| I started freelancing 6 months ago and I'm doing ok. I've made the same amount of money I would have made working a regular job but I only have worked 1/8th the time (billable work anyways). To answer your questions 1. Popular opinion here on HN is to charge by day or per project (considering what value you bring to the table). I found it hard to implement so I found a rate that was reasonable for the kind of lifestyle I wanted. This is an exercise you have to do it yourself. For me I figured out what was my necessary expenditure (bills + insurance, what was enough for me to keep myself happy (books,movies,outdoor day/weekend trips etc.). However as soon as I get my head around actually implementing popular HN advice I'm going to follow it. 2. I started with oDesk and so far have only got 1 project out of it. It was only 3 weeks effort. There is too much competition there and it is hard to stand out AND get good rate. Rest of the work I found through my network. I let everyone know I was freelancing, reached out to everyone I knew and asked if they have any project or any of their friends needed any help. 3. Following things helped a. My spouse was working until recently so it was comforting to know we will at least have food on the table and pay mortgage. If you don't have any support I suggest build at least 6 months savings first before jumping in or get a contract first. b. When I was not working I was either constantly searching for work or working on side projects. c. I had a pretty good previous work experience to bank on but if you don't have any make sure you have some sort of portfolio to showcase your skillset. |