Today is my first full day of freelancing as a web designer! Until now, I’ve been moonlighting; working in the mornings before my day job, on my lunch breaks, during evenings, and on Saturdays. Starting today, I’ll be freelancing 1 full day each week, and I’ll be adding days over the next few months, transitioning out of my day job. According to the current plan, I’ll be freelancing full-time by January 2013.
Why freelance web design?
Why freelancing? It comes down to freedom. Freelancing allows me to have more control over my schedule, the people I work with, the projects I take on, and the income I can earn. I love entrepreneurship and business. I’m enjoying learning what it takes to run a business (marketing, sales, accounting, finance, customer service, etc.).
Why web design? I love empowering small businesses by creating websites that help them succeed online.
Isn’t being self-employed riskier than holding a day job?
I’d argue that it’s the opposite. Your employer can reduce your pay or lay you off at any time, affecting your main source of income. When you work for multiple clients, you’re not reliant on any single one to provide your income.
Where will you find work?
So far, all my work has come via word of mouth. My clients have all been people I’ve met at local networking events, or people who’ve been referred to me by friends, family, colleagues, and church members. I prefer these “warm leads” to cold-calling, because there’s a base level of trust already established. So, if you know a small business or nonprofit that needs web design help, let’s talk!
I’ve also networked (and become friends with) several local web designers and developers that have directed their overflow work to me. These web pros have also been incredibly generous in giving advice on web design and freelancing.
Let’s talk!
I’d love to talk more about my transition to freelance web design, so please share your comments and questions!
HTML5: Up and Running by Mark Pilgrim
