Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Successful Freelance Graphic Designer?

To be a successful freelance graphic designer you have to want it, really want it! So do you have what it takes?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself to find out if freelancing is right for you. 

1. WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE A FREELANCER?
Question your motives and answer honestly. You can make a great living as a freelancer but if you want to freelance for some easy big bucks you're in for a rude awakening. Without talent even a perfect business plan can only take you so far.

2. DO YOU HAVE THE DRIVE TO TURN YOUR SKILLS INTO A SUCCESS?
If you have a dream you must also have the desire for it to be fulfilled. If you have talent you must also have drive and motivation to generate income.

3. ARE YOU BUSINESS SAVVY?
If you have no idea how to run a business you may not want to jump into freelancing and try to learn as you go. It would be a good idea to read, research and maybe even take a small business workshop. See my post on "10 Steps to Starting a Home-Based Business as a Freelance Graphic Designer". 

4. ARE YOU SELF DISCIPLINED?
You may be dreaming of being featured in your favorite design publication someday or becoming internationally recognized for a revolutionary design concept. However, everyday life is pretty different from that experience. While there is some glitter involved with the design industry there is also the plain ol' work that pays the bills. Some of that being grunt work. But, it's important to approach each project with a healthy, positive spirit no matter how big or small the job. Sometimes that grunt work can turn into a really nice gig if you provide good service and share your business savvy. Sometimes clients just don't realize the possibilities or realize your abilities. Keep selling yourself even after you've been sold!

5. ARE YOU DECISIVE?
As a freelancer you will have to balance many hats and make decisions on all aspects of your business. Remember you are the boss, the risk taker, the jack of all trades. This is your time, energy and money. If you fail it is in direct response to the big boss - you! So just keep in mind that you will be responsible for keeping the business up and running, this includes bringing in new work, managing your bookkeeping and invoicing and keeping up to date with the industry.

6. CAN YOU TOLERATE REJECTION?
Rejection is part of life as a freelance designer, knowing not to take it personally is key. Clients, art directors, or whoever is making the decisions on the project is thinking,  "Can I sell this product with this art?" or "Will I get my point across with this photo?". There are many reasons your work may be rejected. The important thing to remember is that rejection is the downside of an isolated opinion and preference. You can't let rejection interfere with your confidence in your abilities. Stay calm and move on!

7. CAN YOU THRIVE ON COMPETITION?
There's a creative army out there in full-force and they're skilled, talented and hard-working. They're your competition - use this as your motivation. Keep your eyes wide open and know what's going on in the industry. Don't be a rubber stamp, know the trends and keep an edge. Clients don't want someone who simply knows how to use Photoshop to throw their logo on a stock image. They want someone who can think, bring new ideas to the table. Show that you're paying attention to how they're business works and how it can be better.

8. CAN YOU ROLL WITH THE PUNCHES?
How do you handle stress? Are you described as having grace under pressure or do you rattle like nuts in a jar when pressure builds? If you get a little nutty you may be in trouble. Freelancing can be stressful in many different ways, from work getting a bit slow or even a bit much, or money being tight, client issues, or it may be stress from the balancing act of home life and work life. As people in general we all struggle with stress what's different is how we deal with it. Meditate. Jog. Bake an apple pie. Just find what works for you. Freelancing is a stressful career but very rewarding! 

MY THOUGHTS: "When I start to get overwhelmed with deadlines (or lack of deadlines) I get out of the house. Whether it be going out for lunch, going for a walk around the neighborhood or exploring local boutiques. You'd be surprised at how well these things can get you back in the groove and get your creativity flowing again." –LML

9. HOW'S THE PIGGY BANK?
Like I mentioned in my previous post, "Step 7 of 10 Start A Savings", you should have a savings set aside for those times that business is slow or when you're just starting out. Consider freelancing on the side of your full-time job to build up a savings. It's best to have a reserve of at least 3 months, more if possible.

10. CAN YOU SELL YOURSELF?
Aside from the business and creative responsibilities this is a sales job. You have to be able to sell yourself and your services to generate an income. As a graphic designer your job is to help businesses grow by selling more products, gaining more customers, etc. You'll need to do the same for your own business by having an identity package, a website, a tagline, a sales pitch - nothing cheesy. What I mean is you'll need to market yourself and your services as any other business would. Luckily you'll save money since it's what you specialize in!

