09. Freelancing for Dummies

With all the layoffs happening recently due to COVID-19, there will, no doubt, be a lot of people picking up freelance work while they hunt for their next full-time job. Some of you may have never done freelance before and aren’t sure where to start.

Chances are good that if you’re freelancing, you’re doing this all on your own. You’re responsible for tracking work. You’re responsible for client communication. You’re responsible for delivering. You’re responsible for invoicing. Unfortunately, sometimes, you’re also responsible for dealing with clients who don’t want to pay on time.

Because of all of this, it’s all too easy to get stressed out. But you might not know you’re stressed out until it’s too late.

This week, Derek and Jeremy give some tips to keep you from getting to the point where the stress becomes too much to handle. With a few simple ways to prepare and pitfalls to look out for, there’s no reason why freelancing can’t be a successful side hustle or full-time gig.

Topics:
• 00:50 – Jeremy is committed to this show.
• 05:40 – Use the Freelancers Union’s free templates.
• 08:10 – Stay on top of clients so the work doesn’t drag on.
• 10:10 – Taking on work you aren’t comfortable doing is risky.
• 11:38 – Don’t make less money because you’re efficient.
• 14:04 – Relying solely on Stack Overflow is very risky.
• 15:02 – The best freelance work is “easy breezy” and also “lemon squeezy.”
• 16:21 – Desperation freelance work is very stressful.
• 17:08 – Raindrops are falling on Jeremy’s head.
• 17:20 – Check yourself before you wreck yourself, the project, and your bridges.
• 17:54 – Word of mouth can help you, but also hurt you if you’re not careful.
• 18:30 – Always have a contract for work.
• 21:01 – Beware of the contracts you sign.
• 21:55 – Get in and get out — on to the next one.
• 22:53 – Do what you were paid to do — no more, no less.
• 24:50 – Try to have a clear picture of the solution before you start.
• 30:50 – Regular communication is important for freelance.
• 37:00 – When you get overwhelmed step away and come back.
• 38:15 – Jeremy’s terrible nautical analogy.
• 42:20 – Learn to manage your stress.
• 43:22 – If you make a mistake, own up to it.
• 44:55 – Have a reason to do freelance work.

Helpful Links:
• The Freelancers Union
• The Freelancers Union’s Free Resources
• Insurance for Freelancers

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