Recent times have seen a transition to more people working from home. Many people lost their traditional jobs and turned to other ways of making money, including freelancing. This avenue allows people to use their skillset while working for themselves, providing more flexibility.
Potential employers benefit from hiring freelancers also. Often, there’s not enough work to justify hiring a full-time employee, so freelancers can fulfill an important part-time role without requiring an employer to deal with payroll.
If you are interested in turning freelancing into a career, you’ll probably choose to form a small business. Potential clients may take you more seriously if you’re a registered business, and your business structure may protect you from liability issues.
How Should You Structure Your Business?
When you make the transition from hobby to business, you’ll need to choose a business structure. Many small companies choose sole proprietorship or limited liability company status. You must also apply for an employer identification number from the Internal Revenue Service if you hire employees.
Check with your city, county, and state to see what permits and registrations you may need. You may also need to make estimated tax payments to the IRS.
Where Can You Find Freelance Work?
Most freelancers look for work in at least two ways; they actively search for job postings and also market themselves as freelancers. Some of the best ways to find job posts:
- Search websites that cater to freelance work
- Look at career website listings
- Join freelance groups on social media
- Ask family, friends, and clients if they know of people who might be interested in your services.
With more freelancers seeking work, you’ll need to highlight what makes you and your services stand out. Many successful freelancers post on freelance talent websites, listing their offerings and setting basic prices. Using search engine optimized keywords in your text helps your information rise to the top of searches.
You can also use social media advertising, email marketing, and local networking to let it be known that you are seeking gigs. Create your own website and refer to it in your advertising. A well-built website that professionally showcases your talent is one of the most effective ways you have to prove your credibility.
Is There Helpful Software You Could Use?
Small business owners recommend using various apps and software packages to streamline workflow and stay on task. These might include time trackers, schedulers, accounting software, customer relationship management software, video conferencing software, and document sharing.
An essential aspect of any business is getting paid. Consider using an online invoice generator to ensure your invoices are accurate and paid promptly. With this tool, you can:
- Customize a template that suits your brand
- Include your business name and logo
- Use colors that coordinate with your logo
- Add other information your clients may find useful
Many people transact business online these days. Making online payment methods available to your clients is almost necessary and can also help you receive your payments faster.
Do You Need Help?
Small business owners often struggle to find enough time to perform all necessary daily tasks, especially in areas they’re not as familiar with. Think about hiring an employee or freelancers to help you with things like:
- Bookkeeping
- Website design and maintenance
- Marketing
- Virtual assistance
- Graphic design
Are You Ready?
Formally turning freelance gigs into a small business is smart if you depend on that work for your income. Market yourself, find jobs, and use software to make your life easier while growing your business.
