Freelance work can be a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it allows you the freedom to choose what type of work you want to do and how much time you have for that particular project. On the other hand, there are no guarantees that any freelance jobs will come your way or that they will pay well if they do come your way. If things seem slow right now, here are some things that may help.
#1 Focus on Building New Skills
One of the best things you can do when your freelance work is slow is to focus on building new skills. This could mean taking online courses, reading books or blogs about your industry, or even practicing your craft in your spare time. By developing new skills, you’ll not only be better prepared for when work picks up again, but you’ll also be in a better position to command a higher salary.
#2 Be Experimental
One great way to fill your time when freelance work is slow is to experiment with new techniques, mediums, or projects. This can help keep you inspired and motivated while also helping you grow as an artist. If you’re not sure where to start, try checking out some online tutorials or subscribing to a few art podcasts.
#3 Update Your Website
One of the easiest ways to find more work is by updating your portfolio and website. If you’re not getting calls or emails asking for quotes, then it’s time to improve your site so that potential clients can see what makes you great and why they should hire you! It doesn’t have to be expensive; there are plenty of tools available online which allow you to create a website for free.
#4 Pitch More Actively
One thing you can do when your freelance work slows down is to pitch more actively. This means reaching out to potential clients and pitching your services. You may need to be more aggressive in your outreach, but it can be worth it if you land a new client. Another task you can do when your freelance work slows down is to figure out why this has happened.
You may need to speak with a client or two in order to get more information about what caused their business needs to change. If you understand why there is less demand for your services, it will be easier for you to market yourself in the future.
#5 Stay Focused and Productive
It can be easy to get sidetracked when your workload is light, but staying focused and productive will help you make the most of your time. Make a list of things you need to do each day and try to stick to it.
If you find yourself getting bored, take a break to do something else, but make sure to set a timer and come back to your work when the break is over. You might also want to consider working on other projects during this time or networking with potential clients.
#6 Work on Your Passion Project
If you’re feeling antsy because your freelance work has slowed down, use the extra time to work on a passion project. This can be something you’ve wanted to do for a while but haven’t had the time, or it could be a new project that you’re excited about. Working on something you love will help keep your mind active and creative, which is important when your main source of income is slowing down.
#7 Grow Your Network
Meet people face to face. Even if you don’t have a problem with your network, meeting new faces is never bad. With the internet at our fingertips, it’s easy to forget how valuable in-person connections can be, so take time out of even just one day every few weeks and attend events that offer opportunities for making them. There are several websites that make this process easier with local business events, meet-up groups, and forums.
#8 Revamp Your Workplace and Working Order
Depending on your working habits, you might need to go through a bit of work before kicking off the day. Your workplace is probably the first thing that will have an impact on this, so it’s important to keep things in order and tidy up a little if needed. Keep some tools nearby for when inspiration strikes – like sticky notes or paper and a pen.
- Take some time to reorganize your work area and find new ways of working that might be more efficient for you. Experiment with new techniques, software, or just how you layout your desk. This can help prevent any boredom from creeping in when work is slow.
- Make sure everything is up to date – your computer, software, subscriptions, etc. This can help you avoid any last-minute panic attacks when a project does come in.
- Take some time for yourself – relax, watch a movie, read a book, etc. It’s easy to get wrapped up in work and forget to take some downtime, but it’s important for both your mental and physical health.
Instead of getting discouraged by the slow freelance work, you can take the time to focus on various areas that will help you get back on the groove.
