At first, starting to work as a freelancer might be a bit scary. The financial uncertainty related to the life of a freelancer is something that alarms some professionals, who tend to abandon the idea and stick to their stable jobs. But who says keeping one option excludes the other?
One of the main perks of being a freelancer is that you can define your own schedule. You can choose the hours you wish to work, so there is no need to leave your 9-5 job. You can keep your full-time job and pursue your passion on the side where you can earn some extra money.
Another advantage of doing both things at the same time is that you get to test self-employment without having financial worries since you are guaranteed to receive a paycheck from your regular job.
We have compiled some tips that you can put into practice so you can balance both your work and side hustle at the same time.
Know how to separate things
The first important step in becoming a freelancer while keeping your full-time job is to make sure one does not interfere with the other. Know how to divide your time so you do not let your performance drop in any of the areas you are currently working on. Review your employment contract to see if freelancing is allowed and what kind of work you can and cannot do outside your company.
Related Article: 7 Steps to Starting Your Side Hustle
Don’t bite more than you can chew
Accepting freelance projects while keeping a regular job means you will pretty much have to double the work you are usually accustomed to. Be careful when getting new projects as you don’t want to overload yourself.
In order to build your reputation as a freelancer, it is important that you keep the client happy, and not meeting deadlines could have a really bad impact on you. Define goals and stick to them.
Related Article: How to Find Your Niche as a Freelancer
Create a work schedule
Time management is important in any type of work. When you have two jobs, it might be tricky to handle all the tasks you have to get done while also setting aside some time to relax. Unfortunately, you might have to do some work over the weekend but just look at the bright side and the extra cash you'll earn.
Know when and how to network
Depending on the area in which you operate, your 9-5 job can be a source of potential new clients for your freelance business. It is crucial that you identify your target clients so you can attract the right people. Look at it as an opportunity to develop stronger connections and make both businesses grow.
Related Article: Top 5 Business Skills Every Freelancer Should Master
Build a good portfolio
Since you won’t have much time to find clients every day, let your work speak for you. Build a good portfolio with all the best work you can showcase. Ask previous clients to provide you their feedback.
It is also important that you create your personal brand so you can stand out among all the freelancers in your niche. Doing so will help your freelance business flourish faster.
Ready to take on new projects? There's a long list of projects posted every day on Freelancer. Find the one that fits your skills and schedule.
