In this episode, we continue our discussion around freelancing. We unravel the tricky business of setting your rates when first starting out as a freelancer—keeping client expectations in line with your skill or ability as a designer is key. We share the good, the bad, and the ugly around paying (and claiming) taxes as a freelancer (spoiler alert—there is more good, than bad or ugly). There are also some eye-opening truths that come out about what it means to make the move from being a freelancer to starting and running a business.

Austin has years of experience in freelance, while on the opposite end of the scale, Erin has years of experience working as a full-time employee as well as an employer who hires freelancers. So, you get a great look into the industry from both perspectives. If you are unsure if freelancing is for you - listen up - you will get a lot of information in today’s episode that will help you decide on whether freelance or full-time would suit you better.

Discussion Points:

• Freelance rates vs client expectation
• Tax benefits of freelance
• The stress of working freelance
• Freelancers Union
• How to decide on your rate
• Negotiating rates
• Sequential Liability
• Freelancer Administration
• Developing a personal brand as a freelancer
• Transitioning from freelance work into starting a company
• Advantages of being a freelancer
• Learning from people you work with

Resources

Sarofsky

Austin Shaw

Freelancers Union