Today, Sologig's management sent a letter to the White House wishing to unsubscribe from the U.S. economic recession. Sologig's management is hopeful that other companies follow their footsteps. Below is the actual letter sent to the White House...
President George W. Bush
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20500
(202) 456-1111
Dear President George W. Bush,
This letter is informing you that Sologig (http://www.sologig.com/) will not be participating in the country’s recession. We have fallen into this trap for too long and want to “opt-out” of the current economic recession. Please be advised that we will outperform our growth goals and that we will soon motivate other companies to “opt-out” of this recession as well. Attached is a signed form letter from the participating staff at Sologig on the “opt-out” claim. Please inform us when this “opt-out” has been processed. If you have any issues or questions regarding our “opt-out”, please contact me, James Carney, at 877-SOLOGIG (765-6444).
Sincerely,
James Carney
Product Director
http://www.sologig.com/
Sologig is the leading online job board specializing in consultants, contractors, and freelancers. With over 600,000 Unique Visitors a month and around 8,000 projects listed daily, it is a successful talent aquisition marketing company for consulting and staffing companies. If you are interested in finding out more about Sologig, please visit our website at http://www.sologig.com/ or call 877-765-6444.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Managing downtime as an independent professional
Downtime is a slippery issue when it comes to freelance, contract and consulting work. You never know when you’re going to have it, and when you do, it could be anywhere from a couple hours to a couple months. Although a steady work flow is ideal, the reality is that the amount and length of projects and time in between projects are in constant flux. In order to run a successful business, it is imperative that you take advantage and make the most of your downtime. Here are some ideas to keep you busy during all times of the year, whether you have an extra hour before a meeting with a client or a couple weeks before you start your next project.
Take a colleague out to lunch. It is always a smart career move to take a colleague out to lunch to pick their brain about recent work they have completed and get advice. You can ask if they encounter the same challenges you do with common issues like finding more work, sending out invoices and collecting payment, and dealing with difficult clients. Often times, people in the same industry struggle with the same types of problems, so lunch can quickly turn into means of bouncing ideas off each other on how to overcome these common hurdles. Don’t be afraid to also ask someone just to get to know them and their work better. I have yet to meet a person who will turn down a free lunch!
Improve client relations. When you’re constantly busy working on projects, it can be easy to ignore one of the most important aspects of being an independent contractor- staying in touch and in tune with past and current clients. Try sending thank-you notes to people with whom you have recently done business or even a quick email to merely check up on clients. It is important to establish yourself as a trusted business partner instead of someone who is always trying to sell them something.
Sending out surveys is another great way to keep in touch with clients. Not only does this show them that you value their opinion, but you can also use the data to improve your current services or offer additional ones if you find that there is a need.
Complete administrative tasks. As tedious as they are, administrative tasks are important to stay on top of so you don’t find yourself overwhelmed when they pile up. Stop procrastinating and catch up on filing, updating your website, categorizing expense receipts, and completing or getting a head start on taxes.
Learn something new. Especially in a field like IT or any industry that uses the latest technology, it is important to be in a constant state of learning. New skills can help improve your product, land new clients and make more money. Take a class or seminar on a new program that you have yet to use to make yourself more marketable. You can also get involved in community events that give advice on how to manage finances, network or improve your business strategy.
If you’re still having a hard time filling your downtime with things to make your business more successful, try one of these ideas:
· Spring clean your office
· Launch a blog
· Write and publish articles
· Research new leads
· Brainstorm new projects and ideas
· Update your portfolio
· Network
· Relax!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Niche job boards: The best job-search tool?
By Maggie Zahm
Just in case you didn’t already know, you made the right choice when you elected to search niche boards like Sologig.com to find projects that suit you best. In a recent study, 55 percent of respondents prefer niche geographic and industry job boards to more generalized job boards because they find them to be more effective overall. Why do people find niche job boards more effective? The answer is simple- they save time, provide you with quality projects relevant to you and help you land gigs faster! While it is important to diversify the methods you use in your job search, consider these concepts when deciding which online tools of which to take advantage.
Eliminate search result overload and save time
Job searching on common, generalized job boards can prove to be time-consuming and tedious. The process often starts out by the job seeker (you) creating a fool-proof (or so you think) search string and entering your location. As soon as you press the “find jobs” button, common job titles and skills flood the screen, even if you are only looking for a specific project. Sometimes a wealth of job opportunities is a good thing, but for those that specialize in a particular niche, unrelated results can be frequent and obtrusive. Sites like Sologig.com provide contractors and consultants with only projects that are relevant to them- no weeding through full-time and salaried jobs here!
Although large job boards generate more traffic and have more postings to choose from, they are also overloaded with resumes in their resume database. What does this mean? Employers that want to look for resumes have to sift through more potential candidates than ever before making it easy for your resume to get overlooked. Niche job boards provide employers with a smaller, more qualified candidate pool. Not only is this beneficial to them because they have less, more quality resumes to look through, but it is also favorable for the job-seeker because your resume will have a better chance of standing out.
Land gigs faster
Employers on niche job boards are looking for candidates with a specific skill set, and when they find that person, they want to hire them as soon as possible. Because employers have such a specific goal in mind, it is easier for them to fill positions immediately after they discover someone with the qualities and talents necessary to complete the project. This means when you apply to a job, you will get snatched up faster than if you applied on a general board.
Don’t forget…
While after reading this it may seem that if you simply register on a niche board you will have jobs falling into your lap, it is important to also remember these tips when searching for projects:
Just in case you didn’t already know, you made the right choice when you elected to search niche boards like Sologig.com to find projects that suit you best. In a recent study, 55 percent of respondents prefer niche geographic and industry job boards to more generalized job boards because they find them to be more effective overall. Why do people find niche job boards more effective? The answer is simple- they save time, provide you with quality projects relevant to you and help you land gigs faster! While it is important to diversify the methods you use in your job search, consider these concepts when deciding which online tools of which to take advantage.
Eliminate search result overload and save time
Job searching on common, generalized job boards can prove to be time-consuming and tedious. The process often starts out by the job seeker (you) creating a fool-proof (or so you think) search string and entering your location. As soon as you press the “find jobs” button, common job titles and skills flood the screen, even if you are only looking for a specific project. Sometimes a wealth of job opportunities is a good thing, but for those that specialize in a particular niche, unrelated results can be frequent and obtrusive. Sites like Sologig.com provide contractors and consultants with only projects that are relevant to them- no weeding through full-time and salaried jobs here!
Although large job boards generate more traffic and have more postings to choose from, they are also overloaded with resumes in their resume database. What does this mean? Employers that want to look for resumes have to sift through more potential candidates than ever before making it easy for your resume to get overlooked. Niche job boards provide employers with a smaller, more qualified candidate pool. Not only is this beneficial to them because they have less, more quality resumes to look through, but it is also favorable for the job-seeker because your resume will have a better chance of standing out.
Land gigs faster
Employers on niche job boards are looking for candidates with a specific skill set, and when they find that person, they want to hire them as soon as possible. Because employers have such a specific goal in mind, it is easier for them to fill positions immediately after they discover someone with the qualities and talents necessary to complete the project. This means when you apply to a job, you will get snatched up faster than if you applied on a general board.
Don’t forget…
While after reading this it may seem that if you simply register on a niche board you will have jobs falling into your lap, it is important to also remember these tips when searching for projects:
- Make your resume stand out by creating a title that will inform employers. Instead of using your name as the heading, try titling it something like “Experienced Graphic Designer looking for logo development projects.” Anything with relevant key words will help employers find you more quickly.
- Search wisely. Vary your search terms by using different industry terms to garner the most results. Also, include the location in which you are looking to help weed out projects that do not work with your situation. Don't forget, you can always browse by category to find an array of open projects in your area of expertise.
- Get noticed by employers by using industry buzz words in descriptions of past projects in your resume. By using a variety of key words, your resume will most likely appear in more employer searches. For ideas on what types of words to include, search for projects in which you are interested and tailor your resume to fit the skills and experiences for which employers are looking.
Why not take advantage of the benefits of niche boards and check out all of the new projects on Sologig.com today. >>
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
The Freelance Writer: Is it right for me and how can I find jobs?
By Mackenzie Rose
Almost anyone can do it, but only few excel at it; the job of a writer is to create a wide variety of written materials for an audience in any of a number of ways. Many professional writers are freelance. They are self-employed and sell their work to publishers, publication enterprises, manufacturing firms, public relations departments, or advertising agencies. Sometimes, writers contract with publishers first to write a book or an article. Others may be hired to complete specific short-term or recurring assignments, such as writing about a new product or contributing to an organization’s quarterly newsletter.
Writers fall into two main categories—writers and authors and technical writers.
Writers and authors develop original written materials for books, magazines, trade journals, online publications, company newsletters, radio and television broadcasts, motion pictures, and advertisements. Their works are classified broadly as either fiction or nonfiction and writers often are identified by the type of writing they do—for example, novelists, playwrights, biographers, screenwriters, and textbook writers. Some freelance writers may be commissioned by a sponsor to write a script; others may be contracted to write a book on the basis of a proposal in the form of a draft or an outline. Some may construct materials for publication or performance, such as songwriters or scriptwriters.
Recently, lucrative writing fields include those professionals known as Copy writers. Copy writers are a very specialized type of writer. They prepare advertising copy for use in publications or for broadcasting and they write other materials to promote the sale of a good or service. They often work with the client to produce advertising themes or slogans and may be involved in the marketing of the product or service.
Technical writers, on the other hand, put technical information into easily understandable language. They prepare product documentation, such as operating and maintenance manuals, catalogs, assembly instructions, and project proposals. Technical writers primarily are found in the information technology industry writing operating instructions for online Help and documentation for computer programs.
Most writers and editors have at least a basic familiarity with technology, regularly using personal computers, desktop or electronic publishing systems, scanners, and other electronic communications equipment. Many writers prepare material directly for the Internet. For example, they may write for electronic editions of newspapers or magazines, create short fiction or poetry, or produce technical documentation that is available only online. These writers also may prepare text for Web sites. As a result, they should be knowledgeable about graphic design, page layout, multimedia software, and even some basic HTML. Additionally, it is helpful to be familiar with interactive technologies of the Web so that they can blend text, graphics, and sound together.
A college degree generally is required for a position as a writer. Good facility with computers and communications equipment is necessary in order to stay in touch with sources, editors, and other writers while working on assignments, whether from home, an office, or while traveling.
Writers must be able to express ideas clearly and logically and should enjoy writing. Creativity, curiosity, a broad range of knowledge, self-motivation, and perseverance also are valuable. Writers must demonstrate good judgment and a strong sense of ethics in deciding what material to publish. In addition, the ability to concentrate amid confusion and to work under pressure often is essential. High school and college newspapers, literary magazines, community newspapers, and radio and television stations all provide valuable—but sometimes unpaid—practical writing experience. Many magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations have internships for students. Interns write short pieces, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the publishing or broadcasting business.
Advancement for writers, especially freelancers, often means working on larger, more complex projects for better known publications or for more money. Building a reputation and establishing a track record for meeting deadlines also makes it easier to get future assignments. Experience, credibility, and reliability often lead to long-term freelance relationships with the same publications and to contacts with editors who will seek you out for particular assignments.
In 2007, writers and authors held about 135,000 jobs and more than one-third were freelance and some made upwards of 100,000 dollars. Writing can be a very lucrative job and makes for an exceedingly flexible work schedule. If you are serious about pursuing a writing career, take an unpaid internship somewhere and get the experience you need; who knows, maybe one day you’ll have a book on the shelves and an article on the front page of the New York Times. You will never know unless you try it, so visit Sologig.com now and find freelance writing opportunities today!
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Almost anyone can do it, but only few excel at it; the job of a writer is to create a wide variety of written materials for an audience in any of a number of ways. Many professional writers are freelance. They are self-employed and sell their work to publishers, publication enterprises, manufacturing firms, public relations departments, or advertising agencies. Sometimes, writers contract with publishers first to write a book or an article. Others may be hired to complete specific short-term or recurring assignments, such as writing about a new product or contributing to an organization’s quarterly newsletter.
