So, How'd You Get Started In Your Career?

INTRO:  

              I've heard this question asked at least once during every interview I've ever had and I always have to stop and think about it. It's interesting to me how these conversations always start by asking, So, tell me about yourself? followed by the personal questions like Where did you grow up? and What are your hobbies? I never really thought about why that was until recently. I think they want to get to know who you are as a person before they find out what you can do professionally.

Why I left a career in tech:

                                                         I was working in tech for six years and finally had enough. I quit my job to be a full-time freelancer, and now I have more time to explore what I really want to do with my life.

I started freelancing:

                                    I learned quickly that freelancers need to stay on top of their own bookkeeping or they will lose control of their finances. It can also be difficult to find clients who are willing to pay enough for your time.

How did I get clients initially?

                                                               I started off as an artist, but it was very difficult to get clients because I didn't have any connections and didn't know where to start. I also had a full time job that took up most of my time. So in the beginning, I just posted on Facebook and Instagram and slowly word spread. The more people who came around, the easier it became to find new ones.

The balancing act of freelancing:

          Freelancing is a great way to make some extra cash on the side, but it can be hard to know where to start. 

“Freelancing offers the freedom of working wherever you want and whenever you want, but freelancers still have to take care of many other things like taxes and health insurance. It's important to remember that while freelancing might seem like an easy way to earn some money, it can also be challenging if you don't plan for what will happen when the work slows down”.

Freelance Tips for Newbies:

                                           If you're thinking of freelancing, it's important to be realistic about what you're signing up for. It will take a lot of time and effort on your part to find clients, get paid, and keep yourself going. If this sounds like something that's not for you, it may be time to look elsewhere.

That being said, if your passion is related to the work that you want to do as a freelancer, the rewards can be well worth the effort!

Closing Thoughts:

                                      I'm so glad you are reading this blog post! Hopefully, these tips will be helpful as you pursue your dreams. I am happy to help in any way that I can. Just let me know what's on your mind or if there is anything specific you want to know more about.

Thank you for reading!