I’ve seen freelancing change so many people’s lives—complementing intentional lifestyle design, filling in gaps of unemployment, and creating new career options. It even opened up a world of possibility in my life when I started over 10 years ago. But too many people step into this world and end up disillusioned, frustrated, and let’s be […]
How to be the best employer you’ve ever had—Advice for growth as a freelancer
Think of the best employer you’ve ever heard of. It might be a job you had, or maybe a parent, or a friend. As a freelancer, you can do better. All of us can. That starts with changing how we engage with ourselves as workers. I’ve talked about role-based freelancing before in terms of your […]
A better ABC Test (and how to use it in your freelance business)
The “ABC test” has had a massive impact on freelancers over the last few years. Originating in Maine in 1935, most of the current attention has been on its use in California (AB 5). It’s supposedly intended to address exploitation in the gig economy—with most public discussion focusing on rideshare companies. People have asked me […]
An Instantly Useful Analogy for Your Freelance Business
There’s tons of analogies for freelance businesses out there, but this one stands out because you can take action on it right now. I just ran across it in a pipeline coaching program. It’s from Donald Miller’s book, How to Grow Your Small Business (check out the summary on the BlackFreelance Blinkist Shared Space)… …it’s […]
Freelancing 2024: Finding a path in the unknown
Welcome to 2024! I’m glad you made it here with me, because as much hope as I have for 2024, 2023 really seemed like it was a year of “quiet crumbling” for businesses. I’ve had so many private conversations of surprise business challenges and near-catastrophic issues (even the people I get my meat from had […]
More work is going to freelancers…What this means for those of us who saw it coming
If you’re spending time around here, you’re ahead of the freelancing curve. And that’s a good thing, because it’s shifting again. A recent survey from Harvard Business Review Analytic Services and Fiverr reveals some findings that mean you might be in an even better position as modern work continues to evolve. Here’s what stood out […]
The Answer To Your Freelance Confusion: Emulation
Years ago, when I finally fulfilled my childhood desire to learn electric guitar, I got a question I never expected. “Who do you want to emulate?” I was nowhere near new to musical instruments, so I was surprised to find it was a pretty common question for new guitar students. Apparently, it helps students find […]
“What are my career options as a freelancer?” 8 paths for your career planning
Freelancers can have career development plans just like employed people do. Because we have less structure built into our work life, we need them more. It’s something we should think about early in our freelance journey. Since they aren’t ready made for you like they would be under an employer, they take more focus and […]
Best Starter Niches for Black Freelancers
Wondering what niches are bests for Black freelancers to start their careers? This list might help.
Freelance Lessons From Employment: Communication
Employment has its share of issues, but it also has a ton of lessons for freelancers. This is especially true on the communication front, since you’re likely working with people who are employed themselves and/or working in an employed environment. Learning how to shape our styles and habits to meld with the employment standard can […]