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A Freelance Professional’s Christmas To-Do Guide

2012-01-03T20:46:00.000-08:00

Some people would say that Christmas is the time to relax and not think about work but freelance professionals think differently – it is the perfect time to earn money. Wait a minute, you can earn money while enjoying Christmas with your family and friends at the same time? How is that possible? Full-time workers are off the office while freelancers have the chance to earn more money while on holiday-mode. How can you get freelance jobs Australia when most employers are shutting down work and opportunities are rare during this time? Besides, you need to pay your bills and enjoy the holidays too.

Source: online.wsj.com

It doesn’t have to mean that you imprison yourself at home and force yourself to work while your mates are having fun on their Christmas parties or watching the cricket test match at the MCG. Do yourself a favour, find freelance writing Melbourne projects and opportunities on freelance search sites that allows you to send articles on your free time. You can spend time with your kids or reunite with your friends during this time of the year while doing a little bit of work when you’re in front of your computer from time to time. In the end, it’s all about good and effective time management.

Look for Seasonal Projects

Source: cnbc.com

You have to understand that some freelance clients need to take time off from all the hassles and complexities of work so it would be a great idea to find seasonal projects on the side while waiting to get a full load of work by next year. Although it is not as easy as you think, this profession is flexible enough to accommodate your needs and professional requirements. Christmas would never run out of freelance opportunities and freelance gigs as long as you know how to look for one.

Holiday Planning

Source: newsfeed.time.com

The good news, you don’t have to wear a Santa Claus suit. Unfortunately, there is a need for holiday planning to get through the most expensive months of the year. The prospects of running out of moneymaking ventures are big but that doesn’t stop you from being creative and imaginative. Plan your holidays by making sure that you get seasonal projects, as mentioned above.

Start a New Project

Source: dessertfirstgirl.com

Being one of the many freelance writers Australia, it doesn’t mean that your work ends when online publishers take time off during the holidays. Be creative and start your new project. How about starting a new blog? Why not can catch up with your clients and propose a new project where you can collaborate. It would be a good idea to update your resume just in case you want to look for new clients by next year. Brush up with your web and graphics design skills so that you will be ready for the challenges of 2012.

Source: http://www.totallymoney.com/blogs/freelance-christmas/

Stress-Free Christmas Party Tips for Freelance Events Planners

2011-12-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

There is a big demand forfreelance event planners during this time of the year. With Christmas coming,hosting parties and other social events are quite important for people who wantto have a memorable holiday off from the hassles of work and daily living. Don’twaste your time and money looking for suitable Christmasparty venues Melbourne or Sydney when you can let someone do the job foryou. It would be a great idea to hire a freelance event planner to do the jobso that all you have to do is enjoy the party, relax, and have fun. Just makesure to contract services from an experienced event planner, who has a proventrack record in organising Christmas parties in your locality. Check out a specialised freelance search portalif you want to look for more choices.

Source: movies.mmgn.com

If you have trouble looking forsomeone who can organise your Christmas party and other holiday events then youmight as well consider some tips that will help you start on your own. Checkout Christmasparty ideas Sydney that may go well with your plans to setup a yacht partyby the Sydney Harbour as you sail the night away with a glitzy evening ofdances, booze, fun, and excitement with your friends, co-workers, flatmates,and loved ones. Here are some of the important tips and ideas that you may wantto do in order to have a successful party:

Early Planning

Source: simplyelegantcorp.com

As they say, planning early is oneway of making sure that the Christmas party goes as you planned. With that inmind, last minute changes can be made as long as all the things needed for theevent are set up. Whether you hire a freelance event planner or not, it wouldbe best to secure a great venue and find the best deals before anything else. Onceyou made your plan, all you have to do is follow what you have in your list andrelax.

Budget Management

Source: symphonyem.co.uk

Since hosting a Christmas partycan cost you money, it would be a reasonable idea to hire someone to do theplanning for you. A freelanceevent planner would make sure that you save time and money when hosting sucha very important social event. Budgeting and prioritising important aspects ofthe event would take serious deliberation so an event planner is the perfectperson to do the balancing act.

Getting the Services

Source: godine.co.uk

Although an event planner will dothe job, they also contract certain aspects of the event to other people. Youmay have to pay extra for the catering service, the band or DJ that willperform in the party, and the decorator that will make sure that your partywill look the way that you always wanted. Every detail has to be perfect fromthe lighting to the way the Christmas program is organised.

Setting the Theme

Source: becauzevents.com

Whether it’s a masquerade or aHawaiian luau, set a theme that is fun and exciting. At the end of the day,Christmas parties are supposed to be memorable and the event planner has toknow that.

Good Entertainment

Source: fluidfoundation.com

Freelanceevent planners workChristmas party Brisbane in a military-style precision because a missingcomponent would ruin such important event. In this case, a good entertainmentis the centrepiece of any Christmas party. After all, no one wants to join aparty that is dead boring and uneventful as hell.

Source: http://www.forbiddenlondon.com/plan-your-party/christmas-parties/christmas-party-planning-tips/

12 Things Freelance Designers Want for Christmas

2011-12-07T18:29:00.001-08:00

Christmas is just a few days awayand freelance designers have been doing the best as they can to make theirclients happy. As appreciation for all their hard work and perseverance, theseindependent professionals would love to receive gifts that they truly deserve. Christmasgifts that money can’t buy would a great gesture so it would be an excellentidea for employers to make a freelance designer’s job easier and moreconvenient than before. With their wish list on their mind, freelanceprofessionals would love to have the best jobs and amazing clients that theycan find in freelance searchportal Odusee.

Source: chron.com

It would be quite fitting toreward someone who made the job done. Employers who outsource their work to freelancedesigners should think about them and fulfill the wish list that they’redreaming of. A 12 days of Christmas analogue would be a perfect way to fulfilltheir wishes and make sure they get what they want. Although, anyone can buysomething special from the shopping mall but it would be great to help fulfilltheir wishes of making their work more interesting. Here are the things theywant for Christmas:

A Good Client

Source: lunalista.com

Freelance professionals wouldlove to have a client that provides them new projects and keep a steady flow ofwork. That would be an ideal working relationship to build. Not everyone hasthe luxury to have a steady flow of gigs so many freelance designers have tolook for clients willing to work with them all the time.

Two Days Off on Weekends

Source: danielagnew.wordpress.com

Let’s face it, all freelancedesigners wanted is a little bit of time off from work. Whether it’smeeting daily quotas or meeting project deadlines, it would be a good way toreward yourself for a much needed break from the action. Even if you are yourown boss, there are times when you overwork yourself. A good Christmas giftwould be a two days off from work.

Three Revisions are Enough

Source: designmodo.com

Although revisions are part ofthe process to make sure that the end product is good, some freelance designershate the idea of making minute changes that are too many to count. Don’t be thehated Ebenezer Scrooge and stole their Christmas by making them work overtimejust to get things right. For a change, three revisions to a design work areenough.

Four New Ideas and Inspirations

Source: pacopiza.net

Creativity is all about keepingup with the demand of providing new and fresh ideas. Getting four new ideas aweek is one way of keeping your creative juices flowing. Getting new ideas tooptimise and improve freelancedesigners websites is one of the many creative venues you need to work on.

Five More Minutes of Sleep and Rest

Source: mysanantonio.com

Although designers work throughthe night to keep up with the ever-changing demands and work deadlines, anextra five minutes of sleep and work can make a difference between completing atask to failing to submit work on time.

Six Free Design Upgrades

Source: amazon.com

Upgrades are necessary especiallyif you’re using photo and video editing software. Besides, designing standardsand trends tend to change in meeting with client demands and requirements. Designsoftware suites may cost thousands of dollars so it would be economical toupgrade outdated software from time to time in order to minimise the cost.

Seven Figure Annual Income

Source: diaryofatruckdriver.com.au

Is it time for a pay raise? Aslong you do your job and make significant progress in providing topnotch workthen an increase in your annual income is the perfect gift to you. Though mostof us want to get rich, freelancers just want to have a steady income that cansupport their lifestyle.

Enchanting Magic Eight Ball

Source: flickr.com

There are many choices to make ifyou are a freelance designer. Would it be great to have a magic eight ballwhere it can help you decide on what to do next? Having a magic eight ballwould be one of the fantasies that you want to come true.

Start Your Work at Nine O’Clock

Source: bmx.transworld.net

Most of us would agree thatworking early on the morning would be a bad idea since most of us are stilldreaming about getting rich. I would be a beautiful thing not to battle withyour alarm clock when it’s supposed to be time to start your day.

Tired-Free Ten Fingers

Source: latestbeauty.com

Whether you like it or not, yourten fingers would give up on you after the long-hours finishing your work.Would it be great to have a nice hand massage for a change? From all thedrawing, sketching, and typing, it’s time to have your hands that feed you tofeel a little bit of pampering.

Eleven New Projects to Complete

Source: latestbeauty.com

Since you will be enjoying yourholiday vacation and Christmas time-off, it would be a perfect to have new projectsto line up before you get back to work. In that way, you will all be set up forthe next year. If you are looking findfreelance designers projects, make sure you stack up so that you have allthe time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones in a remotedestination.

Twelve Months of On-Time Payment for the Next Year

Source: creditcardchaser.com

This is the perfect scenario thatany freelance designer would want – being paid on time without any delay. Whata perfect gift would this be!

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/12-gifts-most-freelance-designers-only-dare-to-dream-about/

Importance of Continuing Education for Freelance Professionals

2011-11-30T22:06:00.001-08:00

Freelanceprofessionals are in the constant move to learn new skills and knowledge inorder to become relevant in the ever challenging and changing market. Althoughfreelancers are not obliged to punch in the clock in an office building everyday, continuing education is not easy to find especially if you are contentwith the online courses you get. Bear in mind that learning new SEO strategiesand graphic design techniques will come in the form of short-term courses,books, and websites that you can consume on your spare time. Before you startlooking for freelance jobs and projects at specialised search engine Odusee, make sure that you learnedin-demand skills that most clients are looking for.

Source: mbphysio.org

Freelancers have their ownskillset that separates them from the rest of the pack so make sure that youspecialised on something that most client want. Sustain your freelance career with continuing education and keep trackwith the latest trends and technologies that your profession demands. Asuccessful person should not be contented and find ways to reinvent oneself. It’sjust like keeping yourself in good shape because what you learn today maybecome obsolete tomorrow. At the end of the day, most companies andorganisations outsourceto freelance professionals some aspects of their operations in order tosave time and money. Here are the reasons why continuing education is such animportant part of your freelance career:

What’s New is Relative

Source: wallsystems.basf.com

Technology keeps on changingbecause what is new is old in a few years’ time. Never act as if you knoweverything already because some of your knowledge won’t have any use oncechanges are made in the freelancing field that you’re specialising. At the endof the day, the best clients and projects need freelance professionals who offerexpertise in the most advanced areas of your field.

Good Pay for Better Education

Source: univ-nantes.fr

It is often said that goodeducation can bring you greater opportunities because many businesses andcorporations invest in personal and professional development in order to gainbetter quality and productivity on their employees. In this case, this scenarioalso happens in the world of freelancing because clients don’t want to hirepeople who don’t know what they’re doing. If you want to stand out from otherfreelancers, who have superior credentials, then take advanced lessons andcertifications in your chosen field. With freelance education, jobs can be alot easier to find.

Expand Your Professional Network

Source: udec.cl

When you take continuing and freelanceeducation courses, you get the chance to meet different freelancers andexperts. This is a good time to expand your professional network because youmay never know that you will be working with someone in a particular project orsomeone will offer you to work for him or her. Apart from learning something,these people may help you find new prospects, clients, and other freelancingopportunities. You need to talk or collaborate with other freelancers andindustry leaders of your field.

