Finding work as a contractor or freelancer is different to discovering permanent jobs. Once you’ve found one client, you’ll still be on the lookout for more. The trouble is, sourcing freelance work can prove tricky.
To help you out, we’ve put together five different ways to find jobs.
1. Recruitment agencies
Recruitment agencies can be a big assistance in the freelance world. They’ll do most of the work for you when it comes to finding jobs, so this a particularly good route to go down if you’re struggling for time.
There’re plenty of agencies who specialise in freelance and contract recruitment, so you can be assured they’ll be well-versed in your type of work. They can also provide you with opportunities you never would have found otherwise.
2. Networking events
Networking allows you to meet people from businesses of all kinds, and some of these may be in need of your services. Even if they aren’t, you’ll make connections, and somewhere down the line you may find they know somewhere who requires your services.
On top of this, it’s a great way to socialise – helping to resolve the issues of isolation and cabin fever that some contractors experience. It’s an especially good choice if you’re new to freelancing, as you’ll meet people who’ll have been in the same boat as you and can provide advice.
3. Asking people you know
Don’t be afraid to ask anyone you know if they’re in need of your services. This doesn’t have to just be friends, family and previous colleagues, either; you can reach out further and even ask the likes of your dentist or hairdresser. You never know who might need your assistance.
Working alongside people you know is great for two reasons. First, the client enjoys the benefit of working with someone they know and can trust, and second, there’s less risk of them delaying or not paying you due to this positive relationship.
4. Freelancer websites
There’re a variety of freelancer websites out there, with popular examples including Upwork and Freelancer. These digital domains are great places to find different types of work from anywhere in the world. You can search for freelance work, as well as set up a profile so that people can come to you with potential projects.
Bear in mind that websites do take a percentage of your earnings, and you’ll need to spend time preparing proposals and bids. Once you’ve gone through the process of applying a few times, you’ll soon discover how to spot the work most suitable to you – and win it.
5. Social media
Freelance positions are regularly posted on the likes of LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook. But instead of hoping a role appears in your feed, it’s worth searching for specific keywords relating to your field. You should connect and follow those offering opportunities as well. Even if there’s not one available currently, there may be in the future.
Make sure to polish up your profiles, too – keeping them up-to-date with detailed information.
Let us do the numbers bit…
Following these methods of sourcing freelance work will help you get plenty of new projects lined up. With the money coming in, you’ll need to deduct the right amount of tax from your earnings, as well deal with other accountancy aspects like your Self Assessment tax return.
You’ll want to be focusing on the work you’ve just acquired, so let Bright Ideas take the accountancy off your hands. To book in a FREE consultation, contact us today on 0161 669 4221 or info@biaccountancy.com.
