check my IG for my roadmap to getting started )

• Step #2 Get organized

  • Get set up with a task management or project tracking software (Asana and Dubsado are amazing)

  • Get your email setup, google drive, and any other communication programs like voxer, slack, or zoom

  • Figure out your packages and how you will communicate your rates with clients

  • You do not need a website in the beginning!

• Step #3 Get legal

  • Learn the specs for your state and your industry

  • Get your bank account and accounting setup

  • Have a legal professional create or review your contract template

• Step #4 Market Yourself

  • Setup all of your social media accounts IG, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Clubhouse

    • You can use tools like Canva to craft your social media posts and use scheduling tools like Later or Hootsuite to schedule your posts and get ahead of the game.

  • Create your brand guide, colors, fonts, etc

  • Craft your pitch deck

  • Join freelancing groups on Facebook specific to your industry, join clubhouse rooms, and get on that stage!

  • You need to show the world why they should work with you and WHY you are an expert in your field.

• Step #5 Book your first client

  • Set up your first discovery call and sell yourself! Be confident.

  • To understand your clients, better have a client intake form prepared and research your client a bit before the call.

  • Seal the deal and send the contract!

  • With your first client, you will want to get feedback from them on your performance, expectations, and needs. Did you meet their goals? What ways could you improve? Etc.

I truly hope this guide will help you get started. Entering the freelance world can be intimidating, but keep confident, know your strengths, and remain positive. You can do this!!