Noel writes:
What would you consider to be the most expeditious route to securing off-site freelance graphic design work and off-site business writing work.
Any ideas or leads you could share with me would be greatly appreciated.
The most expeditious route: networking. I have done freelancing and consulting all my life -- always on the side, never as fulltime employment -- and all my clients came from networking and word-of-mouth. People will not know your services are available unless you tell them. Many types of networking are available to you; start with friends and colleagues outside your company. Move on to people in your professional organization. Then move online and network through a few discussion groups.
You could also develop your own Web site and advertise your services.
Tim writes:
I don't know how to go about looking for jobs or posting my interests (particularly on the Internet) where I would be able to work from home on my computer (such as a transcriptionist) ... I have a journalism degree and worked primarily in page design and copy editing. ... I liked the design aspect (have also designed brochures, pamphlets, etc.). I am not a graphic designer, though.
Well, make sure you don't go to any of those "work at home and earn millions" Websites!
Seriously, there are several avenues you could follow. Many businesses and
other organizations often have a need for technical and report writers. I would
develop a list of major organizations in your area and construct a direct mail
campaign seeking freelance assignments. You should also network with any
social and business organizations, friends, and former employers in the area.
Freelancing often hinges on good word-of-mouth. You might also contact
some of the graphic design companies in the area and see about overflow
freelance work.
You can find more resources and read more about freelancing in this section of Quintessential Careers: Jobs for Consultants, Freelancers, and Gurus.
Freelancing is a tough road to follow. I know -- I was freelancing (while also working full-time) a few years back. It takes a lot of discipline and good marketing and sales skills.
Two books that you might look into for your situation are: Editorial Freelancing: A Practical Guide, by Trumbull Rogers (Aletheia Publishers) and Successful Freelancing: The Complete Guide For Establishing And Running Any Kind Of Freelance Business, by Marian Faux (St. Martin's Press). Find these -- and others -- in the Quintessential Careers Bookstore's Consulting & Freelancing Books.
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