fulltime work+freelance
Out of context: Reply #19
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- TwinLobe0
I've been working full-time for the past 8 years and doing freelance on top of that for the last 4. (I always have at least 2 extra projects on top of a 55-hour a week schedule...)
For me it's definitely worth it because I'd also like to start my own thing within the next couple of years.
Here are a few words of advice that I've gleaned here & there:
1. Be honest with your freelance clients - if you have a crazy schedule, be honest with them & plan realistically.
2. Maintain client relationships - Let them know that you're interested in future work, drop 'em a Christmas card every year...
3. Don't discount the value of your full-time job - Even though you feel ready to go out on your own, don't forget that valuable things can be learned in the workplace (for any level person). Budget, scheduling, presentations, and production are all areas that can be improved.
4. Don't jump ship too quick - Be extra cautious about the financial risk in doing your own thing. Don't do it unless you can make at least the same pre-tax income you were making at your full-time job. Just because you have 4 freelance gigs lined-up doesn't mean you'll have ANY in 6 months -- instead think about assembling a team of collaborators to handle the extra work-load.
5. Hard work will pay off! It seems crazy at times, but maintaining a busy full-time/freelance work load WILL pay-off in the future -- just hang in there for a little while...
Hope this helps when you're pulling the all-nighters -- it's definitely helped me keep my priorities straight.
Cheers!