Source:

http://www.deskmag.com/en/why-continuing-education-is-essential-for-freelancers-217

http://kriswrites.com/2010/03/04/freelancers-survival-guide-continuing-education-networking-part-two/

The Top Fun Freelance Jobs That You Will Enjoy

2011-11-23T17:38:00.001-08:00

There are bad news in the labourmarket and corporate world as we hear all about job layoffs, downsizing,bankruptcies, and plant shutdowns. Your anxiety is expected to go up especiallywhen you’re anxious about your job security. Fortunately, there are freelancejobs Australia that allows you to have fun and enjoy what you’re doing. Perhaps,it may be a good time to work on the side and develop a new career whileworking full time. You can focus all your time and effort on a freelance careerand search for clients in specialisedsearch site Odusee.

Source: flexjobs.com

If you are not willing to give upyour eight-to-five office work, you can always indulge on a hobby and perhapsearn a little bit from it. Besides, you can always have a freelance job thatdoesn’t interfere with your full-time job if you really want to. Earn money outfrom certain hobbies and activities that you do on your spare time and perhaps,make a freelance career out of it. The good part of transforming your pastimeinto a freelance job is the fun factor. Here are some freelance jobs that youcan do on the side or full-time:

Photographer

Source: cnbc.com

There are many freelancejobs Sydney for amateur and would-be photographers. Although you can alwayspursue it as a secondary career if you think about earning a little sparechange on the side, there is a pretty good demand for photographers. Aside fromyour normal day job, you can schedule your photography bookings as long as youhave flexible time to do something different from your work. You won’t getbored meeting new faces because all you need is your handy camera and your creativeidea in order to take the best shot.

Makeup Artist

Source: kristianne-professionalmakeupartist.co.uk

From movie sets to weddings,there is a very big demand for makeup artists. Every woman knows basic makeupso it is a good venue to consider a career because the options of finding freelancejobs online are endless. You don’t have to quit your day job because youcan always accept bookings on your free time. Lend your services in promenades,parties, social events, and other formal occasions. If you haven’t mastered theart of makeup, you can always serve as an apprentice from a professional makeupartist and learn the ropes.

Event Planner

Source: moblog.whmsoft.net

There are many freelancemarketing jobs out there but there is a job that is both fun andchallenging – event planning. In the world of setting up marketing shows andpromotional events, an event planner is the person that you should go for.Aside from that, you can set your time and schedule when you’re helping someonehost a birthday party or wedding.

Personal Shopper

Source: eng.investcatalonia.ru

If you hate too much paperwork,you may opt out to any freelancewriting jobs Australia and consider a freelance personal shopper gig. Fromshopping groceries to buying Christmas gifts, a personal shopper earn extradollars just by helping people buy what they want.

Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1689209/some_fun_freelance_jobs_to_bring_in.html?cat=31

Using Social Media in your Freelance Career

2011-11-16T17:36:00.001-08:00

Freelance professionals areconstantly in the move for any networking opportunities in an effort to obtainnew customers and expand their market presence. Gone are the days of cold callsand anonymous mails when you can always gain friends and expand your network thrusocial networking. In fact, there is a careerin social media for a freelancer who wants to specialise in onlinenetworking. At the end of the day, social networking is all about whom you knowand how connected you are. If you intend to further your career, check out the freelance search portal Odusee for the latest freelance jobs.

Source: eiseverywhere.com

Though it may sound so easy,social media is just like an investment in the real world because it also takesyour precious time and hard work. In your freelancecareer, competition is fierce and cutthroat so landing gigs and projects isnot always all about your talent. Sometimes, getting the freelance job is allabout the people you know. If you pay a serious amount of attention to socialmedia then you’ll definitely reap the rewards of investing time on it. Here aresome of the ways where you can fully utilise the power of social media to youradvantage:

Get Connected

Source: crunchyblogger.com

Without a doubt, the most obviousbenefit of social media to freelancers is connection building. More than justgathering followers, networking is also getting to know what people want. Onceyou break the barriers in social media, the chances of landing a freelance gigfrom a conversational level can be a lot better. Cold calling is gone, Twitteris in because a freelancer can have an unprecedented access to differentclients in a much closer level.

Using Social Networks as Resource

Source: blog.startupprofessionals.com

Once you know the ins and outs ofsocial networking, you can even consider a socialmedia career by handling online marketing campaigns of small startups andbig corporations. Depending on how you are going to use it, social networks canbe used to promote and share your work. On the other hand, you can use it todevelop a community resource for freelancers who are looking to connect withother professionals as well.

Share What You Know

Source: mdgadvertising.com

Social networking is all aboutsharing, it always have been! Sharing something with the rest of the communityis one way of building up your reputation as an expert in a particular field.It’s difficult to build up a credibility if only certain people knows about youso it would be better to get in touch with different people too! By sharingvaluable insights in various aspects of freelance work, you will be regarded asa specialist. If you know how to utilise social media to your advantage thenyou may perhaps consider a socialmedia marketing career in the future.

Source: http://mashable.com/2010/04/26/freelancers-social-media/

Effective Money-Saving Tips for Freelance Professionals

2011-11-10T00:26:00.000-08:00

Money is always an issue for anyprofessional because aside from our regular paychecks, there are the usualbills and things to buy. Freelance professionals think about money more ascompared with their colleagues on a full time job. When you are self-employed,you have to be your own accountant unless if you can afford to hire one. Eventhough freelancers work at home, it doesn’t mean that you have to spend a lotof money as compared with those in nine-to-five office work. Learn about the bestmoney saving tips before you check for the hottest freelance jobs at specialised search site Odusee.

Source: billshrink.com

When you talk about freelancersspending less money than full-time professionals do, this is a totalmisconception. Saving money is all about committing to a good budget plan so itdepends upon the person. Practising goodmoney saving techniques is essential for freelancers who want to cut downon unnecessary expenses. Although you don’t have to beat the rush hour trafficor eat out quite a lot, you can actually spend a lot more than someone who goesto work in the city if you handle your money well. Here are really good tipsfor freelance professionals who want to stretch their dollars:

Saving on Insurance

Source: acufinancial.com

Even though most people believethat freelance professionals and independent specialists can’t afford insurancebecause of the expensive premiums to pay with their meager earnings, this is awrong assumption. There are cheap insurance packages for those people who workat home. If you keep yourself healthy most of the time then there is no need togo for expensive health insurance. Since you don’t drive a lot, tell your carinsurance company to reduce your rate since most insurers base their rates oncar mileage.

Reduce Business Expenses

Source: images.businessweek.com

Since you do most of yourbusiness on your own, you have more expenses than a full-time employee does. Itmay be tempting to have all the office items and equipment that you wish youhad but it is important to keep your expenses down in order to break even. Keeptrack of your business expenses and follow sound moneysaving ideas.

Managing Your Taxes

Source: btr.michaelkwan.com

Taxes can be the freelancers’worst nightmare because it takes much of their income if they don’t managetheir finances effectively. In order to save money, consider the idea of using accountingsoftware with tax features. Keep a good bookkeeping in order to keep track ofthe flow of money from the expenses you make to the income you generate.

Saving on Food

Source: listverse.com

Freelancework from home can definitely cut down on your expenses from your daily sipof Starbucks Frappuccino to lunchtime munches of a Maccas burger meal. Minimiseeating out when you can always make a cheap tuna sandwich at home.

Cut Down on Home Expenses

Source: images.businessweek.com

Of all the effective money savingtips in Australia, cutting down on home expenses is the most reasonable way forfreelance professionals to save their hard-earned money. When you’re at homeall day with the lights on and computer working double-time, electric bills areexpected to go up. There is nothing you can do about it but consider savingenergy by turning off the lights when you don’t need it and get energy-savingappliances. You can always get free Internet connection if you go to a coffeeshop from time to time. As for your phone bills, you can always cut down byhaving most of your conversations with clients on Skype or instant messaging.

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/10-tips-for-saving-money-as-a-freelancer/

Effective Time Management Tips for Busy Freelance Professionals

2011-11-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

We all know that time is gold anda freelance professional know that every minute and hour counts. Though notdefusing bombs or negotiating in serious hostage situations like what the SWATand bomb squads are usually doing, freelancers are constantly up against theticking clock in order to meet deadlines and finishing projects. When it seems thatyou’re running out of time, it is important to observe timemanagement tips in order to prioritise important work and finish personalerrands on time. If you are considering a freelance career, find the best jobsthat have flexible working hours via freelance search portal Odusee.

Source: smarttime.com

Even the technologicaladvancement and multitasking, we haven’t found a way to fit more than 24 hoursin a single day. Nevertheless, we still find ways to maximise our time andbecome productive than what we normally do. All we have to do is to follow effectivetime management tips in order to accomplish our daily tasks, weeklydeadlines, and monthly goals. Here the best things that you need to do in orderto manage your time:

Clear the Clutter

Source: ch1nelas.blogspot.com

A disorganised workstation fullof stickies and crumpled pieces of paper is a picture of how disorganize aperson is. How can you go to your late afternoon appointment if the businesscard is buried under the mess? Can you finish your work on time if yourchecklist is misplaced in the pile of paperwork you need to accomplish on shortnotice? You need to clear your desk of everything that doesn’t have to do withyour work.

Maintain a Checklist

Source: soloprpro.com

Among the managementtips that a freelancer needs to follow religiously is creating a workchecklist. It is a good way to follow up on the progress of a specific projector task that you need to finish on time. While some tasks can be completed on alater date, make sure to put a date and organise your checklist according topriority and deadline.

Commit to a Deadline

Source: fhswolvesden.wikispaces.com

Deadline is always a deadline!Commit to the due date that you have agreed upon with your client because yourreputation is on the line. Learn to manage how long you allocate time for aparticular task or project because clients don’t want to spend money onsomething done overdue. Even if you worked fast to beat the deadline, theoutput of your work will suffer because you haven’t organised the time well.You don’t want your clients to seek other freelance professionals, do you?

Don’t Get Distracted by Interruptions

Source: cuberules.com

Let’s face it, interruptionshappen all the time from errant telephone calls to children getting in themiddle of your work. Check out besttime management tips that will help you categorise interruptions fromimportant to time wasters.

Team Up With Other Freelancers

Source: gigaom.com

Timemanagement tips at work can come in handy in your freelance career butsometimes you need to team up with other freelancers in order to get the jobdone on time. Try to build strong and long-term relationships with freelancerswho master certain skills or perform a particular specialisation.

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/5-time-management-tips-for-freelancers/

The Freelancers’ Tricks in Turning Prospects into Clients

2011-10-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

In the beginning of time, we alwaysask ourselves “Howto find clients for your business?” Freelancers are like any otherindividuals are working hard to achieve success. They are in a constant,never-ending battle to transform prospective clients into long-term businesspartners. This is the reason why freelance professionals need their websites toattract prospects in the hope of encouraging them to become their clients forgood. Bear in mind that regular clients will help you pay the bills and buy theeveryday necessities. Without them, you would have quit the freelance businessa long time ago. Your website could be your milking cow that can help you landsmall to big time freelance partners. For starters, visit the freelance search site Odusee to find out prospects that arewilling to work with you.

