Freelance Professional Development
Career planning and development for self-employed freelance workers
Freelancers, contractors and the self-employed need professional development as much as permanent employees. Suggested training topics are discussed.
Often, freelancers put professional development training as a low priority. Training can help freelancers stay motivated, grow professionally and improve the chances of landing more lucrative contracts.
Accounting, Bookkeeping and Financial Management
Financial management is a commonly underdeveloped skill of freelancers. Learning to manage cash flow, taxes, inventory control and expenses in an effective way can not only decrease stress but can improve the overall viability of the business plan.
Self Promotion and Advertising
Especially true for creative freelancers, self-promotion can be one of the top areas of weakness. In order to keep the contracts coming in, self-promotion is vital. Learning ways to position services to the target market by thoroughly understanding demographics, advertising options and strategy, market research techniques and business development concepts can improve the service as well as the frequency of contracts.
Negotiation Skills
Getting the contract is step one. Negotiating the conditions of the contract is step two. If the person offering the contract is negotiation savvy, that can put the freelancer at a terrible disadvantage. Learning the techniques of win-win negotiation can enhance financial outcomes and improve self respect.
Contract Law and Contract Language
Sign on the dotted line, please. A good understanding of contract law and language can help avoid unhealthy risk taking, miscommunication of expectations and law suits.
Communication, Business Writing, Writing for the Web
Communicating with potential customers, writing savvy promotional copy, writing web content for search engine optimization, understanding body language communication, inter-cultural communication, report and proposal writing are all skills that freelancers can build on and continually improve.
Technical Training
Keeping on top of the latest technologies to improve efficiencies and open new markets can be a vital way for freelancers to improve their game. As time is money for most freelancers, finding ways to streamline operations and free up time for more lucrative pursuits can reduce stress and improve the bottom line. Improving basic computer skills such as word processing, spreadsheet design and internet research skills can make a huge difference in efficiencies and delivery of services.
Hard Skill Certification
Sometimes all a freelancer needs to increase market share and improve contract flow is to become certified in a hard skill. Many certification training programs are costly but the return on investment is quickly seen by the increase in demand for services.
Networking
Building a network of contacts can be the bread and butter of freelance workers. A workshop on networking can offer tips and strategies to help enter new markets and build on existing contacts. Workshops also tend to offer practice of the networking techniques taught via participant’s interaction. The safety of practicing with others who are learning can increase confidence levels and prepare freelancers for more intimidating networking opportunities.
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