Creative Freelance Marketing Tips You Should Try

As a freelancer, you need all the freelance marketing tips you can get. After all, a good and creative marketing strategy is your golden ticket to landing more clients and projects.

You may find it unnecessary to create a marketing plan. In fact, some freelancers do not even explore this essential element in their business. And that is a big mistake. Really, you must think about your marketing strategies seriously. Because marketing, simply put, is your strategy for selling your products or services. It is your game plan.

Importance of a Marketing Strategy

An excellent and well-implemented marketing plan is your key to standing out from the rest of your freelance competitors. At this point where the gig economy is constantly growing, and the number of contingent workers (freelancers, independent contractors, consultants) is expected to keep on increasing, you need to have a plan of action so you will not get left behind.

There are probably hundreds, if not thousands, of freelancers offering the same talents and skills as you. Put yourself in the client’s shoes; how are you going to pick the right freelancer to hire? What will make you click that profile to further check on that candidate’s offerings?

This is what a marketing strategy is for. To get a potential client to notice you, check on your profile or portfolio, and be interested enough to make an inquiry (or be hired right away). And remember, you will be offering almost the exact same services as the others, so you must think of ways to attract them at face value (to make them stop scrolling and check out your profile) and win them (with your attractive offers).

Freelance Marketing Tips

Now that you know how important marketing is, it is time to develop your marketing plan. Don’t worry; you don’t need a marketing specialist or a whole team to do this. As a freelancer who does everything singlehandedly, there are simple yet effective ways to market your business. And yes, you can do it. Here are some tips to get you started:

1. Have a scroll-stopping profile picture

The most effective selling platforms are online job sites. Online job sites or job boards have pools of active clients looking for talent. But, the downside of job sites is that hundreds of freelancers are also posting their availability. So how can you make sure you get noticed? Have a scroll-stopping profile picture! Make sure that, first and foremost, your picture is not blurred or cropped awkwardly. Clients will quickly conclude that you are careless and unreliable if something as simple as a profile picture is not done well.

Remember, most clients will look at your face first, even before any other details in your profile. So, make sure to use a high-resolution photo. And please, do not use a photo that looks like a copy of your passport picture! Instead, have multiple options, view each of them, and see which one will catch the viewer’s eye the most.

collage of profile pictures

It is also important to match your photo with your profession. If you offer services requiring serious data protection like bookkeeping or legal advice, do not use a photo that looks like you are going to a rave party. For the same reason, if you are in the creative industry, do not use a photo that makes you look like you lack creative luster.

Think of it like this, in a magazine rack, people will most likely pick up the one with the catchy photos, regardless of what articles are written inside.

2. Have a killer portfolio

Keep in mind that clients may not contact you immediately to make an inquiry. They will most probably do some vetting first, and that means reviewing your portfolio (or resume). At his instant, your portfolio will speak about you and your business. So, make sure to have a killer portfolio that can sell your business.

In creating your portfolio, remember to showcase your best works. Highlight your main projects, especially big ones. If you have completed a huge project for a known client, it will signify that you are a reliable and competent business. If you are just starting and do not have much to flex yet, do some sample works to add to your portfolio.

There are many designer tools you can use in making a portfolio. You can use graphic design platforms like Canva and Adobe Express. Publish your portfolio on your website and social media pages. This way, you can easily send the links to quickly access your works. You can also have a hardcopy (printed out) portfolio ready for elevator pitches.

Pro tip: If you can make your digital portfolio interactive and participative, then that would be better! It would be a fun and totally engaging experience for potential clients.

3. Make a demo reel

To make things more interesting, create a demo reel. This is probably one of the most fun things to do in all freelance marketing tips. Make a teaser of your works, your business, and who you are. Make it striking. Flashy. Speedy. Impactful. It doesn’t have to be long. In fact, your teaser video should be just long enough to spark interest in your viewers. The goal of your reel is to drive the viewers to visit your website and other online pages and profile and check out your works and your business. Make them curious about you. Make them want to know more.

Nowadays, people are more inclined to click on videos. Visual images speak more than texts. So, it is only wise that you have a video (or series of videos) to complement and support your official portfolio.

woman making a vlog

Alongside demo reels, you can also publish vlogs. You can discuss relevant topics and news about your industry in your vlog. Or, you can make behind-the-scene videos. This way, potential clients can see how you work and your work ethic.

4. Irresistible Packages

Here’s another thing to consider. One of the many freelance marketing tips is having packages as part of your pricing scheme. Clients are more drawn to businesses that have irresistible offers. They will always want more value for their money. So, instead of selling your products or services conservatively, offer them packages that they will not be able to resist.

Create a rate card and post them on your website, social media pages, and job board profiles. Some clients will want to see your rates right away.

5. Hype on Social Media

Creating a professional social media page is not uncommon. Social media platforms are bursting with online businesses and freelancers’ professional pages. It is important to realize though, that having a professional social media page alone is not enough. To make this platform very effective, you have to maximize its advantages. Create a mystery story. Or post teasers. In other words, create hype. Make some noise. It will be so easy to do this because the platforms are user-friendly and, of course, free. Plus, you can do your campaigns on the go because you can effortlessly post using your smartphone or tablet.

Make the viewers wonder what the page is all about. For example, you can post ciphers and puzzles where people must wait for the codes to be revealed on another day. The cipher or puzzle may reveal a code they can use to get a discount or a unique one-time package for your service or product. In the days between the ciphers or puzzles post and the reveal of the codes, you can then post your sample works or demo reels. This way, people become more aware of your business while engaging in your page, awaiting the codes!

man figuring out a cipher using magnifying glass

Time to Plan!

Now that you have some doable and creative marketing tips, it is time to get your pen and paper and start drawing up your own marketing plan. In drafting your strategy, remember that it should represent your brand. Choose the right vibes. If it makes you smile, then it probably is the right plan for you.

Don’t worry; there are no right or wrong actions in this field. This is not a difficult task. Online tools are available to help you achieve your plans. And most of them are free to use or have free trial periods. Just stay on track, know your goals (sell, sell, sell), and remember these freelance marketing tips!

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Best Project Management Software for Freelancers

You have a lot on your plate and the best project management freelance software is the way you can move forward. As a freelancer, you have to get used to doing everything, especially when you are starting out. And when you say everything, it really means EVERYTHING. This includes tasks beyond what an employed designer usually does.

So, aside from worrying about your actual project, you also have to think about invoicing, finding clients, setting up meetings, and so on. It’s no wonder more and more tools are becoming available for freelancers. Try to utilize all of these if you want to have more time to work on your actual project.

Now, when it comes to freelance designers who are working on multiple or even just one project, you might want to consider getting a project management software or app. This can make or break your project. Sometimes, using notebooks and listing down your tasks in a bullet journal won’t cut it. It’s time to enter the future of project management.

Best Project Management for Freelance Designers

Designers are busy enough as they are, now just imagine what a freelance designer has to go through on a daily basis. It’s a good thing there are many project management options available today. The only problem now is finding the best project management freelance software that will best suit you. Check out some of the options below:

1. ClickUp

ClickUp landing page

One of the main missions of ClickUp is to consolidate all types of apps in its software. One of the best additions to ClickUp that is of use to a designer is the Whiteboard, which allows visual collaboration. It is possible to draw freehand as well as add shapes and write notes on it.

Using ClickUp can definitely be beneficial but it will require training. It would be hard to go about using this software with zero ideas on how to make it work. You may need some time to watch demos or webinars to be able to fully utilize ClickUp.

2. Trello

Trello sample

If you are a fan of Japanese efficiency, then you might be familiar with Kanban. This system’s principles are what is used by Trello. Whether you are tracking your task, project, or workflow, Trello is the ideal tool for you. You will make use of boards, lists, and cards to do this. You can check out the templates that are made specifically for design teams to help you get started.

It can be as simple as making the main list of stuff that you need to do, things you are already doing, or tasks that are already done. But you can also change this up depending on your requirements. Although this software is free to use, some of its features will require payment once you have already used up the complimentary ones. These features are called power-ups and may include a calendar, Google Drive, Slack, Teams, and reports.

3. Notion

Notion template sample

If you are into aesthetically-pleasing project management apps, then check out Notion. Popular on social media, Notion is actually a note-taking software platform but can also be used for project management. It is free for personal use but will require payment when being used by a team.

Notion may look simple enough to use but to achieve its pure potential for designers, you will need some training. There can also be some coding involved. Unless you are lucky enough to find a template that is already built into Notion. There are also some creators out there who offer Notion templates that will best suit your designer needs (but not all are free).