Source: justbeenough.com

When you depend solely on gettingclients, you know that the website is the battleground where deals have to bemade along the projects that go along with it. Since prospective clients lookfor a better deals, they won’t waste time if they don’t see any benefit ofworking with a freelance professional. On the other hand, freelancers want tomake sure that they are getting the better end of the deal with a particularclient. In the end, it’s all about balancing the needs of both freelanceprofessionals and clients. Here are proven tricks and strategies oftransforming prospectsinto clients:

It’s not always about you

Source: aext.net

If you ask yourself the questionon howto get marketing clients, you may think that selling yourself is theanswer. Even though your website highlights your skills, proficiencies, andwork portfolio, the truth of the matter is that your website should focus onwhat you can do for your prospective clients. Your website should give them theidea about the benefits of working with you. Freelancers should emphasise thefact that they understand the prospective clients’ needs. Once they hear thatyou care for them then there is no reason that they won’t stick around.

Selling should not be the main reason

Source: wpthemes.tv

We understand the fact that awebsite is meant to showcase freelanceclients, extensive working experience, and impressive work portfolio in an effortto sell yourself in the freelance market. It is not always the case when you’relooking to land new projects and working with new people. The first time is theonly time you get so don’t spoil any first impressions. Don’t forget to followup prospects until you convince them to consider your services as an option butdon’t force them just to make a sale.

Find something mutually beneficial

Source: blueteddy.com.au

Prospective clients areconstantly in the hunt to findfreelancers that are perfectly suited to perform and deliver their needsand requirements. This is where negotiations come into the picture because itis necessary for both camps to talk as to how they can have a mutual andbeneficial professional relationship.

Anything less

Source: swirlmedia.co.uk

Less is better! Freelancers don’twant to bore their prospects by presenting them a long story of theirfreelancing exploits. It can turn off people if you keep talking aboutyourself. Be brief and concise when presenting your skills, proficiencies, andpersonal background for them to evaluation your freelance services.

Learn to take risks

Source: luke-decker.com

There is nothing special to thisbecause taking risks is all about getting big rewards in the end. If you wantto know the secrets on howto gain clients, it’s all about hardwork and perseverance.

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/top-5-website-secrets-for-turning-more-prospects-into-clients/

Eight Effective Tips on Working With Freelance Clients

2011-10-19T19:03:00.000-07:00

Freelancers may tend to askthemselves if they are happy with their clients. Though you may consideryourself as “your own boss,” it will never go out of our mind that the clientsare still our de-facto bosses. Freelance professionals need to keep the clientshappy, otherwise paying the bills and making the rent would be impossible.Sounds fair enough? Nowadays, lookingfor freelance work is difficult because contractors don’t just hire peoplewithout the motivation, integrity, and dedication to provide the servicesrequired from them. Try visiting freelance search portal Odusee to find out possible opportunities that fit our needs.

Source: hongkiat.com

Bear in mind, working withclients can help determine your future success because a good recommendationcan get you far and a bad one can tarnish your reputation. Such recommendationwill depend upon the professional relationship you have with the client, thequality of work you make, and the proof of the skills you advertised. Freelanceclients are your friends, find ways to satisfy them. Here are timely tipsas to how you can work well with them:

Value Yourself

Source: freelanceshow.com

The important thing in this businessfreelance thing is valuing yourself on what you do. However, you need tovalue your clients first if you want them to value your skills, experience, andtime. It is not easy to write content or edit an HTML page but if you teach clientshow to appreciate your work then your relationship with them would grow.

Know When to Say “No”

Source: livingthebalancedlife.com

You don’t have to be a “yes” manlike Jim Carrey, you can always say “no” to a client request or demand hen youhave the reason to. It may sound rude but clients demand too much not toshortchange you but to get the best deal that they can get. It doesn’t mean thatyou will lose a lucrative project just because you said know to a client, youcan always findfreelance projects that are worth your work and time. It’s up to you if youpick up a freelance work or not as long as you can differentiate a good projectfrom the bad one.

Showcase your Skills

Source: mediabistro.com

Create a blog where you can showyour web design, writing, and graphics design skills. If can’t getfreelance projects that you always wanted, you can write it on your blogand talk about how you can improve a particular website or achieve ahypothetical task.

Build a Brand that Attracts Clients

Source: blog.crowdspring.com

Without a doubt, most of usrecognise big brands almost immediately. You can promote yourself the waybrands were advertised. When it comes to building brands, it also means thatyou have to build your reputation too! Clients are lookingfor freelancers that are appealing to them – from the way you reply toemails, the colour scheme and layout of your website, and the way you workmatters to them.

Source: http://www.vanseodesign.com/online-business/better-freelance-clients/

Coping Loneliness in a Freelance Professional’s Life

2011-10-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

Many people admire the idea ofbecoming “your own boss” in a job that freelance professionals hold. Whether asan independent content strategist or graphics design contractor, they believethat a freelancerjob is a dream come true. Many envy at the flexible working schedules,“relaxed” and “laid-back” work environment, and self-paced work. Unfortunately,not all people realised that freelancers have to endure loneliness and the lackof socialisation in their work. Check out various freelance professions listedin freelance search site Odusee and determine if loneliness canbe an issue.

Source: andybraner.typepad.com

No matter how good work is, workis still work. Just like any work, loneliness can always set in. Unlike fulltime work, freelancers don’t have officemates to talk, socialise, and ask foradvice. Loneliness affects a freelancers work and productivity. It may varyfrom case to case because some social types might need human interaction fromtime to time while others may realise the need for workplace camaraderie onlymonths after buried with so much work. It is important for an employer to findfreelancer who knows how to cope up with the effects of loneliness. Hereare ways to mitigate the effects of loneliness:

1. Go Out From Time to Time

Source: rightattitudes.com

Seclusion from the people aroundyou can be a bad thing even if allows you to concentrate on your work. It willeventually take its toll on you as frustration affects your productivity. Itdoesn’t have to mean that you have to go to the pub with your mates. Simpleactivities can help you relax. Even the minimum human interaction can help inhibitthe effects of loneliness and lets you know that there is still a world outthere apart from the freelancing profession that you are working for. Considerthe idea of being mobile by taking your laptop and go to some place relaxinglike the library or coffee shop. Take time to be away from the usualfour-walled corners of your home office. Remember, employers hirea freelancer who can manage his/her time well!

2. Make a Date

Source: linchikwok.blogspot.com

Try organising a lunch date orcoffee dates with your client or project collaborator in order to map out plansof a particular work or share ideas on how to accomplish a particular project. Noonly it will take you away from your desk, this is a perfect time to brainstormand collaborate. Follow a freelancerguide that helps you manage work time and schedule important businessappointments.

3. Have a Good Routine

Source: sheknows.com

Aside from the socialconnections, some freelancers crave for the usual work structure that they arefamiliar in their previous jobs. Once on their own, some people feelpurposeless and lack direction from the structured work environment they usedto have. If you feel aimless then it will be just a matter of time you willfeel the effects of loneliness. Employers usually geta freelancer with a good work routine and office management skills.

4. Get Connected

Source: myskills.com

A freelancer in Australia worksmost of the time online so even if there are times that you are busy, you canalways use the Internet to keep in touch with other people. You need to meet upyour client from overseas or visit your colleague’s office just to drop an importantdocument. You can always chat with them on Skype, email the client about yourproposal, or catch up with a family member through social networking but don’tget caught up with socialising and finish work first.

5. Develop Professional Contacts

Source: carolinejohnson.ca

It depends upon your field soconsider the idea of connecting with local business groups and small businessentrepreneurs for a start. A freelanceronline can get to know other professionals through networking, joiningbusiness associations, or volunteering in certain civic events and activities.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/how_10069226_deal-loneliness-freelancer.html

The Top Freelance Jobs for Facebook Users

2011-10-05T19:31:00.000-07:00

When it comes to freelancejobs, there are online professions that most people barely know. When itcomes to getting work involving the use of Facebook and other social networkingsites, some of us would be surprised that there are people who earn money byjust using it for a living. Do such freelance jobs exist? The answer is aresounding yes for those lucky blokes who work their day or night with Facebookon their computer screens. The growing demand for social media specialists inonline marketing has transformed Facebook as a favourite online pastime into aprofession that needs to meet business targets and quotas. In fact, it takes alot of skills and common sense to master the social media specialist professionand become better at it. If you are curious about this interesting freelancejob then you might as well visit the freelance search engine Odusee to find out about this job.

Source: site-seeker.com

As employers are looking for waysto optimise their websites and online market presence, social networking isgaining prominence. Small businesses and large companies are looking to fill inspecialist positions that possess such highly demand skill. No wonder, freelancejobs in Australia require job seekers and career shifters to know how tocommunicate effectively with clients and consumers. Websites have integratedtheir marketing plan with social networking sites and as a result, Facebook hasbecome the de-facto king of the Internet marketing platform. Here are tofreelance jobs that deals with Facebook use:

Online Recruitment Specialist

Source: recruitingcertification.com

The job hunt has becomeincreasingly digital, as people prefer online interviews to the realface-to-face session. These tech-savvy specialists can find the right peoplefor a certain client by checking out the online footprints of a prospectiveemployee. The work of an online recruitment specialist is now easier thanbefore as more people are connected to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Skype. Tobe able to handle the job well, it is important for an online recruitmentspecialist to master online communication well.

Independent Social Media Marketer

Source: siliconangle.com

This profession did not exist tenyears ago but it has emerged as one of the hottest onlinefreelance jobs today. Small businesses and big companies are looking for anexperienced freelance professional who can manage their company blog, keep theonline community updated, and perform viral marketing. As an independent socialmedia marketer, you need to have the knowledge of social networking sites. Inorder to meet business objectives, you have to be creative and innovative atthe same time.

Freelance Photographer

Source: photopoly.net

Freelance photographers may findFacebook as a good ally in their work. As one of the many growing freelancejobs online, a photographer needs social network to build up contacts andpromote one’s work portfolio. In order to spread the name of their brand andbuild their reputation online, freelance photographers use their Facebookaccount to post their pictures, chat with prospective clients, and build theironline presence.

User Operations Analyst

Source: austinnovation.com

When it comes to analysing howconsumers think and what they buy, a user operations analyst does the job well.Aside from that, these online specialists interact with users to assess abusereports and answer queries. Facebook is their main medium of getting in touchwith users scattered throughout the cyberspace.

Technical Writer / Blogger

Source: money.cnn.com

Freelance writers and bloggersuse Facebook as a way to broadcast their articles and market themselves. Sincemost people are hooked to this site anyway, bloggers have virtually integratedtheir websites, blogsites, and other social networking accounts to provide areal-time, day-to-day coverage of what content they are publishing. Freelancejobs from home or not, bloggers effectively use social networking as a wayof increasing website traffic to their sites.

Source:

http://money.usnews.com/money/careers/articles/2008/08/06/the-7-best-jobs-for-facebook-addicts

http://www.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/worklife/07/28/cb.best.job.facbook.addict/index.html

Recession Survival: Freelancing on Tough Times

2011-09-28T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today’s current economicuncertainties, brought about by the recession and decline in economicproductivity in the industrialised and developed countries in the world, have aprofound effect on the labour market. Unemployment has increased significantly withmany companies and organisations laying off and retrenching employees. Smallbusinesses and multinational corporations alike also bleed money from businesslosses, declining profits, and losing clients and customers. In response tothese unfavourable circumstances, many businesses have decided to operate on ashoestring budget and outsource their operations to independent contractors andfreelancework specialists in order to minimise the cost of production. Take time tovisit freelancing search site Odusee to find projects that will helpyou weather the tough times ahead.

Source: psfk.com

Freelance professionals aregetting an upper hand in this uncertain situation as long as they know where tolook for new projects and freelancing opportunities. In order to ride throughthe uncertainties of the economic downturn, freelancers should developeffective strategies to make most out of the uncertain situation. They shouldunderstand their role to play in the rapidly changing, globalised freelancesector. Here are important freelancetips and advices that freelancers in Australia should do in order to remaincompetitive:

Don’t Press the Panic Button

Source: missionsite.net

The economic recession would havea profound effect in the way freelancers work from getting new projects andclients to the way they provide their specialised services. Never let panic setin. You have to understand that the freelancing market is always bound to go upor down at a certain point. Besides, there are lots of opportunities that areup for grabs in the long run. At the end of the day, freelance work inAustralia is all about effective planning and not about impulsivedecision-making.

