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Freelancing in IT? Here's what you need to know
If you work in IT and are thinking of going freelance, here's what you need to know.
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Going freelance means that you have to be ready to deal with irregular cash flow. (Shutterstock/-)
The tech industry is in the spotlight as everything is going digital.
If you work in IT and are thinking of going freelance, here's what you need to know, as compiled by Techworld:
1. Put everything in print
You should always prepare a contract for every project and put everything in print.
While you can easily find a template online, you need to tailor each contract to the project. Your contract should at least cover these things:
- That your work is original.
- Confidentiality.
- Agreed payment and terms.
- Your responsibility or lack thereof after the client accepts the final work.
- Termination of service.
2. Build an online portfolio
Even for non-IT people, an online portfolio has become a must. Your portfolio should have a list of projects and clients, as well as testimonies. Remember to include your contact so people can actually get in touch with you.
Don't forget to actually promote your brand, through online or offline networks.
3. Track your finances
Going freelance means that you have to be ready to deal with irregular cash flow. Learn how to track both your income and expense and create a budget so that you won't be left high and dry in between projects.
4. Focus on the people
It might be exhausting to explain the things that seem obvious to you to other people but remember that people will hire you not only for your work but the support.
Also, learn to receive and handle complaints and criticism regarding your work. Fix your mistakes but make sure that you're not being a pushover and that the work is still within the boundaries of the project.
Read also: Indonesian writers go freelance to find freedom in changing industry
5. Learn to say no
Working outside an office can make you easily forget that you should still have personal office hours, however flexible.
Do not take in too many projects just because you can, because this might lead to burnouts.
Remember that you need time to take care of yourself outside work. Take a coffee break, annual leave and sick days whenever you have to. (dev/kes)