4. Monday.com

Monday.com landing page

Most designers are more visual, which makes Monday.com one of the best project management freelance software options out there. This cloud-based app is all about processes as opposed to focusing on tasks.

But again, just like other project management platforms, it will take you some time and effort to be able to fully utilize Monday.com. This software makes use of “building blocks” which includes everything from apps, views, boards, dashboards, and automation.

5. Proofhub

Proofhub sample interface

Another project planning software, Proofhub is aimed more toward teams as opposed to individuals. This will be ideal for freelancers who are working with a group or if you have started your own small business and now adding members slowly. Think of it as a virtual board that shows everything that your team will need for the project.

This software can be integrated with other freelance tools that you use to make things easier for you. Proofhub includes everything from Dropbox and Google Drive to iCal and Google Calendar. This platform can help you easily view the progress of each task or project and the attached responsible freelance designers.

6. Kosmo

Kosmo is made especially for freelancers and is simple enough, you don’t really need the training to be able to use it.

You can easily add your clients and projects to help you get started. For each project, you can also start adding your tasks. One of the bests things about Kosmo is how it makes freelancing work so simple. Once you load up your task, you can start working by clicking the “play button” which will start your timer. You can also add the time yourself if you feel conscious working with a time tracker.

Kosmo can then show you how much each of your tasks and projects will cost your clients. This can then be integrated into the invoice that you will send your client. This is definitely one of the simpler project management tools you can use as a freelance designer.

But as an overall freelance tool, Kosmo can also offer other amazing features that can help you sort everything out, from filing your proposals and contracts to making reports plus tracking your expenses.

Choosing the Best Project Management Software

freelance designer looking at laptop, using a tablet with pen

With so many options for the best project management freelance software out there, it can be very overwhelming or confusing to choose one. To help you find project management for designers that will best suit you, consider the following factors below:

1. Requirements

The first thing you need to figure out is, what do you really need out of a project management software? Do you really need a digital whiteboard or can you make do with drawing on paper and scanning it? Think how important is it for you to link your files on Google Drive or Dropbox to a project management software.

It’s all about your needs and requirements. Once you have sorted out all of this, then it will be easier for you to find the right project management app that will tick all of your boxes.

2. Pricing

Not all project management software options are free. If you are just starting out freelancing, it may not be advisable for you to pay for one from the get-go. It’s a good thing there are trials and free options available. Once you see the value of the software, then you can consider buying one or registering for a subscription.

Do compare the different pricing options and inclusions for each project management software. Some may be more expensive but you don’t actually need all of the features. So, do think about your expenses too as a freelancer so your business will keep afloat.

3. Users

Will you just be the only person using this project management software? If so, there’s no need to go for a project management app that is built for teams. However, if you are considering teaming up with other freelancers or you want to expand in the future, this is something that you should consider.

4. Time and Technical Skills

Now, this is one of the things freelancers fail to consider. Everyone has a different tech level and some of the project management software options will require you to be a bit of a techie. Don’t feel too bad if you aren’t, as a designer you are more inclined to be more on the creative side. But don’t discourage yourself from using an app that you believe you can fully utilize.

You may not have the technical skills as of now, but do you have the time? If you do have the time to take on training and study the best project management freelance software suited for you, then go for it. But if you don’t have the time and the technical skills, don’t worry also as there are simpler options available for you.

5. Preferences

At the end of the day, you have to consider your own preferences. How do you actually work? Are you more of a text person, jotting down every task on your to-do list? Or are you more of a visual worker? Again, choosing the best project management freelance app is the one that best suits you and your needs. You also have to consider your own preferences if you want everything you need in one space or not.

As convenient as it is for others to have all of the apps in one project management software, others actually don’t like this. It can be quite overwhelming to have everything on your screen all at once. There are also those who are more “old school” and just need the bare minimum from project management software.

This is one of the most important things to consider when choosing the right project management software. If you pick out something that you can’t really work with or does not suit your preferences, then it will go to waste. No matter how advanced, well-praised, or convenient a tool is, if it’s something that just doesn’t click with the way you work, then it’s the wrong one.

6. Clients

Finally, you also need to consider your clients. Now, not all clients have a say when it comes to the project management software that you use but don’t be surprised when others have their own preferences.

If you ever land a long-term project, there is also a possibility that the client has their own project management software. When that is the case, you will have no choice but to work with the app that they provide you with. If this software is new to you, do make sure to tell the client so they can give you ample time and support to learn and train.

Conclusion

freelancer using laptop on a kitchen counter

Remember that the best project management freelance software used in your industry might not be ideal for you. The same goes for the app that you are raving about is not favored by your fellow freelancers. It all boils down to a project management software that you can work with, utilize to its highest potential.

If you can’t understand it, you can train. Don’t have the capacity to do that? There are always more options. The best project management freelance for designers is sometimes the simpler one. You can always start with basic tools then you can progress to more advanced ones if needed in the future.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Top 10 Best Coworking Spaces in Paris

Paris definitely has more to offer than being the “City of Love.” This romantic and tourist-heavy city is also home to hundreds of remote work and startups, giving more opportunities for freelancers. And this is why people are always looking for the best coworking spaces in Paris.

Paris is starting to be a giant hub for startups and freelancers. Companies and employers have started implementing hybrid work arrangements as well. The recent challenges the world faced, like the global pandemic, have paved the way for more remote and hybrid work. And, of course, freelancing. And this is why coworking spaces have started to become quite a necessity, not only in Paris but globally.

What are Coworking Spaces?

coworking space with lightbulbs

Coworking spaces are, simply put, spaces for collaborative working. It is a typical shared office space, usually provided for independent working. These types of workspaces offer an office-type setting to freelancers, remote workers, or teams working on projects. The facilities range from basic office furniture and fixtures to a more tooled-up setup, like having high-end office equipment and even food and beverage services.

Workers who use coworking spaces are usually those who do not have enough space in their houses or apartments. Or simply wanted a dedicated space for working free from distractions. Some companies allow their teams to work on a project in coworking spaces instead of having them hog an entire boardroom for days.

When you rent out a space in a coworking space, you are entitled to use its facilities and equipment. You can really consider it as your own small office. The only difference is, you will be sharing the same facilities and equipment with other independent workers.

Best Coworking Spaces in Paris

black and white photo of the Eiffel Tower and some buildings

Paris is a very beautiful and promising city. Working in this robust city is truly a dream come true. If you are looking for the best coworking spaces in Paris, then check out these places that offer different styles and vibes:

1. Le 10h10 Coworking Café

The 10h10 Coworking Café takes pride in its flexible, friendly, and warm reception to workers from all industries. Unlike some coworking spaces which require reservations and need a guaranteed number of days to use, 10h10 allows the use of their spaces per hour, half-day, or daily. You can also simply walk in. No need to call ahead. No need to make a deposit. This policy makes it an ideal coworking space for business tourists too.

10h10 Coworking Café has flexible workstations and several meeting rooms. Meeting rooms are equipped with projectors, projector screens, and sound systems. They can even cater snacks or lunch to your private meetings! The entire facility has high-speed wifi internet. Printers and scanners are also available to use. The workspaces are stylish, with a blend of couches, common desks, and vintage decor to provide a chill work environment.

This coworking space is in the heart of Paris and offers free coffee and madeleines!

2. Greenspace

Greenspace is famous not only for being one of the most peaceful workspaces in France but also for its amazing facilities. The place is very spacious and is particularly designed to give a sense of a calm and peaceful work environment. It offers both shared and closed or private workspaces.

Some of the most exceptional services and features of Greenspace are their walk tables (for those who want to walk while working, because why not?) and meeting rooms that can fit up to 8 people. You can meet other workers or take a short break in the relaxation areas while drinking espresso (it’s unlimited!). Greenspace also offers well-being sessions and monthly activities like yoga classes.

And, if you are the nocturnal type of worker who works best during the night or wee hours in the morning, Greenspace is open 24/7. Now, isn’t this a cool workspace?

3. Hubsy Café and Coworking

If you love freshly brewed coffee, then Hubsy Café and Coworking is the right workspace for you. Imagine unlimited coffee and drinks (Espresso, Cappuccino, Mocha, Chocolate, Macha Latte, Chaï Latte, Iced tea, Lemonade)! Plus, they have a self-service buffet of snacks to go with your drinks. The coffee and snacks are free when you pay for a workspace.