Tighten Your Budget

Source: what-prepaid-card.co.uk

Austerity measures andconservative approach to freelancing work should be on the top of your agendabecause times like this, the flow of money won’t come that easy. Prices areexpected to go up from software to equipment. Find cheaper alternatives toeverything you do in order to lessen the cost it takes you to deliver the workto your clients. When it comes to findingnew clients, there is no need waste money on costly marketing andpromotional campaigns just to get new freelance projects.

Don’t Give Up

Source: money.cnn.com

In freelance professions, thereare always opportunities that go along a very difficult and challengingsituation. Don’t throw on the towel just yet at the first signs of recession.Remember, companies who have recently let go of someone valuable may want tofind someone to fill that void at a much lower salary scale. As a freelanceprofessional, there is always a greater time to find jobs that fit yourschedule. You don’t need to line up to get your unemployment benefits when youcan always have freelancework from home.

Consider the Idea of Contracting

Source: buildup.eu

With stable, full-time positionsout of the picture, the best thing freelancers can do during tough times iscontracting. It may not pay you well but it will allow you to network withpeople from different industries thereby increasing your chances of gettinganother gig once your project is completed.
You can approach people within your network if you really intend on contractingyour services to them. This is one way that will keep yourself busy. Besides,getting a constant stream of income is much better than not having a job atall.

Continuing Education

Source: ulsterboces.org

If you think that you need toimprove your skills or expand your knowledge in certain aspects of thefreelance sector then getting continuing education is the right path. There arenew, fresh, young talents that burst out of the scene every year, and if youfail to see the importance of keeping yourself relevant and competitive in the freelancemarket then you will be on the losing end.

Update Your Personal Work Portfolio

Source: lighting-essentials.com

If you have your own personalwebsite or blog site, it is high time to update it with your latest work of artso that potential clients can see what you can do and they can gauge yourexpertise. As an effective way of marketing and promoting yourself, improvingyour online presence is one way of getting clients to jump in your boat.

Get Tough

Source: ibnlive.in.com

On the freelancers’ perspective,some businesses and clients don’t pay on time. Freelancers like you need to betough because it is your hard-earned money that you’re dealing with. Let’s faceit, businesses want to save money and cut costs so dropping employees is oneway of cutting “unproductive” elements in the business operations. As analternative, they often resort into hiring freelance professionals because freelancersonly get paid when there are projects and work to do.

Australia is Different

Source: blog.lensjournal.net

Even though we live in a globalisedworld and certain economic recession and downturn from other countries may havea profound effect on the country, Australia is different from others. Findingnew business clients in your freelance profession is not as difficult asmany people would think. Most mainstream businesses and government officialsbelieve that the country is stable. We have to admit that there are times whenthe going gets tough but we Aussies have all the necessary skills andcapabilities to weather the storm.

Source:

http://manwithnoblog.com/2008/10/11/freelancing-in-a-recession

http://www.graphicmania.net/quick-guide-for-freelancers-to-do-well-in-recession/

The Art of Networking: The Blueprint to Freelancing Success

2011-09-21T18:55:00.000-07:00

Freelance professionals focus much of their time finding new clients and building a network on them. Aside from that, freelancers need to connect with fellow professionals in order to build up a support system that will help them achieve success in this competitive and cutthroat business. Without a good network of clients and colleagues, freelancers won’t be able to showcase their skills and services to people that will need their help. Networking freelance services is one way to spread word to the general public on how their skills and expertise can help them achieve their business goals and objectives. Start networking by keeping in touch with clients and businesses in freelance search site Odusee.

Source: freelancefolder.com

When people know a freelancer with a good reputation, they will provide work and necessary professional opportunities to keep their career work up and running. Since some people don’t have the specialised skills and extensive expertise that freelancers have, there is a huge market for freelancers who can work with clients on a part-time or full-time basis. Sometimes, a freelancer may outsource its work and refer clients to other freelancers. Without an extensive network of professional contacts and clientele, a freelancer won’t be able to capitalise such situation. Successful freelancing is dependent upon how many people you know and how well known and recognisable you are to the public. Here are important tips that freelancers should know when it comes to developing a freelance network:

It’s All About the Commitment

Source: www2.cemr.wvu.edu

Never start freelance networking when you are thinking of short term financial gains. Consider the idea of developing meaningful relationships with your clientele because this is one way forging strong business partnerships.

Better to Give not to Get

Source: homorazzi.com

Don’t expect too much on networking because it is all about investing your time and resources in building meaningful relationship with your existing clientele and would-be clients. Sales pitches may score you more people in your freelance network but you still have to talk to referrals and introduce yourself to people you have just met. Even with existing clients, you are still obligated to provide information and feedback.

Listen and Ask Questions

Source: smallbusiness.chron.com

When talking to potential clients, listen attentively and ask the necessary questions that will help you sort out what you can do to help them. Being curious is all about getting to know the client and their business. Never hesitate to dig deeper and uncover certain aspects of the business setup. In a freelance network, clients always love freelance professionals who are interested in them.

The Art of Follow Up

Source: usu.edu

Freelancers can perform rigorous follow up on clients but they should never go to the extent of becoming an annoying prick. In career networking, make sure that the potential client won’t forget you and make the necessary follow up before you lose the opportunity to get connected.

Don’t Be A Hero

Source: flickr.com

Freelance professionals can achieve freelance success if they know when to ask for help from people they work with. Don’t portray yourself as a big shot expert in web development, content writing, or graphics design because clients want results and not accomplishments and big contracts you once had. Don’t boast by taking achievements that are not yours.

Be Updated

Source: blog.fleetowner.com

Clients appreciate working with freelance professionals who know the latest trends in the industry. Catch up with the current affairs and get along with clients’ needs and wants. If you can relate with the clients and fellow freelancers then it would be much easier to build a good network.

Know What To Do

Source: betterpresenter.com

Be prepared to speak to strangers if you really want to expand your contacts. Know what to do when promoting yourself and advertising your skills and expertise to potential clients. Freelance networking jobs and other career opportunities are out there and getting a network of contacts can help you achieve success. Learn to adjust to the ever-changing situation in the freelancing profession.

Source:

http://www.freelanceuk.com/marketing/the_art_of_networking.shtml

http://homesourcingsolutions.com/2011/05/importance-of-freelance-networking/

Bad Freelance Habits That Can Cost Your Clients

2011-09-15T20:16:00.000-07:00

Clients are the lifeblood of freelance professionals because there will be no projects without them and there is no paycheck to receive when there are no projects to work on. That is why freelancers constantly look for clients and other freelancing opportunities so that they can move on to the next project once their current work for a particular client is completed. Employers are looking for talented and responsible freelancers who meet deadlines and provide high quality work but there others who are pain in the neck. Bad habits people have can bring you nowhere as the prospects of getting hired or blacklisted can lessen your freelance work opportunities tremendously. If you want to know, scour the listings generated by the freelance search engine Odusee to know why.

Source: mmamania.com

Though freelancing is being your own boss, you still need to follow instructions and meet demands from clients that you will be working with. Your clients are your customers but at the end of the day, they are also your boss so if you don’t please them then you may to find other people willing to work with you. Once you get a bad reputation for being unprofessional or unreliable then word can go beyond and you will later realise that finding a new client can become a little more difficult than before. If you don’t want customers to hate you for good, change bad habits and behaviour that a freelance professional shouldn’t have. Here are the list of bad habits that you need to avoid:

Miscommunication and Late Response

Source: journey-to-beauty.com

Miscommunication is a mortal sin in freelancer-client relations because it often leads to personal disagreement and breakdown in professional relationship. Clients usually follow up on the daily updates of the particular task that they assigned to you or the type of work that they are expecting. You don’t want to keep your clients hanging if you really want to have good recommendations from them. Once they start saying things that you don’t like then you will know that there is a communication issue that need to fix before it’s too late. Giving them timely response is a good way of ensuring them that you are taking the work seriously and you are doing the best that you can do to finish the job. Keeping them posted on your important accomplishments and follow additional instructions and requests they asked from you.

No Follow Ups

Source: blog.journalistics.com

When you suggest a proposal to your client, you have to follow up so that you can work around it. Overcoming bad habits like this is all about being transparent and keeping an open line of communication all throughout the duration of the project. Freelancers may think that they are acting like leeches when they follow up on the particular work but they are not. At the end of the day, you next big project may be a call away.

Missing Deadline Schedules

Source: decouplingblog.com

Clients set strict timetables for the completion of a particular projects and missing the deadline is the worst thing they can get from freelance professionals. When you set deadlines as a freelance provider, you have to deliver on time by considering possible interruptions and unexpected delays that may happen along the way.

Substandard Work

Source: slacko.com

The freelance profession is not a college frat initiation where you have to drink and get fat on your seat. Clients don’t want to work with freelancers who provide shoddy, sloppy work. They simply hate you if you have typical men’s bad habits of haphazard solutions that often come up short. When encountering problems, challenges, and delays, some freelancers do take shortcuts that often result to more serious ones.

Questionable Social Network Behaviours

Source: jenfongspeaks.com

Form a clear boundary between friends and professional acquaintances on Facebook, Twitter, and other social networks because you don’t want your clients to know personal rants online right? What are some bad habits that can rub the clients the wrong way? Well, if you talk about something related to a current project you are working on then your client will be outraged by it. They don’t want other people to know the progress of an ongoing work or details of a particular task you have been doing lately.

Losing Critical Work Files

Source: julesndwayne.com

If that’s not all, clients hate it when they have to resend files that they already provided. It will speak on the freelancer’s inherent unreliability and negligence when dealing with clients. Any signs of disorganisation and mismanaging project files are big turnoffs that can have serious repercussions the next time you are looking for clients.

Forgetting Important Agreements

Source: nexusifa.co.uk

Freelancers need to keep everything in writing so that you won’t forget key important agreements you made with your clients. Otherwise, they will find another one who can do the job done without trampling on the things that were agreed upon in the first place. An occasional lapse may be an excuse but being habitually forgetful is a quick way to loose valuable clients.

Not Exerting Effort

Source: pinayoncall.blogspot.com

There are many examples of bad habits that some freelance professionals practice and one of them is working less than they are being paid for. It doesn’t mean that you have to be a slave or robot for freelance work, clients only want to know if you really care for it.

Source:

http://freelancefolder.com/10-bad-habits-that-are-costing-you-clients/

http://www.freelancewritinggigs.com/2008/08/10-bad-freelance-writing-habits-you-need-to-break/

Stress Management When Moonlighting Your Freelance Jobs

2011-09-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

Although a full-time job can be fulfilling but there are times, when our financial and professional needs and priorities change, so some of us would consider taking other jobs on the side. The thing is that we need to work extra time if we want to buy our dream home or get our hands on the latest car that we are dying to have. Moonlighting as a freelance professional can be the only solution to get what we want. Unfortunately, not all of us have the skills to quit our job to pursue challenging freelance careers so many have stuck it out by taking freelance gigs. We look for the best freelance jobs Australia via specialised freelance search portal Odusee and choose the job that fits our needs.

