The gig economy is growing rapidly around the world. In New York, a 2019 report showed that one in three people had engaged in freelancing that year. Most people who are diving into freelancing are doing it for the flexibility and freedom that comes with it among other benefits. However, the freelancing world can be confusing even to seasoned freelancers. Understanding the landscape can go a long way in helping you overcome some challenges and navigate confusing areas. If you are a freelancer in New York, this article is for you. Whether you are experienced or call yourself a newbie, here are six things to keep in mind.
You are protected by law
One of the biggest worries that every freelancer has is not receiving payment for work done. However, for freelancers in New York, this is a thing of the past. You are protected under the Freelance Isn’t Free Act that was passed in 2017. The act states that contracts that are worth $800 and above must be in writing. Additionally, as a freelancer in New York, you have a right to timely payment for your completed work. If you don’t receive your full payment as agreed in the contract, you have a right to file a complaint, and you are protected from retaliation.
The right workplace enhances productivity
Finding a good workplace for your freelance work is crucial for your productivity. While working from your bed in your pajamas can be exciting, you need an ergonomic setup to protect your back and neck. Plan to Invest in a good chair and desk, and set a place that is free from distractions as your dedicated workplace. Alternatively, you can find office spaces in New York that have everything that you need to be productive. They are also free from distractions to allow you to focus on your work. Stepping out from home is also great as it lets you break the loneliness of working in isolation.
You are responsible for your own finances
Being a freelancer makes you your own boss technically. In addition to being in control of your schedule and the clients that you work for, managing your finances and filing taxes is your responsibility. Find a way to track your income and expenses, and document them as well for tax purposes. In addition, make sure to keep aside some percentage of your earnings to help you take care of the taxes when the tax season comes. If you are unsure of how to go about it, you can always contact a tax expert or an accountant to help you out.
Keep communication at the center
Keeping the lines of communication open can help you avoid a lot of issues as a freelancer. It is important to make sure that you communicate in depth about your clients’ needs. This will help you deliver as per the expectations to save you revisions and complaints. In addition, challenges that make meeting deadlines difficult are common. However, notifying your clients early enough can save you much trouble. You also need to keep in mind that encountering difficult clients is part of the job. Learning how to communicate with such clients in a diplomatic manner is key to your success as a freelancer.
Ensure a consistent workload
It is common to hit a low season where the money you earn is barely enough to cater for your bills. Be wary of such seasons and ensure that you have enough work throughout the year. Sending proposals and pitches even when you have ample work is important. In addition, focus on building meaningful relationships with your clients so they keep hiring you or referring you to other people. Networking with other freelancers and marketing your skills on your website or social media pages can also be helpful in landing you more work.
Find a community
You are likely to have so many questions and challenges along the way that would warrant finding a knowledgeable person to help you. Working as a freelancer doesn’t have to be a lonely affair with all the freelancers working out there. Make sure that you connect with other like-minded people in your industry or other industries. You are likely to learn from experienced individuals to help you avoid mistakes in your career.
Conclusion
Whether you ditched the 9-5 schedule long ago or just recently, you are set to experience the amazing benefits of being your own boss. However, there are things that you are likely to encounter that you have no idea how to go about. The above-listed things are among the many that you should know as a freelancer in New York to raise the odds of succeeding in this way of work.