Hubsy has three branches in Paris, located in Rue Lucien Sampaix, Rue Reaumur, and in Amsterdam Streets. Each offers private meeting rooms along with shared working spaces and yes, freshly brewed coffee! Hubsy coworking spaces are available for use hourly, daily, weekly, or monthly. They have superb internet speed and office equipment like printers and scanners.

Truly, the scent of roasting coffee beans, the ambiance, and the friendly staff will make you want to work every day at Hubsy.

4. Unicorners

Working at Unicorners will be amazing for those who wish to work with natural light coming in. Some really find the sunlight energizing and inspiring. Unicorners coworking space boasts of its welcoming ambiance along with its friendly staff. There are lots of comfortable seating options and, of course, coffee and cake!

Aside from the shared workspaces and private meeting rooms, you can also hold a small gathering in Unicorners. They provide space and service for enchanting events.

5. L’Archipel

Probably one of the best coworking spaces in Paris is the L’Archipel Café. Imagine this: working in a 19th-century chapel with breathtaking architecture. It is a unique and absolutely inspiring place to do work.

L'Archipel Webpage

L’Archipel has dedicated workspaces and hammocks should you wish to take a nap or take a short break. What’s even more special in this place is that all the proceeds go to charity.

6. Kwerk Bienfaisance

Kwerk Bienfaisance balances style and functionality. Its modern furnishings and soundproof offices make it unique in its own way. Because the offices are soundproof, you can work more efficiently without distractions from other workers.

This coworking space is also open 24/7, so you can work at whatever time you want. It is secure because guards are on post during the evenings. Kwerk has breakaway lounges and a gym if you wish to take short breaks.

7. Mozaik Coworking Spaces

Mozaik Coworking Spaces is another beautifully designed coworking space. Sometimes, you just need to look at something truly charming to inspire you to keep going while working. And the Mozaik Coworking Spaces are really designed to inspire. It has three stunning spaces in the heart of Paris, one in Chaussee d’Antin, one in Blue Street, and one in La Fayette. All these spaces offer good work environments and office facilities.

Mozaik Coworking Spaces also offer 24/7 access and even more perks if you pay their monthly fees.

8. The Bureau

The Bureau is known as a world-class, premier coworking space in Paris. This workspace is elegant. And it prides itself as a user-friendly space, combining luxury, culture, and culinary. Aside from its smart and classy workspaces, The Bureau has restaurants, coffee shops, and wellness facilities. They even have a concierge.

Because of its formal style and reputation, most users of The Bureau workspaces are entrepreneurs and those who meet to forge partnerships and collaborations. All three locations of the workspaces of The Bureau have a view of the Eiffel Tower. Now, that is a very inspiring sight indeed.

9. Nuage Café

If you are looking for a casual and fun workspace, go to Nuage Café. Its quirky designs make this workspace ideal for those in the creative field. Or, simply, those who want vibrance and colors while working.

Nuage Café has many desk spaces and power outlets, so you don’t have to worry about where to plug your laptop. Of course, a staple in every coworking space, good hot coffee is available.

10. We Work

The We Work is a global network of workspaces. In Paris alone, there are over 10 coworking spaces listed. We Work coworking spaces have a variety of features and facilities. Yes, these spaces have all the standard amenities for you to use, like meeting rooms, wifi, and printers. But there are some features that stand out in some locations. Some are pet-friendly, so you do not have to feel guilty leaving your pet alone when you have to go to work (just make sure your pet won’t disturb your coworker). Other locations have a dedicated lockable room for mothers who need to nurse their babies (or pump breastmilk). Some coworking spaces have bike storage, showers, and wellness rooms.

As you can see, We Work has thought of all the needs of freelancers and remote workers. But do bear in mind that not all We Work sites have the same amenities and services. So it will be best to check out their website first to see which locations have the facility that you are looking for.

Conclusion

empty workspace

One thing that really frustrates freelancers, independent contractors, and remote workers is not having a good space to finish work. Reasons may vary. Some do not really have a dedicated workspace at home. Others just wanted peace and quiet to focus on their work. Freelancers need a safe and comfortable area to work in order to run a freelance business effectively.

Groups or teams working on projects are also always in need of a private space to meet and discuss, sort of like a war room. The problem with some common spaces is that they lack the necessary equipment like projectors or whiteboards.

And as these needs continue to increase because of the spike in freelancing and remote working arrangements, coworking spaces have become more and more available. As a freelancer or any self-employed individual, renting an entire office space is impractical and extremely expensive. Good thing coworking spaces have emerged and made it possible for independent workers to have an office without paying so much.

Work arrangements in Paris continue to shift from traditional employment to remote and freelancing jobs increase. In a very fascinating and lovely city like Paris, people want to go out, stroll, or work in a workspace with huge glass windows to appreciate the city’s beauty. Working in coworking spaces is sometimes better than working at home (with all the distractions). Good thing there are a lot of good coworking spaces (and excellent coffee) all over the city. So if you are looking for a shared office space, or simply a place to work for a few hours, check out these best coworking spaces in Paris.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Best Online Proposal Software to Wow Your Next Client

Online proposal software has been improving freelancers’ lives for years. As you would know, a proposal is the first step in introducing your product or service in detail to a client. It is the start of your transaction process on a potential gig which will either result in a successful order or not. So, keep in mind that a good proposal is very, very important.

Having online business management tools like proposal software will not only help present your project details clearly but will also show your professionalism. It is definitely better to send out a proposal than discuss it through chat or over the phone. Remember, you will probably get the project if you impress your client from the start. And nothing probably impresses a client more than a freelancer who presents his business as a legitimate and professional entity.

What’s in a Proposal?

As a starting freelancer, you may not have a clear idea of what to put into a proposal. And because this is a very important document in your business, as this is basically your sales generator, you have to ensure that every proposal you send out is at its best. So what are the essential elements that your proposal should have?

Pricing document on clipboard, wit laptop, phone with calculator app, and office supplies
Proposal as the title.

The document should indicate that it is a proposal so the client knows right away that it is your sales pitch for the project. It should be in big, bold letters so it stands out.

Your business details.

Your name or business name and important information such as physical or email address, mobile number, website, or social media pages should be indicated. This way, your client will know the ways to contact you if they have questions about your proposal.

Your client’s details.

Indicate your client’s name, position (if any), and contact details. This shows that you have made the proposal specifically for them and are not sending a generic templated proposal.

Project name.

The proposal should state the project name. For example, a coaching project can be named “Life Coaching: Chapter One” or “K&K Bags Website Design” for a website design project.

Cost details.

There are many ways to specify your project cost, depending on your price schemes. You can present the costs as line items (per row) or as a package if the client is asking for a package. It is important that you specify all the inclusions in the costs (including revisions, reports, etc.) so your client will know the exact scope of work expected from you. This will avoid any tasking or payment problems in the future because you can always refer to the signed proposal.

partial laptop, calculator, coffee, notebook and pen on a pink table
Timelines.

If your project involves the delivery of products or services with a specific timeline, you should include that too. For instance, in a photography project, state the timeline of when you are expected to submit photos for clients to choose from, how long you expect them to get back to you with their selected materials, and the date of your submission of final processed photos.

Delivery mode.

How you intend to deliver the final product to your clients should be clear. Will you be sending materials through email? Or will you transmit it through a courier? If you are providing a service, indicate where you will be working. Is this a remote work arrangement, or will you work in their office?

Payment terms.

Clients should be notified immediately of your payment terms and conditions and methods. Will you require a downpayment? Can you be paid online? Will you be issuing a progress or recurring invoice? Should you be paid immediately upon submission of work, or will you indicate a last payment due date? In addition, if you will be implementing any late payment charges, you should state it here too.

Tax terms.

Tax obligations vary depending on your business location and the type of product or service you provide. Let your clients know the tax implications should they proceed with the project.

Signature.

Don’t forget to sign your proposal! Even if you are preparing a digital proposal (which you should), you can place your esignature by using online signature creators. Putting your signature on the proposal confirms that everything in that document is true and correct. You must also provide a space where your clients can place their own signatures should they accept the proposal. The signatures then make the proposal an official business document.

Online Proposal Software to Check Out

Creating your own proposal from scratch can be tedious. Sometimes, it may take hours to draft a proposal. The problem with drafting your own proposals using regular word processors is that it is prone to several errors. Also, you would need to create new proposals whenever you need one. Online proposal software have made proposal drafting easy and look more professional. Check out these proposal software:

Proposify

Proposify webpage

Proposify is an online proposal software. It is fully customizable, so you can create a proposal based on your brand’s style and color schemes. Proposify has pre-built templates that allow you to simply add the details for your proposal. You will be asked to indicate your client’s details to create a file for that specific client. These details will also be used in the signature box for your client.