Writers fall into two main categories—writers and authors and technical writers.
Writers and authors develop original written materials for books, magazines, trade journals, online publications, company newsletters, radio and television broadcasts, motion pictures, and advertisements. Their works are classified broadly as either fiction or nonfiction and writers often are identified by the type of writing they do—for example, novelists, playwrights, biographers, screenwriters, and textbook writers. Some freelance writers may be commissioned by a sponsor to write a script; others may be contracted to write a book on the basis of a proposal in the form of a draft or an outline. Some may construct materials for publication or performance, such as songwriters or scriptwriters.
Recently, lucrative writing fields include those professionals known as Copy writers. Copy writers are a very specialized type of writer. They prepare advertising copy for use in publications or for broadcasting and they write other materials to promote the sale of a good or service. They often work with the client to produce advertising themes or slogans and may be involved in the marketing of the product or service.
Technical writers, on the other hand, put technical information into easily understandable language. They prepare product documentation, such as operating and maintenance manuals, catalogs, assembly instructions, and project proposals. Technical writers primarily are found in the information technology industry writing operating instructions for online Help and documentation for computer programs.
Most writers and editors have at least a basic familiarity with technology, regularly using personal computers, desktop or electronic publishing systems, scanners, and other electronic communications equipment. Many writers prepare material directly for the Internet. For example, they may write for electronic editions of newspapers or magazines, create short fiction or poetry, or produce technical documentation that is available only online. These writers also may prepare text for Web sites. As a result, they should be knowledgeable about graphic design, page layout, multimedia software, and even some basic HTML. Additionally, it is helpful to be familiar with interactive technologies of the Web so that they can blend text, graphics, and sound together.
A college degree generally is required for a position as a writer. Good facility with computers and communications equipment is necessary in order to stay in touch with sources, editors, and other writers while working on assignments, whether from home, an office, or while traveling.
Writers must be able to express ideas clearly and logically and should enjoy writing. Creativity, curiosity, a broad range of knowledge, self-motivation, and perseverance also are valuable. Writers must demonstrate good judgment and a strong sense of ethics in deciding what material to publish. In addition, the ability to concentrate amid confusion and to work under pressure often is essential. High school and college newspapers, literary magazines, community newspapers, and radio and television stations all provide valuable—but sometimes unpaid—practical writing experience. Many magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations have internships for students. Interns write short pieces, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the publishing or broadcasting business.
Advancement for writers, especially freelancers, often means working on larger, more complex projects for better known publications or for more money. Building a reputation and establishing a track record for meeting deadlines also makes it easier to get future assignments. Experience, credibility, and reliability often lead to long-term freelance relationships with the same publications and to contacts with editors who will seek you out for particular assignments.
In 2007, writers and authors held about 135,000 jobs and more than one-third were freelance and some made upwards of 100,000 dollars. Writing can be a very lucrative job and makes for an exceedingly flexible work schedule. If you are serious about pursuing a writing career, take an unpaid internship somewhere and get the experience you need; who knows, maybe one day you’ll have a book on the shelves and an article on the front page of the New York Times. You will never know unless you try it, so visit Sologig.com now and find freelance writing opportunities today!
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Thursday, July 24, 2008
A Reader’s Perspective
By SologigFreelance Reader and Sologig user T. Crump
We typically receive quite a few responses to SologigFreelance and appreciate your continued interest in our blog. While we do not traditionally accept outside submissions for our blog, one recently caught our interest and we thought we would share it with you. Thanks again and enjoy!
“I have been reviewing Sologig for some time now and I was enthusiastic about the direction and objectives Sologig had in mind when it started the website. Innovation is essential when you want to be the leader and set the standards for the rest to follow. I have been doing a majority of my contract work through agencies in the accounting field, which was the norm after the surge of mega-mergers and the expansion of corporate giants and alliances. Prior to that, most hiring went through HR and I was generally requested and interviewed by the hiring manager. Now with the monopolies, restructuring and various other corporate reorganizations, employers are wondering how to best suit their hiring demand.
Previously it was cost effective to minimize the tax burden of direct hire and use an agency; saving the time involved with sifting through thousands of applications/resumes to find, hopefully, five suitable candidates. Times are changing. Now there are more job boards/sites, outsourcers and more agencies than you can shake a stick at; who vie for the revenue of placing their candidate for the position. Agencies are coming out of the woodwork and it seems that there are as many agencies as there are job seekers, who will get them the right or perfect candidate?
I've been in the accounting field for some 15 years, and I have yet to find an agency that can sell my skills better than myself. Generally, the recruiters have brief or no knowledge of the accounting field and their competitiveness is only driven by their expected income, which leads to a decline in trust by individuals they need to fill the position. That's when Sologig becomes the solution to the problem. There are a lot of accountants seasoned to utilize their experience without guidance to work through a 1099 agreement, tax saving benefits remain the same, and most accountants that provide business and employment references will only seek opportunities that will succeed in and strive to deliver the best. They are representing themselves, and they are rewarded with completion bonuses, business referrals and the direct communication and daily contact with the person who matters the most, the client.
Should agencies be a thing of the past? Absolutely; it’s our time to prove that the independent contractor/freelance does not need a voice piece or middleman - that's so nineties. All the agencies who go through Sologig are proof we the Independent Contractor/Freelancer are the future; sites like Sologig will be the conduit that will make agencies obsolete.”
Source: T. Crump-Houston Free Press
We typically receive quite a few responses to SologigFreelance and appreciate your continued interest in our blog. While we do not traditionally accept outside submissions for our blog, one recently caught our interest and we thought we would share it with you. Thanks again and enjoy!
“I have been reviewing Sologig for some time now and I was enthusiastic about the direction and objectives Sologig had in mind when it started the website. Innovation is essential when you want to be the leader and set the standards for the rest to follow. I have been doing a majority of my contract work through agencies in the accounting field, which was the norm after the surge of mega-mergers and the expansion of corporate giants and alliances. Prior to that, most hiring went through HR and I was generally requested and interviewed by the hiring manager. Now with the monopolies, restructuring and various other corporate reorganizations, employers are wondering how to best suit their hiring demand.
Previously it was cost effective to minimize the tax burden of direct hire and use an agency; saving the time involved with sifting through thousands of applications/resumes to find, hopefully, five suitable candidates. Times are changing. Now there are more job boards/sites, outsourcers and more agencies than you can shake a stick at; who vie for the revenue of placing their candidate for the position. Agencies are coming out of the woodwork and it seems that there are as many agencies as there are job seekers, who will get them the right or perfect candidate?
I've been in the accounting field for some 15 years, and I have yet to find an agency that can sell my skills better than myself. Generally, the recruiters have brief or no knowledge of the accounting field and their competitiveness is only driven by their expected income, which leads to a decline in trust by individuals they need to fill the position. That's when Sologig becomes the solution to the problem. There are a lot of accountants seasoned to utilize their experience without guidance to work through a 1099 agreement, tax saving benefits remain the same, and most accountants that provide business and employment references will only seek opportunities that will succeed in and strive to deliver the best. They are representing themselves, and they are rewarded with completion bonuses, business referrals and the direct communication and daily contact with the person who matters the most, the client.
Should agencies be a thing of the past? Absolutely; it’s our time to prove that the independent contractor/freelance does not need a voice piece or middleman - that's so nineties. All the agencies who go through Sologig are proof we the Independent Contractor/Freelancer are the future; sites like Sologig will be the conduit that will make agencies obsolete.”
Source: T. Crump-Houston Free Press
Monday, July 21, 2008
Careers: Is Free-Lancing for You? (From The Wall Street Journal)
"If you feel like you've hit a dead end with you employer and aren't having any luck finding a telecommuting friendly new job, one of the quickest remedies is to strike out on your own as a free-lancer.
In their new book 'The Work from Home Handbook: Flex Your Time,' due out next month, attorneys Diana Fitzpatrick and Stephen Fishman cover the nuts and bolts of becoming a free-lance at-home worker.
First, the authors say, evaluate whether free-lancing is for you. While free-lancing can be a wonderful opportunity to earn a living from your home and enjoy the freedom that comes with choosing only projects that you find appealing or financially worthwhile, the lifestyle is not for everyone. It means losing many of the comforts of being someone else's employee, such as regular paychecks, paid vacations, and health insurance benefits. Even long-time, successful free-lancers can't say for sure how much they'll earn in any given month. You'll also give up the peace of mind and promotion potential that comes with a steady job at a stable employer.
Then, if you've already made that decision but are having trouble identifying the type of work that a company or a client would be interested in outsourcing to you, consider projects that are labor-intensive or that require specialized knowledge. Common types of free-lance assignments include architectural drafting, bookkeeping, preparing public relations materials, proofreading, writing and editing, illustrating, researching, even assisting with international agreements."
"But scoring quality assignments is only half the battle. You'll also need to set appropriate free-lance rates sothat you earn a fair profit after paying all of your business expenses. Negotiating a good hourly rate is the safest bet, because you won't bear the risk that the project will take longer than expected. By contrast, fixed-fee arrangements can prove lucrative if you're an unusually speedy worker as well as reassure the company that hires you that your services can be written into a predictable budget.
No matter how you charge, Fitzpatrick and Fishman caution, be careful not to undersell yourself. Remember, the hours you spend on a project don't represent your whole investment in it -- you still have to pay your business expenses, cover your own benefits and factor in the unpaid time spent on billing, marketing, and bookkeeping. (You should figure that 25% to 35% of your working hours will be spent on nonbillable tasks.)
Finally, whenever you take on a free-lance assignment, be sure to get the terms in writing. Discussing and drafting a written agreement will avoid misunderstandings and differing recollections regarding issues like project scope and pay. A basic letter agreement should include a detailed description of the project or services you'll perform, a deadline for completing your assignment, the schedule of hours you'll work each week (if applicable), the hourly rate or fixed fee you will charge, and how and when you will be paid."
Source: Loeb, Marshall. "Careers: Is Free-Lancing for You?" The Wall Street Journal 11 Mar. 2008, Online edition
In their new book 'The Work from Home Handbook: Flex Your Time,' due out next month, attorneys Diana Fitzpatrick and Stephen Fishman cover the nuts and bolts of becoming a free-lance at-home worker.
First, the authors say, evaluate whether free-lancing is for you. While free-lancing can be a wonderful opportunity to earn a living from your home and enjoy the freedom that comes with choosing only projects that you find appealing or financially worthwhile, the lifestyle is not for everyone. It means losing many of the comforts of being someone else's employee, such as regular paychecks, paid vacations, and health insurance benefits. Even long-time, successful free-lancers can't say for sure how much they'll earn in any given month. You'll also give up the peace of mind and promotion potential that comes with a steady job at a stable employer.
Then, if you've already made that decision but are having trouble identifying the type of work that a company or a client would be interested in outsourcing to you, consider projects that are labor-intensive or that require specialized knowledge. Common types of free-lance assignments include architectural drafting, bookkeeping, preparing public relations materials, proofreading, writing and editing, illustrating, researching, even assisting with international agreements."
"But scoring quality assignments is only half the battle. You'll also need to set appropriate free-lance rates sothat you earn a fair profit after paying all of your business expenses. Negotiating a good hourly rate is the safest bet, because you won't bear the risk that the project will take longer than expected. By contrast, fixed-fee arrangements can prove lucrative if you're an unusually speedy worker as well as reassure the company that hires you that your services can be written into a predictable budget.
No matter how you charge, Fitzpatrick and Fishman caution, be careful not to undersell yourself. Remember, the hours you spend on a project don't represent your whole investment in it -- you still have to pay your business expenses, cover your own benefits and factor in the unpaid time spent on billing, marketing, and bookkeeping. (You should figure that 25% to 35% of your working hours will be spent on nonbillable tasks.)
Finally, whenever you take on a free-lance assignment, be sure to get the terms in writing. Discussing and drafting a written agreement will avoid misunderstandings and differing recollections regarding issues like project scope and pay. A basic letter agreement should include a detailed description of the project or services you'll perform, a deadline for completing your assignment, the schedule of hours you'll work each week (if applicable), the hourly rate or fixed fee you will charge, and how and when you will be paid."
