Working as a freelance copywriter is tempting since it allows people to set their hours and sometimes charge more than the salary; they would earn working full-time for somebody else. For many of these people looking to start a freelance career, despite having talent, there are some critical steps to help you transition into the freelancing world. Here are some pointers that will assist you in starting your freelancing career.
A Portfolio
Once you decide to freelance, the first thing is to set up a portfolio. You can set up a digital one on the many online platforms available like WordPress and others. Most digital platforms have platforms custom-tailored for different careers. Choose one that showcases your copywriter talent.
Besides a portfolio, other must-haves to get started is a laptop (computer), stationery, business cards, printer, and supplies for the home office.
Action Plan
Like any other business, you are now running a business, and you need an action plan. Your plan should include these essential items:
- Goals: put a priority on jobs that you want and state the ones you will not take.
- Clients: generate a list of potential clients and take note of their strengths, weaknesses, and needs. Keep in touch with them.
- Communication: When it comes to answering calls and replying emails, be prompt. This discipline helps that you will be able to respond to calls and emails from jobs later on.
- Revenue: Have a separate detailed budget. The action plan should remind you of your earning targets to be profitable. It helps to figure how much time off you need.
Rates
From the start, it is crucial to set rates. It would be best if you decided whether to charge hourly, by project, or including both rates. Take enough time to come up with standards and evaluate what works as a fee. Clients want consistency, and they will not work with rules that keep changing.
Another thing to note when coming up with the rates is doing market research. You need to understand the market, and this is as important as knowing your expenses.
As you are beginning, you may not negotiate your rates and will settle with the clients’ pay rates, but this does not mean you shouldn’t set your prices.
Writing Samples
Write samples to show your talent. These samples are an excellent way to showcase your work to potential clients. For those with limited or without experience, speculative advertising can create samples.
Develop a Contract
Develop a contract before accepting any work. Do not start working on a project until a signed contract is in your hands. It is good practice to consult a lawyer on how to develop a deal. The contract is your first line of defense, if ever a client doesn’t want to pay.
Networking and creating a buzz
As a freelancer, you market yourself. Find networking events where you can find some people who could be looking for your skills. Go out of your comfort zone to create buzz. Create work that will get people to notice you.
Get in touch with players in the industry.
Please do not feel afraid to reach out to people who have already made it in the industry.
Finding Clients
Do not grow weary of trying out new methods to find clients. Get in touch with different clients. Once you understand the need of the clients, you decide the approach better.
Refine Your Online Portfolio
Consistently update your portfolio with your best work. Freelance work is rewarding, but you need to be patient and do your due diligence to make it work.