3 Reasons Why You Should Think Like an Accountant before Freelancing and Working From Home

July 2, 2011 0 Comments

Before Freelancing - Think Like an Accountant!

Do you want to be a freelancer? Hmmm… there’s a saying – before you jump into the deep water, always make sure you know how to swim and you’re wearing a life vest. The freelancing world is like an ocean.

Here are 3 things to do before taking the freelancer plunge..

1. Do a self-audit

Ask yourself about the skills you have and the services you can offer to clients. What are your strong and weak points? Do you have an area of expertise?

You have to be honest because it’ll be only yourself you’ll be fooling, dude. Last question – but not the least – ask yourself what things you should learn first to develop freelancing skills.

Want a suggestion? Try sharpening your English grammar and spelling. Along with honing basic skills, you must also think about the freelancing tools you’d need. A computer with Internet connection is the first requirement. You shall be looking for freelance jobs online so you must always be ONLINE.

Before Freelancing - Make a Plan

2. Make a plan

Knowing the bright and shady areas of your professional persona, creating a plan – or several plans of action – should be easy now.

The master plan should be based on the results of your self-audit. Make sure that you put two columns where you can put counter-productive vision against the productive ideas. It’s like brainstorming between yourself and your alter ego. Encourage and discourage. Positive against negative. Learning how to balance the pros and cons will guide you when to be cautious navigating around the freelance world.

Freelancing is not all enthusiasm and determination. Perseverance must always be mixed with prudence. Sending applications here, there, and everywhere is a sure way to get a professional suicide. Imagine yourself getting drowned with ‘hired’ messages from clients expecting their projects done YESTERDAY…

3. Set goals

Identify your target jobs. Create an image of you as a freelance worker. Having a package of skills to offer is easier to introduce to your choice of market. Whether you want to be known as a data entry specialist or a writer, you must have something to show off the skills you have. This could a certification acquired from taking (and passed) an online test on topics like MS Excel or Data Management. Or a personal blog where you can showcase your portfolio.

Stop moaning about having no computer! Practice your freelancing skills in public computer shops! Create as many email addresses as you can. Make sure you take note of the usernames and corresponding passwords. Build your online presence in several social sites.