Source: Loeb, Marshall. "Careers: Is Free-Lancing for You?" The Wall Street Journal 11 Mar. 2008, Online edition
Monday, July 14, 2008
Network now, land new gigs later
By Maggie Zahm
As a freelancer, contractor or consultant, one of the best strategies to implement in your daily routine is networking. Jeff Altman, also known as The Big Game Hunter, attests that this strategy is invaluable when trying to land new gigs. Altman works as an independent head-hunter and has had years of experience placing contract workers.
“Networking now is a full time job- it is 365 days a year, whether you’re on-going or you’re off-assignment, you’ve got to network constantly.”
The idea of continually networking is not a new idea, but at Sologig.com we have a few tips for you to make it a little easier.
Stay in Touch
Networking can be as easy as staying in touch with past clients. Writing newsletters and sending them out to your professional contacts can be a great way to keep everyone up to date on your skills and new types projects you are working on. Feel free to take the newsletter a step further and include personal notes in the mail to past clients. Altman suggests always addressing your contacts and past clients as a friend would. It is important to ask what they are up to, while concentrating on your ability to help them when they are in need. The key aspect of networking is being generous and genuine.
Keeping in contact with past clients will deliver significant results to you, although it may take time. From experience, Altman knows that people often change jobs, and the likelihood that a past client’s new work will also entail outsourcing is high. If you keep in touch with them, even when you are not necessarily looking for new work, they will be more likely to remember you when projects arise.
At the end of the day, Altman stresses, “You can’t wait until you need your next assignment to start working on finding it.”
Jeff Altman in an independent head-hunter, and is also associated with Concepts in Staffing. His websites http://www.jeffaltman.com and http://www.thebiggamehunter.net further explain his career and give advice to those currently seeking jobs.
As a freelancer, contractor or consultant, one of the best strategies to implement in your daily routine is networking. Jeff Altman, also known as The Big Game Hunter, attests that this strategy is invaluable when trying to land new gigs. Altman works as an independent head-hunter and has had years of experience placing contract workers.
“Networking now is a full time job- it is 365 days a year, whether you’re on-going or you’re off-assignment, you’ve got to network constantly.”
The idea of continually networking is not a new idea, but at Sologig.com we have a few tips for you to make it a little easier.
Stay in Touch
Networking can be as easy as staying in touch with past clients. Writing newsletters and sending them out to your professional contacts can be a great way to keep everyone up to date on your skills and new types projects you are working on. Feel free to take the newsletter a step further and include personal notes in the mail to past clients. Altman suggests always addressing your contacts and past clients as a friend would. It is important to ask what they are up to, while concentrating on your ability to help them when they are in need. The key aspect of networking is being generous and genuine.
Keeping in contact with past clients will deliver significant results to you, although it may take time. From experience, Altman knows that people often change jobs, and the likelihood that a past client’s new work will also entail outsourcing is high. If you keep in touch with them, even when you are not necessarily looking for new work, they will be more likely to remember you when projects arise.
At the end of the day, Altman stresses, “You can’t wait until you need your next assignment to start working on finding it.”
Jeff Altman in an independent head-hunter, and is also associated with Concepts in Staffing. His websites http://www.jeffaltman.com and http://www.thebiggamehunter.net further explain his career and give advice to those currently seeking jobs.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The home office: Get organized and increase your productivity
By Maggie Zahm
Arguably, one of the best aspects to working independently is being able to work from home. Not having to pay high gas prices, having a flexible schedule and being able to work in pajamas all contribute to the lure of freelancing and consulting. On the other hand, this freedom can present potential problems if it is not approached properly. It is imperative that home offices be organized and that you keep your work and personal life separate. Staying organized and comfortable while working at home can help you get the most out of your work, and the writers at Sologig.com are full of great ideas to help maintain the balance.
Choose the location wisely
Before you can roll out the “Home Sweet Home” mat in front of your office, you need to find a suitable location. Ask yourself the following questions to help determine where the best place is for you:
Arguably, one of the best aspects to working independently is being able to work from home. Not having to pay high gas prices, having a flexible schedule and being able to work in pajamas all contribute to the lure of freelancing and consulting. On the other hand, this freedom can present potential problems if it is not approached properly. It is imperative that home offices be organized and that you keep your work and personal life separate. Staying organized and comfortable while working at home can help you get the most out of your work, and the writers at Sologig.com are full of great ideas to help maintain the balance.
Choose the location wisely
Before you can roll out the “Home Sweet Home” mat in front of your office, you need to find a suitable location. Ask yourself the following questions to help determine where the best place is for you:
- Can you work in an existing room in your house? If you have small children, pets or anything else that could be a distraction, be prepared to handle unexpected visits from them.
- Is the room is near a lounging area like a family room or den? Make sure you have enough willpower to resist the urge to flip through the channels of the TV instead of dealing with your mass of unanswered emails.
- Do you need people around to help motivate you during uninspired times? Office mates can sometimes help keep you on track when you are feeling like you are fresh out of ideas.
If after answering these questions you feel like you can work from an area you already have in your home, congratulations! You are ready to start organizing. If not, consider putting on an addition to your house or creating a new space in your basement or attic. If you are building a new space be sure to include doors to keep sound and distractions out. If expanding space at your home is not feasible, or if you live in an apartment, look into leasing or purchasing a shared office space. Even though you will have to commute, this could be beneficial for you if you need others to help stimulate you or you just like to have the company around when you are working. Leasing a shared office space is also a smart choice if you know you will not be able to separate your personal and work life easily.
Decorate appropriately
Now that you have chosen the best place for you to work, it is time to decorate!
- Choose the right color. If you need a boost to get working, consider painting your office a stimulating and invigorating color like yellow. Do you feel stressed when you work? Maybe a soft lavender or cool blue will help you relax. Green is always a smart choice for a work space as it is known for being a calm yet rejuvenating color. Green is also thought to help people get their creative juices flowing.
- Consider lighting. Lighting is an important aspect to an office. Choose something too bright and you could get migraines easily or not be able to focus. Choosing something too dim may put you to sleep and hinder productivity. The best thing to do is vary your lighting. An incandescent lamp has a lot of yellow in it, while a halogen lamp has more bluish white to it. If you use a mix of different bulbs, the effect will be more pleasing and stimulating to the eye.
- Add a personal touch. Make your office more home-like by adding picture of loved ones. This will keep you from feeling too stressed as you remember fun and relaxing times with family and friends. Paintings or professional photographs can also help to decrease your anxiety.
Get Organized
The most important day-to-day aspect of a home office is staying organized. Organization will help increase your productivity and help you feel less overwhelmed.
- Keep only the essentials on your desk. Your computer, phone, card holder and perhaps some paper/ folder files should be the only things on the top of your workspace. Put everything else in folders or other bins and store them drawers or cabinets.
- Use a variety of containers to organize your office supplies. There are plenty of stores that carry bins and containers for every shape and size from paper clips to hanging files. Managing papers and files can be made a lot simpler if you color code them or organize them alphabetically. Information is a lot easier to find if you know where to look!
- Keep an up-to-date calendar and to-do list. Having these simple organizers in a place that is easy to see will help make things easier when you need to set an appointment. To-do lists are key tools to use to make sure you keep setting goals for yourself.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
The Freelance Customer Service Representative: Is it right for me and where can I find work?
By Mackenzie Rose
It may be surprising to some but, by next June, growth within the customer service sector is expected to be among the highest of all occupations. Most customer service representatives need a High School Diploma to enter the field as well as strong verbal communication and listening skills. Of the 2.2 million currently employed customer service representatives, some 17 percent work part-time, or freelance. Customer Service professionals are employed by many different types of companies serving as a direct point of contact for customers. They are responsible for ensuring customers receive an adequate level of service or help with their questions and concerns. These customers may be individual consumers or other companies, and their service needs can vary considerably. In fact, the customer service industry is so expansive today that it is hard to find somebody who has not spoken with a customer service representative sometime in their lives.
Training requirements vary by industry. Almost all customer service representatives are provided with some training prior to beginning work. This training generally includes customer service and phone skills; information on products and services; information about common customer problems; the use of the telephone and computer systems; and company policies and regulations. Length of training also varies, but usually lasts at least several weeks. Because of a constant need to update skills and knowledge, most customer service representatives continue to receive training throughout their career. This is particularly true of workers in industries such as banking, in which regulations and products are continually changing. This training helps develop necessary work place skills that are helpful in all jobs giving customer service professionals valuable skills for future freelance positions.
Because customer service representatives constantly interact with the public, good communication and problem-solving skills are a must. Verbal communication and listening skills are especially important. For workers who communicate through e-mail, good typing, spelling, and writing skills are necessary. Basic to intermediate computer knowledge and good interpersonal skills also are important qualities for people who wish to be successful in the field.
The biggest perk of a customer service position is the opportunity to advance within the company/ industry. If you work hard at it, you can move up within the company into supervisory or managerial positions or into areas such as product development. Your part-time freelance work may easily turn into a budding career opportunity.
The freelance opportunities within the field, however, are not limited to working in a high rise office; many work from home. The advantages of such a move are obvious and with multiple companies already cutting off their offshore customer service, the demand for local representatives is high. In fact, most of those working from home earn better hourly rates than those working in a call center. Such an opportunity is perfect for stay-at-home parents or any freelancer looking for extra income. Moreover, use of a home phone for such a job may allow for large tax deductions come April.
Employment of customer service representatives is expected to increase 25 percent from 2006 to 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. It will have one of the largest number of new jobs arise, about 545,000 over the 2006-16 projection period with excellent prospects. Some of the best at their jobs can earn upwards of 20 dollars an hour and look forward to probable advancement. Don’t expect to earn that much at first, especially on a freelance basis and you may need another full-time or part-time job on the side.
It may be surprising to some but, by next June, growth within the customer service sector is expected to be among the highest of all occupations. Most customer service representatives need a High School Diploma to enter the field as well as strong verbal communication and listening skills. Of the 2.2 million currently employed customer service representatives, some 17 percent work part-time, or freelance. Customer Service professionals are employed by many different types of companies serving as a direct point of contact for customers. They are responsible for ensuring customers receive an adequate level of service or help with their questions and concerns. These customers may be individual consumers or other companies, and their service needs can vary considerably. In fact, the customer service industry is so expansive today that it is hard to find somebody who has not spoken with a customer service representative sometime in their lives.
Training requirements vary by industry. Almost all customer service representatives are provided with some training prior to beginning work. This training generally includes customer service and phone skills; information on products and services; information about common customer problems; the use of the telephone and computer systems; and company policies and regulations. Length of training also varies, but usually lasts at least several weeks. Because of a constant need to update skills and knowledge, most customer service representatives continue to receive training throughout their career. This is particularly true of workers in industries such as banking, in which regulations and products are continually changing. This training helps develop necessary work place skills that are helpful in all jobs giving customer service professionals valuable skills for future freelance positions.
Because customer service representatives constantly interact with the public, good communication and problem-solving skills are a must. Verbal communication and listening skills are especially important. For workers who communicate through e-mail, good typing, spelling, and writing skills are necessary. Basic to intermediate computer knowledge and good interpersonal skills also are important qualities for people who wish to be successful in the field.
The biggest perk of a customer service position is the opportunity to advance within the company/ industry. If you work hard at it, you can move up within the company into supervisory or managerial positions or into areas such as product development. Your part-time freelance work may easily turn into a budding career opportunity.
The freelance opportunities within the field, however, are not limited to working in a high rise office; many work from home. The advantages of such a move are obvious and with multiple companies already cutting off their offshore customer service, the demand for local representatives is high. In fact, most of those working from home earn better hourly rates than those working in a call center. Such an opportunity is perfect for stay-at-home parents or any freelancer looking for extra income. Moreover, use of a home phone for such a job may allow for large tax deductions come April.
