You know that your skills as a graphic artist are above par. The slew of clients you’ve amassed over the years is proof that you are good at what you do. Now, you’re thinking of ditching the nine-to-five and becoming your own boss. At the last minute, though, you stop to second-guess yourself.
“Am I cut out to be a freelance graphic designer?”
The truth is becoming a freelancer is downright challenging and oftentimes scary. However, freelancing is one of the most satisfying things you can ever do with your career. So now the question is, how can you make sure you’re cut out for it? How can you embrace becoming a freelance graphic artist to the full? How can you make yourself fully prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead?
Becoming a freelancer requires the highest level of professionalism. It’s not enough that you’re good at what you do. You need both professionalism and talent if you want to be a successful freelance graphic designer. Why is that? Well, thousands of graphic artists who may have the headway as far as freelancing goes are out there. What’s more, the competition grows each passing day. Therefore, it’s crucial that you think and act like a professional. You need to be set apart from the throng of freelance graphic artists out there.
Here’s something to help you answer the questions raised earlier – a checklist to help you find out if you really do think like a professional. Keep in mind, though, that this list is in random order.
1. Have you set up a website for your freelance graphic artist services?
The Internet can be your virtual office as long as you’re able to set up a website that features your portfolio, your rates, the services you offer, and ways that clients can contact you.
2. How good are you at meeting deadlines?
The last thing you want is to disappoint your clients by promising to finish a project on a particular date and delivering it late, without explaining to your client why you got behind schedule. If missing a deadline is inevitable, inform the client right away.
3. How far are you willing to go to advertise your services?
Even if spreading word about your freelance graphic artist services is easier to do online, you still need to think of offline marketing strategies, as these are still a major factor in scoring new clients. Never be too busy to market your services. A well-designed logo for your business is a great way to promote it.
4. Have you drafted a contract already?
Even if you’re just starting, it’s important to draw a contract between you and your client. You never know when a contract may come in handy to settle disagreements or avoid bigger legal problems later on.
5. What’s your turnaround time when it comes to responding to clients?
When a client sends in an inquiry, make sure you respond within a business day. Otherwise, you might lose an opportunity to add a new client to your roster.
6. How are you keeping up with the latest developments in tools, software, and other things you may need for your designs?
It pays to aware of the newest tools you can use to improve continuously.
7. Have you decided how much you’re going to charge your clients?
Do you have a standard rate? Will you be charging professional rates? Don’t short-change yourself. Most freelancers commit that mistake – they charge too little for their work. If you’re confident with the quality of your work, charge your clients accordingly.
8. Regularly update your portfolio with your best and most current work.
An updated portfolio is a great way to attract potential clients.
9. Be on schedule, manage your time wisely.
Even if you were going to work from home, it would be a good idea to devote a regular time when you would get the bulk of your work done. Don’t make the grave mistake of putting off work until the last minute.
10. Designate a room or corner in your house as your workspace.
You’d be surprised at the amount of work you’d get done if you work from your own “office”.
This is just a 10-point checklist, but your responses could help you determine whether you’re ready to be a freelance graphic designer.
About the Author
Lionel Luigi Lopez is a business writer, entrepreneur and a musician. He is also an active blogger and marketing strategist. He runs a small business in Manila and is still active in music.