Source: infobarrel.com

Doing extra work as a freelance specialist aside from meeting your obligations as a full-time employee can really be demanding so there will be times that you’ll bet burned out from all the stress and responsibilities. Juggling and multitasking work can be draining so it is important to develop an effective stress management plan in order to cope up with the hassles and challenges of work. If you focus on your full-time work too much then you will let your freelance gig slip away and the same thing can happen if you devote your energy on the latter. Just follow the important tips and techniques in order to mitigate the effects of stress.

1. Setting Goals and Objectives

Source: thailand-resort.net

It is very basic, setting your stress management initiatives is one way to minimise the effects and ravages of stress into your physical, mental, and social health. This is one way to keep your mind focus on your daily work and freelance projects. Create an effective business plan in order to focus on your work and accomplish your goals.

2. Get a Boost of Energy

Source: ourstressfullives.com

Obviously, there is a lot of excitement when it comes to running your own business but once you hit the grind of working full time and managing your freelance business, your overworked body will start to crave for free time. Your excitement will become depression once you work late into the night after you’re done with your day job. Once you lost your passion and excitement, it is important to refocus and get a boost of energy in order to do what you do best. Take a much-needed rest or a relaxing vacation getaway to recharge yourself. You can organise stress management activities to help diffuse all the stress and tension inside your head.

3. Set Your Role

Source: stressguide101.blogspot.com

If you look for freelance jobs online, it is important to set your role especially when you are also working full time. Consider a less stressful freelance gig if you have a very demanding day job while take a high-paying freelance project if your full-time work doesn’t pay you much.

4. Make It Simple

Source: mechanical-writings.com

When juggling freelance and full-time work seems complicated, make it simple. Consider revising your marketing and advertising plan so that you can work effectively. Follow stress management in the workplace with the help of your company’s human resources executive. The fact that freelance professionals spend most of their time marketing themselves, it is necessary to pace the marketing efforts to prevent burnout.

5. Let Your Work Speak For Itself

Source: write4youresume.com

Don’t overwork just to get yourself known. The fact is that you need to let your work speak for you because once you develop a good working reputation then there is no need to market yourself online. Take stress management tips from experts and you will know that it really works. Once you get your reputation known then you can set your own price. Finishing the freelance project on time and even ahead of schedule can really generate good word-of-mouth recommendations from your clients.

Source: http://foryouarticles.com/index.php/freelance-moonlighting/

Choosing a savings account that suit you

2011-09-07T04:14:00.000-07:00

Before you decide which savings accounts would be best to house your funds, you should consider all of your options.

If you're a freelancer/self-employed, you will need to be aware of exactly how much you earn, as those that are lucky enough to be on high salaries will pay higher income tax rates, which in turn dictates how much of your interest has to be handed over to the tax man.

In the 2011-2012 tax year, people in the UK can earn up to £7,475 without having to pay any income tax. If you earn below £37,401 per year you are a basic rate tax payer, which means that you must pay 20% income tax on anything over your tax free allowance; earn over £150,000 per year and you will fall under the higher rate income tax bracket, currently set at a whopping 50% (on anything above this amount).

The first avenue that all savers should explore is the Individual Savings Account (ISA). ISAs are unlike any other type of savings account, as they give us the means to take home 100% of our returns without having to pay any income tax.

Anyone in the UK aged 16 and over can open a cash ISA, and all those aged 18 and over have access to stocks and shares ISAs. Savers can put up to £5,340 into a cash ISA each year, giving them the opportunity to build up a tax free haven, providing tax free interest for as long as it remains in the account.

Those that are prepared to take on the risk factor in exchange for the potential to earn higher returns can go down the investment road. Investors can put up to £10,680 into a stocks and shares ISA (or a combination of cash and investment ISAs) while enjoying all of the returns.

Many investors have actually become millionaires simply through making full use of their allowance each year. If you imagine the savings you would make if you could avoid having to pay out 20% of all the interest you earn, you will soon see that it makes sense.

Fixed Rate Bonds

If you have already used your ISA allowance and still need somewhere else to save, consider fixed rate bonds. These accounts require savers to cut all access of to their funds for an extended period of time, in exchange for higher rates of interest. With fixed rate bonds, you will only ever really gamble with the interest, as once your rate is fixed, it will not fluctuate to match the current trends.

This can have its advantages and disadvantages, as if you were able to lock in on a high rate and rates across the board began to fall, you could still enjoy the high rates for the life of the bond.

On the other hand, rates rising can have the opposite effect, leaving you earning at a lower rate than other accounts.

Whichever type of savings account you decide to go with, it's important to remember that many accounts offer introductory bonus rates that fall after 12 months, so staying on top of your savings can really pay off!

About our Guest Blogger:

Sam Gooch is a freelance writer and editor of finance news published on comparison website Which4U. Sam also writes for several online publications, as well as contributing to a number of blogs.

Least Known Skills of Successful Freelance Professionals

2011-09-02T01:32:00.000-07:00

Some people have ventured into the freelancing profession because they want to become their own boss and chart their own business success. Unfortunately, it is not as easy as you think because becoming a successful freelance professional would need perseverance, patience, and whole lot of skills that will help you overcome the challenges in managing your work and getting clients to invest in the services you provide. When it comes to the freelance profession, there is more to it than doing your work in the comforts of home. If you ask someone, you may perhaps check out the skillsets needed for any particular freelance work available in search sites such as Odusee.

Source: freelanceshow.com

If you intend to become successful in this profession, it is important to multitask and learn new skills so that doing your job can be easier. You have to juggle different professions and lines of expertise and not settle on your core proficiencies in order to land new freelance projects and convince clients to work with you. Unleash your full potential by taking advantage of the freelance skills that we usually overlook. Here some of the skills that we need to master so that we can reach the level of success we want to achieve:

1. Be the Boss

Source: ph.news.yahoo.com

We all know that becoming a freelancer means that you have to be your own boss. You promote yourself as the face of your freelancing venture and at the same time manage your operations by overseeing every step of your way. It is a wonderful experience to have the freedom and opportunity to start your business and manage it to become successful. If you are unprepared to face the responsibilities and tasks required to make your freelance career sustainable then everything is a failure from the start.

2. Act as the Accountant

Source: accountingdollar.com

When you are managing a business, you need to act as your own accountant because you need to keep track of every expense you made and every payment you received. Whatever the expertise, freelance professionals need to manage their finances because your livelihood depends on it.

3. Become the Collections Agent

Source: getmeapprovedtoday.com

When you collect unpaid bills from clients, you don’t have to ask other people to do it for you. Sometimes you need to be the annoying prick that calls and sends emails asking for payment of unpaid balances. However, you don’t to be obnoxious too because you can be firm and demanding at the same time and maintaining a meaningful working relationship with them.

4. Follow the Footsteps of an HR Manager

Source: lockhartcasemanagement.com

In freelance careers, you need to know how you balance work and personal life so that you can maintain a healthy harmony. You don’t need to hire a human resources executive to take care of your medical coverage, health insurance, and social services contributions. The fact that a freelancer has no sick pay and taking time off can even cost you money.

5. Be Your Own Project Manager

Source: ebstrategy.co.uk

Project managers know how to organise tasks effectively in order to achieve the objectives. Successful freelancers know how to effectively manage project timelines, follow plans, and keep a balance workload in order to finish freelance projects.

6. Answer Inquiries like a Customer Service Representative

Source: images.businessweek.com

When you’re dealing with clients and prospects, you need to assume the role of a customer service representative in order to answer their needs and inquiries. Freelance success is determined as to how you take care of your clients. Make sure you guarantee quality service and make clients happy in order to make a lasting business relationship.

7. Sell like a Salesman

Source: salestrainingacademy.net

Sell your business like a salesman does. This is one way that you can promote your freelance business and professional expertise to clients and prospects alike. You don’t want to depend on word of mouth alone, you need to be aggressive as well. Without this skill, you won’t be able to attract people to business with you.

8. Be a Social Media Expert

Source: topdogsocialmedia.com

You have been using the Internet for a long time already and you will realise that social networking has become a trend that online marketers have capitalised on. Maximise the chances of your freelance business being noticed by prospective clients. Successful freelancing can also be achieved by promoting your freelance expertise via Facebook and Twitter.

9. Write like a Successful Blogger

Source: rlslog.net

You don’t need someone to promote your freelance services because you can do it by yourself through blogging. Once you keep your readers updated with the latest trends and developments in the freelance sector, there is a big chance that one of your readers may need your expertise. Blogs are the best way to showcase your skills and proficiencies.

10. Clean Your Home Office Like a Janitor

Source: youritsolved.com

Successful freelance professionals do the dirty and difficult jobs. Cleaning your workstation is one of the many tasks because it can get cluttered and dirty from time to time. You can’t work well if your home office is not organised. If you are asking how to become a freelance professional, learn to do the difficult ones.

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/10-hidden-skills-of-successful-freelancers/

Practical Freelancer’s Tips in Finding Leads and Clients

2011-08-24T21:00:00.000-07:00

Freelance professionals may be their own bosses but finding leads and clients takes much of their time because it is the only way to have a steady income from the constant flow of workloads and projects. Keep your business up and running by constantly talking to prospects and keeping a frequent update on possible freelance opportunities. Whether you are a freelance writer or a part-time graphics designer, you have to reinvent yourself constantly in order to become competitive. Keeping constant communication with people in the freelance sector is one way to keep yourself relevant in this competitive industry. Don’t let yourself left out by getting updated on the latest freelance projects and opportunities listed in vertical search engine Odusee.

Source: diaryofasmartchick.com

Finding new clients is challenging because it takes a lot of negotiations and presentation in order to get a particular freelance project. Another thing that a freelance professional has to focus on is getting the prospect to consider you as a long-term business partner. A successful freelance professional never stops finding ways to better oneself and opportunities to gain stable income sources. There are many ways to find leads and convince them to become a regular client to work with.

Improve Work Portfolio

Source: jlastimosa.com

Building a good work portfolio can set you apart from the competition. These sites are effective tools in promoting yourself as the ideal candidate that can make the job done. Consider your portfolio has an art gallery where you can display your best work under your prospective clients’ discriminating tastes.

Build Up Your Reputation

Source: devtheweb.net

Let’s face it, most clients work with someone they know and recognised by many as an excellent freelance professional. Finding clients and leads is not easy because an established leader in the field have diverse opportunities than the typical freelancer. Not only it gives an individual a whole lot of opportunities to choose from, it also gives someone the bargaining chip to demand higher rates.

Try Blogging

Source: trashedmag.com

One way of finding clients, especially if you are a freelance writer, is starting your personal blog. This is one way where you can display your talent and communicate with the online community at the same time. Aside from that, you can also promote your services and freelance specialisation to prospective clients. Not only you build a name for yourself and boost your reputation, you get the chance to convert visitors into long-term business partners.

Networking

Source: fever18.com

Get referral work and other freelance opportunities by building a strong network of friends, colleagues, and business associates. Who knows, you may stumble upon unexpected freelance work opportunities. Though most freelance professionals are connected online and networking can be done through it via social networking sites, you can also do it the old-fashion face-to-face way. If you happen to hang out in coffeeshops, you will see some people tinkering with their laptop. Perhaps, you can introduce yourself and marvel at where your conversations will lead to – a possible freelance client gin the making.

Make it Simple

Source: jrwoodward.net

Just like distributing your calling cards to people, make it easy for people to contact you. If you put a contact form in your website or blog, make it simple so that they can fill out the necessary information without a hassle.

Advertising via Pay-Per-Click

Source: wpromote.com

Consider getting PPC ads in order to increase inquiries on your freelance services. Since competitive keywords may be too much for your budget, go for phrases that include specific aspect of freelance work and particular proficiency and skill that are your strengths. Finding new business clients may be just a click away.