STEP 10 of 10: Ready, Set, Go! – Self Promo!

Now that you have a good a foundation for your business it's time to announce it to the world! Three main things to start with are your identity package, website and portfolio.

Your ID pack should be materials that you have on hand at all times to hand out to potential clients, write thank you letters, etc. and should be well designed.

Your ID pack should include the following:

• business card 
• letterhead 
• resume 
• envelope 
• leave behind 
• cover letter template 
• thank you letter template

Your website should include at minimum the following:

• samples of your work 
• short bio
• resume
• contact info 

Your portfolio is completely up to you. Whether it be exclusively digital, matted, or in a book. Most employers prefer taking a quick look at your site to see if you're a good fit for the company before even contacting you, while some may request a meeting to view your portfolio and get to know you. So keep in mind that if your portfolio is exclusively on your website that you may not have internet access at the meeting so it's always good to at least keep pdfs or jpgs readily available on your laptop or create a well-designed digital presentation.

Tips for your portfolio:

1. Keep it simple and show only the best.
2. Practice an oral presentation of your portfolio.
3. Keep it light, no need to haul around a 30lb portfolio case.
4. Make it interactive. Don't hold on to your pieces while discussing them. Pass them around so that the client gets involved.
5. Most important, remember to show your passion for what you do. Smile, get excited!

I could go on and on about each one of the above topics - which is why I will be diving more in depth on most subjects at a later time. So follow me and keep updated on what you need to do to become a successful freelance graphic designer and please feel free to email me or comment on topics you would like to hear more about or questions you may have about the industry.

< Step 9: Prepare Legal Forms And Documents


For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :) 

STEP 9 of 10: Prepare Legal Forms And Documents

While a contract may seem like overkill especially on small projects it is always good to have the parameters of the job in writing. If a client wont sign your contract it's a clear red flag.

There are several terms used to describe the types of forms and documents that you may use during your freelance career including: contract, agreement, work order, purchase order, terms and conditions, code of ethics, non-disclosure, invoice, proposal, estimate worksheet, etc. I wont get into detail on every possible form or document that you could use as a freelance graphic designer. However, I will introduce you to what you absolutely must have in place with every client and project and that is a purchase order.

A purchase order should include the following information:

• buyer contact info
• designer contact info
• date
• PO number
• job number
• job description(s)
• estimate of the job(s)
• expiration date for the PO
• terms and conditions*

*The terms and conditions should include (but not be limited to) the following:

• Payment Schedule 
• Reproduction of Work and/or Ownership of Artwork
• Expenses
• Rejection/Cancellation of Project
• Acceptance of the Agreement

Keep in mind that any form or document will need to be made your own. So don't simply copy and paste an example of an agreement. Take the time to figure out what works best for you.

For a more in depth look at forms and documents as well as pricing and other guidelines make sure to pick up a copy of The Graphic Artists Guild Handbook Pricing and Ethical Guidelines.

Also, be sure to communicate with the client that the deposit (if you require one) and the signed agreement is required prior to the execution of the project. The point is to get the client to sign it so that legally everything is in place if needed. Like I mentioned above, if a client wont sign your contract it's a clear red flag.

MY THOUGHTS: "I've had some clients ask about the status of a project before signing the agreement even though the "rules" were made clear. I simply restated that as outlined in the agreement I would need the deposit and signed agreement prior to starting the project. Also, having an agreement in place gives you some peace of mind – just in case you need to take legal action. Let's hope it never comes to that! –LML

< Step 8: Developing Your Financial Plans – Get Over The Notion That Artists Have To Starve!
Step 10: Ready, Set, Go! – Self Promo! >


For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :) 

STEP 8 of 10: Developing Your Financial Plans – Get Over The Notion That Artists Have To Starve!

