Striking out on your own or freelancing, as it called is never easy. You will have to answer a lot of question from your peers, you will have to work double hard to make a name for yourself. When you are trying to do something different there will always be people who will try to pull you down. But you should always keep in mind that it is only a small step that paves the road to success.
Today’s communication savvy world holds a vast number of freelancing jobs like software designing, writing, programing, web designing, data entry, interior designing, dress designing, research etc. Every job has different requirements, which will vary depending on the client needs, but there are a few rules, which apply everywhere. In this post, we will discuss about some things that a freelancer should never do:
Don’t procrastinate: This is the golden rule, which a freelancer should always remember. The more you drag your feet in submitting your assignments the more you lose the clients faith. Similarly, when you are in a process of discussing or giving an interview then make sure that you are quick in precise and correct response.
Don’t deviate from client instructions: This is one mistake that most freelancers make (although not consciously) is that they deviate from client instruction in order to make the project ‘better’. If you have any ideas, which will make the project better or will give better value to client then discuss with the client first and incorporate any changes if and only if the client agrees to it. Remember nobody likes surprises, which they did not ask for.
Don’t use ‘wrong’ language: When you are freelancing, the client will watch your every move because he/she has put their faith in you especially since you are not on their payroll. Therefore, you need to watch what you are saying at all the times. Don’t be too over familiar even when you have been working for the client for a long-long time. Always use the correct salutations, correct write up even when you are in chat. Don’t use icons, or acronyms or SMS language with words like thanx, BRB, ttyl etc.
Don’t change your fees: This is another one big mistake, which a freelancer should never ever make if he or she wants to really succeed in making a career out of freelancing. If you increase your fees in between the project or change the payment terms then the client is not going to be happy with you ever. Some freelancers start haggling for more payment once the job is near completion or they come to know that client is now dependent on the project or requires it urgently. This is an unethical practice. This rule also includes not over charging the client.
Don’t take a job because money is good: A good freelancer knows what his/her skills are and knows what kind of jobs he or she can do. Imagine taking a software-designing job when you have a writing background just because the money is good. If you don’t have the necessary skills then how will you deliver a good product? Your reputation is more important than money in freelancing jobs.
Don’t compromise on your rates: If you are bidding for a job and see that, others have bid lower for the job then don’t compromise on your rates. If you know that, you can do a very good job then bid accordingly and in your bid write to the client about why you will be suitable for the job. Try to bid for the amount that will justify your skills and expertise.
