6 New Year’s resolutions for freelancers

1. FREELANCER TIPS 6 New Year’s resolutions for freelancers © kaboompics_Pixabay You can find more freelancer tips on www.freelancermap.com/freelancer-tips

2. It’s almost the beginning of a new year and inadvertently the time for new resolutions. This article is not about eating less candy, waking up earlier and going to the gym, though. New Year’s resolutions can not only help improve your personal life, but your freelancing business as well. The break that most people have over the winter holidays is a great period to think about where you want your career to go. Here are six things you should consider changing in 2016: info@freelancermap.com

3. 1) Increasing your rates If you haven’t increased your rates since last year, now is a good time to think about doing it. You have undoubtedly learned new things and gotten better at doing what you already could. With that experience behind your back, 2016 might be the time to start getting more money for your work. Take a look at your competitors too, but don’t just blindly follow the market trends. It’s about your improvement as a professional. info@freelancermap.com

4. 2) Trimming the fat It’s time to hit the metaphorical freelancing gym. Many freelancers have projects that they have been on since the start of their career, which, despite having had increased rates, might still be pulling you down. Calculate your average hourly or project income and start cutting out the bottom 20 to 30 percent. These are projects that are, financially speaking, not worth your time. Of course there are exceptions and it can be difficult to turn down jobs. But as we’ve said before, learning to say “no” is an essential skill for every freelancer. info@freelancermap.com

5. 3) Looking into new areas Don’t get complacent with your skillset, it can be one of the biggest mistakes any freelancer can do. Always think about adjacent areas that you can go for with your current knowledge and some additional learning. It’s often worth trying something new out. Even if it doesn’t become the next big thing, at least you added it to your freelancing arsenal. info@freelancermap.com

6. 4) Expanding your business Do you find yourself getting too many projects and offers which are interesting and pay well? Not having the time to take all of them on as a single person doesn’t mean you should always refuse. Consider cooperating with fellow freelancers or taking someone entirely new on your journey. Expanding your business with additional people can be a tough step. After all, we’re all used to working alone. But trying it out can definitely grow your business, in a way that the efforts of a single individual rarely can. info@freelancermap.com

7. 5) Getting in touch with old clients Giving all your clients a call, sending them a card or wishing them Merry Christmas over email is something you shouldn’t forget. Remind them you’re still kicking and tell them how you’ve gotten better at what you do. Don’t overdo it, though. Keep it short and sweet – you’re not the only one that’s going to contact them over the holidays. info@freelancermap.com

8. 6) Staying happy Last but not least, think about what you enjoy in freelancing. Maybe it’s a certain type of project, maybe it’s the variety or you originally wanted to work and travel the world. Go for the things that make you glad you’re a freelancer and put a smile on your face. Following your passion will make you a happier person and a better professional. info@freelancermap.com

9. Further freelancer tips available on http://www.freelancermap.com/freelancer-tips Contact freelancermap.com Contact person: Doreen Schollmeier - International Affairs Mail: info@freelancermap.com Skype: doreen.schollmeier Phone: +49-911-37750286 facebook: www.facebook.com/freelancermapInternational Twitter: freelancer_INT © freelancermap.com