Employment of customer service representatives is expected to increase 25 percent from 2006 to 2016, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. It will have one of the largest number of new jobs arise, about 545,000 over the 2006-16 projection period with excellent prospects. Some of the best at their jobs can earn upwards of 20 dollars an hour and look forward to probable advancement. Don’t expect to earn that much at first, especially on a freelance basis and you may need another full-time or part-time job on the side.
Get your name out there! Visit Sologig.com to find great freelance customer service opportunities.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Time to Vacation!
By Maggie Zahm
As we move into July, warm weather and sunshine will continue to boost Americans’ desire to get outside and relax. The limitless amount of outdoor festivals, holidays and summer activities provide a perfect opportunity to escape the office and take a few personal days. While many employees fail to use at least one-third of their vacation time each year, it is important to remember that taking time-off is vital in the success of your career and personal well-being. Even if you work from home, it is important that you take a break once in a while and enjoy your time off and contractors, consultants and freelancers in particular should not consider themselves exempt from vacation time.
Time to rest and recharge
Despite the fact that many people neglect to take vacations because they are afraid they will fall behind in their work, taking time-off is actually crucial for those who work independently. It is easy to get burned out when you’re continuously working long hours on similar projects, which can lead to irritability, ineffectiveness and even an increased amount of time to complete projects. In order to keep referrals and work load up, freelancers need to be well-rested to carry out their best work.
Plan Accordingly
Before planning a vacation, it is important that you plan ahead and budget for time off.
As we move into July, warm weather and sunshine will continue to boost Americans’ desire to get outside and relax. The limitless amount of outdoor festivals, holidays and summer activities provide a perfect opportunity to escape the office and take a few personal days. While many employees fail to use at least one-third of their vacation time each year, it is important to remember that taking time-off is vital in the success of your career and personal well-being. Even if you work from home, it is important that you take a break once in a while and enjoy your time off and contractors, consultants and freelancers in particular should not consider themselves exempt from vacation time.
Time to rest and recharge
Despite the fact that many people neglect to take vacations because they are afraid they will fall behind in their work, taking time-off is actually crucial for those who work independently. It is easy to get burned out when you’re continuously working long hours on similar projects, which can lead to irritability, ineffectiveness and even an increased amount of time to complete projects. In order to keep referrals and work load up, freelancers need to be well-rested to carry out their best work.
Plan Accordingly
Before planning a vacation, it is important that you plan ahead and budget for time off.
- Save up enough money to cover the time you will not be working to cover your day to day expenses as well as the expenses you will accrue during your trip.
- Be sure to let your clients know when you will be gone. This not only gives them a heads up that you may not be able to be accessible to them if something comes up, but also gives them time to prepare for your absence should they need anything completed or any questions answered before you go. Letting your clients know well in advance that you will be gone will ensure there will be no misconceptions of your availability.
Commit to your Plans
- As soon as you have worked out when would be the best time to take a vacation, book it immediately! Make reservations as soon as possible so you can solidify your plans. Firming up your plans will keep you from cancelling your much deserved trip to work on projects that can truly wait until you return.
- Decide to leave all work-related technology at home. You will not get the most of your vacation if you are constantly checking your email and talking on your cell phone while you are supposed to be relaxing.
- Set up an out-of-office reply message on your email and update your voicemail with the dates you will be away. It is important to do this so everyone knows when you will be gone, when you will be back, and how they can contact you (or someone else who can help) if a really important issue emerges.
Making the Most of your Vacation
Since all vacations are unfortunately for just a limited amount of time, make sure you take full advantage of your situation.
- Bring a friend or your family. Sharing fun times with people you love will surely help you to de-stress, wind down, and make the most of your trip.
- Bring a book for the plane/ car ride. If you keep yourself busy reading, you won’t be tempted to turn on your Blackberry or laptop to do work or find new projects on Sologig.com.
- Take lots of pictures. When you get home, you can hang them up in your work space so even during times of stress, you will remember what it feels like to be relaxed.
Vacations are an important aspect of contract and freelance work. Make sure you take time each year to rejuvenate so you can be more productive in both your personal and professional life. When you come back from your time off, hopefully you will have a renewed perspective that may even help you land new clients!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A guide to hiring contractors, consultants and freelancers
By Maggie Zahm
OVERVIEW
Occasionally companies abstain from hiring independent talent because of uncertainty concerning the details of what they do, how they are paid, where to find them, etc. This confusion, however, should not deter companies from hiring consultants, contractors, and freelancers. This comprehensive guide will help shed light on the details of hiring independent talent, while explaining why now is an opportune time to begin.
Benefits
OVERVIEW
Occasionally companies abstain from hiring independent talent because of uncertainty concerning the details of what they do, how they are paid, where to find them, etc. This confusion, however, should not deter companies from hiring consultants, contractors, and freelancers. This comprehensive guide will help shed light on the details of hiring independent talent, while explaining why now is an opportune time to begin.
Benefits
- With a slowing economy, the trend to hire independent talent is growing. In a recent study, 55% of companies said they currently, or plan to, use contract workers. The reason for this high number is because it is often times more beneficial for a company to hire independent talent in order to save costs. Because contract workers do not have the legal status of employees, companies reduce expenditure by eliminating expenses such as federal payroll taxes, the contractor’s Social Security and Medicare taxes, and their full-time benefits packages, among others.
- Companies are able to save time by hiring independent talent versus employees. The search for full-time employees can become a lengthy process when looking for someone that will be a perfect fit. Hiring independent professionals can alleviate stress and reduce time, thanks to niche job boards like Sologig.com. These job boards are ideal in quickly and efficiently connecting top contractors and consultants with quality employers looking to fill contract and consulting positions.
When to hire independent talent
- You have a project that does not necessitate a permanent or full time employee
- You need objective advice/ help
- You need someone with expertise in a specific field
- You do not have time to train an employee; you need someone who can be productive immediately
- You need temporary assistance
Before you choose a contractor
In order to reduce risk of confusion it is essential to complete the following tasks before you commit to hiring a contractor.
- Define and plainly state your specific goals of hiring. This way, neither you nor the candidate will be unclear about your needs.
- Discuss past projects potential hires have completed. This will give you insight into details such as how organized they are, if they demonstrate the ability to handle situations similar to the job you need completed, and if they have the experience to understand your company’s goals and the skill set to meet those goals. Be wary of candidates who avoid details or fail to explain things clearly.
- Ask to see samples of the work if possible. Samples are a great way to assess their quality of work.
- Check the potential hire’s policies. It is important to examine things like their rates, added rewrites or design fee, turnaround time, etc. before you sign a contract.
Time to hire
After you have concluded that your company could benefit from the hiring of independent talent and taken all the necessary precautionary steps, you are ready to being the hiring process. Sologig.com is a valuable website that can help you connect with quality consultants, contractors, and freelancers. It is especially easy to search by keywords or location in order to simplify your contracting experience. Good luck getting started!
Check it out>> This article can also be used as a great resource for current consultants, contractors or freelancers or those looking for work so they know where to search for projects and know what to expect!
Friday, June 27, 2008
The Freelance Graphic Designer: Is it right for me and where can I find jobs?
By Mackenzie Rose
Many of those skilled in graphic design allow it to take a backseat to full or part time careers. Nearly 25% of all graphic designers are freelance; however, many of those same individuals work with graphic design in addition to a salaried job in design or in another occupation altogether. Graphic designers—or graphic artists—plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They find the most effective way to get messages across in print, electronic, and film media using a variety of methods such as color, font, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques.
When considering taking on freelance work in graphic design, understand that some 200,000 designers are employed full-time by large advertising, publishing, or design firms. Firms that require additional graphic designers are generally particular about work arrangements and work schedules, and may not be able to accommodate some of your work preferences. Consultants and freelance designers tend to work longer hours and in smaller, more congested, environments. Companies want to get the most for their contracts so expect good pay, but recognize your probable work environments.
The Skills
A bachelor’s degree is required for most entry-level and advanced graphic design positions. Bachelor’s degree programs in fine arts or graphic design are offered at many colleges, universities, and private design schools. Most curriculums include studio art, principles of design, computerized design, commercial graphics production, printing techniques, and Web site design. In addition to design courses, a liberal arts education that includes courses in art history, writing, psychology, sociology, foreign languages and cultural studies, marketing, and business are useful in helping designers work effectively.
There are currently roughly 270,000 graphic designers nationwide. Employment is expected to grow about 7 to 13% over the next year and ardent competition for jobs is expected; individuals with a bachelor’s degree and knowledge of computer design software, particularly those with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities. Demand for graphic designers also will increase as advertising firms create print and Web marketing and promotional materials for a growing number of products and services. Last year, the median annual earnings for wage and salary graphic designers were $39,900, yet those who labeled themselves as freelance earned an average of $60,000, and many veterans in the field earned upwards of $100,000 a year. Consider your options in the field; if you are just starting out, take the safe path and start small with freelance graphic design to earn extra income on the side. Once you gain the experience, moreover the reputation, offer your specialized design services and prepare yourself for a successful career as a freelance graphic designer.
Get your name out there! Visit Sologig.com to find great freelance graphic design opportunities.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Many of those skilled in graphic design allow it to take a backseat to full or part time careers. Nearly 25% of all graphic designers are freelance; however, many of those same individuals work with graphic design in addition to a salaried job in design or in another occupation altogether. Graphic designers—or graphic artists—plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They find the most effective way to get messages across in print, electronic, and film media using a variety of methods such as color, font, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques.
When considering taking on freelance work in graphic design, understand that some 200,000 designers are employed full-time by large advertising, publishing, or design firms. Firms that require additional graphic designers are generally particular about work arrangements and work schedules, and may not be able to accommodate some of your work preferences. Consultants and freelance designers tend to work longer hours and in smaller, more congested, environments. Companies want to get the most for their contracts so expect good pay, but recognize your probable work environments.
The Skills
A bachelor’s degree is required for most entry-level and advanced graphic design positions. Bachelor’s degree programs in fine arts or graphic design are offered at many colleges, universities, and private design schools. Most curriculums include studio art, principles of design, computerized design, commercial graphics production, printing techniques, and Web site design. In addition to design courses, a liberal arts education that includes courses in art history, writing, psychology, sociology, foreign languages and cultural studies, marketing, and business are useful in helping designers work effectively.
There are currently roughly 270,000 graphic designers nationwide. Employment is expected to grow about 7 to 13% over the next year and ardent competition for jobs is expected; individuals with a bachelor’s degree and knowledge of computer design software, particularly those with Web site design and animation experience will have the best opportunities. Demand for graphic designers also will increase as advertising firms create print and Web marketing and promotional materials for a growing number of products and services. Last year, the median annual earnings for wage and salary graphic designers were $39,900, yet those who labeled themselves as freelance earned an average of $60,000, and many veterans in the field earned upwards of $100,000 a year. Consider your options in the field; if you are just starting out, take the safe path and start small with freelance graphic design to earn extra income on the side. Once you gain the experience, moreover the reputation, offer your specialized design services and prepare yourself for a successful career as a freelance graphic designer.
Get your name out there! Visit Sologig.com to find great freelance graphic design opportunities.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
CONGRATULATIONS!
Congratulations to Andy O'Hearn and Nancy Zimmerman, the winners of the Sologig Success Story Contest. Both winners will be receiving signed books by author Peter Bowerman.
Thanks to everyone who participated. If you're interested in reading the winning entries, feel free to contact us.
Happy Freelancing!
Thanks to everyone who participated. If you're interested in reading the winning entries, feel free to contact us.
Happy Freelancing!
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Lowdown on Freelance Photography: Is it right for me and where can I find work?
By Mackenzie Rose
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, more than half of all photographers are freelance, a significantly higher ratio than almost every other occupation. Photographers produce and preserve images that paint a picture, tell a story, or record an event. To create commercial-quality photographs, photographers need technical expertise, creativity, and the appropriate equipment for each individual job.
Most photographers face the same challenge early on in their professional career; what kind of photography should I specialize in? Today more than ever, employers are more interested in individuals who appear to know a lot about a specific area of expertise rather than those who know a little bit about several different areas. When you choose a specialty it may seem as though you are receiving less contract offers initially, however, specialization will not only give you a more rewarding career, but will also pay more per assignment.
