Thinking of Freelancing?
Posted on 06. Mar, 2009 by Sujimy in Freelancers
Ok you can do stuff and now you’re thinking of making a quick buck from it. Here’s how you can get started.
First, don’t treat freelancing job as merely a way to get by while you do your other job that you call full-time employment. You can really make freelancing a source of stable income and possibly turn it into a profitable business.
Just in case you are new to freelancing in the media industry, here are some roles you can freelance in:
- Voice over
- Script-writing
- Video editing
- Directing
- Translation
- Producing
- Talent coordinating / Talent Liaison
- Calefare
… this list is never exhaustive!
I started in this industry as a freelancer (voice-over) and I am still doing it even after I set up my own production company. You just cant stop something you really like to do!
I now hire many freelancers in the various fields… so the following are tips if you have just started do it:
1. NEVER NEVER put a price when you are just starting out. Whether you are a voice-over artist or a producer, always let the people who hire you set the rate. Allow them to budget your fee and accept it willingly. Don’t worry, you will have your say one day. When you are new, you just need to get as much exposure as possible. Gather your experience – that’s more valuable.
2. Make yourself available around your client’s schedule. Even if it means working at really odd hours. You must be known as someone who is really flexible with time. When you are hot and highly demanded, clients will go around your schedule. For now, bow down to erratic scheduling.
3. Under promise and over deliver.
4. Be contactable at anytime. Everytime.
5. Be ready with your sample work (if you are a voice-over talent with no sample work, quickly get your voice recorded somewhere. Best if you can record it professionally. It doesn’t cost a lot to get a sample voice-over done).
6. Never be late for any appointment. Come 10 minutes early.
7. Take criticism with an open heart. If you have to disagree, do it in a friendly manner. Nice guys last long in the freelance world.
8. Be genuinely interested in all projects that you have agreed to undertake. This will help you should you face bumpy sessions along the way. You will also be remembered if you take genuine interest in the people and company that hired you.
9. Willingly recommend another freelancer if the job is beyond your skills set or if you can’t commit to it due to some unforeseen circumstances. Admit it early.
10. Get to know the executive in the company that assigns job to freelancers. This is super important. Most production houses or agencies have a dedicated person to coordinate freelance jobs. Always stay in touch so you will always be on his/her mind.
Next post: Turning Pro ….in Freelancing
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