Freelancer, sole operator, independent contractor and free agent are all terms for a small business operator with a key trait in common. All are constantly looking for new areas to fill their time and pay their bills.
For these business owners, the Internet has become a market place in finding work.
To be successful as a free agent operator, you need to project your finding skills and improve your marketing, as does any small business. The keys to success at this are consistency and dedication. As most independent contractors already know, the search for work is constant and you will enjoy it more if you develop a passion for finding the next large project.
To build repeat business, you also will need to be a stickler for client satisfaction. Always stand behind your work and try to gauge client expectations and then exceed them.
Recognize that building your personal brand is important. As a sole operator you should focus on leveraging your special knowledge, style or expertise. The most successful independent contractors try to build new skills and leverage existing ones to higher price levels.
Project sites for freelancers vary in their approach. Some work on a bid system where employers post projects and freelancers bid on the work. Some project sites include Guru.com, Sologig.com and Elance.com.
Stephen L. Rosenstein is co-chairman of Greater Baltimore, SCORE Chapter No. 3. Call 410-962-2233 to speak to a SCORE counselor or visit www.scorebaltimore.org To send a question to SCORE representatives, e-mail smallbiz@baltsun.com