WHEN IS THE RIGHT TIME TO START FREELANCING
What is the best time to start freelancing? There is no correct answer. Starting a freelance career can be a somewhat confusing decision to make. This is because your business should be up and running before you quit your job.
What is Freelancing?
Freelancing has a lot of great opportunities. People prefer the flexibility that comes with being your boss. You can work when you want and how much you want. Also, you will not worry about getting stuck in traffic, or merely commuting. Additionally, you can earn more as a freelancer than any 9-5 job. A lot depends on how hard you work at marketing yourself and finding clients willing to pay a reasonable price for your services.
Furthermore, freelancing can also be a great way to gain experience in your field before taking the plunge into full-time employment with an established company.
10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Start Freelancing
1. Why do I want to start freelancing?
Freelancing can be a gratifying experience, but it’s also demanding and challenging, especially at first. If you’re considering becoming a freelancer, you should ask yourself some questions before leaping. “Why do I want to start freelancing?” is a question often overlooked by people looking to start their own business.
Answering the question will help you determine what kind of business to start and how much time and effort you should devote. Let it guide your decisions when deciding how much time and effort to spend on freelancing in the future.
2. What’s my end goal?
It’s significant to know what you want from freelancing and whether or not it matches up with what you can realistically achieve. If you’re going to make money, the right time to start freelancing is to start as soon as possible. If you want to learn new skills and grow as a professional, start freelancing when you’re ready.
But what if your end goal is both? What if you want to make money while learning new skills? What if you dream of becoming an entrepreneur who earns good money at the own comfort of your home? Well, then you should start freelancing ASAP!
3. What skills do I have that are transferable to freelancing?
It is a tricky question, but it’s necessary. If you can’t answer it with any confidence, don’t jump into freelancing yet. You will need a lot of time to develop your skills. There are many different types of skills you can use for freelancing. If you have a computer science degree, finding freelance jobs in programming is easy. If you’re a writer, there are plenty of sites like Fiverr and Freelancer.com where you can find gigs writing articles or blog posts. No degree holder can start freelancing as long as they have skills.
4. What are my assets (e.g., computer, software, website)?
If you have a computer and internet connection, you can start freelancing. However, it may be difficult for clients to find and hire you for projects if you have no website or other assets. It’s essential to prepare and have your assets ready before you start. In addition, you need to have the proper tools to succeed as an independent worker or freelancer.
5. What do I need to buy or learn to start freelancing?
The question “What do I need to buy or learn to start freelancing?” is essential because it helps you figure out what kind of work you want to do and what skills you need to acquire. Learning HTML and CSS is an excellent start if you want to design websites and apps. On the other hand, learning Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator should be high on your list of priorities if you want to be a graphic designer. Remember that it only depends on your situation.
However, if you’re unsure, you can enroll in a beginner’s course that will equip you right knowledge and skills to begin freelancing. You can enroll in any online academy like Surge Marketplace so you will be guided with your freelancing career. Also, Surge offers an apprenticeship program where you can grab an actual experience of the learning you acquired. Plus, you will be also hired through Surge hiring opportunities.
6. How do I find clients?
The question “How do I provide value to my clients?” is pivotal when you are starting. It will help you determine your niche and find clients who care about what you have to say. Focusing on providing value first and making money later when you start freelancing is best. Identifying your niche, which you are passionate about to become an expert in would be best. You want to be known for providing valuable services in this niche. You are also making money doing something that makes you happy. This is because niche specificity increases your chances of success.
7. Do I have enough time committed to this project that it won’t interfere with my other obligations (e.g., day job, family commitments)?
You ask this question because you don’t want to be in a situation where you’re working a full-time job and freelancing at night and on weekends. It can lead to burnout, and it’s not healthy for anyone involved.
However, if you’re already freelancing part-time or full-time and making enough money to live on, then, by all means, go ahead. Take on another client. Just ensure you’re not taking on more work than you can handle!
8. Do I have enough money in savings that if things don’t go as planned, I’ll be able to handle the setbacks without going into debt?
The question is essential because you’re now working for yourself and don’t have anyone else carrying the load for you. You’re responsible for everything. If something goes wrong, it’s up to you to fix it. For one thing, it’s a good idea you prepare something for the unexpected. Any time can be an excellent time to have a little extra cash. An emergency fund can help protect your finances from unforeseen expenses or job loss.
9. Do I know what legal structures are available for me as a freelancer?
It would help if you consider the legal structure of your business because it will affect how much tax is due on your income and how much protection it offers against liability. These two factors are significant for entrepreneurs who work from home.
However, if you’re a beginner and is not yet established, you can set aside this topic and focus first on building your freelancing career. And when you’re fully established, register your freelancing business.
10. Is it worth it?
This question is not just about money; it’s about your life and future career.
We work with people who have already quit their jobs, so we know how difficult it can be to make that decision. We also understand that many people wonder if they will be able to find new clients after leaving their current jobs. I can say that it’s worth it to start freelancing. Although not being careful can also lead to a costly mistake. As a result, you will have to work hard and be dedicated to your job. And if you are successful, then the rewards are great!
Right Time To Start Freelancing
The right time to start freelancing is when you are ready to make a change in your life. It will be tough on you and the clients that hire you if you’re not yet ready. You will also need specific skills, expertise, and experience to succeed at freelancing. You don’t need a particular degree or qualification to become a freelancer, but if you want to get paid well, you need the training to help you stand out from other applicants. I suggest not waiting for the perfect time, because there is no such perfect.
Now is the time to leap into freelancing. Go for it! And if you need help getting started, get trained today with Surge Marketplace.
Freelancing is a tricky business. It requires dedication and perseverance. While you don’t have the security of a regular paycheck, you don’t have to deal with office politics or a boss breathing down your neck. Call it the best of both worlds.
Moreover, freelancing is an excellent way to make extra money while gaining valuable experience in your field. These are a few points to help you get started. I hope these questions are helpful to your starting career! And if you need help, reach out to me through [email protected]. I’m thrilled to help you get started. #Freelancer #virtualassistant #Camelshub
Source: https://surgedigital.agency/right-time-to-start-freelancing/