Yesterday was busy, but not as much as I’d expected. I had two phone calls vaporize before they happened. That was probably a good thing because we bought a bed for the guest room and ordering it over the phone meant a week and a half delay. Driving to the store, piling it in the cart, paying for it, and wheeling it over to the delivery desk meant we got it the same day. Guess what I chose. And guess what didn’t arrive the same day. I’m done with delivery people charging to do what they want instead of what I expect.
I managed a few small client articles in the afternoon, but my rhythm was shot to hell. Today is packed with appointments, so I’m back at it full force. Amen.
Today is also invoice day. I’m happy because I have invoices sent and paid already – how often does that happen? Rarely. So let’s see what this month looks like and where things need to change:
Queries:
I cheated – I sent one out in December that resulted in two article assignments (not the idea I’d sent, either). I sent out or followed up on a total of 20 letters of introduction, so hopefully I’ll see some responses soon.
Job listings:
I think I’m just going to stop listing this one at all. I never scour job listings anymore unless it’s for the This Job, Not That Job post as an example of what not to do.
Existing clients:
This is where I cleaned up. I had four clients come around with work. One client is a steady gig now, and I’m handling a number of their projects on a regular basis. That job is growing and I’m loving it. I’m trying to maintain a balance, though. One client providing most of your work and income is dangerous. I don’t see this one drying up, but I don’t take chances.
New clients:
I have one potential client I’ve put a proposal together for, and we’re going to talk next week. I have had a few inquiries, but nothing has transpired yet.
Earnings:
I’m slightly under my target, but I’m confident February will bring in more. I’m about to negotiate a rate for a new batch of client projects, so I suspect I’ll be over my monthly goal next month.
Bottom line:
As much as I love working with this new client, I have to be more prudent with my time management. Too often I’ve been dropping everything and getting the projects done as they come in. It’s the wrong way – I need to schedule it, track it, and bill for it instantly so as not to lose track.
Marketing will continue, maybe picked up a bit since the conference I attend is just over two months away. I have to get cracking so I can line up appointments and lunch meetings.
How did you fare in January?
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