This is an exciting feature for you if you have Grammarly installed: Proposify integrates with Grammarly. So, you do not have to worry about grammar and spelling when writing your proposal. It also has a tracking feature where you can see if your client has already opened and seen your proposal. And don’t worry if you do not have an esignature yet, because the site has a signature generator!

To start creating your proposal with Proposify, you first have to pick on a template. Then you can start editing the text boxes that come with the template. There are tools that help you create your own style too, like if you want to add a table. Tables are formattable too, where you can choose your own row settings for specific line items. It also immediately shows the total amount of your items, so you don’t need to compute it yourself anymore.

Proposify offers Free Trial periods, and if you decide to continue, their rates start at $49 per month, billed quarterly or annually.

Better Proposals

Better Proposals webpage

Better Proposals is another online proposal software that you should check out. What’s great about this platform is that it already has proposal templates designed specifically for particular freelance industries. Whether you are a web designer, photographer, or business coach, simply choose a proposal to edit from the proposal template tab under your industry.

In creating a new proposal in Better Proposals, you will be asked to type in details on who the proposal is for and what the products are, including the rates. You can also customize the proposal to sync it with your brand’s look and design. You can also change the font and overall look of your proposal.

Better Proposals, like Proposify, has a tracking feature. You will get an email notifying you if the proposal has been opened and signed. It also has a signature generator so your client can sign your proposal digitally.

A 14-day free trial is available, and Better Proposals packages range from $19 to $49 monthly.

Kosmo

Kosmo webpage

Kosmo is a good Better Proposal and Proposify alternative. It is an all-in-one project management tool where you get to manage an entire project from start to finish. You start by creating your client’s profile and project folder. Under the project folder, you can draft proposals and contracts, track tasks and time spent per task, issue invoices, and receive payments.

Preparing a proposal is done in four easy steps. First, you enter the general information of your client and project. If you have created a client and project portfolio already, it will be listed in the proposal automatically. Then, you add your item title and quantity. As you enter the rate, the total amount will automatically be computed. You can also set the currency to be used in your proposal. The third step is to include your custom settings, like if you have notes or additional services to offer to the client. Finally, when all the details have been entered, you can customize your proposal by choosing a proposal style, adding your logo, and a header.

After signing the proposal, you can send a test email to yourself to see whether you would want to make any more changes. Once the proposal is sent to the client and has been signed, you will be notified that your client has signed it already.

You can use Kosmo for free or get the very affordable package of only $9 per month to enjoy unlimited use of the project management platform.

Prospero

Prospero webpage

One proposal management software to look out for is Prospero. It has ready-made templates and a content library so you can create impressive proposals. You can add your own brandings, like a logo, image, or even video!

Prospero also offers features like proposal tracking, email notifications, and a digital signature generator. You can also add an expiry date to your proposal, so your clients will know just how long your offer stands.

If you want a proposal that can impress your client (and show how efficient you are), Prospero lets you add a WhatsApp, call, or email button to your proposal. This way, your clients can connect with you with just a click of a button.

Prospero offers a 14-day free trial, and their rates start from $8 a month.

Proposable

Proposable webpage

Proposable is a business proposal software that is super easy to use. This software features a drag-and-drop builder to help you create and customize your proposal. It is what it says it does, just drag and drop a block (element) that you want in your proposal template. It is that simple.

Proposable has templates that are categorized according to industries not only for freelancers but also for small businesses. Customizing your proposal is so simple because you simply have to drag a block, like, for example, your estimates block (for the pricing table), and drop it to where you want it placed in your document.

Signature fields are also available where you and your client can place digital signatures. And yes, you simply have to drag and drop the signature field block to your proposal.

Proposable offers packages starting at $19 a month, but you can have a free trial first if you want to see if the software is the right fit for you.

Conclusion

I agree box and pen

Your proposal is your sales pitch. It is basically your bid for a job post. As a freelancer, this is an important aspect of your business that should not be taken for granted. Not only should your proposals look professional, but they should be thorough and complete. Remember, this is the first official business document that a potential client will receive from you, so yes, it must have a great impact right away.

Creating proposals that can wow your clients should not be a difficult task. Take advantage of technology and explore your options. Choose the right online proposal software that works for you and close that project deal!

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Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

How to Create a Mileage Log for Taxes

Do you need help on how to create a mileage log for taxes? The world of freelancing certainly opens up new tasks, and this is one of them, creating your own mileage log. At first, this can be intimidating and or puzzling, especially if you are used to being employed. Or, you are just fresh out of graduation and went straight to freelancing.

Not to worry as all of this can be sorted out and learned. There may be a couple of helpful fellow freelancers out there who can teach you. (Tip: Try joining a freelancing community!) Being a freelancer is pretty much like running a business, even if you haven’t registered for an LLC, it helps to operate like one.

To keep your business or freelancing lifestyle afloat, you have to make ends meet. Better yet, you need to make a profit. But what some freelancers fail to account for is that there are expenses that come out of working. You can’t just look at how much money you are making from your clients. You also need to list down your expenses, such as operating fees.

It’s a good thing that there are freelancers out there who can utilize a mileage log for taxes. This can help reduce your running costs to keep your business afloat.

What Exactly is a Mileage Log?

Mileage log template

Simply put a mileage log is a record of the usage of your vehicle. However, this is a very meticulous type of recording. You have to input your odometer reading before and after you have used your vehicle. This is to record how many miles you have driven. A mileage log will include important details, such as the date you used your vehicle, the starting point and destination of your trip, and also the purpose.

If you have used your vehicle for work purposes, then you may be eligible to get deductions for your taxes. For example, you are a photographer who has to go to a photoshoot. You bring your car to go to work and you also bring your equipment with you. Maybe the studio is 10 miles, you have to log all of these details to find out how much you can reimburse.

For instance, in some countries, you can get around $0.50 per mile for using your vehicle for business. It may not seem much but 10 miles x $0.50 = $5.00. And it will soon stack up, especially if you use your vehicle for work all the time.

Before You Start Creating a Mileage Log

Man wearing glasses sitting on a bar using a laptop

Now, every freelancer has a different situation. You have to check the rules or the law on how to create a mileage log for taxes depending on where you are currently residing or living. Each country has different rules and definitely different rates on how much you can actually get reimbursed for driving your vehicle for work.

Contact the tax collection agency of your country or visit their website to get more information. Do your research so you don’t waste time and effort learning how to create a mileage log for taxes. Remember that there are different requirements from the agencies and you must meet these to be eligible for reimbursements. Once you have verified all of the necessary information from your country’s tax collection agency, then you can start.

Creating a Mileage Log for Taxes

Person holding a calculator and a pen handling files

If you take everything one step at a time it will be easier to learn how to create a mileage log for taxes.

  1. First things first, choose your logging medium of choice. This can be anything you are more comfortable with. it can be Google Sheets or Excel Sheets. There are others who prefer to write things down. You can even use the template above to help you out.
  2. Next, learn the required details for mileage log taxes. Again, this can differ from one tax collection agency to another. But, some of the most common details required apart from those already on the sheet are indicated below:
    • Car make – What type of vehicle are you using, be specific with the brand and the model. Don’t forget to include the vehicle model’s year.
    • Coverage period – Do include the start date; fairly common is the beginning of the year or the start of the tax period.
    • Total Miles – Fill this out once your coverage period has ended
    • Total Reimbursement – To make things easier for you and the tax collection agency, you can write down the total reimbursement. Just make sure that you use the correct formula or rate when computing this.
  3. Finally, make sure to use your mileage log taxes every time you use your vehicle. Sometimes you are rushing to make your gigs and you fail to check your odometer. This won’t do as you won’t be able to create a proper mileage log. Make it a habit to always check and write down what is on your odometer before getting into the car and before getting out.

Tips for Keeping Your Mileage Log Updated

Maybe you have trouble writing down your mileage every now and then. Definitely, it needs some getting used to. But, learning how to create a mileage log for taxes and sticking to it can be very beneficial. Below are a few tips to help you out:

Person driving a car

• Use a Satellite Navigation Software

Before heading out, it’s now fairly common to rely on apps like Waze or Google Maps. When you input your destination, it will show how far your destination is. This can help you remember to put down details for your mileage log. If there is a function to save all of your trips, this can help when filling up your form.

• Take a Pic

Not a fan of notetaking? Then use your phone. These days, you can take a picture of anything you need to be reminded of. Just take a quick pic of your dashboard while your engine is heating up. Then be sure to snap another photo before you move to your next destination or head back home.

