Introduction to freelancing

Freelancers are common in the creative and tech / digital industries - in fact, 20% of Ravensbourne alumni are self-employed. This guide is designed to help you set up and trust a freelancer.

What is freelancing?

Being independent, or self-employed means that instead of signing a contract to work for a single company, you work for yourself and handle your own tax matters. It gives you the freedom to do as much or as little as you want. You are flexible and the ruler of your destiny.

When you start your career after graduation - or even while you are studying - Freelancing offers a great way to test different industries or companies and pay attention to the demands of the veterans. Is.

Freelancing can sometimes be a little lonely, plus you don't get sick pay, pension or vacation pay. Here we talk about profession and conscience.

I think I'm already free! what shall I do?

If you are working for someone and they are paying you and you are not being 'at source'. Again the government, called the 'sole trader'. Current definition of people who are independent or self-employed.

This means you must complete a self-assessment form. Say you started freelancing between April 6, 2017 and April 5, 2018 - you have until October 5, 2018 to register. Even after that, and you run the risk of being fined.

There is more information on registering as a sole trader on GOV.UK.

If you're only making a small amount of money from your freelancing - under 2000, you won't need to complete a self-assessment form. Take a look at our tax article for more information.

Freelancing, self-employed, contractor & sub-contractor – what’s the difference?

You have heard that people have used these terms interchangeably, but they are not really legal definitions and the law changes all the time. Confused? Instead of worrying about the terms, here are two key scenarios you should be aware of:

Many young people think that if they’re self-employed, they should set up a company. This can be an expensive mistake until you’re earning a certain amount, when it may become an advantage in terms of tax.

If the same company is using you too much, you may have the same rights as other employees with pensions, sick pay and holiday pay. These useful facts will help you understand your rights.

Are you ready to go freelance?

Choosing the right time to go freelance is important because successful freelancing is about confidence to beat yourself and your skills. If you are willing to go free, you will have some, if not all, of the following settings.

1. You already have a lot of work experience in your industry and feel confident.
2. You need good communication, or networking skills to get those contacts. Freelancers have to create new work all the time.
3. You know there is a market for your work. Ideally, you may already be contacted for work - for example, by a friend who knows you are building a website and wants you to help them.
4. You know what you're worth. You have researched the market and can value your skills.
5. You have the tools you need. Such as valid software / camera kit / driver's license.
6. You've got a mini CV and a portfolio or site that explains who you are. Don't worry if it's not overly excited or excited yet. You are just getting started.
7. You have created your mutual skills. All freelancers have to manage their relationships with their clients. Listening skills, good job contact and job dressing are all important.
8. You know you're good at setting deadlines and managing your time.
9. You know how to deal with the rejection process and move on.