Last year, the number of freelancers in the UK grew by over 30%. There are plenty of benefits to freelancing, including the freedom to be your own boss. However, as many freelancers know, life without a regular salary is challenging.
Many freelancers find themselves on a treadmill. Gone is the flexibility they dreamt of as, afraid they won’t earn enough, freelancers say yes to every job they’re offered. If only they could double their earnings and get off the treadmill…
Well, they can in a few simple steps;
Take Stock
This might seem counter-intuitive if you’re looking to earn more but, it’s essential to stop and take stock of where you are. If you’re getting lots of job offers, for example, but can’t pay your bills, ask yourself why. Are you in a poorly paid sector or aren’t you charging enough? If it’s the former, look for other revenue streams. If it’s the latter, it’s time to start charging what you’re worth.
Rates
When starting, many freelancers lower their prices to attract clients. While this might work in the short-term, long-term, it hurts their earnings. It’s much better to set realistic rates in line with industry standards and stick to them. Not all companies might want to pay these rates, but plenty will, meaning you can earn more without having to work 24-hours a day.
Targeted Marketing
Clients find freelancers through job boards, websites, direct marketing and social media. Freelancers should work out where their clients are finding them and focus on these as a way of attracting new ones. Targeted marketing takes up less time, leaving more freedom for work or play, and should prove more lucrative by getting you in front of the right people.
Add Value
More and more businesses rely on freelancers. Managing many freelancers, however, can be costly to them and time-consuming. They would rather use a few trusted people. Look at how you can go beyond the job you were initially hired for. This way, you add value and make yourself more valuable. The aim here is to develop a long-lasting and lucrative relationship.
As you make these changes, remember, companies want and need your skills and experience. Don’t sell yourself short or short-change yourself for fear you won’t get work. Companies will pay for talented people, but only if you ask for what you’re worth.
