Checklist for going freelance
If you are starting to think that being a freelancer may be the right choice for you and your family, it may be time to really consider the practicalities and considerations it entails.
There’s lots of think about – from how you find clients and how much you charge, to whether you should set up as a Ltd company or sole trader, and if a Facebook page is right for your freelance business. To help you think about all the considerations and practicalities of going freelance and make the rights decision for you, we’ve complied a useful checklist of questions.
Going freelance
- Why do you want to be a freelancer?
- What’s your vision for your career as a freelancer?
- How realistic is your plan?
- What’s your USP as a freelancer?
- What skills and experience do you have to offer?
- How will you keep them up to date?
Researching your idea
- How much research have you conducted into your market?
- Is there anyone you can talk to for advice or insights?
- How much competition is already out there?
- How can you be better, different or cheaper than the competition?
- Is there anyone who can help you set up as a freelancer?
- Do you need to register with any professional body?
- Do you need any specialist qualifications or certificates?
Thinking about money
- How much money do you need to set up as a freelancer?
- Do you already have the equipment you need?
- Will you need to invest in marketing materials?
- Will you need any professional help to do your work?
- Do you have the funds you need to set up as a freelancer?
- If not, where can you find them?
- Is there enough need for your products or services?
- Can you charge enough for your products or services?
- How will you support yourself while you’re establishing your freelance business?
Identifying your market
- Who will your clients be?
- What type of businesses or people are they?
- What are their budgets?
- What are their needs?
- How do they currently meet those needs?
- How will you meet those needs?
- Where do they look for freelancers?
- What makes you better than other businesses (price, speed, quality of work)?
Finding freelance work
- How do you plan to find clients?
- Are there any resources you can use, for example online jobs boards?
- Where can you network to find work?
- Do you have any existing contacts that can help you?
- How much are you planning to charge for your services?
- Who are your competitors?
- How do they find work?
Marketing yourself as a freelancer
- Have you chosen a name for your freelance business?
- Do you need a logo?
- Do you need a website?
- Can Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn help you?
- What promotional methods will be best for you?
Practical considerations
- How will you set up your business (Ltd company or sole trader)?
- How will you pay tax?
- Do you need an accountant?
- Do you need professional insurance?
- Are there any regulations you need to follow?
- Where will you work?
- When will you work?