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Start your own design business
PART 1
Preparing to go freelance and setting the right goals
Checklist for part 1:
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Ask: Why do you want to start your own business?
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Plan ahead: time, equipment and financial buffer
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Decide on what services to offer
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Narrow down and find a niche
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Understand your customers
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Set a vision for your business: what will a typical day look like?
PART 2
Registering your business, contracts, invoicing & insurance
Checklist for part 2:
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Pick the right legal structure
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Register your business (visit your government website to find out how)
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Sign up for business insurance
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Keep clear records of invoices, expenses and copies of receipts
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Use an accounting software to make life easier
PART 3
How to work with clients
Checklist for part 3:
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Create a great routine - how do you want to work day to day?
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Write down a clear process
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Find a project management tool that works for you. Our favorite options are:
PART 4
Portfolio and marketing
Checklist for part 4:
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Have your own website, not just a social media account
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Describe how you add value to clients and collaborators
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Add case studies with as much detail as possible
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Use your existing network
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Create accounts on 1-2 social media platforms and focus
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Attend in-person networking events (or online ones during COVID-19)
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Join facebook groups to learn and network
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