Work Less, and Still Make Money
I could not ask for a better occupation. Yeah, I deal with tired eyes, mental exhaustion, and achy hands. But the trade-off is worth it. I don’t have to sit in an office day-after-day. I don’t have to deal with a morning commute. And I definitely don’t have to answer to a boss. But at the same time, I do get tired.
It doesn’t really matter if you work for yourself or someone else, everyone deals with periods of burnout. Varying reasons contribute to these periods. Some people have children who keep them busy, family members who demand their time, and health issues that limit their activities. Hence, juggling multiple freelance gigs creates a challenge.
Lately, I’ve been on a crusade to work less, but increase my income. So far, I’m on the right track. Read more
Contract Over? Don’t Get Caught Off Guard
I provide web copy for different clients. And while I’ve taken on a few one-time gigs, I prefer long-term contracts. That way, I’m not constantly searching for work. But eventually, my freelance projects end. And sometimes, I don’t receive much notice.
Because I’ve been caught off guard too many times, I’ve learn how to look for warning signs. It’s interesting, and a little ironic, but right before an opportunity ends, some clients start to pull similar stunts: slow payments, rubber checks, sporadic communication. Read more
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
