TalkSpeaking

Oct 15, 2024

Freelancing Isn't Free: AustinJS Conference Talk

Event: AustinJS Meetup
Overview: If you're an engineer transitioning into freelancing, developing the skills necessary to succeed in this new landscape is essential. This talk covers the primary strategies for making money as a freelancer, from building confidence to finding high-paying clients, establishing professional credibility, and the practical steps needed to succeed as an independent contractor in the competitive tech market.
Technologies Used: FreelancingBusinessConfidenceProfessional Development

Confidence is Key

Confidence is Key!

Fake it until you make it. As a new freelancer, you may not have the confidence that comes with experience. However, it's crucial to project confidence at all times. When interacting with clients, pretend you've been there before. If a client asks if you've signed a big deal before, say yes. Don't be nervous; sound confident, even if you're sweating and crying afterward.

Be Professional

Clear Process & Scope

Having a straightforward process and well-defined scope of work

SOW TemplatesProject PhasesClear Deliverables

Professional Contracts

Creating serious and professional contract agreements

Legal ProtectionTerms & ConditionsIP Rights

Business Setup

Legitimate business structure with proper invoicing systems

LLC FormationBusiness BankingInvoice Systems

ACH Payments Only

Professional payment methods that reduce fees and chargebacks

Bank TransfersNet 30 TermsNo PayPal

Transparent Communication

Over-communicating with clients about progress and issues

Weekly UpdatesIssue ReportingProactive Communication

Finding Work

Start Small: Begin with manageable projects to build confidence
Use Freelance Platforms: Leverage platforms like Upwork, Guru, or Freelancer to find clients
Build Portfolio with Small Projects: Take on small projects (5 hours or less) to build your portfolio and gain confidence. As you complete more projects, you'll grow in confidence and be able to increase your rate
Cold Outreach Strategy: If you're feeling courageous, try cold-calling potential clients. Offer them a valuable service, like a website, for $5,000; they will be more likely to take you seriously

Growing Client Base

Starting small and being strategic helps you build a portfolio and confidence that leads to bigger, higher-paying opportunities.

Focus on What Matters

Skip the complexity. These four essentials will establish your credibility and get you started immediately.

Professional Domain & Email

Get yourname.com and [email protected]

Domain RegistrationProfessional EmailCustom Branding

Simple Business Website

One-page site with your services and contact info

Landing PageService ListContact Form

Legal Business Structure

LLC formation and business banking setup

LLC FilingBusiness Bank AccountTax Setup

Business Banking & Credit

Bluevine account and business credit card

Business BankingCredit BuildingExpense Tracking

Success by the Numbers

Real outcomes from engineers who've made the transition to successful freelancing

$75/hr

Average Rate After 1 Year

6mo

Time to Full-Time Income

40%

Higher Earnings vs Employment

90%

Client Retention Rate

Frequently Asked Questions

While feigning confidence is okay, don't lie about your skills or experience. If you need clarification on a project, tell the client you need extra time to scope it. Spend the necessary time learning and becoming an expert. Lying about your skills will cost you money and damage your reputation.

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