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My experience is in the digital side of the printing industry, which is technology heavy and in rapid change. I work mostly on the mar-comm side but get into the technology as well. Your experiences will be different, but being an indy is much the same.
The most lucrative approach is to get out there and drum up your own business, although this takes time. Networking is essential. As you get rolling--which can take longer than you think--making less while a company finds you some gigs can be a good way to get started. You need to have past jobs you can reference and that's a good way to get them and get your name out there. However, the rules of engagement might mean you are restricted to doing further work for a company that hires you via Sperion/Matrx without them in the loop. Be careful and weigh the advantages.
The number one thing to do is to build your reputation and maintain it. Writing articles for trade publications and journals is a good way to get your name out there, as is speaking at relevant events. Nothing like showing your expertise to roomfull of people who can use your skills and services! As you get jobs, build solid relationships with all the people you work with. These often go with people as they change companies and can give you an entree to other firms as people you know move around.
I don't know what your particular work entails, but $70/hour seems low. Don't undercharge! You take on a load of costs when you go solo and they are your overhead. Then you need to be paid for your time. And you have to allow for regular taxes and the self-employment tax. And as your experience and reputation grow don't hesitate to raise your rates.
Anyway, being a indy is great but it is a lot of work, and you have to juggle all the business stuff as well as the real paying work. I've been pretty much on my own for about 15 years and wouldn't go back. It can be feast or famine sometimes, but the freedom is worth it.
, Thu, 24 May 2007 11:44:30
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