Intro:
People from different walks of life will become freelancers in 2022. College students use their spare time to make extra money as gig workers. Established employees decide to branch out on their own and start their independent shops.
Then others find side work and manage to turn it into full time income.
Freelancing carries a degree of risk. You’re on the constant hunt for new clients even when the work is flowing. The sales pipeline requires constant nurturing.
To keep the sales pipeline healthy, organize your freelance business. The organization ensures that you place your focus on client acquisitions and productivity instead of putting out fires.
A freelancer is an entrepreneur. A business requires organization in the literal sense of putting everything in its place.
It also requires a set of components that fit neatly into each other.
We outline five steps on how to effectively organize your freelance business.
1. Legal Structure
Most clients don’t need to see the nitty-gritty of your freelancing business structure. However, they do want to ensure that your company is legitimate. When you acquire a new client, they will ask you to fill out the appropriate tax forms.
You’ll use your social security number as a sole proprietor or you’ll provide your company business information.
Some states have tough employment status laws. To avoid legal bumps in the road, solidify your status as a freelancing business through legal means.
Legal structure options for freelancers include:
- Sole proprietorship
- Partnership
- Limited liability corporation
- Corporation
The more you know about the tax implications of each, the better decision you’ll make in picking one. Plus, take into account how each structure protects you on a personal level.
2. Financial Structure
A business deals with several financial aspects. You receive payment for your goods or services. In turn, you pay for services rendered and raw materials provided by business partners.
Every company makes investments too. If you create a content production company, you invest in hardware, software, and tools. Rideshare drivers invest in a vehicle, its maintenance, and amenities for guests.
Therefore, every individual must organize their company’s financial structure.
You will process payments. Even though you’re not a retail business, your clients require a method to pay you. Thus, take a look at credit cards and other payment processors.
In 2022, several digital payment processing options exist. Once you pick the best options for your business, hook them up to a company bank account. Then connect that to your accounting system.
3. Establish a Presence with Marketing
Several ways to acquire new clients exist. They all have a degree of marketing attached. The number of freelancers was already on the rise. The year 2020 simply gave hiring independent contractors more credence.
To gain new clients and work, set up your marketing strategies. Channels to consider include:
- Freelancing platforms
- Social media
- Industry job boards
- Former colleagues
Most online marketing tools for freelancers remain free including social media. Once you gain traction, connect all your marketing strategies to a central point such as a website with your contact information.
Then stay on top of new offers and inquiries. Ensure that you answer them within 24 hours. Keep the lines of communication open with the most credible and valuable ones.
4. Adopt Productivity Software
No shortage of productivity software exists. Developers make several free versions available to freelancers. Others price them to scale.
If you’re starting your business, obtain a simple customer relationship management program that keeps your overhead costs low in the beginning.
Organize your calendar, contacts, and deadlines in the centralized program. A CRM allows you to organize client communication, notes, and close deals in a few optimized steps.
A CRM is a cost-effective organization tool for freelancers.
5. Build a Portfolio
Every project you complete is a new entry in your freelancing portfolio. A stellar portfolio garners you better-paying projects and established clients.
Plus, your portfolio demonstrates that your business is legitimate, reliable, and responsible.
Once you add new entries, organize them in a manner that makes sense. Consider chronological, scope, or scale.
Conclusion
If you organize your freelance business well, you give yourself time to focus on acquiring new clients and work that lasts throughout the year. Moreover, your clients see you as a credible company. Freelancing is a balancing act. Successful freelancers keep their operations organized and the rewards abundant.
