1. Choose wisely: only accept work that really suits you

Of course, it is tempting to quickly accept new assignments, especially if you’re without work or if the proposed job pays handsomely. But think twice. Check if the project and the client really suit you, and if your input will generate sufficient added value.

It sounds obvious, but take the time to map out your profile, knowledge and ambitions and mirror them against the demand. Know what you enjoy doing most, your strengths and your unique selling proposition. Define crystal clear your company’s goal and growth path and choose assignments that fit them well. In short, even when it’s difficult, you must show the courage to say no to some requests.

Tip: Ask yourself the golden question: must I do this now?

Before accepting any job, answer every word of the golden question…

2. Check your market value

Even experienced freelancers misjudge their market price, more than you would think. But how best estimate your true value? Check the required knowledge, experience, and seniority of each assignment. Also, consider the responsibilities associated with the job, and the potential competition (or shortage) in the market.

Do not underestimate (or overestimate) your added value, but know that truly suitable candidates are sometimes scarce, and good advice is always valuable. Clients usually realize that well-executed projects save them a lot of time and money, while amateurism ​ hurts their revenue and lands them into trouble.

Tip: review with colleagues and trade associations what price you should ask.

Besides thinking about your inherent value, you really need to think like an entrepreneur and include your costs and fixed expenses in your price calculation. Take your time to find and secure assignments, and remember you have expenses for your operation, administration, bookkeeping, insurance, and pension. The Freelance Business Guide rate calculator can give you a good basic idea.

3. Guard your financial management

It is important to systematically monitor and plan your expenses and costs. Draw up an annual budget with your business income and expenses. Update this budget systematically, to give you a better idea of your activities and the minimum price you should set when proposing your services. It will also help you to always pay your taxes on time and follow this up with your accountant. It can help to set aside a fixed percentage of each invoice for your fixed costs.

Tip: always check whether a potential new client is solid and can be trusted.

Late and defaulting clients hurt your business, cost time and are very demotivating. Ask your accountant or the Chamber of Commerce to verify if a company is reliable, or you can check Belgian companies yourself in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprisesor the Belgian Official Journal’s Monitor. You’ll find a surprising amount of interesting information there. ​ When that is done, define the rules of your relationship with your new client before you start working together, including the terms and conditions of payments.

4. Mistakes are human… take out a professional liability insurance 

As a freelancer, you are fully responsible for your work. That means you’re always at risk, because we all make mistakes, experience setbacks, get sick and must prepare for retirement on time.

Tip: in addition to your civil liability, take out a sturdy professional liability insurance.

Think about disability insurance, legal assistance and don’t forget your professional liability insurance. This may seem an unnecessary luxury, but it is not, and more and more clients consider it a deal breaker when they want to hire you. It protects you from the consequences of mistakes, errors, or omissions in the exercise of your professional activity. So, if you don’t have a professional liability insurance yet, be sure to ask your insurer, or even better, take the time to compare the offers of some providers.

5. Develop your personal brand and job search activities

As a freelancer, you must claim your place in a busy world full of competition and information.

Online networking today simply has become part of your job. Choose the medium that suits you best, show yourself and build your personal brand. LinkedIn is the obvious choice to grow your network, post your company profile and CV, showcase your experience and exchange ideas. Facebook or Instagram can also suit your personality as a freelancer and your activity. Posting messages is a good move but establishing and maintaining personal contacts are even more important to find new jobs.

In addition, show your vision, services, and strengths on your own website, and highlight your references and experience. Show how you are different/better than others in your domain and add cases and clients testimonials. Integrate your social media as a bonus, in addition to linking to partners and useful contacts, and of course, give visitors the chance to contact you.

Tip: Register for free on the ProUnity platform for interesting freelance job offers

Freelancers with some experience who register on a job platform are more likely to be contacted by large companies.

Your talent and skills will regularly put you on the radar of clients with exciting projects, while you also strengthen your brand.

While we’re at it… join ProUnity‘s platform, where new missions for external talent are posted every day, for talent in ICT, HR, admin, sales, etc. It’s a fast track to get in touch for free with major companies. You can be selected for interesting assignments quickly and without intermediaries, based on your profile and experience. You receive job alerts via email, that you would otherwise probably miss, and you stay in control of each application. Everyone has an equal chance in this digitised process, so the best candidate wins. It’s that simple.