.: Why Network With Other Freelancers

Monday, June 8, 2009

Why Network With Other Freelancers

Discover the many reasons why networking is so important for freelancers. This is one line of work where you simply can’t hide away and work in isolation. Learning from others is key to the success of any freelance business.

Networking is one of the most important aspects of freelancing. While the established freelancer may not find much time or inclination to network, the newbies generally need to spend quite a few hours at it, for the immense benefits that networking can provide. However, even the established freelancers know better than to totally avoid the networking scene.

This is because every field is continuously moving forward, be it writing, programming or even photography. If you’re completely absorbed in your work and have no time for networking, you will not be able to keep track of these changes, and getting another project will be harder to come by. Plenty of opportunities are up for grabs, but how do you discover them if you do not network?

Another main reason as to why freelancers need to network is discovery. Networking online showcases your skills and talents. Showing intelligent and specialized knowledge of your field can lead indirectly to contracts, since many employers frequent networking websites such as forums and the like when searching for the right person to outsource their project to.

While established freelancers are into networking to gain leads, the newcomers are in for advice and tips that carry some weight in Beginners 101. Every freelancer who has been through the ropes has a wee bit of advice that can prevent you as a newbie from a similar difficult experience. Where else can you get the right advice than from people who’ve already been there, done that?

Networking with your fellow work compatriots also comes in handy when you need a bit of advice or hit a spot of trouble on a project. They are there to offer advice and help. It also helps you figure out how much to charge for specific projects and how to prevent undercharging clients.

All in all, there are plenty of reasons as to why you should network with other freelancers. In fact, it is one of the key pathways in getting where you want to go!