Born free, as free as the wind blows….
Maybe we’re over-egging the pudding a little by bursting into song, but many people get into independent contracting or freelance work for the freedom, flexibility and variety it brings.
But being successful requires as much dedication and commitment as you’d expect to put in as a full-time employee. Sometimes more. And it’s not just work as a freelancer – it’s your reputation that’s at stake.
The contracting world is tough. You need to be flexible, patient and able to sell yourself to anyone from directors down. Your customers are either going to believe in you and offer you the work, or give it to someone else who made a better impression. So make sure you know how to give a good pitch – in detail in a formal presentation as well as in ten seconds if you bump into someone.
If you’re not good at networking you need to get better. Quickly. Networking whilst on a project is vital, as well as generally, to ensure that you build up a regular stream of repeat business and new enquiries.
Contractors are expected to put in the hours so be prepared for late nights and early starts. There may be peaks – but there may also be troughs. Use slower periods to learn new skills, do more networking or work on your sales pitch. You’ll have little time for any of that when you’re busy.
As an independent contractor you can choose to work only on projects you find interesting and challenging. And you can do that exclusively so long as it meets all your income needs.
In our experience, the best independent contractors have the following characteristics:
- Self motivation
- The desire to take risks
- The ability to thrive on variety
- Excellent communication skills
- Entrepreneurial drive
- Organisational skills
If that sounds like you, and you enjoy your work, as well as being exceptionally good at it, then you’ve got the tools you need to be successful.