Got Laid-Off? Time to Start Your Freelance Career
A recent lay off creates a tailspin of emotions. How will I provide for myself and family? What will I do for health insurance? How long can I survive without a steady paycheck?
Some people are fortunate, and they’re able to find new employment within a few weeks. Then again, if you work in a competitive field, or a low-demand service industry, it can be awhile before a new opportunity knocks.
There’s nothing exciting or glamorous about unemployment. Yeah, you get to enjoy a little down time, and you may be slightly relieved that your old, stressful job is finally behind you. But then reality sets in…and you need a plan.
There’s no better time to start a freelance career than after a recent lay off or job loss, considering you have “some” cash flow (savings, spouse, severance pay, unemployment, etc.) But, how do you get started?
The Escape from Corporate America blog recently featured an article on how to get started in freelancing or consulting. Even if you never considered yourself an entrepreneur, it doesn’t hurt to give it a try.
Besides, what else are you doing with your time? Sleeping late and waiting for an interview? You might as well make some money in the meantime.
Technorati Tags: laid off, freelance, telecommute, work at home, self-employed, consulting, freelancing
How to Survive a Computer Virus
If you work from home, your personal computer or laptop is likely the heart of your business. Without it, you can’t communicate with clients, look for new assignments, or complete your current work.
It’s important to protect your computer and information from viruses that can attack and crash your hard drive. Trust me, losing all your information and having to re-install your operating system is no picnic.
- Purchase a Virus Detection Program: Your computer likely came with virus protection software. If not, you’ll need to purchase a software program, and run the program to diagnose and fix any problems. Periodically check for software updates.
- Don’t Use the Infected Computer: If you know your computer has a virus, disconnect from networks and don’t insert removable hard drives. Viruses can attack other computers via network cables, and infect files stored on flash drives. Don’t send or receive files until your software detection program finds and removes the virus.
- Up Your Security: Customize your e-mail settings and have your mail server alert you to potential dangers. Also, exercise good judgment. Don’t download random, unknown files.
- Renew Your Anti-Virus Software: Unfortunately, virus protection isn’t a one-time purchase. Don’t forget to renew your subscription annually.
Technorati Tags: virus, computer, protection, work at home, telecommute
Business Success Tools: Stay on Task with a Handheld PDA
My husband bought his first handheld PDA in 2001, and since then, he’s owned about four different models. I’m not into small electronic gadgets, so I’ve never owned any type of electronic personal organizational tool. My laptop has a handy notepad on the desktop, and I use this tool to jot down ideas and assignments. I also have an old-fashioned day planner - that I never write in.
Although I’ve fought this necessary evil for years (this being the need to rely on a handheld device to keep my work life in order), I think it’s time to breakdown and buy my first PDA.
Personal organizational tools have come a long way. And if you’re a telecommuter or run a home-based business, a handheld PDA can help organize your business and personal life. These neat little tools are more than an electronic day planner. Aside from the fact that a PDA can function as a cellular phone, you can:
- Synchronize your handheld PDA and personal computer/laptop, which let’s you backup or transfer information
- Use your handheld PDA to access the Internet
- Buy a portable keyboard, printer, and other accessories to create a mobile office.
And let’s not overlook the non-business features: listen to audio files, download movies and games, take photographs, text message, etc. Once I’m ready to cough up the cash and buy my PDA, I’ll likely wonder how I survived without it.
Technorati Tags: handheld pda, pda, personal organizer, work at home, telecommute
Recession-Proof Your Home Business
For the past 12 months or so, everybody from CNN anchormen to people on the streets have been talking about a recession. Even if you haven’t been personally affected by the struggling economy, you likely know someone who has.
In 2008 alone I’ve seen a few people get laid-off from work, lose their homes, etc. Amid all the recession talk I can’t help but wonder: will it eventually affect my home business?
Although some people are positive and feel the economy will bounce back, I’m not as hopeful. Then again, I tend to focus on the negative side of situations (I’m working on this). Still, when I watch news reports, hear the foreclosure rate, and spend more than $50 to fill my tank, it’s hard to see the “up side.”
The Renegade Writer recently offered a few helpful tips for staying positive in a bad economy. Let’s face it, freelancers have to stay upbeat. And if breaking news reports and recession fears kill your mood (and your motivation to work), you’ve got to re-direct your attention. That way, you can focus more energy on ensuring your home businesses’ survival during a recession. Read more
Knowing When to Throw in the Towel
Over the weekend, Freelance Switch featured a timely post written by Logan Strain. The article highlighted four reasons why he doesn’t want to be a freelancer anymore, and it explored the real side of telecommute or freelance life. You know, that side that few people are ready to admit. Everyone wants to tell their success story, and relate how they were able to replace and exceed their full-time income in a short length of time.
I don’t doubt their success. Likewise, I’ve accomplished a lot as a freelancer - professionally and financially. At the same time, I’ve experienced a few lows and disappointments. Thus, I can empathize with Strain’s plight. Read more