• Get a Tracker

There are now apps that are developed for the specific purpose of creating mileage logs. You can utilize these to make your life easier. Better yet, check out apps that can offer computations for your tax reimbursements, too.

Why Create Mileage Logs?

You might be thinking that creating a mileage log for taxes is just another task on your list. However, this can actually help you with your business. It can even help you get a better handle on your car as vehicle mileage can say a lot about its state or life.

Aside from saving you money in the long run, learning how to create a mileage log for taxes can even be helpful to the environment. You can be more aware of your expenses as well as your carbon emissions.

Another thing about learning how to create a mileage log for taxes is it can be another freelancing gig for you. There might be a client out there who needs help with their own mileage log.

Conclusion

Learning how to create a mileage log for taxes offers many benefits for you. Again, it may not seem much, a few cents here and there but it all adds up. For freelancers, every penny counts, whether it be from earning money or saving money. So, go ahead and take advantage of using a mileage log for taxes, it doesn’t really cost anything to keep track of how many miles you have driven.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Top Coworking Spaces in New Orleans

Are you looking for a coworking place in New Orleans? Sometimes, working at home isn’t going to cut it for freelancers. Some people just can’t concentrate in a cozy environment while others prefer working around fellow freelancers.

A coworking space in New Orleans might just be what you need to boost your productivity. Whether you just want to check out what coworking is all about or you need a change of environment, you might want to see the top coworking spaces in New Orleans below:

1. The Warehouse

The Warehouse website

Located in the Bywater area of New Orleans, The Warehouse is a shared workspace that caters to the coworking community. The space has private offices, conference rooms, communal coworking tables, and also permanent desks that have lockable storage.

The Warehouse also has a private phone booth where you can take calls plus printing and copying services. Other features of this coworking space are indoor parking for bikes, coffee, a full kitchen, and of course, high-speed fiber internet.

If you are not yet ready to become a regular member of The Warehouse, you may opt for a day pass where you have access to the internet, communal spaces, and coworking tables. Maybe you’ll just be in New Orleans for a week or two, a punch card might be better for you as it offers 10-day passes.

2. The Shop at the Contemporary Arts Center

The Shop website

For creatives out there, don’t miss a chance to work surrounded by art and inspiration. The Shop is located at the Contemporary Arts Center in the heart of New Orleans. This massive 40,000-square-foot space is designed by award-winning Eskew+Dumez+Ripple, an architecture firm that infuses contemporary design with historic New Orleans.

Aside from the amazing location, The Shop at the CAC offers more advantages to freelancers looking for a coworking space in New Orleans. This includes unlimited beverages, such as cold brew coffee plus beer on tap, high-speed Wi-Fi, a full kitchen, and HD monitor workstations. There is also a roof deck where you can take a breather and enjoy the cityscape.

One of the best things about The Shop at CAC is that they can offer you flexible coworking solutions. You may also stick to getting day passes or regular memberships or flex passes. Each type of membership has its own perks and benefits.

3. The Blue House

The Blue House website

Get the chance to work at a historic building in Central City, New Orleans. The Blue House is a two-story building offering private offices and a coworking space. Set in a civic-minded community, this coworking space also features a library that is open to all members. You can find titles that fall under topics like poetry, economics, design, and more.

Keep yourself fueled and perked up as you work, The Blue House offers an excellent range of loose-leaf teas and delicious coffee (this is free for all types of memberships). You also don’t have to worry about your connection as this coworking space offers reliable internet. Apart from being fast, the internet is backed by load-balancing technology, battery power, and multiple ISPs.

The Blue House offers memberships where you can gain access to the working space four days per month or 24/7 access. For other types of memberships, you can enjoy a dedicated mailbox and a dedicated desk with storage.

4. Club Discovery

Club Discovery website

Entrepreneurs, technologists, and innovators will be happy to find a coworking space for them. Club Discovery is one of the original locations of the New Orleans Bounce. Situated in the funky and interesting St. Claude, this coworking space in New Orleans is in a unique community that is all about work, art, fun, learning, growing, and living life well.

At Club Discovery, you can enjoy amenities like a flexible workspace, free parking, free beer on tap, snacks, plus French Truck iced coffee. There is a receptionist on the premises available from 9 am to 5 pm, AV equipment, a game room, a full kitchen, and outdoor space.

All of the access plans at Club Discovery have high-speed internet. For coworking memberships, there is an open seating plan at the communal tables and coworking spaces. All memberships also have access to printers and copiers plus office supplies.

5. Propeller

Propeller Coworking Space website

Propeller is a non-profit organization that helps support and grow entrepreneurs to take on environmental and social disparities. It has a coworking space for foundations, nonprofits, small businesses, and freelancers.

A coworking area and lounge are open for members and 24/7 access is available. There is also a communal kitchen within the premises as well as off-street parking and bike racks. A copy machine, printer, and scanner are available for all members, and of course Wi-Fi.

There are different types of memberships available, including a Flex pass, ideal for freelancers who have a flexible working schedule or travelers. A 10-day punch pass is also available if you want to try out the space first before getting a monthly membership.

Choosing a Coworking Space in New Orleans

3 women working on a communal table at a coworking space

One of the best reasons to become a freelancer is you can work from anywhere. And although you don’t have an office, you can get the very next thing (or something even better), a coworking space. If you are looking for a coworking space in New Orleans but don’t know how to choose one, consider the following factors:

• Location

You shouldn’t have to travel too far to get to your coworking space. Make sure to choose one that can be easily reached on foot or will take just a few minutes to reach. After all, that’s one of the perks of freelancing, you don’t have to commute to an office every day.

You might also want to consider a location that really inspires you or is close to places that you need to be. Maybe a coworking space near cafes and restaurants or one that is conveniently close to your client.

• Membership

Each coworking space has its own membership options, you should choose one that will really suit your freelancing lifestyle. If you are one who really needs an “office” to work, then consider a full-time membership with unlimited use. Maybe you are a night owl, make sure your membership offers 24/7 access to the space.

It’s a good thing that coworking spaces in New Orleans have varied memberships. Some even offer flexible options that can suit your needs or requirements.

• Facilities

For some freelancers, all they need is a desk and the internet. But others prefer a well-appointed space that can invigorate their minds. So, do check out the facilities of a coworking space before making a long-term commitment. Do ask if the coworking space can offer you a tour before making a decision, some can also offer virtual tours.

Take advantage of day passes if you can. This way, you can really check out the facilities and amenities of the space instead of just relying on images on the internet. If you are the type who needs to take breaks while working, check out coworking spaces that have a full kitchen, a game room, or a roof deck. These shared spaces can help you as they can give you a chance to relax as opposed to just being chained to a desk.

• Community

Another good thing about using a coworking space in New Orleans is the community. Unlike an office, you don’t really get to choose who you work with. But in a coworking space, chances are you will meet like-minded freelancers like yourself.

There are some coworking spaces that are commonly occupied by people in the same industry. It will do you good to join one you are in the same industry in. This can give you a chance to network, branch out, or even collaborate. Who knows, joining a coworking space in New Orleans can land you a new gig or a long-term client.

• Activities/Opportunities/Events

Some coworking spaces foster their community by holding events or activities. If you are an extrovert or simply a freelancer who needs to network or get to know more people in the industry, it would be worth it to get a membership with a coworking space that has regular events. This is an excellent place to meet potential clients and collaborators. It is also a good place for finding opportunities when it comes to new projects and work.

• Inclusions and Freebies

Since there are tons of coworking spaces in New Orleans, each one has something unique about them. Do check out the inclusions as they might be little details but can be a big thing for you. For example, free coffee is included with the membership. It will mean a lot to you if you are a total coffee drinker. Think how much money you can save if you get a free cup of coffee instead of buying one on a daily basis at Starbucks.

If you have a car, coworking spaces with dedicated parking spaces free for members can also be a huge saving. It may not seem much but parking costs will rack up if you need to pay every day. Do take note of these small yet meaningful inclusions and freebies thrown in by coworking spaces.

Conclusion

A coworking space in New Orleans might just be the change you need to help you grow as a freelancer. It’s not just a place to work but it is also a place where you can be inspired, meet new people, and even find amazing opportunities. Do check out the top coworking spaces in New Orleans, what you could possibly learn, or more importantly, what you can achieve there.

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Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Freelance Ideas to Get Your New Business Journey Going

As a self-employed individual, you need to always come up with new freelance ideas to get your new business journey going. Starting a business is truly not a walk in the park. It involves a lot of planning and effort to run it smoothly and keep the projects coming in.

