5 Essential Tips for New Social Media Marketing Freelancers

There’s no doubt that 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world as we know it is so many different ways. In terms of the world of work, employers across a range of industries began acknowledging remote working as a viable options and started to see the strategic benefits of hiring freelancers.  A lot of the work people do these days can be done remotely, provided one has access to a laptop and a stable internet connection. Social media marketing, by nature, is a field that can truly thrive in this new dynamic working environment.

If you are a new social media marketing professional starting your career now, as strange as it may sound there couldn’t be a better time to establish yourself as a freelancer. With that being said, working freelance isn’t all long lunches and midweek holidays; there are a lot of practical matters you’ll need to contend with if you want to set up a successful freelance enterprise To guide you along the way, here are a few essential tips for new social media marketing freelancers starting out: 

Always Have a Contract

A detailed contract is an essential element for freelancers. In fact, this is the foundation of any good business. A contract establishes the fees negotiated between you and your client. It will also explain the scope of each project and set its parameters,  as well as a schedule of deadlines and revisions. A contract will also mention clauses with regard to project cancellations and reimbursements. An important reason to have an established contract is that it can protect both parties from legal issues that could arise somewhere along the line. Drawing up a social media marketing contract may feel like a bit of a chore, but with so many easy-to-use templates available online, you really won’t struggle. 

Understand Your Tax Situation

You’ll need to factor in your tax obligations when setting your rates. Being self-employed can make things quite complicated as you’ll also need to consider providing yourself with necessities such as health insurance and retirement contributions. There are also numerous ways you can save on taxes, so you’ll have to speak to a tax practitioner to find out how best to file your payments. 

Use Technology to Your Advantage

We live in a technological age, and it’s up to you to use the tools available to your advantage as a freelancer. There are great technological innovations that can assist with key business functions such as invoicing and project management. 

Stick to a Schedule

Ask anybody who has tested the freelancing waters will know that sticking to a schedule is no simple feat. Novice freelancers often burnout because they are unable to manage their workflow. This is why creating a schedule and stick to it is so crucial. This will, of course, require a great deal of self-discipline but it is essential to have a schedule in order to successfully meet all your deadlines and provide each client with the quality service they’ll be paying for.  Furthermore, it will help you establish a routine and have a healthy work/life balance. 

Being a freelancer in the social media marketing space certainly comes with its own set of challenges, however the freedom it offers in terms of being able to choose clients and manage your own schedule are huge benefits. Therefore, if you plan on venturing down the path of self-employment, think it through properly and consider all the realities before taking the plunge. Good luck with your new venture!