As a veteran of the freelance photography business, you may already know all about the different areas of specialty, but for those shutterbugs just breaking into the field, here is a list of the major money makers:
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, more than half of all photographers are freelance, a significantly higher ratio than almost every other occupation. Photographers produce and preserve images that paint a picture, tell a story, or record an event. To create commercial-quality photographs, photographers need technical expertise, creativity, and the appropriate equipment for each individual job.
Most photographers face the same challenge early on in their professional career; what kind of photography should I specialize in? Today more than ever, employers are more interested in individuals who appear to know a lot about a specific area of expertise rather than those who know a little bit about several different areas. When you choose a specialty it may seem as though you are receiving less contract offers initially, however, specialization will not only give you a more rewarding career, but will also pay more per assignment.
As a veteran of the freelance photography business, you may already know all about the different areas of specialty, but for those shutterbugs just breaking into the field, here is a list of the major money makers:
- Commercial and industrial photographers take pictures of various subjects, such as buildings, models, merchandise, artifacts, and landscapes. These photographs are used in a variety of media, including books, reports, advertisements, and catalogs and are commonly used as “stock photos” which are sold in bundles or per photo. They are used on everything from nearly 90% of websites to presentations, advertisements and brochures
- Scientific photographers take images of a variety of subjects to illustrate or record scientific or medical data or phenomena, using knowledge of scientific procedures. They typically possess additional knowledge in areas such as engineering, medicine, biology, or chemistry
- News photographers also called photojournalists, these individuals photograph newsworthy people, places, and sporting, political, and community events for newspapers, journals, magazines, or television
- Fine arts photographers sell their photographs as fine artwork. In addition to technical proficiency, fine arts photographers need artistic talent and creativity
In addition to carrying out assignments under direct contract with clients, you may want to license the use of your photographs through stock-photo agencies or market your work directly to the public. Stock-photo agencies sell photos to websites, magazines, ad agencies and others a license to use photographs, and pay the photographer a commission on each sale. These agencies require an application from the photographer and a sizable portfolio of pictures. Once accepted, photographers are usually required to submit a large number of new photographs each year. It is a good idea for freelance photographers working in this area to have a thorough understanding of copyright laws in order to protect their work.
The Skills
Employers typically seek applicants with a good technical understanding of photography. Additionally, photojournalists or industrial or scientific photographers generally need a college degree. Entry-level freelance or portrait photographers need to at least have technical proficiency although many have completed a college degree or vocational training programs.
Photography courses are offered by many universities, community and junior colleges, vocational-technical institutes, and private trade and technical schools. Basic courses in photography cover equipment, processes, and techniques. Learning good business skills is important and some bachelor’s degree programs offer courses focusing on these skills. Art schools generally offer useful training in photographic design and composition.
There are currently over 125,000 people who consider themselves professional photographers, but of those people, how many really understand the job? How many are true photographers? Because of this, if you have the skills, photography is an excellent field to be in right now, especially freelance photography. Some of the best photographers can easily earn upwards of $60,000 a year and that includes all of the freedom that typically comes with a freelance job. No matter what area of photography you specialize in, you are going to find competition. The most important thing is to unlock your imagination and let it do all the work. If you take it as seriously as some of the best in the business, you can be among them in no time.
Get your name out there! Visit Sologig.com to find great freelance photography opportunities.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Friday, June 20, 2008
The ins and outs of affordable health insurance for the self-employed
By Maggie Zahm
Finding affordable health insurance is one of the biggest challenges facing those working independently. Since contractors and freelancers do not typically have an employer offering cost-effective benefit options, it is up to the individual to find and pay for their own insurance. While there are a variety of services, it is often hard to find a package that you qualify for, that fits your needs and is affordable. Until the new Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Act is passed (see below for more details), the following is a list of health insurance options for the self-employed.
Group Insurance
This is by far the best health care coverage plan available. Because members are included under one “master policy,” which has many contributors, the policy provides maximum coverage at minimum cost. The plans typically cover regular doctor’s appointments (less a co-pay that the individual pays upon the visit) and hospital treatment for accidents. Some plans also offer vision care and/ or dental work and partial prescription costs. Members also do not have to participate in any medical exams or answer any health questions before they purchase this type of insurance because everyone pays the same rates, even if they have pre-existing conditions or chronic problems. Rates for group insurance do not rise even if claims are made.
The problem that arises for freelancers who desire to have this type of plan is that group insurance is only issued to large groups of people. Most often, people subscribe to this coverage plan through their employer, and rates are taken directly out of their paycheck. If a freelancer has a spouse that is covered under this plan, the best option for them is to try to get on the plan as well. Also, labor unions, churches and other service groups are sometimes able to obtain group insurance rates for their members.
Insurance through an association or chamber of commerce
Another possible healthcare option for freelancers is that they may be able to obtain coverage through an association or their local chamber of commerce. Although these types of plans are not actual group policies, they still have some related benefits because they are classified as pooled risk policies. This option can still be affordable if the members are young, do not have any serious health problems, and have a low risk of accident. However, rates can change as a the result of a claim.
Coverage through the State
Some states may offer medical insurance benefits programs. This option is typically not a good choice for those looking for quality, affordable health insurance. State coverage does not fully cover preventative care options, like regular doctor appointments, and it is often limited with prescription coverage. If someone becomes seriously ill or injured, this plan will prevent financial ruin, but the costs will add up quickly for smaller, more common health issues.
Coverage through the state may be worth exploring if you have a low income. State coverage programs often have income limits because they are intended for those who cannot afford to consider other options. If you feel this plan may be for you, make sure you have extra money in the bank to pay for routine doctor appointments, prescription costs and partial hospital bills if something serious were to occur.
Individual Coverage
This option is notably the worst option for those looking to purchase health insurance. Members buy their plan directly from the insurance company at a premium rate. It might even be completely impossible to find something you can afford if you have pre-existing conditions or are in poor health.
SHOP Act
Recently, a new health insurance option was proposed. The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Act seeks to “amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a nationwide health insurance purchasing pool for small businesses and the self-employed that would offer a choice of private health plans and make health coverage more affordable, predictable, and accessible." This legislation would be implemented in 2011 and offer tax incentives to encourage states to reform insurance markets for small businesses and “encourage the development of state purchasing pools backstopped by a voluntary, nationwide pool.” Overall, the act would provide a more efficient way for insurers to market their health plans and for employers and employees to enroll in them. Also with this act, administrative costs for the premiums would drop drastically. Keep an eye out for updates with the SHOP Act, as this may benefit you directly. Check out http://www.opencongress.org/ to view the bill, track and contact Congress members and stay up to date with any new information.
Finding affordable health insurance is one of the biggest challenges facing those working independently. Since contractors and freelancers do not typically have an employer offering cost-effective benefit options, it is up to the individual to find and pay for their own insurance. While there are a variety of services, it is often hard to find a package that you qualify for, that fits your needs and is affordable. Until the new Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Act is passed (see below for more details), the following is a list of health insurance options for the self-employed.
Group Insurance
This is by far the best health care coverage plan available. Because members are included under one “master policy,” which has many contributors, the policy provides maximum coverage at minimum cost. The plans typically cover regular doctor’s appointments (less a co-pay that the individual pays upon the visit) and hospital treatment for accidents. Some plans also offer vision care and/ or dental work and partial prescription costs. Members also do not have to participate in any medical exams or answer any health questions before they purchase this type of insurance because everyone pays the same rates, even if they have pre-existing conditions or chronic problems. Rates for group insurance do not rise even if claims are made.
The problem that arises for freelancers who desire to have this type of plan is that group insurance is only issued to large groups of people. Most often, people subscribe to this coverage plan through their employer, and rates are taken directly out of their paycheck. If a freelancer has a spouse that is covered under this plan, the best option for them is to try to get on the plan as well. Also, labor unions, churches and other service groups are sometimes able to obtain group insurance rates for their members.
Insurance through an association or chamber of commerce
Another possible healthcare option for freelancers is that they may be able to obtain coverage through an association or their local chamber of commerce. Although these types of plans are not actual group policies, they still have some related benefits because they are classified as pooled risk policies. This option can still be affordable if the members are young, do not have any serious health problems, and have a low risk of accident. However, rates can change as a the result of a claim.
Coverage through the State
Some states may offer medical insurance benefits programs. This option is typically not a good choice for those looking for quality, affordable health insurance. State coverage does not fully cover preventative care options, like regular doctor appointments, and it is often limited with prescription coverage. If someone becomes seriously ill or injured, this plan will prevent financial ruin, but the costs will add up quickly for smaller, more common health issues.
Coverage through the state may be worth exploring if you have a low income. State coverage programs often have income limits because they are intended for those who cannot afford to consider other options. If you feel this plan may be for you, make sure you have extra money in the bank to pay for routine doctor appointments, prescription costs and partial hospital bills if something serious were to occur.
Individual Coverage
This option is notably the worst option for those looking to purchase health insurance. Members buy their plan directly from the insurance company at a premium rate. It might even be completely impossible to find something you can afford if you have pre-existing conditions or are in poor health.
SHOP Act
Recently, a new health insurance option was proposed. The Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Act seeks to “amend the Public Health Service Act to establish a nationwide health insurance purchasing pool for small businesses and the self-employed that would offer a choice of private health plans and make health coverage more affordable, predictable, and accessible." This legislation would be implemented in 2011 and offer tax incentives to encourage states to reform insurance markets for small businesses and “encourage the development of state purchasing pools backstopped by a voluntary, nationwide pool.” Overall, the act would provide a more efficient way for insurers to market their health plans and for employers and employees to enroll in them. Also with this act, administrative costs for the premiums would drop drastically. Keep an eye out for updates with the SHOP Act, as this may benefit you directly. Check out http://www.opencongress.org/ to view the bill, track and contact Congress members and stay up to date with any new information.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Acing an Interview
By Mackenzie Rose
Coming off a string of freelancing or contractual jobs, you may have forgotten the stress-filled, often times degrading process known as an interview. Transitioning from your current freelance career to the part-time or full-time employment industry can be difficult and the very first step is to fine-tune your interviewing skills.
Let’s say you apply for a job and based on your beautiful resume, printed on glossy photo paper, you get a call back. “Jim!” the guy says, “Love your credentials and I can see my reflection in your resume here, how about you come in for an interview?” Suddenly it hits you, “I hate interviews.” My hands get clammy, my voice shaky and my eye does this weird thing that makes it look like I am winking, suggestively winking, if you know what I mean. There are simple steps, however, that can turn you into an interviewing ace in no time:
Know the Company
Nothing makes you look more qualified than firsthand knowledge. I don’t mean go into an interview and say, “The stock is down, revenue is miniscule and I give you guys three years before chapter eleven.” Unless of course you have a clever recommendation to add, but at that point you may already be in the elevator catching a last glimpse of the guys in the office using your shredded resume as streamers. Know people, know products and gather questions. Many companies are going to ask you basic questions about their company they want you to know, but if you fire back with questions of your own, it demonstrates interest and knowledge. If you believe in your knowledge of the company, they will too. Don’t quickly glance at the finance pages before the interview; spend some time reading company profiles and corporate biographies.
Read Your Resume
It is hard to imagine how many people go into an interview with the same resume they made some ten years ago. “So Bob, tell me more about this freelance photography job you had back in ’99, what exactly were your job specifications? All it says here is, ‘took pretty pictures’ (or something to that extent).” In this case, two things are going to happen:
1. You, not looking over your resume before hand, are going to have to think on your feet fast or else face the risk of the “um’s” and “uh’s” coming out of your mouth and looking about as qualified as Oliver the Monkey (he actually was one of the smartest monkeys of our era so maybe this would over qualify you)
2. You are going to talk about a job from 1986 as the two people behind the desk both look at each other and smirk before cutting you off and ending the interview
Make sure you read over your resume; it is hard to give the appearance of a qualified competent person if you know the least information about yourself of all things. Take the time, even if it just the night before, to look over your past experiences so that when the question comes up, you are more than ready with the correct response.