Unlike regular employment, being an independent worker means you have to handle all aspects of your business singlehandedly. You are basically the CEO, the accountant, the marketing head, and the customer support specialist. These are your responsibilities over and above your actual freelance job. While this may sound scary and challenging, remember that there are several tools and strategies you can take advantage of to jumpstart your career and keep your business on good footing.

Freelance Tips on Management

woman flying with an umbrella on yellow background

So, you have decided to put up your freelance business. That’s good. Statistics show that in the United States alone, freelance businesses are continuously increasing. It means you are on the right track in joining a workforce that promises sustained growth. And to keep up, you need ideas on how to manage your business efficiently. Here are some tips on what you can do to make sure you do not come to your wit’s end in running your new business:

Establish Your Office

Before anything else, you have to establish your business and office. Decide on whether you are going to use a business name or not. Most freelancers simply use their names. Then, depending on your location and industry, check out your local government agencies if you will need a business license or permit to operate. Make sure too that you have already secured your necessary tax ID numbers. Remember, as a self-employed individual, you still need to pay taxes.

Knowing your legal obligations and complying with your state’s or country’s policies is extremely important. You wouldn’t want to regret not doing this when they ask you to pay penalties!

After you have established your business, it’s time to set up your office. As a freelancer, you do not necessarily need an actual office space. You can convert a portion of your house into an office, or, if budget permits, you can rent out in coworking spaces. What’s important is that you have the necessary equipment to complete a project. Secure the things you need before you start accepting gigs. This way, you can work on your projects immediately and without interruption.

Use Business Management Tools

There are a lot of business management tools you can use to help you with your business. There are online accounting and bookkeeping tools to help you with managing your financial documents. These are extremely helpful, especially for tax purposes. You can also explore using appointment setting and calendar tools to help you manage your daily schedules. Simply set your meetings, presentations, and deadlines, and you will receive alerts. Investing in a project management platform is also a good move.

Project Management

You do not need to stress about how to organize your project flow. Project management tools are available online. These are actual life-savers for freelancers! Kosmo is an easy-to-use, powerful project management solution that can make managing your business easy. Check out its features and see how it can make your freelance journey a breeze.

  • Client Profile. Create a profile for your clients. This is where you add your client’s name, company name, physical and email addresses, website, and contact number. In the profile, you can add notes (with titles) too. After creating the profile, you can now add a project folder for your client. All the projects and invoice data can be seen in the client’s dashboard too.
  • Project Folders. The project folders are for the progress tracking of your tasks. You simply add tasks, documents, files, and notes. Once you add a task, you can track the time you spend on it. You can also draft your proposals and contracts. Kosmo has customizable templates that you can use (and digitally sign). In the Project folder, you can see the invoices you’ve created and sent to that particular client.
  • Business Documents. Kosmo offers templates that you can brand (just add banners and your logo). Business documents like proposals, contracts, and invoices are already available to use per project. So you no longer need to create these documents separately in your word documents, convert them to PDF, and spend time organizing them in folders. Do everything in the project folder on Kosmo!
  • All Features are Integrated. All these features are integrated. Your proposals, contracts, and invoices will automatically be added to your project folder, which will then be added to your client’s profile. In preparing the invoice, you can simply click on the timed tasks in the project folder and it will be added to the line items of the bill. Amazing, right? It’s a simple, all-in-one system.
Kosmo webpage

So you see, running a business becomes super easy with the help of business management tools. With the aid of these tools, you will avoid errors in handling projects and documents.

Freelance Ideas to Build Presence

line of lightbulbs, middle lighbulb lit up

One of the secrets to a successful freelance business is having a strong presence. You have to make a (positive) noise. Make the world know you exist. And thanks to the internet, you can effortlessly do this.

Create a Killer Website

You don’t need to pay for a website designer if you do not have a budget for it. There are a lot of free website builders online that you can take advantage of. Most of these are easy to use and have pre-made templates. You just need to add the contents.

A website is an excellent tool to introduce and showcase your work. This is also a good platform to place information about you and your business. You can add a blog post about you and your experiences (and credentials, of course). If you want, you can already post your rate cards on your website. You can also dedicate a space for reviews, inquiries, or feedback forms.

Having a website shows that you are a competent freelancer running a well-established business. Plus, it’s easier to direct potential clients to this website if they ask for sample works.

Set Up Social Media Pages

Everyone and everything is on social media. And you know it. Set up a professional social media page and make sure to update it constantly. A social media marketing strategy definitely yields good results. In fact, you can do more than just post your work on your page. You can post about news relative to your industry, tips, and other relevant content. The important thing is that your page is kept updated and active to drive viewership and following.

You can even take advantage of it, like hosting a poll to see the market preferences. For instance, if you are a food photographer, you can post two photos where you used different angles and styles and ask viewers to pick which one is better. That way, you will see which type of photo appeals to the public more. Or, if you are a graphic artist, post an image and start a poll asking whether the image is edited. So now you will know if you need to improve on your editing skills.

Make Demo Reels

smart phone taking a video from a selfie stick

Who says demo reels are only for actors? In this day and age, just maximize what technology can offer. There is plenty of free and user-friendly video editing software nowadays. Some even come with royalty-free music which you can use. Having a demo reel is definitely one of the freelance ideas you can explore.

Making demo reels to promote your product or service will definitely make your business stand out. It creates a buzz and serves as a teaser. Post your reels on your website and social media pages. It is important to note that people are more inclined to watch a video than to read details about a product or service. So have that option available to them. Spark their curiosity. Make them interested in checking out your products and service further. Just make sure that your demo reel is not too long. You want to keep your viewers’ attention on your reel.

Participate in Speaking Engagements

Being a guest speaker, or even guesting on vlogs or podcasts is a good avenue to build your presence. This is another way to market your product or service. Plus, this will definitely look good in your profile and portfolio. It shows that you are an authority in that field, and potential clients will have more confidence in hiring you. When it comes to building your brand image and identity, this is one of the freelance ideas that are taken for granted. Showing that you are serious about your craft and business through interviews and formal engagements is equally important as having a social media presence.

Other Freelance Ideas

There are other freelance ideas you can explore to help you get your new business going. Do not forget that as a new business, you do not need to look far to gain recognition. Go and engage with your local community. Join fairs and festivals. It would be better if you could set up a booth during local events. Think of a creative way to get the locals to visit your booth. This is an excellent way to tell your neighbors, “Hey, I have a new business; come check me out.” After all, your neighbors could most probably be your first clients.

You can also host a networking event. Invite your family and friends to dinner and ask them to bring friends (invite your neighbors too!). It doesn’t need to be formal; you can have a backyard barbeque or a potluck party. The purpose of this is that you get to introduce yourself and your new business to people that matter. Your family and friends will always support you, especially in this new journey of yours.

Think Outside of the Box written on chalk on a blackboard

In Summary…

As you begin your freelance journey, you will definitely need a lot of unique ideas and practical tips. As a freelancer who has to wear many hats, you might be overwhelmed with all the tasks you need to complete. Yes, there will be challenges. And there will be slow days. This is why many believe that freelancing is hard and unsustainable.

But the point often overlooked is that freelancing, though pretty challenging, is very rewarding. You are now free from the toxic 8-5 work setup and have total control of your time. Only you get to decide on your workload. Plus, you are doing exactly what you want to do, in the comforts of your own dedicated space. Do not worry about managing your business, and do not fret about marketing and sales, because there are a lot of freelance ideas that will help you get your business in place and running smoothly.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Not Accepting New Clients – How to Write a Polite Decline Message

Not accepting clients is not something you should feel bad about. There comes a time in every freelancer’s journey when they have to say no to a client at one point. This could be for a number of reasons.

Saying yes to everything when you are already juggling so many projects can lead to burnout and that’s something every worker should avoid. However, there are a lot of people who feel anxious about saying no to clients or declining a project or an offer. Maybe you feel like you won’t get another opportunity or you are afraid your client will get mad at you.

Honestly, you can’t really predict how a client will react when you decline a project or an offer. All you can do is ensure that your message will be clear and polite. For some, how to say no to a freelance project seems fairly simple. But once you are in that actual situation it can suddenly feel anxiety-inducing.

How to Tell You are Not Accepting New Clients

You’re very busy and you shouldn’t feel guilty about saying you are not accepting new clients. But how do you actually go about doing that? Before you try figuring it out, know that there are two types of situations where you have to do this. One is direct wherein a client will directly talk to you via email, message, or call. The other is indirect, wherein you prevent direct communication from even happening.

