Supplementing the Income

The question comes up often, usually from those just starting their freelance careers – is it possible to survive on a freelance income? I’m here to say it’s not only possible; it’s very likely. If you don’t mind supplementing, that is.

Most of us who have been freelancing for a while recognize the feast/famine cycle. Work comes in cycles – some months you’re overwhelmed, while others you sit idle (and hopefully looking for more work). Even smart freelancers recognize that saving for those lean times is challenging. You can store it away in the bank, but there’s going to come a time when the well runs dry.

That’s where temp work comes in handy. By temp work I mean any contract work that has you onsite at a client’s location for any length of time. For those of you making the plunge into freelancing, or for those of you who are looking to get through a famine cycle, temp work can be a lucrative (and sometimes a recurring) alternative to starvation.

There are a number of places you can find temp work. Start with the agencies. If you’re lucky enough to be in an area served by creative staffing firms, check out these: Aquent, Boss Staffing, and The Creative Group. Each of these firms offer temporary work in editing, proofreading, writing and even in researching. I’ve used these agencies for a number of years with great success.

Publishing houses are another place to find temporary or contract assignments. Check with the editorial departments to see if there’s a need for some outsourced editing or proofreading. And check often – while there may be no need this month, vacation schedules or a change in editorial needs could bring about an influx of work.

Advertising agencies are also looking for spot help with proofreading or editing. Approach them as you would any other client – first with a letter of inquiry, and then with a follow-up call. Make sure you send over a portfolio of your work so they know you’re able to handle simple edits.

Now’s the time to begin making your contacts. Vacations have many departments stretched to meet their usual deadlines. Plus publishing houses have certain times each year when they print. Request a schedule along with offering your services.

Lastly, there’s no shame in getting a part-time position just about anywhere. Anything that will get you over the rough periods and keep you until the work comes in again is okay. It’s not selling out – it’s maintaining your freelance status until the feast cycle returns.