Reflection is the author of wisdom, and I’ve been thinking about a question sent to “Ask the Recruiter,” Joe Grimm’s career advice column on Poynter Online.
The poster thought s/he could make more money as a freelancer, than as a full-time journalist. (Don’t laugh, and don’t cry. ) When I read the posting, my first words were “You’d better talk to me, first.”
Actually, another friend had done that. And I gave her six things I’d wished I’d done before stepping out on my own. Well, let me change that. I did draft a business plan (tip #4), but the reality of freelancing was far different than I’d anticipated.
I guess that’s life, huh?
So, before you kiss the company goodbye, you should:
- Line up a temporary job. Check with craigslist, Kelly services, anything. The point is to have a check you can depend on so you can control cash flow.
- Create a website (if you haven’t already), or a blog that has a bio and links to your writing. Use it as an online resume. You can also do the same with linkedin.com if you wish.
- Send a group email to all your contacts before you make the jump. (I recommend about 3 months, if you can do it that far in advance.) Tell them you’ll be freelancing full time and are looking for assignments.
- Of course, create a business plan. Check with the Small Business Administration, or the Service Corps of Retired Executives for help. (In fact, do this first!!!)
- Line up assignments that will have you working for about two to three months. That way, you won’t have time to sit around the house and worry.
- While you’re working on your assignments, send out feelers for others. Always think at least 3 months ahead.
Three is a magic number.
