Most people go into freelancing knowing how to do the thing they do…
Meanwhile they have no idea how to efficiently run a business.
Every new project feels like a lucky break that you jump in and wing it every time.
Somewhere along the way you figure out (the hard way) that the success of your freelance career hinges on more than just creative prowess →
And effectively managing your projects (and your clients) from start to finish is the cornerstone of a consistent income as a freelancer.
The problem:
There’s no predictability to your business.
Just because you and the client set a deadline doesn’t mean it’s adhered to and you end up with several projects that have gone way past the initial time budgeted for them.
This leaves you with a less than ideal amount of time to focus on your business (or, you know, take that 2:30 nap on a Wednesday us freelancers love).
The benefit of solving it:
You deliver higher-quality work, more consistently, and in less time.
Why what you’ve tried has failed:
You’re letting the client draw the map of their project’s journey, but that’s what they’re paying you for.
Here’s how to solve it:
Get clear about your project process.
Seriously, take time this week, get a paper and pen, and chart it out.
Each project has three core phases and each phase has its own purpose and specific tasks:
#1 Pre-Production
Before diving into the actual work, invest time in the pre-production phase, when iteration is cheaper for the client (and tell them this).
This includes wireframing, planning, gathering all necessary information from the client, etc.
Set a strong and clear understanding with the client before moving forward.
#2 Production
The groundwork is laid and you're on the same page as the client, so it’s time to bring the concept to life (whether it's designing a website, writing code, creating content, or providing any other service).
This is the core phase where the bulk of the project work takes place, and you focus on implementing your skills and expertise to deliver the desired outcome.
#3 Post-Production
A lot of folks don’t take advantage of this phase the way that they should.
Sure you need to ensure a smooth transition from production to final delivery here.
But at this stage you should also analyze the project's performance, be ready with the next project (pitch something they’ll need help with now that this one is done), and collect a testimonial.
By clearly defining your project process, you:
Get more sales by articulating to the client what to expect working with you
Encourage repeat business by providing a smooth process to the client that makes them want to work with you again and tell others about you
Make it easier for you to always know what you should be working on to move the project along
Remember, your project process is the backbone of your freelance business.
If you get really good at fulfillment, marketing and sales almost take care of themselves.
So take control of your projects and optimize your productivity by crafting a project process tailored to your unique expertise and style.
There will be some trial and error involved, but the more you perfect your process, the easier it becomes to consistently deliver exceptional results.
Best,
Jamie
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