*Freelancing + Small Business Tips

Image from Pinterest

As I've been a self employed freelancer for the past four or so years, I thought I'd share some of my basic tips that will hopefully help other freelancers and potentially small business. As always if you have any tips or advice then leave a comment below to share your thoughts. Also if you have any specific questions about working as a freelancer writer or blogger then let me know in the comments section below or email me!

Keep on top of expenses and payments

The first point is one that I'm not great at following myself, keeping track of expenses and payments as soon as possible. I have to fill in a self assessment tax form every year to declare my payments and expenses and it's always a rush at the end of the year to fill in the form and add together all of my payments from the year so it's a great idea to keep on top of the incoming payments and your expenses as you go....if only I'd take my own advice!

I have a spreadsheet in which I keep adding in my blog and freelance payments throughout the year along with the price, blog post link and the method of payment so it's as clear as it can be. I started the year with all of the best intensions to keep on top of it and that lasted for about three months - I should really update it so I don't get the usual tax form anxiety.

Short courses 

I think that if you're starting your freelance career or a small business then beginning with a basic knowledge would be ideal and if you haven't completed a business qualification or degree then there's still a range of short courses you can complete. There may be free government options, which one of my friends has taken advantage of for her new small business, or there are online courses you can take. I've been completing courses on Future Learn for years and I cannot recommend it enough if you want free online university courses in a wide variety of topics from biology, healthcare, history, digital marketing, business and more.

Promotion and networking 

I've been able to learn so much through the process of blogging and becoming a freelance writer including improving my writing, photography, editing and networking skills, all of which are incredibly useful but there's one aspect that I haven't mastered (and I don't know if I ever will), promotion. Successfully promoting your business through word of mouth, social media, articles, positive customer reviews or through events is a fantastic way to promote your business but naturally being English, I have a innate awkwardness when it comes to self or business promotion which isn't very helpful!

Tools, equipment and shopfittings 

Lastly, if you're starting a small business or even a popup, you'll need the correct tools for the job, including shopfittings and equipment. UK Shopfittings have a wide range of shopfittings to choose from including mannequins, budget counters, display units, garment rails, cash registers, showcases, shelves, shop accessories and more so you're bound to find everything you need in one place. They offer online price matching, cheap UK delivery and affordable but well made fittings and accessories.

Are you a small business owner or freelancer? Do you have any tips or advice? 

*Sponsored post