Teamwork, Teamwork, Teamwork
In a survey of hundreds of interviewers, it was not degrees or even GPAs that were the most looked for quality in a candidate, it was the ability to work in a team. Most employers will tell you, it is EQ (emotional intelligence) rather than IQ that best predicts career success. Don’t go into an interview and talk about your degree from Harvard or how you got the best grade in Professor Archibald’s Finance 300 class, they already have that information on your resume. Instead, talk about your teamwork abilities gained from prior jobs or even everyday experiences. In most cases, they will ask the question without you ever having to mention it. It is tough to find a job where you are not working with other people. It is important to interviewers that you are capable of teamwork and not some Machiavellian know-it-all who everyone will resent. High EQ with at least moderate IQ means an effective employee while high IQ coupled with low EQ means a highly argumentative show off best suited for the engineering department.
Interviewing is a combination of knowledge and acting, unless of course you are highly unqualified for the job, then interviewing is going up an elevator then almost immediately back down. You need to go in with a positive attitude and a smile across your face. Know your company and more importantly know yourself. Show interest, even if your interest level as high as the time you read Crime and Punishment for English class in the 12th grade, show it. If you don’t interview well, qualifications may mean nothing in the end. Rehearse it the night before if you have to, but don’t fall victim to interview stressors, go in with confidence and walk out with the job.
Coming off a string of freelancing or contractual jobs, you may have forgotten the stress-filled, often times degrading process known as an interview. Transitioning from your current freelance career to the part-time or full-time employment industry can be difficult and the very first step is to fine-tune your interviewing skills.
Let’s say you apply for a job and based on your beautiful resume, printed on glossy photo paper, you get a call back. “Jim!” the guy says, “Love your credentials and I can see my reflection in your resume here, how about you come in for an interview?” Suddenly it hits you, “I hate interviews.” My hands get clammy, my voice shaky and my eye does this weird thing that makes it look like I am winking, suggestively winking, if you know what I mean. There are simple steps, however, that can turn you into an interviewing ace in no time:
Know the Company
Nothing makes you look more qualified than firsthand knowledge. I don’t mean go into an interview and say, “The stock is down, revenue is miniscule and I give you guys three years before chapter eleven.” Unless of course you have a clever recommendation to add, but at that point you may already be in the elevator catching a last glimpse of the guys in the office using your shredded resume as streamers. Know people, know products and gather questions. Many companies are going to ask you basic questions about their company they want you to know, but if you fire back with questions of your own, it demonstrates interest and knowledge. If you believe in your knowledge of the company, they will too. Don’t quickly glance at the finance pages before the interview; spend some time reading company profiles and corporate biographies.
Read Your Resume
It is hard to imagine how many people go into an interview with the same resume they made some ten years ago. “So Bob, tell me more about this freelance photography job you had back in ’99, what exactly were your job specifications? All it says here is, ‘took pretty pictures’ (or something to that extent).” In this case, two things are going to happen:
1. You, not looking over your resume before hand, are going to have to think on your feet fast or else face the risk of the “um’s” and “uh’s” coming out of your mouth and looking about as qualified as Oliver the Monkey (he actually was one of the smartest monkeys of our era so maybe this would over qualify you)
2. You are going to talk about a job from 1986 as the two people behind the desk both look at each other and smirk before cutting you off and ending the interview
Make sure you read over your resume; it is hard to give the appearance of a qualified competent person if you know the least information about yourself of all things. Take the time, even if it just the night before, to look over your past experiences so that when the question comes up, you are more than ready with the correct response.
Teamwork, Teamwork, Teamwork
In a survey of hundreds of interviewers, it was not degrees or even GPAs that were the most looked for quality in a candidate, it was the ability to work in a team. Most employers will tell you, it is EQ (emotional intelligence) rather than IQ that best predicts career success. Don’t go into an interview and talk about your degree from Harvard or how you got the best grade in Professor Archibald’s Finance 300 class, they already have that information on your resume. Instead, talk about your teamwork abilities gained from prior jobs or even everyday experiences. In most cases, they will ask the question without you ever having to mention it. It is tough to find a job where you are not working with other people. It is important to interviewers that you are capable of teamwork and not some Machiavellian know-it-all who everyone will resent. High EQ with at least moderate IQ means an effective employee while high IQ coupled with low EQ means a highly argumentative show off best suited for the engineering department.
Interviewing is a combination of knowledge and acting, unless of course you are highly unqualified for the job, then interviewing is going up an elevator then almost immediately back down. You need to go in with a positive attitude and a smile across your face. Know your company and more importantly know yourself. Show interest, even if your interest level as high as the time you read Crime and Punishment for English class in the 12th grade, show it. If you don’t interview well, qualifications may mean nothing in the end. Rehearse it the night before if you have to, but don’t fall victim to interview stressors, go in with confidence and walk out with the job.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
To Freelance or not to Freelance?
By Mackenzie Rose
In our Democratic society, human needs can be trimmed down to the two most seemingly basic desires: security and freedom. It’s so simple if you think about it, but in this chaotic humanity, it seems so hard to achieve both. As freelancers, you have chosen a life of freedom with little security. Soon, contracts will expire and it will take an effort on your part to find that next job. Poignant as it may sound, miles away there is someone sitting in a cubicle answering phone calls and writing emails who feels secure in his job; yet, he hasn’t felt the sun on his face since he pressed his head real hard against the sixth floor window last week. It’s a bittersweet world out there and we need to pay the bills first and satisfy our needs second. So the question becomes: for freedom or security, what am I working for?
There are certainly issues to consider from both sides of the spectrum. Let’s say you are stuck in a dead end, nine to five job that makes every morning seem like the worst of your life. You’re considering becoming a freelance writer, so you quit your job and get the ball rolling with a new Sologig.com account. You have just left a profession providing security for one of freedom. As David Masello of the Boston Globe wrote of his first freelance transition, “I quickly discovered that it was too early in my career to go freelance. I had few professional contacts at that point and didn’t even know what I wanted to write about. Every night, I would pace the roof of my apartment building, wondering what to do, how to fill the next day.” Before you change your lifestyle, you have to consider what you are doing. Do you have a plan? Will you be able to afford your current lifestyle three months from now?
Conversely, consider the side of a freelance writer, so far work has been good but sporadic and with an excellent string of contracts lately, you are making a pretty decent amount of money. Your friends, however, spend all night talking to you about their jobs downtown and all the contacts they’re making. After a significant dry spell, you decide it is time to leave freedom for security and you begin your job search. You have to question, however, what leaving freedom will do to your aspirations. In that same article from the Boston Globe, Masello writes, “I have made a living as a writer and an editor outside of an office for the last eight years. And there hasn’t been a night where I don’t open the window of my apartment and lean out to look at the city skyline and say, ‘I’m still here, still doing it. I’m my own boss.” Do you want to give it all up? Is security worth your freedom, or better yet, is it even necessary? If you believe you can achieve your desired lifestyle as a freelancer, stick with it.
Freedom and security can seem simple to achieve until you actually try to balance the two. If you are tired of your job whether in a city skyscraper or right out of your bedroom, consider possible outcomes before you make any brash decisions. That big corporate gig may lead to security, but at what cost? Determine your necessary income flow and lifestyle and choose a career path that satisfies your individual needs, whether it is freelance work or not. If you don’t land a contract, or run into a dry spell, realize that with every job, there are going to be rough patches and you may just have to put your head down and work through them. Most importantly, understand what a new job will mean for your wants, your needs and your passion. Always have a plan for paying the bills, but don’t sacrifice your ambitions to do so.
In our Democratic society, human needs can be trimmed down to the two most seemingly basic desires: security and freedom. It’s so simple if you think about it, but in this chaotic humanity, it seems so hard to achieve both. As freelancers, you have chosen a life of freedom with little security. Soon, contracts will expire and it will take an effort on your part to find that next job. Poignant as it may sound, miles away there is someone sitting in a cubicle answering phone calls and writing emails who feels secure in his job; yet, he hasn’t felt the sun on his face since he pressed his head real hard against the sixth floor window last week. It’s a bittersweet world out there and we need to pay the bills first and satisfy our needs second. So the question becomes: for freedom or security, what am I working for?
There are certainly issues to consider from both sides of the spectrum. Let’s say you are stuck in a dead end, nine to five job that makes every morning seem like the worst of your life. You’re considering becoming a freelance writer, so you quit your job and get the ball rolling with a new Sologig.com account. You have just left a profession providing security for one of freedom. As David Masello of the Boston Globe wrote of his first freelance transition, “I quickly discovered that it was too early in my career to go freelance. I had few professional contacts at that point and didn’t even know what I wanted to write about. Every night, I would pace the roof of my apartment building, wondering what to do, how to fill the next day.” Before you change your lifestyle, you have to consider what you are doing. Do you have a plan? Will you be able to afford your current lifestyle three months from now?
Conversely, consider the side of a freelance writer, so far work has been good but sporadic and with an excellent string of contracts lately, you are making a pretty decent amount of money. Your friends, however, spend all night talking to you about their jobs downtown and all the contacts they’re making. After a significant dry spell, you decide it is time to leave freedom for security and you begin your job search. You have to question, however, what leaving freedom will do to your aspirations. In that same article from the Boston Globe, Masello writes, “I have made a living as a writer and an editor outside of an office for the last eight years. And there hasn’t been a night where I don’t open the window of my apartment and lean out to look at the city skyline and say, ‘I’m still here, still doing it. I’m my own boss.” Do you want to give it all up? Is security worth your freedom, or better yet, is it even necessary? If you believe you can achieve your desired lifestyle as a freelancer, stick with it.
Freedom and security can seem simple to achieve until you actually try to balance the two. If you are tired of your job whether in a city skyscraper or right out of your bedroom, consider possible outcomes before you make any brash decisions. That big corporate gig may lead to security, but at what cost? Determine your necessary income flow and lifestyle and choose a career path that satisfies your individual needs, whether it is freelance work or not. If you don’t land a contract, or run into a dry spell, realize that with every job, there are going to be rough patches and you may just have to put your head down and work through them. Most importantly, understand what a new job will mean for your wants, your needs and your passion. Always have a plan for paying the bills, but don’t sacrifice your ambitions to do so.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Freelancer, author: How to land your next big-name client
By Maggie Zahm
Say "freelance writing" and most people think "writing for magazines." Yet, sadly, many magazine writers struggle financially. A lesser-known field of freelancing, but one with far more promising financial potential is "commercial writing" - writing for businesses, large and small and for hourly rates of $50-125+. To find out how to break into this lucrative field, Sologig Freelance put Peter Bowerman, commercial freelancer and author of The Well-Fed Writer series and The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living, on the stand to pick his brain.
With clients like Coca-Cola, UPS, The Discovery Channel and Mercedes-Benz under his belt, Bowerman puts working with top businesses into perspective. “People tend to place [the people who work at] big corporations up on pedestals, but the fact is, they’re people just like everyone else. They’re hard working and are usually over worked and over exerted, and they don’t want to hunt around a long time to find what they need,” Bowerman explains. “What it comes down to is being out there and getting your name out there.”
In order to land more gigs with these types of clients, Bowerman suggests forging alliances with other freelancers. “If you craft a good relationship with graphic designers based on mutual trust, confidence, and benefit, they will find work for you as they find work for themselves.”
Bowerman explains that he found a couple graphic designers that liked his work and were essentially the ones that helped to get his foot in the door of his most well-known clients because of the referrals they gave. “It’s not like businesses go through a process where they interview 27 writers for a job. They want to efficiently find the right person, and more often than not, they’ll give somebody a chance if they just happened to show up right in front of them.”
Bowerman also makes it clear that working smart never involves worrying about the competition. “I really don’t concern myself with what else is out there. I know I don’t have to convince the world; I only have to convince a few people.”
