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!
