How to overcome common freelancing pitfalls

One common misconception about freelancing is that it will be a smooth ride with no bumps along the way. Gone is the long commute where you'll struggle to get a seat and the awkward conversation around the water cooler. Instead, you've just got work you actually want to do and you can do it whenever you want, wherever you want. 

Such an idyllic picture of you working in bed in your pyjamas, two-hour lunch breaks and finishing early every day because you feel like it can actually be a very dangerous mindset to adopt. Such complacency can lead many freelancers to stumble and get caught out, and this doesn't just apply to those new to the trade. Anyone who doesn't keep their eye on the ball can find themselves getting caught out in a world that's constantly changing. 

Lack of communication

Don't make assumptions and don't leave any stone unturned. Never be afraid to ask questions of your clients as to exactly what they are expecting from you. It doesn't show you're inefficient or unprofessional - in fact, it reveals quite the opposite. It shows you care and are eager to do as good a job as possible. 

Always get verbal confirmation for everything as opposed to having a phone call and relying on your memory. Having things written down makes life easier for everyone involved and eliminates the problem of anything getting lost, forgotten or misconstrued. 

Ensure you check with the client over anything you're unsure about, particularly if it's a new customer. The more you can confirm beforehand, the higher chance you have of producing work that will be meet their expectations. 

No marketing strategy

The way businesses market their products and services is always changing. It's imperative you at least keep up with this, but preferably pioneer and lead the way. Obviously the most recent change is social media. If you don't have a Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn as standard for yourself and your business, then you are missing a trick. Twitter has revolutionised how the world works and there's a plethora of opportunities to be capitalised on through social networking sites. 

Be intentional about what you post and when you do it. Don't post content for content's sake - it screams unprofessional and can even come across as desperate or that you don't know what you're doing. Do, however, join the conversation - make sure you know the difference between a hashtag and a handle, and proofread everything you post. Don't fall into the trap Ed Balls did when he infamously tweeted his own name in a blunder that he will find difficult to shake off anytime soon. 

Going through the motions

Just because you've been freelancing for years, take care that you do not become complacent. Are you making an active, concerted effort to improve your skillset and be the best you can be? Are you taking on projects that will stretch and challenge you? Obviously, don't branch out into a niche area you have no idea about, but don't settle for the obvious and the comfortable. You never know what you might learn and discover, and a greater array of talents and services can make you more attractive to potential clients. 

Don't be afraid to explain to a customer you're just starting out in a certain field. You could even tempt them by offering a slightly lower rate than normal to serve as a guinea pig. Whatever it is, don't let an opportunity pass you by. Even if it's not for you , put space on other side of comma it's better to know than spend time daydreaming and wondering whether or not you should have gone for it. 

Stay current with the trends. Will the surge of new technological products have an impact on how you work, whether that's smartphones, tablets or even the much-anticipated smartwatch? Always have one eye on what's happening in the market and don't get caught out by the rapid pace at which the commercial world turns.