IABC Pittsburgh’s first 2011/2012 season event was a very enlightening Freelancing 101 panel discussion.   George Heidekat, owner of Heidekat Writing Services; Susan English, senior vice president, Euro RSCG Worldwide and a buyer of freelance services; and Donna Herrle, owner of Drawing Conclusions and a freelance designer, all offered advice and experiences.

Some topics that were covered included, tips on how to find clients, positioning yourself to agencies, pricing your work, and advice for those starting out. Core concepts behind these tips were to network, have an online portfolio available for prospective clients, set a per project rate rather than an hourly one, and most importantly, “Don’t wait; just start freelancing!”

The panel also answered questions from the audience regarding the business side of freelancing, such as whether trolling freelance sites looking for projects is effective and if the unstable/unpredictable economy affected their businesses.

Panelists debunked the perceived mysticism of the business side of freelancing. They suggested that new freelancers use what works for them. If you are computer/ software savvy, buy a copy of QuickBooks; if you prefer to track everything in spiral bound notebooks then do so. Check the Internet for contract templates; don’t reinvent the wheel. All the panelists agreed that it would be a wise move to hire an accountant to do your taxes.

Out of the discussion, came this practical advice:

• Build relationships and network
• Have an online portfolio
• Hire an accountant to do your taxes
• Price on a per project basis
• Know your value
• Keep your word/deadlines
• Realize that as a freelancer, you ARE a salesman
• Learn time management skills
• Learn from your mistakes
• Don’t wait; start now

If you have an idea for a professional development program please contact Mary Cvetan, Vice President of Programming or any board member.

Recap by Jen Catalfamo