Book review: The Principles of Successful Freelancing

While it may be overstating the obvious for some, freelancing is not just about completing a job (which somehow fell out of the sky), and then invoicing your client (who somehow fell out of the sky) for services rendered.

In fact after reading The Principles of Successful Freelancing written by Perth based web designer Miles Burke, a veteran freelancer and now managing director of Bam Creative, you’ll quickly realise working as a freelancer is more like running a small business, and being responsible for every aspect of it.

And no stone is left unturned in what is a very comprehensive guide to working, and living, as a freelance web professional.

The book firstly helps you assess your skills and suitability for freelancing, and then covers topics such as the planning and research you’ll need to do beforehand, setting up your office or workspace, managing cashflow, work and life balance, tracking and scheduling your time, optimising productivity, marketing and finding work, retaining clients, and finding help and hiring staff.

There are also strategies for winding up your freelance operation, should you one day wish to move onto something else, or retire.

The book also features short interviews with well known web designers including Derek Featherstone, Mark Boulton, Molly Holzschlag, and Stephen Collins, who share some of what they have learned while freelancing.

The exploits, or case studies, of two fictitious web professionals, Emily and Jacob, are also profiled as they embark upon respective freelancing ventures, and documents the challenges and pitfalls they encounter, together with progress reports, as their enterprises take hold and grow.

The Principles of Successful Freelancing is written in a positive and conversational style, and at times I literally felt as if Miles was in the same room recounting his freelance knowledge and experience.

In summary, this is an all encompassing and highly readable guide to all aspects of freelancing. Whether you are considering taking the plunge, have recently started out, or are even a seasoned pro, this book is a worthwhile read.

While all sorts of things could go wrong, with a determined and upbeat attitude, just about anyone can make a go working as a freelancer.