(Newswire.net — January 25, 2022) — Freelancing has become an integral part of journalism. After all, fewer and fewer contracts are being offered and freelancing offers the solution, right? Well, freelancing isn’t for everyone. For example, it requires a good dose of discipline, perseverance, and self-confidence. However, you do get a lot of freedom, variety, and flexibility in return. Because of this, being a freelance journalist has its advantages and disadvantages. Are you planning on becoming a freelancer in the journalistic field of the Netherlands? Use the five tips we mentioned below to hopefully become successful!
Find assignments
As a freelancer, you naturally need assignments to earn a living and this takes a lot of your time. Your network is your main source of assignments, so use it wisely. You can use the moment you start to let everyone know that you are available! Also, state on your LinkedIn page that you are available for assignments. Besides that, there are various sites you can use as a freelance journalist in the hope to find job assignments.
Do your accounting
If you are well informed, there is no reason to fear for your administration. With handy and affordable accounting programs on the web, you can easily store your invoices and receipts online and your tax return is a piece of cake. You can also have your income tax done by an expert for a few bucks. It may cost you some money, but it prevents you from paying too much tax and making mistakes leading to fines.
Determine your rate
It is important to know for yourself what you are worth, what customers can and want to pay, and also where you can get by and pay for your insurance. Do not be afraid to negotiate a little, as long as you can substantiate your rate. The client is likely to compare the rates of multiple freelance journalists before making a decision, which the company will do by requesting quotes. After all, you can use vergelijkingssite Pricewise to compare the rates of freelance journalists.
Be well informed
If you are going to freelance, you must register with the Chamber of Commerce in the Netherlands, which is called the Kamer van Koophandel in Dutch. You will receive a folder with information, but the Chamber of Commerce also organizes a free starter’s day, webinars, and courses about your business plan, taxes, and possible risks. If you have these things in order, you can better focus on your work as a freelance journalist.
Do not be afraid to make mistakes
Everyone makes mistakes, including freelance journalists. Sometimes an assignment does not go as planned or hoped. The result is that you push the deadline ahead or hit ‘send’ while you know that it is not your finest work. But, let’s be honest: making mistakes is human. Explain to your client what happened and offer a solution to fix the error. This shows that you feel responsible and take the collaboration seriously.