Carrying this idea over to how successful—or not successful—the economy is at this time is yet another idea of Bowerman’s. “It’s the same thing as reading the newspaper and saying, ‘Oh, the economy is really bad, maybe this isn’t a good time to start my business,’ when in reality, the economy actually has very little to do with one person’s quest for financial self-sufficiency in whatever their chosen field is.” Bowerman goes on to explain that when the economy is down, it often means more business for freelancers because companies are forced to let full-time employees go. He believes that in this situation, freelancers make more economic sense than traditional employees.
Bowerman attests that the key strategy to success in the field, and especially when forming relationships with graphic designers, is to above all else, “be reliable and be easy to work with.” The rest will come with hard work.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Peter Bowerman is an award winning author, freelance commercial writer, speaker, columnist, and professional coach. He was awarded the Georgia Author of the Year title, and his books have received numerous honors including the Foreword Magazine Book of the Year Award and the Ben Franklin Award from the Publisher’s Marketing Association. His websites, http://www.wellfedwriter.com and http://www.wellfedsp.com offer opportunities to purchase his books and learn more about his work.
Enter to Win!
Share your Sologig.com success story and be entered to win a set of Peter Bowerman’s books.
Contest rules:
E-mail us a short story about how Sologig.com has helped you and your business. Feel free to include how you discovered Sologig.com, how it has positively affected your work, how we helped expand your network or anything else you’d like to share! Contestants should send a 200-word or less entry to Maggie at Maggie.Zahm@Sologig.com. The subject line of the email should read, “Bowerman contest.” Entries are due by 1pm CST on Sunday, June 22, 2008.
Prizes:
Two winners will be announced on Monday, June 23, 2008 to win a set of Bowerman’s books. First place will receive the Well-Fed Writer series, and second place will receive the Well-Fed Self Publisher book and the Well-Fed SP Biz-in-a-Box Marketing Kit (on CD). Both sets of books will be personally signed to the winner by the author.
Note:
Applicants of this contest give full consent to allow their entries to be published (in full, partial, or edited form) by Sologig.com to be used for marketing or promotional material.
Say "freelance writing" and most people think "writing for magazines." Yet, sadly, many magazine writers struggle financially. A lesser-known field of freelancing, but one with far more promising financial potential is "commercial writing" - writing for businesses, large and small and for hourly rates of $50-125+. To find out how to break into this lucrative field, Sologig Freelance put Peter Bowerman, commercial freelancer and author of The Well-Fed Writer series and The Well-Fed Self-Publisher: How to Turn One Book into a Full-Time Living, on the stand to pick his brain.
With clients like Coca-Cola, UPS, The Discovery Channel and Mercedes-Benz under his belt, Bowerman puts working with top businesses into perspective. “People tend to place [the people who work at] big corporations up on pedestals, but the fact is, they’re people just like everyone else. They’re hard working and are usually over worked and over exerted, and they don’t want to hunt around a long time to find what they need,” Bowerman explains. “What it comes down to is being out there and getting your name out there.”
In order to land more gigs with these types of clients, Bowerman suggests forging alliances with other freelancers. “If you craft a good relationship with graphic designers based on mutual trust, confidence, and benefit, they will find work for you as they find work for themselves.”
Bowerman explains that he found a couple graphic designers that liked his work and were essentially the ones that helped to get his foot in the door of his most well-known clients because of the referrals they gave. “It’s not like businesses go through a process where they interview 27 writers for a job. They want to efficiently find the right person, and more often than not, they’ll give somebody a chance if they just happened to show up right in front of them.”
Bowerman also makes it clear that working smart never involves worrying about the competition. “I really don’t concern myself with what else is out there. I know I don’t have to convince the world; I only have to convince a few people.”
Carrying this idea over to how successful—or not successful—the economy is at this time is yet another idea of Bowerman’s. “It’s the same thing as reading the newspaper and saying, ‘Oh, the economy is really bad, maybe this isn’t a good time to start my business,’ when in reality, the economy actually has very little to do with one person’s quest for financial self-sufficiency in whatever their chosen field is.” Bowerman goes on to explain that when the economy is down, it often means more business for freelancers because companies are forced to let full-time employees go. He believes that in this situation, freelancers make more economic sense than traditional employees.
Bowerman attests that the key strategy to success in the field, and especially when forming relationships with graphic designers, is to above all else, “be reliable and be easy to work with.” The rest will come with hard work.
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Peter Bowerman is an award winning author, freelance commercial writer, speaker, columnist, and professional coach. He was awarded the Georgia Author of the Year title, and his books have received numerous honors including the Foreword Magazine Book of the Year Award and the Ben Franklin Award from the Publisher’s Marketing Association. His websites, http://www.wellfedwriter.com and http://www.wellfedsp.com offer opportunities to purchase his books and learn more about his work.
Enter to Win!
Share your Sologig.com success story and be entered to win a set of Peter Bowerman’s books.
Contest rules:
E-mail us a short story about how Sologig.com has helped you and your business. Feel free to include how you discovered Sologig.com, how it has positively affected your work, how we helped expand your network or anything else you’d like to share! Contestants should send a 200-word or less entry to Maggie at Maggie.Zahm@Sologig.com. The subject line of the email should read, “Bowerman contest.” Entries are due by 1pm CST on Sunday, June 22, 2008.
Prizes:
Two winners will be announced on Monday, June 23, 2008 to win a set of Bowerman’s books. First place will receive the Well-Fed Writer series, and second place will receive the Well-Fed Self Publisher book and the Well-Fed SP Biz-in-a-Box Marketing Kit (on CD). Both sets of books will be personally signed to the winner by the author.
Note:
Applicants of this contest give full consent to allow their entries to be published (in full, partial, or edited form) by Sologig.com to be used for marketing or promotional material.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Maximizing your use of Contractors and Consultants
By Maggie Zahm
You know your company can benefit from using contractors or consultants and you may have even hired them before, but have you ever considered how you can get the most from each contractor or consultant that you hire? Maximizing your use of contractors and consultants is more important now than ever. Consider these guidelines when hiring independent talent to maximize your investment.
Do your research before you hire
You know your company can benefit from using contractors or consultants and you may have even hired them before, but have you ever considered how you can get the most from each contractor or consultant that you hire? Maximizing your use of contractors and consultants is more important now than ever. Consider these guidelines when hiring independent talent to maximize your investment.
Do your research before you hire
- Choose a contractor with the appropriate level of experience. It is unnecessary to spend $150-$200 per hour for the services of a VP-level consultant when all you really need is entry-level marketing work done.
- Make sure you and your consultant have complimentary working styles. Your project could turn out to be an absolute disaster if the contractor’s work style is hands-off and independent, while yours is more interactive and you like to keep constant communication.
- Be aware of the contractor’s policies. If you are not informed or do not clearly understand all of their policies including payment, redesign fees, timelines, due dates and in some cases tax filing preferences, you could get stuck with an extra fee.
- Seek information about the contractor’s reputation. Get references and perform a simple Google search to learn more about the contractor. If you find any questionable information don’t hesitate to ask the contractor to explain the discrepancy.
- Consider the adage: you get what you pay for. Although not always the case, some independent professionals who charge a considerably lower rate than others may not necessarily do the best job. You could end up spending more in the long-run if the job takes longer than expected or you have to have something redone. Remember: you are looking for the best possible value, not the lowest cost.
- Double-check that the person you are hiring is, in the eyes of the government and according to the tax forms they fill out, and independent contractor. If the person is filed as an employee, this could cause problems and cost you additional money later.
Start off strong
Get to know your contractor right from the start. Be outgoing and personable in order to establish good relations. Having the respect and admiration of your client could create an incentive for them to work harder for you.
- Do not neglect your full-time employees. One of the things people forget about sometimes is keeping first-rate relationships with current staff. Full-time employees can sometimes develop feelings of envy towards the consultant, especially if they are doing the “fun” work.
- Do not forget to tell your employees to keep up their good efforts and let them know their work plays an important role within the company.
Although hiring contractors and consultants can sometimes seem like a lengthy process, it is without a doubt a smart business decision for many companies. After you have made the choice to hire independent talent, make sure you do background research on contractors and consultants first, and then establish and maintain relations with employees. All of these tips will make it easier to take full advantage of contractors and consultants and help your company earn more for your money. Good luck!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Joining a freelance community: What you need to know
By Maggie Zahm
Freelance communities seem to be popping up everywhere: in large metropolitan areas, on the web, even in your neighborhood Starbucks. What is the big trend all about, you ask? Kellie Frissell, a member of the Freelance Forum in Atlanta, Georgia and a seasoned freelance graphic designer, shared her experiences with Sologig Freelance in a recent interview.
“I can’t tell you how valuable these types of communities are, as well as the relationships that you form when you’re in them.”
The reason these freelance forums are rising in popularity is due to the fact that they are a great way to get advice and network with peers in various industries with a multitude of expertise. Forums provide the opportunity to participate in the community and stay up to date on the latest news, technology, or the latest marketing theory.
The Freelance Forum of which Frissell is a member is composed of writers, graphic designers and editors, along with videographers, photographers, web designers and marketing consultants. Frissell got involved with the Forum when a colleague invited her to a meeting, and as soon as she started going, she was hooked. “[The Forum] really helps you grow in your business. Our organization is geared toward helping others build their business in a healthy way, rather than by just snagging projects, although that is a definite side affect of being part of the Forum.” Frissell specifies, “You learn from other members’ mistakes, and you learn from their successes.”
People interested in becoming involved in a freelance community can choose to partake in a variety of ways. The Freelance Forum in Atlanta is an example of a community of freelancers and contract workers in a metropolitan area that gather once a month to learn about tricks and trends in the business. Members pay an $85 annual fee, and in return get great advice from guest speakers, a chance to network and a subscription to the monthly newsletter, as well as access to other valuable resources.
Another way that people participate in these types of communities is on the web. There are a multitude of sites that include chat rooms, discussion boards and networking opportunities where members can ask questions, post articles, and receive advice. Neighborhood freelance communities are also growing in popularity. More personal than online communities, these book-club types of meetings help participants to stay on task and get feedback on their work.
Frissell stresses that when considering joining a freelance community or when doing any type of freelance work you should “always keep your mind open to new opportunities.”
Kellie Frissell is a graphic designer specializing in both print and online advertising. Her portfolio includes an array of brochures, logos, magazine work and promotional material for bands. Kellie’s website, http://www.kfdp.com displays samples of her work and lists some of her recent clients.
Freelance communities seem to be popping up everywhere: in large metropolitan areas, on the web, even in your neighborhood Starbucks. What is the big trend all about, you ask? Kellie Frissell, a member of the Freelance Forum in Atlanta, Georgia and a seasoned freelance graphic designer, shared her experiences with Sologig Freelance in a recent interview.
“I can’t tell you how valuable these types of communities are, as well as the relationships that you form when you’re in them.”
The reason these freelance forums are rising in popularity is due to the fact that they are a great way to get advice and network with peers in various industries with a multitude of expertise. Forums provide the opportunity to participate in the community and stay up to date on the latest news, technology, or the latest marketing theory.
The Freelance Forum of which Frissell is a member is composed of writers, graphic designers and editors, along with videographers, photographers, web designers and marketing consultants. Frissell got involved with the Forum when a colleague invited her to a meeting, and as soon as she started going, she was hooked. “[The Forum] really helps you grow in your business. Our organization is geared toward helping others build their business in a healthy way, rather than by just snagging projects, although that is a definite side affect of being part of the Forum.” Frissell specifies, “You learn from other members’ mistakes, and you learn from their successes.”
People interested in becoming involved in a freelance community can choose to partake in a variety of ways. The Freelance Forum in Atlanta is an example of a community of freelancers and contract workers in a metropolitan area that gather once a month to learn about tricks and trends in the business. Members pay an $85 annual fee, and in return get great advice from guest speakers, a chance to network and a subscription to the monthly newsletter, as well as access to other valuable resources.
Another way that people participate in these types of communities is on the web. There are a multitude of sites that include chat rooms, discussion boards and networking opportunities where members can ask questions, post articles, and receive advice. Neighborhood freelance communities are also growing in popularity. More personal than online communities, these book-club types of meetings help participants to stay on task and get feedback on their work.
