Freelancing is a great way to earn extra cash when you need it most.
By
One effect of an
unstable economy is that businesses are often reluctant to hire benefited
employees and will often take the option of hiring freelance talent to do the
job.
The advantages of
taking on freelance work are twofold:
· You can expand your network of business
contacts, especially in your area of expertise, and use the freelance
opportunity to break the ice and show off your expertise and value.
· It is a great way to earn extra cash when
you need it the most.
Here are a few
guidelines when considering freelancing:
1. Freelancing
can help you in your job search, but only if you stick to selling your
expertise. If you did your marketability assessment thoroughly and honestly,
you should have a very definite idea of the specific services you can provide
to your customers, whether they are businesses or individuals. You should be
able to make a list of what services you can offer and provide a written,
detailed description of what each entails.
2. Promote,
promote, promote. If you decide to offer freelance services, it is fairly easy
to integrate and promote your services in your job-search campaign. When
networking, make sure to mention that you also offer freelance services in your
area of expertise.
3. Do not quit
your day job of finding another job. Balance your time between your job-search
campaign and freelance activities. Until you start promoting your services, it
is hard to estimate how much time that might eat out of your job-search
campaign.
On one hand,
freelance projects can generate needed income, showcase your expertise, and
keep your skills sharp. On the other hand, you need to still dedicate time to
implementing your job-search campaign outside freelancing. That balance between
using freelancing for networking and income generation and the need to attend
to other critical parts of your job search only becomes a challenge when you
actually have freelance projects to do.
4. If you are
able to obtain and complete freelance projects, make sure you note that on your
various social-networking platforms, such as LinkedIn and Facebook. You do not
have to note the name of the firm, but it is a great way to let people know you
are active and moving forward. Showcasing completed projects may also help you
generate more interest from others who may need your services. Any freelance
projects you take on should be part of your portfolio.
5. You might
think about joining a professional organization that serves your field of
expertise. Find out how they can help you expand your network of contacts and
help you find potential freelance projects. Joining a professional organization
should be on your list of things to do whether you decide to freelance or not.
David Dirks is
the author of "Job Search Marketing: Finding Job Opportunities in Any
Economy."
Visit his jobsearchmarketing.net and listen to his blog talkradio.com/jobsearchmarketing.
No comments:
Post a Comment