Business 101: PIXL Designs-style

After nearly two years of experience, we have encountered several ups and downs in the world of freelance business. Our goal is to share our past, current and future experiences on this blog in hopes that you can learn from and laugh at our mistakes, utter failures, and our rare successes.

This past year, 2009, was incredibly tough as the economy was down. Many people had to put in extra hours at their own jobs and therefore their freelance time shrunk. Here a few lessons we have learned on how to stay adept during stressful economic times.

Stay Active
This is the most important thing for freelance designers. We’re not talking about actively looking for new jobs either. We are talking about getting off the couch and working out, running, taking a walk, or doing some Wii Fit strength training. Anything. Studies show that it is important to stay active because it keeps you in good health both physically and mentally. The freelance world can be hit or miss. One minute you have plenty of work and the next you have none. This can take a toll on your mind and it can be really easy to have a negative view. Staying active can help fight the freelance blues and keep you focused on the tasks at hand.

Focus
You probably saw this one coming. Focus is the key in the freelance world. Without a focus, you will die. Don’t try to be all things to all people, try to be the best at what you are good at. There is always going to be someone who is better than you out there, but if you have razor focus, you can build your client base and develop strong relationships that will retain those clients. Keeping your focus can also enable you to keep your mind and skills sharp. Reading blogs, taking design tutorials, or simply mapping out your values are all great things to engage in.

Creative
Freelancers are creative by nature. You have to be if you want to survive. Now this isn’t simply an artistic term, but rather one that shows of your personality. You need to be creative in how you reach out to customers, how you communicate with existing ones, and how you show off your services. When is the last time you called a client? Sent them breakfast? Invested some time into your relationship with them outside of sending them a bill and a business card? Get creative! Freelancing is hard work and you definitely have to work to get and keep clients. Quit spending time chasing white rabbits and instead get creative in reaching out to the strongest clients you do have.

This list probably isn’t the most exhaustive in the world, but it does give a small overview of some very practical things you can do to keep your ideas fresh and your freelance business thriving.