A comprehensive list of resources for Freelancers!
When I first started Nitewalker Designs, I thought I had everything I needed. A solid portfolio, pricing systems, contact database and a set of skills ready to be contracted out. What I didn't realize was everything that goes into freelancing and consulting. I didn't have any contracts, formalized proposals or most importantly, a network.
The problem I was having was that there were so many resources out there, but first I had to find them. Then I had to remember where they were and what each one had to offer for my specific needs. So I decided to do something about that.
Here you will find a collection of some of my favorite resources, most of which are Free! So take a look at what I've compiled, use what you can and let me know if I missed anything.
Last but not least, Good Luck on your endeavors.
Free Resources
Free Resources For Freelancers
www.Guru.com - This is probably the most popular freelance job site around. They cover it all, arts, consulting, management. If you freelance, they have jobs for you. The free membership has alot to offer, ad if you can afford the nominal fees, their full member options are well worth it.www.Elance.com - Very similar to Guru, Elance is a virtual based freelance job posting site. They focus mostly on grapgic and artistic freelanceing.
www.freelancefree.com - This site is primarily a freelance job site but it includes areas like a blog including tips and techniques for freelancers. It also includes a resource center with some basic articles as well as a free download of Microsoft Office Accounting Express.
www.MiNeeds.com - MiNeeds is a freelance and contractor job board. It is a very straight forward site, although I have had some difficulties navigating the site and bidding on jobs.
www.Prosper.com - A whole new concept in lending. Its called Peer to Peer lending, where you can get a bussiness loan from investors instead of banks. If you need a loan to help finance your start-up endeavers, like $1,000 - $2,000, I recomend starting here.
The Not So Free
Sometimes It's Worth The Investment
Business In A Box - A comprehensive collection of almost every form and document template you could need to start and maintain your business. Although it is a little pricey, it could be a worthy investment.Web Design Document Pack - For less than half the price of Business in a Box, you get all the forms and documentation you could need, customized specifically for Web Design Freelancers. If you think you are ready to take your Graphic Design Business to the next level, this might be a good choice for you.
Design Competitions
These sites are created specificaly for graphic designers. These sites are competitions, where the winner wins the job. Companies go on the site and create a post detailing what they are in need of, including full details as well as how much the winner receives. You go on as a designer, upload your work based on the design breifs and the client chooses the winner. Not only is this a good way to make a little cash if you win, but even if you lose, now you have some quality work to add to your portfolio.www.designbay.com
www.99designs.com
www.geniusrocket.com
Your Resources
Do us all a favor, if you know of any freelance resources that you think should be here, but I haven't listed them, submit them here. If I agree, or if enough of your peers agree, I will add your resources to the directory.
Let me know you stopped by.
I love knowing who came to my lens, what brought them here and what they thought of the Lens in general. So, drop me a line to let me know what you think. Was my lense helpful? Original? Well written?
I appreciate any comments you leave.
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Reply
- Tipi Tipi Oct 26, 2009 @ 9:51 am
- Thanks for the resources. Lensrolling to one of my business lens.
Best wishes to you!
Susie
A couple of titles.
Secrets of Consulting: A Guide to Giving and Getting Advice Successfully
Amazon Price: $25.76 (as of 12/26/2009) ![]()
Usually ships in 24 hours
My So-Called Freelance Life: How to Survive and Thrive as a Creative Professional for Hire
Amazon Price: $10.85 (as of 12/26/2009) ![]()
Usually ships in 24 hours
Secrets of a Freelance Writer, Third Edition: How to Make $100,000 a Year or More
Release Date: 08/22/2006
Amazon Price: $12.24 (as of 12/26/2009) ![]()
Usually ships in 24 hours
The last laugh. . .
. . .'cause we all have to laugh at our selves once in a while
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