8 Tips from Our Freelancers to New Entrepreneurs
<p><em>Go. Don't go. Many people dream of saying goodbye to their jobs as employees to be self-employed or freelancers. Are you expecting the stars to align and the right time to finally arrive? Is it more of a financial issue? As part of our Freelance Portrait articles, we asked our freelance experts what advice they would like to give new entrepreneurs.</em></p>
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<strong>Tip #1: Build a good network</strong></h3>
<p> In your early days, there are two types of networks you should bet on. First, there is your entourage. That means your family and friends who can become your best ambassadors – as long as they know you now have your business. Take the time to explain to them what you're doing. You might be surprised by how many customers your aunt you haven't seen since Christmas can find you!</p>
<p>Second, there is the professional network. Surround yourself with a strong group that can help you: other freelancers, collaborators, but above all <a href="https://fr.momenteo.com/blogue/comment-choisir-le-comptable-pour-ton-entreprise" target="_blank">a good accountant!</a> They'll be there if you ever have any questions and you'll probably have them! Also dare to participate and introduce yourself at networking sessions.</p>
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<strong>Tip #2: Get organized</strong></h3>
<p>We know you have a lot to do when you start out as a freelancer or self-employed person but being organized will save you time. Focus on one project at a time and set aside time to prepare your schedule, projects and billing. A tip to <a href="https://fr.momenteo.com/blogue/6-astuces-pour-mieux-gerer-sa-facturation" target="_blank">manage your billing</a> well is to simply keep a specific time in your week free to carry out your administrative tasks. Don't forget to send your invoices when your tasks are done and follow up on payments as needed.</p>
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<strong>Tip #3: Stay Authentic</strong></h3>
<p>There are hundreds of photographers, graphic designers or virtual assistants just like you on the market. Therefore, why should a potential client do business with you instead of someone else? Beyond the price, there is connection. Stay authentic, and clearly show who you are. In other words, create a unique business in your own image. This is an important element that will allow you to stand out from the competition and find the clientele you need.</p>
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<strong>Tip #4: Accept that not everything is perfect</strong></h3>
<p>Entrepreneurship is not always rosy. Often, we have this image in our head that self-employed people are happy and don't have any worries – this is often not the case. You will experience challenges and situations that could make you lose your bearings. It is therefore essential to accept that everything is not perfect like your company's website or presence on social networks. This is especially important in your early days. You'll get there, give yourself time!</p>
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<h3><strong>Tip #5: Do what you're passionate about</strong></h3>
<p>In connection with the last point, this advice is valuable: do what you are passionate about. The reason is simple: when times are tough or you have doubts, your passion will give you the strength to continue. Most of the time, becoming an entrepreneur takes a lot of time and energy. It will be easier for you to stay motivated if you simply love what you do.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if there are tasks you don't like to do, such as managing your social media, why not delegate this task? This will allow you to focus on the other tasks you prefer to do.</p>
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<strong>Tip #6: Take care of yourself</strong></h3>
<p>We have said this many times, but this is important: you are your business. That means you have an obligation to take care of yourself. You may have wanted to become self-employed to have a better quality of life, so respect your commitment. As soon as possible, <a href="https://fr.momenteo.com/blogue/vie-de-freelancer-definissez-vos-limites" target="_blank">set your limits</a> and do what you can to respect them. You are as entitled to holidays and days off as anyone else.</p>
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<h3><strong>Tip #7: Dare to try this way of life</strong></h3>
<p>You never know what opportunities will come up during your career. So, keep in mind that when you start as a self-employed person, you are trying something new and that if it doesn't work, it's not more serious than that. You'll have tried it. Many entrepreneurs put too much pressure on themselves to create a perfect business. It may not work the first time around but dare to make the jump! You'll probably learn a lot about yourself.</p>
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<strong>Tip #8: Know your value</strong></h3>
<p>One of the most common mistakes of self-employed beginners is to keep their rates as an employee in mind. To begin with, you need to understand that your rates need to include things like the time you need for contacting customers and billing. Administrative tasks take up an average of 30% of your time and it is important to take them into account when creating a quote for a project. Also, what is your value? What do you bring to your client? Your hourly rate may well be two to three times higher than your salary as an employee.<br />
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<p>To discover the full interviews of our freelancers, take a look <a href="https://fr.momenteo.com/blogue" target="_blank">at our blog!</a> You'll discover articles related to life as a self-employed person, as well as tips for being productive and ready to face challenges. Enjoy reading and all the success with your new project! Don't forget to celebrate all the victories along the way!</p>