blog

<p><em>A few weeks ago, we asked our community to share a tip related to their lives as freelancers or self-employed workers. We receive many interesting answers! We then decided to share the best advice in this article. It could be relevant to know them if you want to become a freelancer or self-employed soon!</em></p> <p></p> <h3><strong>Surround yourself with professionals&nbsp;</strong></h3> <p>Whether it is by having a network of professionals (accountant, lawyer, financial advisor) or other freelancers, it is important to surround yourself with people that can help you as soon as possible. Thus, if you have questions, you will have access to resources. Also, it can be interesting to share your stories and worries with other self-employed workers since they can understand your reality.</p> <h3><strong>Ask for a down payment before starting a big project</strong></h3> <p>Unfortunately, there are bad payers. How can you increase your chances of being paid? Why not <a href="https://fr.momenteo.com/blogue/pigistes-devriezvous-demander-un-acompte">ask for a down payment</a> before starting working, especially if it is a big project? It does not resolve all the issues; however, it is more common than you may think. Besides testing your new client, you will receive some money that could pay for the start-up expenses or the materials, for example.</p> <h3><strong>Learn to delegate</strong></h3> <p>It is possible that when you start, you can do everything. Then, with time, you might be more solicited and feel overwhelmed. Why not take advantage of this situation by delegating some of your tasks? Take a moment to note down everything you have to do and target the tasks you like the least. Do you not have enough time to manage your social media? Would you need some help finding new contracts or sending invoices? Many professionals, like virtual assistants, can surely give you a hand!</p> <h3><strong>Work with people who respect you</strong></h3> <p>One of the advantages of being a freelancer or a self-employed worker is choosing your clients. Consequently, you should always work with people who respect you and who are pleasant to work with. It can be tempting to accept a lucrative contract; however, you might have some difficulties completing it if it does not match your values. Listen to your inner voice: it often knows what is best for you!</p> <h3><strong>Avoid comments from people who are not freelancers</strong></h3> <p>There are many prejudices against people who are freelancers or self-employed workers. It is then possible that some people from your entourage may make comments that do not reflect your situation (for example, she is waiting for a real job, he must not be working since he is always at home.) You can start by explaining what the reality really is, but if this person does not understand, do not waste your time. How many times did we hear stories of people who made mistakes with their accounting because someone from their entourage said this or that? If needed, do not hesitate to check with a professional.</p> <h3><strong>Do not lower your prices</strong></h3> <p>It can be challenging to <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/how-to-find-your-first-customers" target="_blank">find your first customers</a>. Throughout your career, you might meet people that will ask you to lower your prices. This is our advice: stand firm. If someone tells you that someone else can do it for less, tell yourself that there will always be people that will pay you more, or at least at a reasonable price. Here is another solution: if someone wants you to lower your prices, lower the offered services.&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Take into account the time for administrative tasks</strong></h3> <p>One of the most frequent mistakes regarding quotes is not taking into account the administrative tasks related to the project. It includes the meetings with the client, the coordination, the invoicing, etc. Everything must be quoted and billed. If you are unsure, you could add 10% to the total hours for all administrative tasks.</p> <h3><strong>Look for a clear and complete contract</strong></h3> <p><a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/the-importance-of-having-a-good-contract-of-services" target="_blank">A contract of services</a> is the best way to protect yourself when you are a freelancer or a self-employed worker. It is more complete than some emails, and it allows you to discuss topics like intellectual property, the contract termination conditions, and the payment terms. We strongly suggest you work with a professional in order to have a contract of services that will answer all your needs.&nbsp;</p> <h3><strong>Do not overwork</strong></h3> <p>You probably wanted to become a self-employed worker because you wanted a better life quality and not the contrary. Therefore, if you work 80 hours a week without taking any vacation or time for yourself, you might have sight of your goal. Take some days off and breaks. You will then be less stressed and more productive.</p> <h3><strong>Avoid becoming isolated</strong></h3> <p>Many freelancers work from home. Although they can work in pajamas if they want to, many of them become isolated with time. Here are a few tips: register for training courses and physical activities to maintain good physical and mental health, join freelancer groups on social media, work from a coworking space or a coffee shop a few hours per week, or become a member of a chamber of commerce. These ideas will help you meet other people with whom you can discuss and network!</p> <h3><strong>Do not bill your time</strong></h3> <p>This is THE tip from the fabulous Alexandra Martel, an author, and expert blogger: do not bill your time. Although this can seem strange for many self-employed workers, this entrepreneur explains that your time is your most valuable asset; therefore, it is better to offer value and packages. All the parties will then have the impression to seek the most for every dollar.</p> <p>In conclusion, we hope we have found some relevant tips to help you start your freelancer or self-employed career. If you are looking for new ideas or pieces of advice, do not hesitate to look at <a href="https://www.momenteo.com/blog/" target="_blank">Momenteo&rsquo;s blog</a>, where you can find many articles and interviews with professionals!</p> <p><br /> &nbsp;</p>