One of the most important things you'll want to do when starting a business is to separate your personal finances from your businesses finances. To do this you will need to open an additional checking and savings account, not just another personal account. You'll want to use your DBA and TIN.
Having separate business accounts will allow you to:

• Monitor Your Progress
  
• Pay Taxes Easily
• Show Professionalism

Follow these steps when setting up a business account:

1. REGISTER THE NAME OF THE BUSINESS AND APPLY FOR A TAX ID NUMBER: See Step 4: Register A Business Name (DBA) and Step 5: Get A Tax ID Number (TIN aka EIN).
2. COMPARE BANKING SERVICES: Most banks and credit unions offer free checking and savings accounts (with a max on the number of transactions) however, as a Sole Proprietor your not likely going to max out on the allotted number of deposits and withdrawals.
   
3. PRESENT PROPER DOCUMENTATION: All signers on new accounts have to go through identity verification as part of the U.S. Patriot Act, but the documents you will need to sign will depend on the type of business you own. Check online to see what your bank requires.

MY THOUGHTS: "Credit Unions are not-for-profit organizations offering a wide array of financial services and they are owned by their membership. If you have an account with a credit union, you are a member and an owner. I have been with a credit union for several years now and am not likely to use bank services again. Just make sure to find a credit union that offers business services as some do not." –LML
 
This is one of the first steps for a good foundation to your new business.

< Step 7: Start A Savings
Step 9: Prepare Legal Forms And Documents >

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 7 of 10: Start A Savings

Okay I know what you are thinking... you can't sock away 6 months of backup cash before becoming a full-time freelancer - trust me I know the feeling. But, understand that for your own sanity it's good to have some savings before taking the leap.
I recommend starting a savings account and putting all of your income from freelance gigs in there. Once you build that up you may want to try working part time at your current job and part-time at home doing your freelancing once things start to pick up.

Another tip for growing your savings is penny pinching. I'm sure we've all heard this before but I will say it again - there is always a penny that can be pinched whether it be from eating out, buying a pair of shoes or going out to the movies. You'd be surprised at how much savings that is every month! 

MY THOUGHTS: "The very first thing I did to start saving money prior to freelancing full-time was to make a list of where my money was going. By just doing that I was able to cut cost dramatically."

For example:

• Cut cable and switched to Netflix. Savings = $50/mo.
  
• Cut land line and switched to Skype. Savings = $20/mo.
• Planned meals and clipped coupons. Savings = $75/mo.
• Stopped buying bottled water and switched to Brita filter. Savings = $12/mo.
• Cut back on Starbucks and got a french press. Savings = $15/mo.

Total savings per month: $172!

Be patient, get prepared and you'll know when the time is right to take the leap.

< Step 6: Choose An Office Space
Step 8: Developing Your Financial Plans – Get Over The Notion That Artists Have To Starve! > 

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 6 of 10: Choose An Office Space

This is always an exciting part of deciding to work from home but it does require some thought to get it just right. Starting out you'll probably set up shop in the dining room or like myself, corner of the living room or perhaps a spare room if you're lucky. It's very important that where you set up your office space it be well lit, quiet and organized. It may be tough to have all three but just remember that this is where you will spend a lot of time so you'll want to be comfortable and inspired. For home office ideas visit: www.houzz.com/photos/home-office. While you may not have much space to work with it's still a good idea to have a well designed office. You are a designer after all!

< Step 5: Get A Tax ID Number (TIN aka EIN) 
Step 7: Start A Savings >

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 5 of 10: Get A Tax ID Number (TIN aka EIN)

All businesses are required to pay federal, state, and in some cases, local taxes. Most businesses will need to register with the IRS and state and local revenue agencies, and receive a tax ID number or permit. Applying for a TIN, tax identification number (aka EIN, Employer Identification Number) is a simple process that can be completed within minutes on IRS.gov. One of the benefits of having a TIN is that you are able to use it rather than your Social Security number when filing out tax forms. I was able to get mine instantly within a few minutes online. To learn more about EINS or to apply for one visit: www.irs.gov/businesses/small.

< Step 4: Register A Business Name (DBA) 
Step 6: Choose An Office Space >

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 4 of 10: Register A Business Name (DBA)

Doing Business As or DBA is the use of a fictitious business name to trade under in business. Having a DBA allows you to legally do business under a different name, without have to create a completely new business entity. With a DBA, you are able to advertise, accept payments and represent yourself under a fictitious name. Filing for a DBA is very inexpensive costing around $16 and easy to accomplish. Simply contact your county clerk office for more info.

