How to Get Ahead as a Freelancer
It’s tough being a freelancer. You are suddenly your own boss and your own human resource person, where it’s easy to slack and become complacent. There’s no one to coach you, review your performance, or tell you what you’re really worth. You are in-charge of looking after your own growth.
When things slow down and your skills hit a flat line, you have to pick up the pace or be left behind. Freelancing is like a formula-one race and there’s only one route to go: FORWARD. So, how do you stay ahead of the game?
Ten Ways to Build Up Your Skills as a Freelancer
1. Buy a good book and learn something new. Whether you buy it paperless or paperback, a book is a gem that’s worth an investment.
2. Subscribe to blogs that give you expert advices on your career and skills.
3. Sign up for email newsletters that offer you free resources and training to help grow your skills.
4. If you have the time and money, attend a seminar or short course in your local university and earn a certificate. You can also take online tutorials, tests, and certifications.
5. Set aside a time to watch webinars that will help you polish your skills. There are many free ones on the web, as well as paid ones that give you value for your money.
6. Join online forums or e-coaching sites where you can have access to free knowledge and advice. People of like minds will help you with questions you have in mind.
7. Volunteer your service and get apprenticeship as an intern. Although you won’t get paid to do work, the learning opportunity is a reward in itself and something that can spice up your portfolio.
8. Upgrade your tools. Perhaps, it’s time to replace your PC’s old applications to an updated version. Check out product reviews before you shop for devices to help you work faster and better.
9. Take advantage of available collaboration and time management tools on the web which can help you become the most productive freelancer you can ever be.
10. Join a group with similar interests and goals as you. Find really good ones, even if you have to pay an extra. Napoleon Hill, the popular author of The Magic Ladder to Success and Think and Grow Rich, mentioned about working with masterminds – or those who share the same passion and ideals.
Take inspiration from the Far East and heed the teachings of Kaizen to help you stay ahead of the game. This means being focused on doing one thing at a time. Staying ahead matters most in this digital age so ask yourself: Are you offering something of great value?
Fancy being a writer? We’ll bring you a list of free online writing courses on our next Freelancer’s Buzz issue.
Career Management 101
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