Job Listings – May 29, 2007
Newbies – One Key to Financial Success
I’m busy – maybe as busy as I was last year at this time. But last year, as some of you may remember, was the year Lori nearly took (gasp!)a “real” job. Why? Because as busy as I was, I was busy on big, slow-to-finish-and-slow-to-pay jobs. This year, the jobs are ongoing, regular gigs.
And that’s the key to your own success. Yes, it’s great to take on big projects. It’s not great to take on just big projects, and your wallet will soon understand the importance of steady work. So if you want to have success at freelancing that lasts beyond a few months, take this advice to heart – get yourself at least two steady gigs.
Why two? Because as you’ve already found out in dealing with one-time gigs, there’s no such thing as a “sure thing.” I was recently hired to write two articles a month for a new magazine. The “new” part was the first clue that I shouldn’t rely on this as a steady source of income. Startups are great if they last. This one is doing okay, but the management is pretty unorganized right now, and the work has been spotty at best. There goes that steady check.
But I didn’t panic because I have three other steady gigs to fall back on. I write a weblog, which gives me guaranteed cash in my bank account each month. Small amount, but it’s noticeable when things go lean on me. Then there’s the client with the ongoing need for case studies (two clients, actually, so I guess we have four steady gigs). Then there’s the newest job that turned steady without my knowing it. I tried out and the editor called and nonchalantly told me about my writing the front-page copy every couple of weeks. I guess I’m hired.
While I’m sitting well now, I’m not resting. Neither should you. Never bank on any job lasting. Clients change their needs, their staff, their management. You’re in today and out tomorrow. If you’re always looking and securing ongoing work, any loss will have less impact on your bottom line.
Try some of these gigs. Who knows which one will become your next source of steady work?
Writer/Researcher for Ongoing Work
Freelance Blogger
Freelance Writer
Freelance Editor
Fashion Blogger
Freelance Copywriter
Lori, You know you make such a good point and darn it if I can’t get myself to stop procrastinating to finding those regular gigs. I am probably staring one in the face (or screen) now and I can’t bring myself to jump ship and swim like the rest of you. Instead I have been relying on ghost writing gigs and subcontracting (is that the same thing?) It’s not so much procrastination as it is fear. How to get above that?
Good advice Lori. Getting a handle on steady work is a good goal. I figure that I can work on big long projects if I have little short ones to fill in. Although I don’t have any short ones yet there is one coming.
Oh, to change the subject, can you help me with a blogspot problem? How did you get your photo to appear in your blog in your profile? I need help. I have followed all the instructions several times and my photo will upload but it won’t appear.
Help center is no help. I would appreciate any ideas you can send my way.
Thanks
Gosh, I missed this post. I’m glad someone is busy. Every year, pre- and post-Memorial Day always seems to coincide with my slowest period. At least it gives me an excuse to enjoy this long overdue nice weather.