< Step 3: Determine The Legal Structire Of Your Business
Step 5: Get A Tax ID Number (TIN aka EIN) >


For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 3 of 10: Determine The Legal Structure Of Your Business

There are three broad categories to being a business savvy freelance graphic designer and those are:

1. Determining the Legal Structure of You Business
2. Having the Proper Contracts in Place to Protect You and Your Work
3. Limiting Liability

For now we will start with determining the legal structure of your business. Later we will dive into contracts and liability.

When starting your business, you must decide what form of business entity to establish. Your form of business determines the amount of regulatory paperwork you have to file, your personal liability regarding investments into your business, and the taxes you have to pay. The most common structure for contract freelancers is sole proprietorship. Business.gov has detailed information on the most common business structures.
 

 < Step 2: Creating A Business Plan
Step 4: Register A Business Name >

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 2 of 10: Creating A Business Plan

One of the first things you'll want to do when starting a new business is to create a business plan. This includes writing down in detail your business' mission and goals. Don't worry if your initial plan is scribbled on the back of scratch paper, trust me that's a great start however, typing it up afterwards would be good. At it's most basic, a business plan contains:

• YOUR MISSION: A definition of the business and what it does.
• YOUR VISION: Defined short-term and long-term business and financial goals. The goals should be specific, achievable and time-based. They should present a clear map of your future success.
• YOUR STRATEGY: How you will achieve your goals.

Nothing is set in stone, in fact you'll want to tweak, update and add to your goals along your journey.

< Step 1: Decide If Working From Home Is For You
Step 3: Determine The Legal Structure Of Your Business >

For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

STEP 1 of 10: Decide If Working From Home Is For You

Working from home sounds like a dream to most people and it can be but, there are several things to consider before deciding to set up a home-based business. Here are a few of the top reasons working from home can be great and at times not so peachy.

1. FLEXIBLE HOURS 

• pros: ability to schedule projects around personal appointments and errands and make up the time later
• cons: sometimes it is difficult to determine when the workday ends and your home life begins

2. DRESSING DOWN EVERYDAY 

• pros: you can work in your pjs and slippers and never worry about your hair again
• cons: dressing too laid-back can carry over to your work ethics and quality of work

3. SPENDING TIME WITH THE KIDS 

• pros you get to spend more time with your kids and avoid childcare issues
• cons: it can be difficult to concentrate and you may still need childcare

4. TIME MANAGEMENT

• pros ability to be more efficient on projects due to fewer distractions such as meetings and co-workers stopping by your desk to chat
• cons: the temptation of household chores, daytime tv and going out for a 3 hour lunch break

5. EASY ON THE WALLET

• pros you’ll have the easiest commute ever and you’ll save money on lunch and transportation
• cons: it’s easy to feel secluded and other expenses arise such as office supplies and a higher electric bill

Working from home saves you time, stress and money and understanding the drawbacks of working from home will prepare you for the less-attractive consequences.

MY THOUGHTS: "Working alone helps me to be more efficient and really focus on the project. I also love the flexibility of being able to run errands in the middle of the day when there are no crowds and being able to pick up that time later in the day." –LML

Step 2: Creating A Business Plan >

  
For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)

10 Steps To Starting a Home-Based Business as a Freelance Graphic Designer

STEP 1: Decide If Working From Home Is For You

STEP 2: Creating A Business Plan

STEP 3: Determine The Legal Structure Of Your Business

STEP 4: Register A Business Name

STEP 5: Get A Tax ID Number (TIN aka EIN)

STEP 6: Choose An Office Space

STEP 7: Start A Savings

STEP 8: Developing Your Financial Plans – Get Over The Notion That Artists Have To Starve!

STEP 9: Prepare Legal Forms And Documents

STEP 10: Ready, Set, Go! – Self Promo! 
 
For questions on specific topics or if you would like more information on anything related to the above post please feel free to contact me and I will get back to you as soon as possible or if it is a FAQ I will create a new post :)