Woman on the phone sitting in front of a laptop while using a pen and tablet

1. Direct Communication

Maybe you have a very impressive LinkedIn resume or you’ve applied to dozens of gigs and now you find a number of potential clients trying to book you. What do you do? Below are some of the direct ways you can communicate with them:

• Write a Polite Decline Email

Start off with the proper heading and make sure to be formal when you create this message. After adding the recipient, you can start with a salutation and try to get the message across in the very first sentence. Don’t beat around the bush sprinkling the email with compliments to lessen the blow of declining someone. A potential client will appreciate it if you are direct to the point.

After saying you can’t do the project, add a bit of a reason (be honest!), and don’t explain way too much. Make sure to thank them for their interest and finally do not close doors (unless that is your purpose). Tell the potential client that you hope you get a chance to work with them in the future. (Again, only if you want to). Check out the sample below:

November 5, 2022

Mr. John Doe
CEO
ACME Inc.

Dear Mr. Doe:

I regret to inform you that I cannot accept your offer at this time. Currently, I have a full work schedule and will not be able to accommodate long-term projects.

Thank you for the opportunity and I do hope that you think of me in the future. Hopefully, by then my schedule will be more flexible and I’ll get the chance to work with the amazing team at ACME Inc.

Sincerely,

Jane Doe

• Send a Message Respectfully Declining a Project

Person holding a coffee cup and a mobile phone

Now, not all clients are quite formal. Some prefer to communicate through messaging apps like Slack, and this should be a bit more casual. It’s pretty much like the decline email but again, lose the formality so as not to be too awkward.

But the message should pretty much be the same, straightforward that you can’t accept the job, have a reason or explanation, and finally, say thank you and add if you genuinely want to work with them in the future. It can be as simple as the sample below:

Hi John! I’m so sorry but I won’t be able to accept new gigs at the moment as my schedule is booked up. Thank you for reaching out and I do hope that you think of me for your next project.

2. Indirect Communication

Maybe you already know that your schedule is going to be busy for the next few weeks or months. If you want to ward off potential clients from messaging you in the future, this is how you do it:

• Make an Announcement

Yellow background, hand holding a placard that says No, and another hand holding a megaphone

Use your professional social pages to make an announcement that you can’t handle new clients or jobs. When you do this, you can simply say you are booked up or you are busy. It’s still best to give a reason for your potential clients. And even better, if you can give a timeline for when you can start accepting new clients again.

This should keep potential clients from messaging you or contacting you. And there will be no need to make a personal message where you politely decline their offers. It can be as simple as, “Thank you for your interest but I am unable to accept new clients.”

• Create a Template

For some, rejecting or declining is a very tough thing to do. If you really want to avoid having to directly talk to potential clients, you can settle for a template. This can be a better option if you have a company name or talk in the third person. It can go something like, “This artist is currently on leave and will not be able to accept new clients.”

You can even inject some humor or a little bit of your branding into your message like “Artist Co. is unable to accept new jobs due to a shortage of black paint.” This is especially helpful if you are not comfortable saying the real reason why you can’t take on new clients.

Why It’s Important to Decline New Clients

Maybe this is something you don’t really want to do or imagine doing. Again, at one point in your journey as a freelancer, you will have to decline a new client. Not accepting new clients can even be a milestone for some freelancers. Here’s why it’s important to learn and do:

Prevent Burnout

Whiteboard filled with weekly schedule and post its

If you keep saying yes, you’ll find your schedule fully packed. Or even overflowing. As much as it is important to learn how to keep track of freelance work effectively, sometimes you really just have to let go of new projects and clients.

Improve Relationships with Current Clients

When you focus on your current clients, you can improve your relationship, and this could lead to many benefits. For starters, a client that trusts you will keep getting you for future projects. Next, if a client really likes your work, you can get better pay. Finally, you get a chance to be a part of a major project of your work with a client long-term.

Foster Client-Freelancer Connections

One of the worst things you can do is to “ghost” a potential client. Not only is this rude but you aren’t helping the freelancing community either. Mutual respect is a must between freelancers and clients. You help foster the connections and the community when you are polite to everyone, whether the client you are declining is nice or not.

Conclusion

Not accepting new clients may seem like a difficult task, especially if you have problems with people-pleasing. But a freelancer must learn how to do this task the correct way whether it is easy for you or not. Not accepting new clients is not wrong, what is wrong is if you do not do it in a respectful way or if you simply leave a potential client hanging with no message or reply.

You wouldn’t want a potential client to not reply to your proposals, right? So, you shouldn’t do it to them either. Learn the right way to tell how you are not accepting new clients now so you won’t have trouble with this task in the future.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

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Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

Best Freelance Writing Sites to Learn and Grow

Do you want to know the best freelance writing sites that can help you improve your skills? Continue reading this article to learn how you can enhance your writing skills.

People who have a knack for writing are joining the freelance workforce. And this is why you need to explore sites that can help you improve. So you can learn and grow and be better than others.

First things first. You need to understand that being a freelance writer is a business in itself. Whether you are writing full-time or as a side job, consider your gig as a business. With this mindset, taking care of your business means knowing how to run your freelance business effectively. And in managing a business, aside from sustaining your client relations and attending to admin duties, you have to improve your craft continuously. Of course, with the many competitors out there, you definitely need to stand out.

close-up of fountain pen

Continuous Learning: Best Freelance Writing Sites

Whether you have a formal educational background in writing or not, writing is an art that needs to be enhanced all the time. As trends change and the outlook of your audience continues to adapt to the times, you need to keep in touch and know how to best reach and make an impact on your readers. Here are some sites that can help you be relevant and in tune with what’s in and what’s out:

laptop screen showing never stop learning

The Write Life

The Write Life is a very supportive site for freelance writers, bloggers, and authors. It has a lot of articles that cover topics most relevant to independent writers like you. The site also has an online community where freelance writers get to connect and discuss issues and tips to help you earn more income.

The Write Practice

If you are a newbie author who wishes to write and publish a book, then check out The Write Practice. This site coaches aspiring writers in their journey. Through their coaching, you get to practice and enhance your writing skills. The Write Practice also offers creative writing programs and editing services once you have a draft ready.

Writers Write

Writers Write is another good resource for writers. It has tons of articles about creative writing. The site also offers courses and has a Writing Advice page for creative, business, blogging, and social media writing. What’s fun about this site is that it has book reviews, literary trivia, and even lists the birthdays of well-known authors.

Positive Writer

For starting writers and bloggers, Positive Writer is created just for you! It offers motivational and inspirational articles. The Positive Writer provides tips not only to improve your writing skills but also in marketing your work.

Writing.com

Writing.com is probably one of the largest online writing communities. Writers from all genres are welcome on this site. You can create your own portfolio and store your articles and stories on this site. There is a support system where you can post your writing, and fellow members can review your work. So, if you are looking for inspiration, a support group, and someone to give an honest review of your work, this probably is the best website for you.

Writer’s Digest

Writer’s Digest has hundreds of educational and motivational articles for writers. The site also offers tutorials and webinars and even holds challenges and competitions. Writer’s Digest prides itself on its vision of helping writers develop their craft at every stage of their careers. Oh, and by the way, Writer’s Digest has been around, changing the lives of writers since 1920!

Kikolani

Planning on blogging? Kikolani is a good resource page for bloggers. The site offers tutorials, guides, and articles that will help you start a successful blog. Kikolani is a straightforward site. Simply choose your topic from the Categories tab, and you will land on a page with articles about that subject. Simple, right?

Calmly Writer

Want to write without any distractions from your text editing software? Get Calmly Writer. Calmy Writer’s focus mode removes all the distracting tools and options in your interface. This way, you get to write smoothly and without any distractions on your screen. This word processor understands that you need to just focus on writing.

Reedsy

Reedsy is probably one of the biggest resource sites for writers. On this site, you can read insights and advice from expert authors. Reedsy also offers short courses and free webinars. One of the coolest things about Reedsy is their Pen Name Generator tool! Simply indicate your gender, the first letter of your choice, and the language origin, and instantly get options for a pen name!

For fiction writers, Reedsy also has a book title generator, a character name generator, and even a plot generator. If you are looking for an excellent editor to help you out, this site has a list of professional editors to choose from. And, if you are aiming to publish your work, let Reedsy’s designers and publicists help you out.

