5 Tips for “Going Freelance”

I’ve learned a lot in the past four years of being a freelance translator and copywriter, and I wanted to share some tips that have helped me along the way. So, if you’re interested in venturing into the freelance world, keep reading!

1. Don’t just jump. Learn to fly.

Does a baby bird jump out of the nest immediately after hatching? No. It stays put and lets momma bird deliver the “goods” while it grows its wings. What I’m trying to say with this strange metaphor is that before becoming a freelancer, you should first gain experience somewhere – anywhere! Find a nest where you will be fed tasty worms of regurgitated knowledge! Mmm…

I was fortunate to work in a fast-paced marketing agency where I honed essential skills such as time management, communication, meticulous editing and more. Working alongside experienced professionals gives you access to a treasure trove of wisdom. Take advantage of the opportunity, ask questions, and don’t assume anything. You’re not expected to know everything, and you don’t have to act like it, either. Stay humble; it looks good on you.

2. Quality, quality, quality.

If you say “quality“ three times fast, it might sound like “koala tea”, but that’s not the point here. Quality is what truly matters. It shapes your reputation, satisfies your clients and puts food on the table.

If you have to re-read your work three times, do it! If you have to re-read your work five times, do it! Until you’re sure your work is as close to perfection as possible, keep re-reading. Even the best writers make mistakes; the important thing is to prevent them from reaching the client.

3. Know your worth.

One of the biggest challenges is knowing what to charge. Submitting proposals is nerve-racking, to say the least. It made me question everything: Is my deadline acceptable? Is my price right? Am I good enough? But after several months, I realised that yes, I am good enough, and if the client doesn’t like the price, the worst that can happen is they submit a counteroffer or find someone else. “So, wait, you’re telling me everyone lives, and life goes on?” Yes, yes, I am! A revelation, truly.

Do some market research to define your pricing competitively. If you know someone in the same field, ask them for advice! Clearly define your rates, and be proud of the services you offer. There’s a reason you became a freelancer and a reason your potential client contacted you in the first place. Rock it!

Pro tip: Define your rates using a formula. Charge per character or line. This way, you won’t feel the pressure of trying to figure out how much to charge each time. Once you define your rates, creating a proposal becomes easy and transparent.

4. Three little words.

I know what you’re thinking, and it’s mutual. 😘 But actually, these three little words mean even more to me. I’m talking about word of mouth, and it wasn’t until I started freelancing that I truly understood its power.

A friend. A friend of a friend. Someone you met at a party for five minutes. Your dentist. They are all potential clients – and if not them, maybe someone they know! Plant your seeds wherever appropriate, and you’ll reap what you sow in due time. Go on, Johnny Appleseed.

5. Don’t let deadlines be the death of you.

When estimating the time required for a project, analyse it carefully, and add a buffer of one to three days, depending on its length. Unexpected events, such as urgent projects, revisions or a random headache may arise. Strive for the best, prepare for the worst and give yourself a little leeway.

Those are my five tips; do with them as you please!

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Four years of DINGSBUMS have passed, but the lessons I’ve learnt have remained. Here’s to the next five years of DINGSBUMS living it up in South Tyrol.

Tschüss, pfiati, ciao, bye-bye!