Consider Old Leads

Source: ip-a.org

However, some people who inquire about your services will not convert to clients but it doesn’t mean that they will never become your clients. Try getting in touch with someone and perhaps he/she may reconsider your offer. Keep the contact information of those who made inquiries and follow up with them from time to time.

Cold Calls

Source: dolmanbateman.com.au

When it comes to finding new leads, it is important for a freelancer to be proactive. Never hesitate to call people who may be interested in getting your services. Don’t wait for the fruit to fall down in your lap.

Do What You Do Best

Source: computerarts.co.uk

Don’t waste your time on something that you are not good at. Improve your quality of work by focusing your time and effort on it. Remember, finding sales leads is all about showcasing your strengths and proficiencies.

Never Shy on Referrals

Source: homebusinessblog.co

If you have happy clients, you will expect a lot of referrals from them. If you satisfy your clients then there is a big chance that they are going to pay it back. If you have just started your freelance career, consider getting your family, friends, and colleagues on your side because they would be happy to provide your possible referrals.

Reconsider Past Clients

Source: rob-brown.com

Just like getting in touch with an old lead, consider working again with past clients because they would be happy to work with you on certain freelance projects. Catch up with a former client for a cup of coffee. Who knows, your conversation will soon lead you to an exciting project.

Trust is Everything

Source: imakenews.com

Building trust with your clients and prospects is creating meaningful and long-term business relationships. Finding business leads is all about showing them that you are reliable, responsible, and professional.

Source: http://freelanceswitch.com/finding/practical-ways-for-freelance-designers-to-increase-leads/

Career Guide for Freelance Animators

2011-08-19T00:34:00.001-07:00

Animation has become one of the hottest careers because of the growing demand for animated films, commercials, and video games. Ever since we were kids, we were always fascinated as to how our favourite cartoon shows were made. Nowadays, computer graphics has evolved from the basic stop-motion animation of the bygone era to the more sophisticated CGI and motion-capture animation of today. Graphics may include video game sequences and animated banners. Whatever the projects and tasks, freelance animators may find freelance search site Odusee as a useful tool in finding the best jobs in Australia.

Source: career-evolution.net

Though most computer animators are housed in production companies, there is a growing trend where some aspects of the animation production are outsourced to freelance animators who work at home. Advertisers, web design firms, video game developers, and animation studios are increasingly leaning towards providing freelance jobs to animators. In order to become successful, one should follow a career guide in freelance animation.

Education for Animators

Source: getcareerlinks.blogspot.com

When it comes to computer animation there is no such thing as a clear-cut freelance guide that will help you become a successful freelance animator. One thing that you should know that help you progress in this type of work – continuing education. Learning new animation and rendering software will help you become a better animator than the rest of the competition.

There is an animators guide for every aspect of the animation process whether you go for video game or online animation. The video game industry is the hottest place to start your freelance career. Let’s face it, most of us play video games in any shape or form. Every game developer needs experienced animators that can work on 2D to 3D characters. Making a character move is the central focus in an animator’s works so if you have advanced experience in motion capture.

Internet advertisers on the other hand require animators to produce Adobe Flash-based banners and advertisements in an effort to attract more customers. There have been a growing number of ads that are designed to meet the needs of an increasingly diverse customer and niche market. In an effort to meet this demand, freelance Australia jobs now include animators, graphics artists, and video editors fill the creative gap in the industry.

Money Factor

Source: job-geek.com

When it comes to compensation, animators and multimedia professionals earn lots of money according to their level of expertise and experience in various aspects of the animation profession. If you intend to become a successful animator in your own right, make sure you follow a job career guide that will able you to do your work well. Depending upon your project and work demands, salary rates also vary. One thing that you should know is that the animation industry is cutthroat where you either work with other animators or even compete against them. You need to excel and outperform others in order to become the best.

Final Thoughts

Source: videogamescholarships.com

You don’t necessarily need the best career guide in Australia because hard work, perseverance, and the desire to learn new things can get you far. Freelance animators have the hottest new career in town!

Source:

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Become-Good-Freelance-Adobe-Flash-Designer&id=5416709

http://ezinearticles.com/?A-Career-in-Computer-Animation-Will-Fill-Your-Pockets---Must-Read&id=4306102

How Freelance Writers Juggle Life and Work

2011-08-11T00:30:00.000-07:00

Times are hard nowadays. People tend to get two to three jobs just to sustain the lifestyle that they want to have. Freelance writers take several projects and writing gigs in order to help provide for their family and buy what they want. The Internet is a flexible medium that allows freelancers to multitask and work so many jobs at the same time. However, juggling life and work can be a little bit tricky because if you put too much emphasis on work then you will get burned out, strain personal relationships, and even plunge you into depression. You don’t want to miss all the good things in life, do you? Search writing jobs that fits your time and availability through freelance search site Odusee.

Source: earnmoneyonlinefree.com

Freelance home writers take life and work a tightrope-balancing act. It takes years to perfect it and you often hit or miss! In this type of work, you multitask as a writer, editor, and creative artist so that you put everything in order. You may miss some quality time with your family or fail to meet deadlines in the process but once you get the hang of it, working would be much easier that before as if you are the best juggler of the Ringling Brothers Circus. Here are important tips and techniques that freelance writers observe in order to achieve harmony in balancing life and work:

Love what you do, Do what you love

Source: dumblittleman.com

If you love writing like a religion then there is no reason why you shouldn’t follow your passion. But the question is, how will you make yourself a good writer? Discover what it is you really love and develop your skills and proficiencies out from it. Develop a writing portfolio by incorporating your life and work into it. Publishing companies and content developers hire freelance writers with a full grasp of what the readers think.

Keep your Full-Time Job

Source: ezyblogger.com

Even if you have a low-paying 8-5 day job, you might as well keep it while you compensate yourself with your home job. Do check out competitive freelance writers rates by sorting out the listings in search sites. Being an independent writer can be achieve as long as you keep on learning new skills and developing your talents even more.

Keep your head above water

Source: labho.com

As a freelance professional, you should be on the lookout for any opportunities that come into your way. There are times that you get flooded with too much work that it takes much of your own time and energy while there are also dry spells wherein finding big projects and well-paying clients can be a struggle. The secret to a sustainable and long-term freelance career is all about marketing yourself as an ongoing effort.

Reach the finish line

Source: blog.abn.org.au

Missing a deadline is a mortal sin. Freelance writers required to finish their work on time since the work has to be copyedited and proofread before being published. Though some clients provide flexible completion time, finishing the job should be clockwork precise and delivery should be the same time Clark Kent changes into Superman. Do as what your client wants you to do because if you regularly meet deadlines then more clients would want to work with you.

Time management

Source: admanjake.blogspot.com

Whether you are taking your kids to school or finishing a small side project, time management is important so that you can put your life and work in order. Clients don’t want to work with someone who is disheveled and disorganised. In order to become successful in the freelance profession, you need to have intense concentration and the ability to change course at any given time.

Attention to detail

Source: webpubs.us

Clients are always looking for freelance writers who have keen attention to detail. It is always been said that first impression lasts. Writers don’t get a lot of chances of correcting such bad impression that is why it is important to make it right for the first time. Remember all the small details from emailing your clients to remind them that you’re on leave to keeping the promises you made. Everything counts here!

Get a Life

Source: blog.asiawriters.com

When it comes to work, there are two schools of thought: one is working to live and the other is living to work. If you are one of the many freelance writers online out there, you have to understand that working is not a lifestyle that should consume your life. Otherwise, everything and everyone would suffer because you put so much in your work than with your loved ones.

Source: http://top7business.com/?Top-7-Ways-Successful-Freelance-Writers-Juggle-Work-and-Life&id=4562

Become a Good Freelance Blog Writer

2011-08-04T04:00:00.001-07:00

A freelancer is someone who offers services for a fee. In general terms, a freelancer works independently with no expectation of a permanent or long-term relationship with a single employer. You will be required to negotiate the terms and conditions of work and all work must be completed to the satisfaction of the client’s requirements.

Becoming a freelancer is a way to work at home and be independent without needing to start an actual business. For years now, I’ve done freelance writing for electronics online shops and companies as a way to make sideline income, supplementing my full-time job. But this year, I’ve made the conscious move to freelancing for blogs, to the point where I now make a lot a month as a blog writer.

Advantages of Being a Freelancer

If you become a freelancer, you can usually set your own hours. You may be extremely busy one month and at a standstill the next month in your freelance practice. Use the slow times to rest up and to find new ways to find freelance gigs in your field. Also use the time to improve your blogs, sites related to wholesale drop ship services, or investigate other ways you can market your freelance services.

Freelancing is also a great way to help keep your head above water if you suddenly find yourself unemployed. It can help you tide over until you find other work, all the while giving you valuable experience in client service and giving you exposure to a variety of projects. Who knows, after you've been a freelancer for a while, you may decide you like being independent and stop looking for employment!

Important elements of Becoming a Good Freelance Blog Writer

Know your topic. It’s best to write about stuff you know. If you know nothing about a topic, you will probably look dumb. If you only know a little about a topic, research it like crazy until you know a ton. Writing about topics you’re already very familiar with will save you a lot of time, and will probably be a much better read. When I started my blogs, I mainly wrote articles about the wholesale electronics, China electronics, because I’m very familiar with those topics and I wrote a lot before.

Give your best. If you do get a freelance writing gig with a blog, or a trial post or two, be sure to submit your very, very best stuff. Only submit a post that has a chance of doing extremely well on Digg or Delicious. A mediocre post doesn’t help the blog you’re writing for, and certainly doesn’t help you.

About our Guest Blogger:

Kevin is a professional marketeer and writer in areas of China wholesale electronics from www.epathchina.com. If you are looking for an online China electronics sites which is reputable, reliable and provide consumers with competitive price and best service, it is ePathChina. Enjoy shopping wholesale China electronics!

Home Office Management Guide for Freelance Professionals

2011-08-03T20:23:00.000-07:00

Though most freelance professionals work in the comforts of their homes, there is still a need to have a clean, organized, and functional home office to work on. Nobody wants to work at home with so many baby toys scattered all around, dirty laundry on the floor, and leftover soda cans on the top of the computer. It is difficult to concentrate if you work on the dining table or down the basement. You may wonder how to organize your home office. Well, there are many ideas on how you can perk up your home office setting and give your workspace an ideal makeover. If you use freelance search site Odusee, you will find freelance projects that give you enough time to do your home office makeover.

Source: salesmaximus.com

Though working at home can be beneficial because you don’t have to wake up early and you don’t have to drive to your office. Unfortunately, domestic issues can always interfere with your work so it is important to separate your work station from home. Finding ways to keep you away from distraction can be a challenge but if you know how to maximize your space and clean up anything that can interfere with your concentration then you are on the right track. Here are important tips and suggestion on how to organize your home office:

Get good office furniture

Source: workstationsetups.com

As long as you keep your workstation clean, modular, and functional then there is no need to buy furniture from IKEA. With your own ingenuity, you can hide all the dangling wires and organize your mess by putting all your paperwork in the drawer. Setup your monitor, charging docks, keyboards, mouse, speakers, and other USB devices in easy to reach positions. A flexible office chair with comfortable back cushion is enough.

Put your personal accent on your wall

Source: holadesign.blogspot.com

Organize home office setting by decorating your wall with your personal favourites - soothing wallpaper colours and design, artworks, and posters. Make sure it blends with your room ambience.

Keep away from chaos and distractions

Source: fastupfront.com

Unnecessary distractions can affect your efficiency and productivity. You wouldn’t want you kids to play around while you’re busy beating a project deadline. If you get interrupted quite a lot from watching your favourite television show then you won’t finish your work on time.