Other Online Courses

There are online learning platforms that offer short writing courses too. What’s good about these is that you get to have a certificate after the course, which is good for your business. Talking about standing out from the rest, clients will tend to consider hiring you more if you have better credentials than others.

man watching a woman talking on  laptop
  • Udemy. Udemy offers courses for almost all genres. If you browse through their site, you’ll see classes like Writing for Children, Travel Writing, and Grammar Boot Camp. This online learning platform has business, content, academic, email, copywriting, fiction, and creative writing courses.
  • Coursera. Coursera offers over 800 different writing courses. Coursera partners with world-renowned universities like Stanford University and California Institute of the Arts, to name a few. Courses range from English proficiency improvement to creative writing, poetry writing, and content strategies.
  • LinkedIn Learning. With LinkedIn, you have choices in picking a course for you. Their filters include choosing a level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced), type (Courses, Video, Audio), and time to complete (from less than 10 minutes to 3+ hours).
  • Domestika. Domestika is a popular community for freelancers in the creative industry. It offers courses in creative fields such as writing. In addition, the site offers courses on creative writing, scriptwriting, and content writing.

Growing your Business: Best Freelance Writing Sites

One of the perks of being a freelance writer is that you earn while doing something that you genuinely love. As writing is both an art and a science, your skill needs to improve and grow in the field continuously. Especially now that you are running your own business. Here are some tips on the best freelance writing sites to check out to help you grow your business:

Groups, Organizations, and Associations

Joining a writer’s guild is important. Having a group with the same profession and interests will help you in this journey. You need to stay connected and have a network of people to give you support and advice. The Association of Writers & Writing Programs is an example of a good group to join into. Check out social media pages too for smaller groups of freelance writers.

Whether you are a copywriter, a content writer, or a fiction writer, having a network of people that understands you most is beneficial. After all, who will better understand your issues than a fellow writer? Most probably, there will be members in your group that is more experienced, so take advantage of that connection to ask for advice and learn something from them.

Tools

hands typing on a laptop

There are days when you are just not at your best. You find yourself stopping mid-sentence, thinking: what’s that word again? Or, you needed a synonym for a word but can’t seem to think of the right one. It’s annoying and frustrating for a writer, but sometimes, you also ask yourself if you have written that last sentence correctly. This is where tools like online software and apps come in handy. Because yes, sometimes, you just can’t get that one word you think best suits your sentence. Here are some tools that can help you:

  • Grammarly
  • Power Thesaurus
  • Thesaurus.com
  • Wordrake
  • Grammark

Job Sites

Experience is the best teacher, they say. Working for different clients, who require different tones and writing styles, will polish your writing skills. Especially when you receive feedback. Through these experiences, you get to learn the writing technique that is well-received by a particular market. While some big online job sites like Upwork, LinkedIn, and Indeed offer many freelance writing jobs, there are sites that cater particularly to writing gigs. Explore these job sites, create your profile, and start working!

  • Contena
  • Problogger
  • Freelance Writing Jobs
  • Textbroker
  • Contently
  • Constant Content
  • FreelanceWriting.com
  • Writer Access

Conclusion

man sitting on the floor typing on laptop

Being a freelance writer is a very challenging job. Aside from having many competitors, writing different content and articles daily can be draining. Yes, sometimes, you will experience that dreaded mental block. Or suffer from Imposter Syndrome. And this is why you need to be smarter in your approach to this line of work.

Understanding the demands of being a writer is important. It helps you prepare yourself for what’s yet to come. Good thing there are sites that help you gear up and inspire you to keep on going. So, go ahead and explore the best freelance writing sites that will help you learn and grow as a freelance writer.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

Post written by:

Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.

What Are the Average Graphic Designer Fees?

Finding the average graphic designer fees can be quite challenging as the freelancing community is ever-changing. There has been a shift in the world of graphic designing and companies and clients are more accepting of freelancers. It’s pretty normal now for graphic designers to be freelancers and also get higher rates for their work.

But when talking about the average graphic designer fees, what exactly is the norm? There really is no one number as there are many things that can affect the rates of freelancers.

Factors Affecting Freelance Graphic Design Rates

When you think of a graphic designer, you can imagine a jack-of-all-trades. Definitely, graphic designers are some of the most talented freelancers out there. They can work on a wide range of projects, from social media and web design to portrait art, gaming design, packaging, animation, and more. So, definitely, it will be hard to pinpoint an exact rate for freelance graphic designers. Check out the factors that can affect average graphic designer fees:

Woman counting dollar bills, some placed on a table right beside an open notebook with a pen.

1. Type of Task

First things first, what exactly is the task that you have to do? It’s hard to compare how much to charge for a logo versus how much to charge for designing a website. Graphic designers have a very wide scope when it comes to tasks, they can handle editing social media posts, creating t-shirt designs, UI design, and more.

Once you find out what is exactly the task at hand, then it will be easier to find the average graphic designer fees.

2. Complexity of Project

Another factor you need to take note of is the complexity of the project. Sometimes you might think a project is simple enough, like creating Youtube thumbnails of videos. But, what if the client has a Type A personality and requires multiple edits or changes? You have to factor those in, too.

If the project is simple enough, then the average graphic designer fee is low. However, for major campaigns for graphic designers who are in advertising and marketing, the fees should be pretty high, especially with demanding clients.

3. Skill Level

Your skill level is a major factor in average graphic designer fees. Of course, if you are just a newbie at this point, you can’t compare yourself to someone who has been in the business for over a decade.

There are clients out there who don’t put out their rates for job postings and will instead say it’s up for discussion and the average graphic designer fees will depend on your experience.

4. Tools and Software

Desk with an tablet, book entitled Graphic Design Playbook, an iMac, keyboard, and mouse.

Being a graphic designer isn’t cheap. You have to have the right tools and software to be able to do your job. There are some clients that have requirements and you need to comply, the trouble is it will cost you money to use this software or tools. So, do factor that in with the rate.

5. Per Hour or Per Project

A big discussion up for debate for just about any freelancer is to charge per hour or per project. Of course, the average graphic designer fees will change depending on this. So, do you charge per hour or per project? And if you do charge per hour, again, you have to consider the type of task.

Tips for Determining Average Graphic Designer Fees

Desktop with two monitors and a laptop showing the same logo

Now that you have a better sense of how average graphic designer fees are computed, it’s time to determine how much to actually charge. Below are three things that can help you out:

1. Check your competition

This is one of the best ways to find average graphic designer fees, check out who you are up against. If you are an intermediate-level graphic designer, do make sure you are checking out fellow freelancers who are at the same level as you. See how much they are pitching for jobs that you are also applying for or projects that are somehow similar.

Some try to offer a lower number than that of their competition so clients would pick them but that isn’t always effective. Not only are you risking being low-balled but potential clients might be put off as to why you are charging a bit too low.

2. Ask your clients

The next best thing you can do is to ask clients how much they are paying freelancers for their projects and tasks. It’s best to ask multiple clients who are offering just about the same jobs so you can really compare. Much like clients are able to pick out from a dozen or more freelancers, you can do the same. That’s the beauty of freelancing, you also have the option to choose who your client will be.

If the potential client seems to be offering too low a rate for a task or project, just say no. Checking out job listings can help you get an idea of average graphic designer fees. Chances are, similar tasks will have the same rates.

3. Get help from fellow freelancers

Are you still having trouble doing the math or averaging? You can always turn to the freelancing community. If you are just new, one of the best things you can do to become a better freelancer is to join a group of graphic designers. Chances are, there are pros out there who are more than happy to help out newbie freelancers.

Aside from helping you determine average graphic designer fees, who knows, they might give you some design tips too. Joining a community can also help you understand how graphic designers create their rates. There are usually discussions in groups on why it’s bad for the freelancing community to price way too low so it will be fair for all freelancers.

Even if you don’t get the average price right away, you will at least know the limits of how to make your rates. There is a border on which can’t go any lower as it will affect the entire graphic designer freelancing community.

Conclusion

Man drawing on tablet, sitting in front of a large monitor.

Again, there is not a single number that can be given for average graphic designer fees. You must first know the details of the project as well as the situation before you can come up with a definite number.

It may be tricky at first to determine your own graphic designer fees, it can be a process of trial and error. But a good way to find out if you are hitting the average is if you are able to book gigs without being burnt out. If you go way too low and get too many clients, it won’t be good in the long run. It’s best to stick with average graphic designer fees first. As you grow and become more successful as a graphic designer, then you can start increasing your fees.

Get Organized & Win More Clients

Kosmo has everything you need to run your freelancing business.

Post written by:

Kosmo is a free All-In-One Workspace for Freelancers.