The Slide takes you through the initial stages of being an independent contractor to being very successful.

1. By Linet N. K
*

2. *
*Brace yourself for hot months because once
you start out on independent contracting it
might be a long journey to becoming a
renowned artist, writer or any other expert.
*On the other hand, it’s a great step towards
launching a reputable online company or
business. Not many people gather the
confidence to be self-starters. Therefore, if
you hope to be an online entrepreneur you
must be VERY BRAVE!!!

3. *
*The first step: Build your profile on
professionals sites e.g. LinkedIn. Take time to
list your areas of profession, upload your
publications or links to some of your best
pieces.
*I know this might sound obvious but a great
portfolio is your skill authenticator. So take
time to get the best samples of designs,
publications, arts, templates or whatever else.

4. *
*Personal websites and blogs are common
strategies used by those who would like to be
independent contractors. However, not so
many people get to that level because most
are stuck on how to get sales leads from
traffic.
*A personal website/blog may not drive
thousands of people the first few days/weeks
or even months. It takes time to build that kind
of audience but it is important to have a site.

5. *
*If you have past clients encourage them to be a part
of your services. If possible, send endorsement
requests to them. A couple of reviews could help
you get past the few months of building an
audience.
*In other words, it is advisable to have a consistent
client on the retainer as you build your reputation.
*Also, do Aggressive marketing of your services by
taking advantage of places that allow contributors
to share their bylines, social media and affordable
ad-companies.

6. *
*So you have gained an audience but everyone wants to
know, “What is your price?”. There is a whole world
out there that is offering similar services but for
pennies. Therefore, it might take some time for an
audience to consider your services especially if you
are on the higher side of the price range.
*So an average price or a rate that falls between the
highest and the lowest wouldn’t be so bad. I know you
spent all the time and energy to build a portfolio that
deserves a $1 million deal but the world is yet to
warm up to your services.

7. *
*A strong portfolio, an increasing audience, resilience
and a perfect price should get you where you need to
be.
*There’s a lot of incitement from various groups on
refusing to get paid for less. I think it’s a perfect
motivator to pay everyone better. However, I know
how it’s like being out there and companies are just
as business minded as being business minded can get.
They only want the best for the fairest price.
*So the next time, you set a price think “the fairest
pricing,” and not the “highest paying clients.” After
40+ reviews you can charge whatever you want.