Learn how to organize a home office

Source: freelanceconsultingadvice.com

Don’t wait for the clutter to cover up your entire work station. Organize everything in your area from pens to papers, document trays to desk clock, and DVD cases to portfolio organizers. Throw all the unnecessary items that take up space. Replace anything old, damaged, and defective.

Home business is real business

Source: dailymail.co.uk

Treat freelance work as real full time work because if you don’t, your family and friends would insist that working at home is not working at all. Freelance time management is needed so a freelance professional may have to punch in for work at 9AM to 5PM just like most office workers do.

Quality cleaning time

Source: home-office-file-cabinets.com

If you don’t have someone who can clean your office then you have to schedule monthly cleanup in order to prevent your workstation from becoming a chaotic mess. Since there is no janitor who will clean your place for you, take time to use your vacuum cleaner to remove the dust collected in your computer, throw away the potato chip packages, and sort and arrange all documents and work files.

Regular computer maintenance

Source: menshealth.co.uk

When it comes to home office management, doing regular maintenance on your computer should be your priority. Since you use your computer quite a lot, it is important to have backups of your important files. Aside from that, install updates to your software, defrag your hard drives, and scan your computer for malwares and viruses.

Take time off

Source: clicknewz.com

As they say, all work and no play makes Johnny a dull boy. Take time off to do your household chores where there is a lull moments in work. Exercise by doing a little bit of stretching and running in the treadmill.

Install corkboard or whiteboard

Source: organizeit.com

Keeping track of your freelance projects and work deliverables can be easy if you post your to-dos in a corkboard or whiteboard in your home office. At the same time, you can prioritise all the important tasks and things that you have to accomplish at the end of the day.

Freelance management

Source: organizeit.com

You have to manage yourself too, if you prefer to shift to serious work mode to the last minute then you will be under tremendous pressure to perform as your employers are expecting from you. In freelance management, it is important to pace yourself by not overexerting but not underperforming work at the same time.

Source:

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Organise-and-Manage-Your-Home-Office&id=32448

http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/6-ways-to-glam-up-your-home-office-2480326

Covering Aussie Sports: Become a Freelance Sports Journalist

2011-07-27T23:17:00.000-07:00

Australians love sports. Whenever there big sporting events like the Australian Open, the NRL and AFL Grand Finals, the State of Origin, the Rugby World Cup, the Ashes, Melbourne Grand Prix, and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, there are journalists that cover every moment of the game. We owe them for featuring our favourite teams and athletes in newspapers, magazines, and other sporting digests. There has been an increasing role for them to deliver fresh and relevant news to subscribers so many publications offer sports journalism jobs to people interested in freelance and part-time positions in an effort to fill the gap. If you want to have your work printed in the “Rugby League Player,” “Australian Rugby News & Review,” and “Inside Sport,” look for opportunities at freelance search site Odusee.

Source: randwickbotanycc.org.au

Sports journalism careers are challenging but rewarding because it is not easy to cover big and important events but the best part of the job is you can get the chance to meet and talk with your favourite athletes. Covering UFC fights featuring George Sotiropolous, having a conversation with Geelong Cats’ Joel Selwood, or interviewing Wests Tigers Benji Marshall on his playing style are surreal moments for journalists. Let’s face it, journalists are sports fans as well because they once worshipped their heroes on television and read their stories on the papers like chanting prayers. If you want to be a freelance sports journalist, you need to be objective by separating your “sports fan” mentality from your job.

Getting Started

Source: silentfunblog.blogspot.com

Before you get a break in sports journalism, you need to develop your skills first. If you have a sports journalism or a creative writing background then you have a head start over up-and-coming journos but you need to be familiar with the sports you want to cover. Learn about the athletes, the history of the sport, the biggest rivalries, and the current issues affecting the game. These important facts are some of the things that you have to familiarise with otherwise, no one would listen to what you say. If you have been born as a rabid Collingwood Magpies or Carlton FC supporter, you have to do away with your bias for a particular player or team. If you want to focus on the Australian tennis or basketball scene, become an authority in a specific area by developing your style of writing in a particular niche. Some freelance sports journalists make blog sites and feature their articles and editorials that even major publishing and sports broadcasting companies discover and pick up.

If you ask yourself how to become a sports journalist then this guide will help you become a journalist that specialises in telling the stories that happen in the packed Melbourne Cricket Stadium to the intense atmosphere of the Rod Laver Arena.

Be a Journalist Like…

Source: zimbio.com

It is good to follow a good role model like Richard Cashman, Patrick Smith, and other great sports journalists of our time. Without them, no one wants to be a journalist that will chronicle the greatest games and end-game heroics of the most celebrated athletes in Australia. Embrace the ups and downs of becoming a freelance sports journalist because it is either you love it or hate it.

Consider Other Opportunities

Source: jobsbump.com

If you want to be a journalist then you may have to consider other opportunities that will supplement your skills. Develop your writing skills by considering internships with noted publishing companies including major newspapers and magazines. You can also improve your interviewing skills by getting into television news channels as a television writer for sports programmes. Some media organisations need writers that specialise in writing sports content and articles, you may want to try that opportunity too!

Final Step

Source: richardelkowitz.com

If you want to become a sports journalist, be a journalist with the passion of a die-hard sports fan, the integrity of a television presenter, the courage of voicing fearless opinions of a war correspondent, and the unique storytelling style of a literary writer.

Source:

http://www.sportsjournalists.co.uk/courses-and-training/the-ten-commandments-for-the-freelance-life/

http://www.ehow.com/how_2095593_become-sports-journalist.html

A Freelancer’s Take on Common Misconceptions on Working Online

2011-07-20T01:19:00.000-07:00

Though the freelancing profession is a growing job specialisation where writers, web designers, programmers, graphics artists, call centre agents, and virtual assistants work outside of the traditional office confines, misconceptions on jobs online still prevails. The idea of making a living in the comforts of your seat can be quite intriguing for some people. Working as a freelancer may sound so easy but it is quite difficult to begin with. Even if you work at your own pace in your work style and setting, dealing with clients and finding new projects can be much of a hassle. Fortunately, freelance search sites like Odusee allows people who want to give the freelancing profession a try can find potential clients and promising projects online.

Source: internsover.com

These prevailing myths on working online have promoted the idea that freelancing is not as serious profession as many would believe. Freelancers are thought to be just geeks seating in the computer all day doing things they only know. In reality, this profession is so diverse and complicated that it takes lot of specialisation and expertise to become successful in this field. Even though you don’t have to report to a real office, you still have to be online so that your client can keep in touch with you. You still have to work almost the same hours with your full-time employee counterparts. To know more about this profession, you need to take a look at how freelancers view their work.

Freelance work is a walk in the park

Source: bhagwad.com

Publishing a website is not as easy as blogging because it is a collective effort of a content writer, a graphics artist, an SEO specialist, and a programmer to make it work. What makes it even more complicated is the fact that it takes good communication and great cohesion to bind these professionals into an effective web development team.

Working online is really hard

Source: smartcape.org.za

The facts on working online or full-time are centered on the idea that you have to work hard in order to succeed. Work has never been easy to begin with because you have to comply with requirements, meet deadlines, and finish your pending tasks before the time runs out. If you have the passion of what you’re doing and you manage your time very well then you can work online without the sweat.

Big budget

Source: 1stwebdesigner.com

Though a big budget will always work well in a freelance setting but there are successful online entrepreneurs who became successful without the need for big bucks and deep credit line.

Programming skills is a requisite

Source: topicsites.com

One of the most common misconceptions on employment online is the importance of programming skills. Though it is quite convenient to know a little bit of programming but why make your work difficult if you can always delegate it someone else?

Non-conversion of free traffic

Source: eustondigital.co.uk

Misconceptions on working from home always point to the idea that working with search engine may provide you the rewards that you always want. Whether people search something related to your website, find yours, and click it, the free traffic you get doesn’t count all the time. In fact, SEO is an ongoing and continuous process that you need to adjust and refine in accordance to the changing market conditions and Internet user trending.

Paying traffic is a waste of money

Source: searchlinqs.com

There are many misconceptions on make money online especially on the idea of promoting your products through an online advertising campaign. Sometimes you need to gamble and invest in Internet promotion in order to generate the needed traffic for your website and market exposure for your products.

Source: http://freelancefolder.com/7-common-misconceptions-about-web-working-and-earning-a-living-online/

Starting Up! Getting Your First Freelance Gig

2011-07-13T19:49:00.000-07:00

Whether you’re interested in working in a full-time office job or go for a challenging freelance project, there is always the need to know about getting that first work. For those unemployed and fresh graduates looking to break in the labour market for the first time, getting a freelance gig is one way to keep busy, develop new skills, and learned new experiences. The growth of information technology gave rise to online jobs that doesn’t need your everyday presence. It is now easy for Aussies to find a freelance gig or project that suits for them because Odusee delivers fresh search results fast.

Source: pichaus.com

Now that many people are opting for online freelance gig jobs, the working landscape has now become even more challenging. You have full control of your career if you manage it on your own but getting the clients who are willing to pay you to work for them may not come easy. Getting you name out there may take a while but there are tips that will help you land your favorite freelance gig. Here are the five important things that you should take note:

1. Develop your skills

Source: smallbizdaily.com

Take your experience to the next level by developing your skill sets and improving your competencies in order to even become more competitive in the freelance job market. The common problem with people is that they tend to treat the idea of getting a freelance gig as a way of finding new avenues earning more money on the side instead of using it as an opportunity to better oneself.

2. Be confident

Source: ayushveda.com

The unfortunate thing about getting freelance gig, some people tend to sell themselves short because they may feel that their work may not be up to par with the current “standards.” Because of this scenario, some freelancers are underpaid even though their work takes a lot of their time and effort. On the flipside of things, some freelancers tend to be over confident and ask for higher rates than other even if they haven’t proven their reputation yet. You have to be aware that there are some employers that are looking to get their work done as cheaply as it can be. Learn to negotiate and convince them that you work for the right price.

3. Avoid the fakes

Source: pinoy-ofw.com

Though it is not difficult to create a website or write online contents, make sure you do it right because some freelance employers know if you are faking it. Never doubt yourself when facing potential clients. Copyright issues and plagiarism should be avoided if you intend to land a freelance writing gig.

4. Market yourself well

Source: giftsandfreeadvice.com

If you intend to start your freelance career on the right track, you need to sell yourself to your potential employer or client. Showcase your skills and competencies when you discuss about the freelance project and how you can help them achieve their objectives. Develop your work portfolio and sort out your previous work accomplishments and career highlights.

5. Develop your work portfolio

Source: niot.net

An online work portfolio is the best way to put your name out there so that future clients or employers may find you. There are many sites that allow you to make a creative work portfolio in a way that can attract more clients. You can even consider taking your services to the social networks like Facebook and Twitter so that you increase your presence online. Hopefully, these tips will establish your career with your first freelance gig.

Source: http://speckyboy.com/2010/11/04/tips-for-landing-your-first-freelance-design-job/

Helpful Tips to Prevent Freelance Work Burnout

2011-07-06T20:30:00.000-07:00

We work so hard to meet our personal needs. The more we work hard, the greater chances that we will feel the effects of the work burnout symptoms. The pressures of meeting deadlines and finding solutions to our work problems are compounded with the personal issues that we face all day. Sometimes we feel like working endlessly without any relief and we do, our work will suffer. Burnout limits our efficiency and affects our concentration. That is why, we try to find the best freelance projects and work provider in Odusee in order to have a successful and productive career.

