Has anyone here done freelance work before?

heyitsme

I work in the publishing industry, and have for the last 4 years. I am currently a proofreader, but have editing experience as well. I am returning to work on 4/4 and DS will be attending daycare for 2 months, then my SIL is coming to live with us (from Brazil) for 3 months and nanny for him. DH and I have decided that when SIL returns to Brazil, I will become a SAHM but will also do freelance work for some extra income.

The thing is, I don't know where to begin, how to market myself, etc. and would love any tips/advice. We also live in a development connected with a college campus and I thought I could somehow "advertise" there to help with papers, thesis, capstones, etc. 

I know starting with my company would be a good thing, and I definitely will, but they have been struggling financially and paying freelancers seems to be of minimal importance to them (they eventually get paid, but priority-wise they're on the bottom of the pile) so I'm not sure they'll be a regular gig.

TIA!

janneann1127

I do freelance writing, but it's really only for one person, and I've never had to market myself. Sorry, not a lot of help. Do you have any other contacts in your industry that you could put the word out to?

bosha711

I've done freelance video work, but it's all been from direct referrals. You may want to try meeting with a recruiter that's geared toward the media/publishing industry, like The Creative Group, or searching specialized jobsites like mandy.com. But, I think your idea of inquiring with the college is a great place start. If all else fails, there's always craigslist

lulu3061

I did freelance until LO was born and I know LaLaa also freelanced.  

For me, the biggest thing was networking.  Attend as many events in your field as possible.  Craigslist is a free resource for advertising your services.  

Set up a Linkedin.com profile and as soon as you meet someone, try to link up with them.  Also, join as many of the "groups" on their as you possibly can.

FWIW, freelancers are always the last to get paid.  Sucks.

Good Luck! 

tiffanyp

I do some contract work, but in an entirely different industry (engineering). I've found all my gigs on craigslist or through referrals.