Frissell stresses that when considering joining a freelance community or when doing any type of freelance work you should “always keep your mind open to new opportunities.”
Kellie Frissell is a graphic designer specializing in both print and online advertising. Her portfolio includes an array of brochures, logos, magazine work and promotional material for bands. Kellie’s website, http://www.kfdp.com displays samples of her work and lists some of her recent clients.
Monday, June 9, 2008
Hot opportunity: Nurse Shortage leads to contract jobs
By Maggie Zahm
In recent years, the American Hospital Association has announced a critical nursing shortage—the worst in 50 years. Due to a severe lack of nurse recruitment and retention, the country is facing a significant healthcare crisis. With this shortage, however, contract healthcare positions are booming.
The shortage in the United States is developing into a pressing issue. Hospitals across the country are reporting huge numbers of unfilled nursing positions. A survey by the American Hospital Association revealed that about one-fourth of all unexpected events leading to patient deaths, injury or permanent loss are due to inadequate staffing. If the nurse shortage does not improve, the supply of working registered nurses will be 20% below requirements by the year 2020.
While there are multiple factors causing the shortage of healthcare professionals, deficiency of recruitment and retention are at the forefront. The major decline in enrollment in BSN (Bachelors of Science in Nursing) degree programs is one of the reasons for the stagnant and now regressing pool of practicing healthcare professionals. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, entry level BSN enrollment fell 2.1% in 2000, dropping for the 6th year in a row. To keep up with this decline and the amount of current nurses retiring or changing professions, enrollment would have to increase 40% annually to provide a sufficient amount of workers.
Enrollment in BSN programs is expected to decrease further as faculty shortages rise. About 75% of current faulty are expected to retire by 2019. As the bubble of baby boomers continues to age, the amount of practicing health care professionals will also continue to diminish. The ratio of RNs in their 40’s to RNs in their 20’s is 2 to 1, meaning that there are fewer nurses to replace those that are retiring or leaving the field for other reasons. Within 15 years, about half of all RNs will reach retirement age.
Although the nursing shortage is a problematic issue, it may have some benefits for contract nurses seeking employment. The shortage provides a multitude of employment opportunities for RNs looking to work in a variety of environments. The standard practice of working in a hospital is not the only aspect of the healthcare industry that is experiencing a scarcity of nurses. Contract nurses are also find work more easily in family clinics, schools, and outreach facilities. The need for temporary and contract nurses and nursing agencies will continue to grow and expand. According to an American Hospital Association survey of 1,400 hospitals, 41% used temporary or contract nurses, up from 30% in 1986. Besides being able to find work fast, contract nurses also experience other benefits. After being placed in a hospital or clinic, contract nurses have the opportunity to stay at that job if they like it or relocate elsewhere if they do not. The schedules are usually a little more flexible, and compensation is often negotiable.
Contract nurses as a response to the current shortage will continue to provide numerous jobs for healthcare professionals looking for contract positions. Flexibility, negotiable compensations and added bonuses are all further incentives to start looking for open positions, as it appears that the benefits and need for nurses will continue to grow at a rapid rate.
In recent years, the American Hospital Association has announced a critical nursing shortage—the worst in 50 years. Due to a severe lack of nurse recruitment and retention, the country is facing a significant healthcare crisis. With this shortage, however, contract healthcare positions are booming.
The shortage in the United States is developing into a pressing issue. Hospitals across the country are reporting huge numbers of unfilled nursing positions. A survey by the American Hospital Association revealed that about one-fourth of all unexpected events leading to patient deaths, injury or permanent loss are due to inadequate staffing. If the nurse shortage does not improve, the supply of working registered nurses will be 20% below requirements by the year 2020.
While there are multiple factors causing the shortage of healthcare professionals, deficiency of recruitment and retention are at the forefront. The major decline in enrollment in BSN (Bachelors of Science in Nursing) degree programs is one of the reasons for the stagnant and now regressing pool of practicing healthcare professionals. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, entry level BSN enrollment fell 2.1% in 2000, dropping for the 6th year in a row. To keep up with this decline and the amount of current nurses retiring or changing professions, enrollment would have to increase 40% annually to provide a sufficient amount of workers.
Enrollment in BSN programs is expected to decrease further as faculty shortages rise. About 75% of current faulty are expected to retire by 2019. As the bubble of baby boomers continues to age, the amount of practicing health care professionals will also continue to diminish. The ratio of RNs in their 40’s to RNs in their 20’s is 2 to 1, meaning that there are fewer nurses to replace those that are retiring or leaving the field for other reasons. Within 15 years, about half of all RNs will reach retirement age.
Although the nursing shortage is a problematic issue, it may have some benefits for contract nurses seeking employment. The shortage provides a multitude of employment opportunities for RNs looking to work in a variety of environments. The standard practice of working in a hospital is not the only aspect of the healthcare industry that is experiencing a scarcity of nurses. Contract nurses are also find work more easily in family clinics, schools, and outreach facilities. The need for temporary and contract nurses and nursing agencies will continue to grow and expand. According to an American Hospital Association survey of 1,400 hospitals, 41% used temporary or contract nurses, up from 30% in 1986. Besides being able to find work fast, contract nurses also experience other benefits. After being placed in a hospital or clinic, contract nurses have the opportunity to stay at that job if they like it or relocate elsewhere if they do not. The schedules are usually a little more flexible, and compensation is often negotiable.
Contract nurses as a response to the current shortage will continue to provide numerous jobs for healthcare professionals looking for contract positions. Flexibility, negotiable compensations and added bonuses are all further incentives to start looking for open positions, as it appears that the benefits and need for nurses will continue to grow at a rapid rate.
Monday, June 2, 2008
In the News
Recently, we caught wind of an article in the New York Daily News about a videographer who fell victim to an internet freelancing scam. Make sure you check out this post to ensure you don't get scammed as well.
The story
After placing an online ad for his freelancing services, Tom Morgan was hired last-minute to film a two-hour long bachelorette party in Brooklyn, New York. When he arrived at the designated apartment, the tenant who answered the door denied any knowledge of the job. Morgan waited in the hallway and attempted to call the client, but before he could find any answers, two masked men held him up. The thieves pressed a gun to his head while they stole not only his wallet, but also $4,000 in video equipment.
Staying safe
The set-up in which Morgan was involved could have easily been prevented if he took the essential security precautions when considering a new project. Sologig Freelance is committed to your safety and has compiled a list of safety tips to always keep in mind in order to prevent scams and fraud:
The story
After placing an online ad for his freelancing services, Tom Morgan was hired last-minute to film a two-hour long bachelorette party in Brooklyn, New York. When he arrived at the designated apartment, the tenant who answered the door denied any knowledge of the job. Morgan waited in the hallway and attempted to call the client, but before he could find any answers, two masked men held him up. The thieves pressed a gun to his head while they stole not only his wallet, but also $4,000 in video equipment.
Staying safe
The set-up in which Morgan was involved could have easily been prevented if he took the essential security precautions when considering a new project. Sologig Freelance is committed to your safety and has compiled a list of safety tips to always keep in mind in order to prevent scams and fraud:
- Work locally
- Meet in person before accepting a job
- Meet in person to accept payment
- Do not provide sensitive information online
- Be cautious of emails, especially from an unknown sender, that offer you a prize or discount and then ask you to choose a user ID and password, as many people use the same access information for multiple accounts.
Friday, May 30, 2008
A Guide to Consulting, Contracting, and Freelancing
By Maggie Zahm
Overview
What is consulting, contracting, and freelancing?
While there are many similarities between the three, the differences between consultants, contractors and freelancers can vary greatly. According to the Alliance of Professional Consultants, a consultant is an individual who possesses expertise in a specific field. Consultants are hired to provide an unbiased opinion and professional advice for the exclusive benefit of the client. Common areas of consulting include accounting, environmental concerns, technology, human resources, engineering, and design. Contractors, on the other hand, are hired to perform a specific task or activity. Put simply, consultants assess a situation and advise, whereas contractors perform the activities as directed. In addition to these types of independent professionals, people can also sell their services as a freelancer. Freelancers engage in a profession and sell their work or services by the hour, day, or job, with no intention of pursuing a permanent or long-term arrangement with a single employer.
Benefits
Overview
What is consulting, contracting, and freelancing?
While there are many similarities between the three, the differences between consultants, contractors and freelancers can vary greatly. According to the Alliance of Professional Consultants, a consultant is an individual who possesses expertise in a specific field. Consultants are hired to provide an unbiased opinion and professional advice for the exclusive benefit of the client. Common areas of consulting include accounting, environmental concerns, technology, human resources, engineering, and design. Contractors, on the other hand, are hired to perform a specific task or activity. Put simply, consultants assess a situation and advise, whereas contractors perform the activities as directed. In addition to these types of independent professionals, people can also sell their services as a freelancer. Freelancers engage in a profession and sell their work or services by the hour, day, or job, with no intention of pursuing a permanent or long-term arrangement with a single employer.
Benefits
As the economy slows, there are fewer full-time salary positions being created and even more positions being cut. However, in spite of having fewer employees, companies still need to continue to perform at a high level. A growing need for consultants and contractors is emerging as companies continue to operate at lower costs. Today’s technology makes it is easy for independent professionals to advertise their services online. One such way of advertising is through Sologig.com, a leading niche community helping connect top consultants and contractors with quality employers looking to fill open positions quickly with qualified candidates.
Before you start:
- Decide why you want to work independently. What is your aim? What kind of work do you want to do? Niche job boards make it simple for independent professionals to search projects by location, specific skill sets, and company.
- Map out how you will find work. Friends and current contacts are a great place to begin, but chances are you will not be able to make a living providing your services solely to them. Take advantage of free online resources to advertise your skills and find projects that pique your interest.
- Decide how much you want to work. Make sure you keep regular hours and allot for the time you plan to take off for holidays.
Getting started:
The first and most exciting thing to do is find projects. Searching for them is made simple with online resources like Sologig.com. The site is free to use, so it is easy to get started quickly. Get organized with these quick tips and start scheduling projects today.
Tips:
- Make sure you log how much time you will spend working on each project.
- Keep a schedule of when you are doing projects and how long each of them will take.
- Try not to book too far in advance as it is easy for clients to put off future projects to focus on current needs.
- Keep continuous communication with your clients. Be proactive with every client and let them know of your progress and any updates as you work to complete their project.
- After you have finished a project, do not forget to keep in contact with the employer as past clients can be great references and networking tools when trying to land a future work.
Hints about the profession:
- Unless you hire an accountant, do not forget that you will be your own accounting department. Make sure you keep all records together in a safe place and accurately document the following for every client and project:
- Income
- Expenses (date, reference number, company/shop, item, cost)
- Details about invoices (due date, date paid, reference number, client name, project, aount charged, amount put aside for tax)
- Taxes - Do not get stuck in a rut. If you stay in the same area of work for a long time, you may only be offered that type of work in the future.
- Try branching out and pursuing other areas of work you enjoy. There are lots of new and exciting projects employers are looking to have completed.
- Work for various companies. Each company you work for will be different, and you will gain valuable insight that will be useful as you continue your career as an independent professional.
- Make sure you set aside time every once in a while to review your situation. Are you happy with the direction of your projects? What changes can you make to better your situation?
- Do not forget to set aside time to read, play, and meet new people.
You are ready
Working as an independent professional is rewarding and can be very exciting. Becoming an independent professional will allow you to broaden your work experiences, learn new skills and work for a variety of interesting employers. The opportunity to choose between short term projects and long term assignments lets you stay flexible and set your own schedule (and if you can stay organized you will be off to an excellent start). The need for independent talent has grown significantly over the past few years and will continue to grow, making it an ideal time to begin your career as an independent professional. Take advantage of niche job boards like Sologig.com to get started fast.
Welcome!
Welcome to Sologig Freelance! With this new blog, the team here at Sologig will be able to keep you up to date with the world of freelancing, contracting, and consulting. We’ll share tips from the field, helpful hints, interviews with professionals, and much more. Be sure to also check out Sologig’s website to help you connect to employers looking for your independent talent.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