Source: examiner.com

Though freelancers have their freedom to manage their time whenever they want, sometimes their clients think it the other way. Since most freelancers only work at home, some clients tend to think that they have all the time in the world to finish a project in a very tight deadline. One has to understand that there are times that a freelancer may face certain issues that can limit their productivity and efficiency. Whether we like it or not, we always face the signs of burnout at work so it is necessary to find certain ways to mitigate its effect. Here are seven effective ways to manage freelance work burnout:

1. Work on your Side Projects

Source: cv-library.co.uk

Most freelancers have their side projects not only to earn extra income but also to stimulate creative output of bigger projects. Aside from that, people indulge in these side projects in order to relieve the stress of freelance work. Writers do maintain their own blog sites, graphic artists may update their portfolio sites, and video editors would create short films on Youtube. You are doing these things for your personal satisfaction.

2. Maintain a Manageable Freelance Work Hours

Source: niu.edu

All work and no play make Johnny a dull boy! Keeping our work hours in check is one way of not overstressing ourselves. We try ourselves to keep our focus into our work by having some time to relax and unwind. Thinking about work can always stress us about deadlines and other pending tasks. If you don’t take a day off for some much needed vacation then sooner or later burnout would eventually catch us up. Treat freelance work burnout as something that you can overcome.

3. Take a Much Needed Day Off

Source: whatever-dude.com

Don’t work 365 days a year and 24 hours a day because you need to take some time off to go fishing, go to your favourite holiday getaways, or watch the latest movie in your free time. We need to relax and unwind as our reward for all the hard work and effort we put on the freelance projects. This is a compromise that we have to consider in order to remain competitive and continue pushing forward.

4. Take Care of your Body

Source: 4pack.wordpress.com

We gain weight and go out of shape if we keep ourselves working in front of the computer all day that is why it is important for freelance professionals to take care of their bodies. Burnout is caused by our lack of physical and strenuous activities so when we gain weight, we can easily get tired and lose focus. Prevent work from home burnout by following a healthy lifestyle and effective exercise regimen like what Extreme Makeover host Chris Powell tells his overweight clients. Don’t wait for your body to take control of your life.

5. Have Non-Work Hobbies

Source: open-mind-publishing.com

To keep freelance career interesting and colourful, why not indulge in an amazing hobby. Take creative hobbies that will help sharpen your mind and ingenuity without the pressures of daily work. You can express yourself by writing a blog and keeping an open mind on fun activities like playing basketball with friends.

6. Go Outdoors

Source: unca.edu

As you spend most of your freelance work in your cramped and boring office, you may want to go outdoors and have breeze of fresh air for a change. Take time to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors by going camping in the words, take a bicycle ride in the park, or go fishing by the river.

7. Learn Something New

Source: womansday.com

Reduce freelance work burnout by learning a new skill or two like updating your Photoshop skills or practising a new language. You can even check out online tutorials that will help you in your freelance career. Any form of advancement can make your job easier.

Source: http://www.noupe.com/how-tos/tips-for-fighting-freelance-burnout.html

Perfect Freelance Work at Home Jobs for the Disabled

2011-06-28T23:03:00.000-07:00

It is unfortunate for handicapped and disabled individual to encounter serious roadblocks in their professional career because of the existing bias towards them. They may be physically incapable of doing certain things but there jobs that are tailored-fit for their personal capabilities. Whether you are blind, deaf, or paraplegic, there are many freelance work at home for disabled individuals. With Odusee, it is now easy to find freelance opportunities in Australia with a few clicks on the mouse!

Source: rewardsforworking.net

The sad thing about finding work nowadays is that some employers are unwilling to accommodate people with physical impairments because it is “costly” to provide for their necessary needs. Though some may be willing to provide employment, such positions are catered to those who have computers and high-speed Internet connection at home.

If you have certain disabilities, your physical impairments are not a hindrance of getting a job because there are freelance work at home for special needs individuals. In fact, it is much more convenient to work at home than to go to work in an office where climbing the stairs, getting into the elevator, or driving to the office can be a huge physical challenge for some. Here are some ways for disabled and handicapped individuals earn a living at home by practicing freelance professions:

1. Be an Entrepreneur by Starting an Online Store

Source: blog.nj.com

If you find freelance work athome for blind and deaf people challenging, how about starting an online store? Find your entrepreneurial spirit by creating your own product and sell it in your website. If you find it difficult to manage your own product then you might as well buy wholesale and sell it in your own website. At the end of the day, it’s all about how you promote your website and encourage customers to buy from you.

2. Consider Freelance Writing Jobs

Source: freelancevanity.com

Freelance writing is one of the highly demand contract work at home for disabled individuals. The good thing about working as a writer is that you can work in your own time. With the help of the Internet, you have all the wealth of information to start your career as a copywriter, editor, or blogger.

3. Virtual Assistance and Call Centre Jobs

Source: lubbockonline.com

The growing demands for virtual assistants and call centre agents have grown to the point that wanted work at home for disabled people now include these job openings. These jobs are not for the deaf and mute but there are technical chat support positions that are suited for them. Many companies provide training so that it would be much easier for them to handle their jobs.

Classified work at home for disabled really exists. Regardless of the impairments and physical limitations, people can now choose the jobs that are suited for them. One thing that they need to know is avoiding getting scammed by illegal companies and shady individuals. Consider taking your time by doing extensive research on the job market as well as how these freelance professions work.

Source:

http://ezinearticles.com/?Work-From-Home-on-the-Internet-is-Perfect-For-the-Disabled&id=2512245

http://ezinearticles.com/?Work-at-Home-Opportunities-For-the-Disabled&id=1212959

Seven Super Tips in Freelance Contract Negotiations

2011-06-22T22:26:00.000-07:00

Negotiating a freelance contract can be the toughest and most challenging aspect in a freelancer’s career. Why? Setting a rate higher than any other professional may prevent a client from signing you up while setting too low may mean that you are short-selling yourself. Of course, it is important to know your skills, competencies, and level of experience before you rate yourself up. At the same time, you also need to evaluate the potential client’s needs and preference if it matches your own. Have a clear idea of this matter before you put your name in freelance search sites like Odusee.

Source: cabeijo.com

When setting the freelance rate, whether hourly or project basis, you have to figure out the amount that you are going to be paid and how you are going to provide your service to them. Time is also important because you don’t want to be overworked too. Know the prospective business clients that are willing to pay for your rate. However, not all clients do because many of them would negotiate their own rate that is “cost-efficient” in the business process outsourcing standpoint. By contract, freelance professionals are expected to be paid on an hourly-rate so make sure you know which freelance contract work suits you. Here are the best tips that freelancers need to follow when it comes to contract negotiations:

1. Allow the client to start the contract negotiation

Source: hgmp.com

When it comes to business negotiations, it would be better to let the client start it so that you have more leverage when it comes to changing some contract clauses. Besides, the employer will be under the impression that the contract has been done under their own terms. Don’t force any changes unless it is necessary and you have probable cause to do so. Examine different types of freelance contract templates so that you will know what to expect.

2. Don’t focus too much on money

Source: theascdoctor.com

We all have our own salary expectations but it is not the only thing that we can negotiate in a freelance employment contract. If the rate being offered doesn’t meet what you want, you can always negotiate the timeline of the freelance project or how the work is going to be done.

3. Know why they are negotiating

Source: runningahospital.blogspot.com

There are reasons why your prospective client is interested in negotiations. It would be a way to maximise your talents or a way to shortchange you. Maybe they are willing to spend a lot to gain your services or perhaps they want to play hardball. Don’t just make assumptions, know the full facts.

4. Set the price

Source: thetrainerstrainingcompany.co.uk

The clients may not know how much they are going to pay to gain your services so it would be advisable to tell them that they are getting the quality of service at the right price. An experienced and highly-trained freelance professional can quote a higher price than any other freelancers out there.

5. No one-time deals

Source: picasaweb.google.com

If you are a freelance writer, it is a bad idea to tell your prospective clients that you are offering a one-time deal. With this in mind, they will tend to think that you’re offering such deal from now on. Check for freelance contract sample so that you have an idea on how the deal is done. Agree to a freelance rate that meets your needs.

6. Don’t beat your client in the negotiation ‘game’

Source: missiongraphicsblog.blogspot.com

Contract negotiation is not about being on the top. It is not a win-lose situation because it should be an agreement where it is mutually-beneficial between the freelance professional and the client. At the end of the day, you are developing a long-term client. But giving ground doesn’t mean that you have to allow a client to take advantage of you.

7. Set long-term goals

Source: getacoder.com

Just like a storeowner, it is always good to develop long-term relationship with your clients so that doing business with them in the future would be much easier. Writers will have an easier time to negotiate on a freelance writing contract set upon by a long-time client. Both client and freelancer know each other’s needs so meeting their goals would be much easier.

Source: http://freelanceswitch.com/clients/7-tips-for-negotiating-a-freelance-contract

How to Maximise Benefits in Freelance Subcontracting

2011-06-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

When it comes to the world of freelancing, freelance subcontracting is just like forming a superhero team with members having their own special powers. However, there is still a need to partner up with other talented individuals in order to take a bigger, challenging freelance work even if a freelancer is an amazing graphics artist or an excellent writer in his own right. Imagine the time when NBA superstar LeBron James hit the free agent market only to team up with fellow superstars Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. Despite their otherworldly talents, the awesome threesome never won the title. No wonder it is important to find the best freelancers in Australia with the help of a powerful search portal like Odusee.

Before You Begin

Source: freelanceswitch.com

There will be times when your workload piles up beyond your control and a convenient way to let others do the work for you would be a freelancer that specialises in a specific task. A subcontractor employee is a person that provides his/her time and skill for a limited engagement in exchange for compensation. Consider the following factors when you opt for freelance subcontracting:

1. Time – It is advisable to subcontract work to specialist freelancers especially when you are busy with other important tasks.

2. Skill – Bigger and complicated projects need people with a wider set of skills and abilities. An employer can cut cost if someone is a multi-tasker or a jack-of-all-trades. Consider getting someone who can complement with the skills of other freelancers working for you.

3. Workload – It would be a pain to business if an employer hires someone who only updates his Facebook all day instead of providing quality work. A freelancer is a good substitute when it comes to saving time and money on projects that need execution to the highest level.

Find the People For Your Team

Source: okfreelancers.org

A subcontractor employee is an integral part of a freelance team because a successful group is the sum of all its parts. Before you form a freelance team, it is important to manage your expectations first so that your team members would know a clear pathway to success. Make sure that all the goals and targets you set up are achievable.

Finding the best subcontracting freelancers would mean that you have to search the Internet for people who are willing to work for you. Whether you try a specialised search engine or get referrals from friends and clients, it is important to have freelancers that are dedicated, self-motivated, highly-skilled, and team players. Before assigning any freelance work, it is important to evaluate the prospect’s skill, talent, and potential before offering a large, long-term contract. Besides, many companies get burned when they hire people that underperform. Sometimes, it is necessary to consider the freelancer’s personality and communication style. Even if a person is good at what he/she does but doesn’t perform like a team-player should then that person would not fit in a team setting.

Give the Right Contact

Source: blogs.forbes.com

If you offer subcontractor jobs, it is necessary to provide the right contract to the right person. Don’t forget to provide them the Master Services Agreement so that they will know the nature of your relationship with them and the Statement of Work so that they will know what you expect from them.

Develop Good Work Relationship

Source: nydailynews.com

Building good relationship with your freelancers is one good way to ensure that the team will be in good harmony. Good relationship can foster better teamwork and efficient work results. Don’t be the client that every freelancers love to hate. Always keep your communication line open because without your presence, they would leave astray. By considering the fact that your relationship with a subcontractor employee is based upon an agreement you set up on the contract, it is necessary to move on once they fail to meet the agreement you set up with them.

Source: http://mashable.com/2011/03/15/subcontracting-freelancers/