Desperate times: Don’t let it show

02Jan09

Photo by: Marc Franz

Whether it’s for additional income or full-time work due to company downsizing, more people are turning toward freelancing as the economy takes a nosedive. It’s understandable that many people are desperate for money to pay the bills and keep food on the table.

However, there’s a difference between simply being desperate, and acting it. There’s nothing wrong with being desperate, but when you start to act it, it becomes potentially damaging to your reputation and credibility as a freelancer.

Don’t beg for what you have the power to earn

The following was taken from someone’s online profile. The thing that stuck in my mind was right there in the first paragraph:

I could say a lot of things to make myself look good and talk about my experience with working with data entry. But the truth of the matter is, I need work so I can put food on the table for my kids.

How often have you given money to panhandlers on the street just because they ask you for it? I’m willing to bet that while you’re charitable once in a while, you don’t hand out money to every Tom, Dick, and Harry that ask for it.

Professional is as professional does

[adsense]When you decide to freelance, you are selling a service to people. Buyers don’t care about whether or not you can pay the bills, they want to know that you’ll be able to provide the service they require.

Don’t let working from home cloud your professional judgment.

If you were applying to a job at Microsoft, would you include the above statement on your resume? I’m willing to bet the answer is a big, fat NO.

Put your best foot forward

Even when times are hard, you should always do your best to sell yourself to your potential clients. Whether it’s with a great profile, or an excellent cover letter, always prove to your buyer that they are your first concern.

Filed under: Tips and Tricks   |  Closed
Tags: Cover Letters, Freelancing, Money, Profiles, Resumes