I've never freelanced and I'm just about to start (in an SDE-equivalent role), but getting the first job is definitely the hardest. I really need your advice!
The back story: My startup is experiencing a quiet period and won't be making money for a few months. I need to make my rent and pay for food, yet have the flexibility to continue working on my startup.
I considered asking for a low rate just because of my dire need to make money. This brilliant article makes me reconsider my worth (I've turned down 100k offers to pursue my startup), though. What's the best thing to do in my sitauation?
I've built a portfolio and I've considered four approaches that I will take. Which ones should I focus on? Is #2 too much of a long shot?
1. Reach to my network (mostly recent grads, though)
2. Apply to freelancing agencies
3. Reach out to companies that are hiring, have a great cover letter which explains my situation and propose working on a contract basis (is that too much of a long shot?)
4. Reach out to companies that seek freelancers (but how do I find these?)
I started with #1 and #4. In particular, http://www.authenticjobs.com/ is a great place to find quality first-time leads.
To get jobs there, I use this formula:
1. Make sure you're only applying to jobs you're really interested in.
2. Write an introduction email that explains your interest in a personal tone. Nothing stodgy, nothing cookie-cutter.
3. Try to be one of the first ones to apply - postings get flooded with applications (most of them crappy), so it doesn't hurt to be in first. This means you may need to check the job board multiple times per day.
Beyond job boards: Nothing beats word-of-mouth referrals. Become to "go to" person for your clients and watch the leads roll in.
I just started freelancing after doing a few regular SDE "regular" jobs, and just got my first contract through a freelancing agency. It's been pretty nice in my experience, since they helped explain a lot of things about freelancing that I didn't know, and they handle all the taxes for me (so it's a bit like a consulting firm, and I get a W-4).
Ideally I'd like to develop a network so I won't need them for leads, but starting out they've been really helpful.
5. All of the above. Hang a shingle and start contacting people (and follow up!) Those people who have sent you offers? Contact them and ask what problems they're having and offer to help them solve them.
The back story: My startup is experiencing a quiet period and won't be making money for a few months. I need to make my rent and pay for food, yet have the flexibility to continue working on my startup.
I considered asking for a low rate just because of my dire need to make money. This brilliant article makes me reconsider my worth (I've turned down 100k offers to pursue my startup), though. What's the best thing to do in my sitauation?
I've built a portfolio and I've considered four approaches that I will take. Which ones should I focus on? Is #2 too much of a long shot?
1. Reach to my network (mostly recent grads, though)
2. Apply to freelancing agencies
3. Reach out to companies that are hiring, have a great cover letter which explains my situation and propose working on a contract basis (is that too much of a long shot?)
4. Reach out to companies that seek freelancers (but how do I find these?)
Thanks for advice!