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Freelancing is not a big deal in today’s world. But the term Freelancing is still quite alien to a lot of students. I guess after reading this article, things will be a lot easier for you all.
Who is a freelancer? A freelancer is basically a person who creates self employment opportunities for himself or herself and is committed to a number of organisations or employees simultaneously.
Freelancing is easier these days with the growth of the internet and various freelance communities.
Initially, a personal desktop and an internet connection are enough for you to start off your career as a freelancer. In addition to that you need to know the right platforms from which you are going to start off.
As a student, it’s not always easy to find out the right places for freelancing. Don’t be misguided by your friends who may had a bad experience at freelancing and are carrying a pessimistic approach towards it. Be clear with your intentions and start afresh. You will definitely succeed as a freelancer.
1. Start with micro-jobs
If you are good at completing small tasks, then start with micro jobs. These jobs take less time to complete and give you a clear idea about freelancing. Microworkers is a company that provides micro jobs to freelancers from all over the world. The jobs vary from blog posting to proof reading and many more. All you need is to just sign in at microworkers and start taking up micro projects. They make payments to you through PayPal, so you should set up your Paypal account first.
2. Choose the right Freelancing Platform as a newcomer
Choosing the right freelancing platform is always essential as a starter. Sites like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour, and Elance are good places to start off your debut journey as a freelancer. The jobs posted on these sites include content writing, graphic designing, website development, Animation and lots more. All you need is to just sign in, create a profile and start taking projects as a freelancer.
3. If you are good at designing, try 99Designs
This site is for all those who love to design, illustrate and focus on vector artworks. If you are an artist and love to showcase your talent then 99Designs is the best platform for you. Jobs are posted here in the form of contests. All you need to do is participate in those contests a submit a design as per the requirement of your clients. The best design wins cash prize ranging from $100 to $500. So that’s really cool.
4. Maintain a balance between school and your freelance work
Striking the right balance between your school hours and freelance working hours is not always easy. Chalk out a routine and try to abide by it. This will surely help. Sometimes it might be very difficult for you to go your classes as well as complete your freelance project. In that case, what you can do is take a break from your freelance work and start afresh. If you are under a deadline, then inform your clients about the problem.
5. You can earn your own pocket money
Asking for pocket money from your parents is too old school. Start freelancing and earn your own pocket money. Sites that are mentioned above will surely fetch you handsome remuneration per month for sure if you are quite serious at your work. Maintain a PayPal account so as to ensure smooth transfer of money into your bank account.
6. You can be your own boss
The main advantage of being a freelancer is that you can set your own working hours, according to the needs of your client. If you are attending school in the morning, then fix a schedule in the evening for your freelance work. There will be no 9 to 6 shifts for you, like a full timer. This will enhance your flexibility to concentrate on other works as well.
7. Establish your personal brand
Once you sign in as freelance worker in the above mentioned websites start branding yourself so as to increase your network and client base. Create a separate blog for yourself and link it to your personal profile in these websites. While choosing a domain name for your blog always remember the “KISS” formula; that is Keep It Short and Simple!
8. Take a leave whenever you want to Another advantage of being a freelancer is that you don’t have anything called fixed leaves.
You can take a break whenever you want to. But make sure that you inform your clients beforehand. If you don’t then chances are very high that you might lose those clients forever. So try to avoid any kind of miscommunication.
9. Work from anywhere in the world
You don’t have to travel to your office location everyday as a freelancer. Your work will be done from your home mostly. Thus, this will definitely save you a lot of travelling expenses and a more availability for your loved ones. So, if you are looking to cut down your travelling expenses, then freelancing is the best option for you. If you have a laptop and an internet connection, then you can work from anywhere.
10. Having multiple clients
As a freelancer, you will be working for many clients and not a single client. You will have the option to interact with them and grow your client network. You should maintain a good relationship with your clients as that will result in the expansion of your client base. A satisfied client will always refer you to other clients in his or her own circle. As a result, you will get more projects. More projects will ensure more money.
So what are you waiting for? Start your freelance career today. Happy Freelancing!