• Choose the Right Flexi Option

Choose a freelance job based on your skills and educational qualifications. For example, you need not get into network marketing if you are a chartered accountant.

On the other hand, if you are willing to learn a new trade, you might want to enrol for training or classes. This could range from a hobby class for candle making to a part-time MBA.

• Be Up-to-Date

If you haven't been working for a while, you might want to brush up your knowledge and skills at the particular task you are going to take up. For example, if you are an out-of-touch writer, you need not go back to print. You could look for opportunities in new media such as the Internet. Who knows you could be writing this article someday!

• Take Up a Job that Suits You

For instance, if you gave up your job to be with your baby, you might want to avoid jobs like networking which require you to meet people outside your home and even attend seminars etc.

Don't take up a job because it seems easy. Make sure you enjoy the work otherwise you will just get frustrated. And if you have made an investment you will land up losing everything.

• Be Prepared to Invest

If your job requires you to make a large investment, approach a bank to acquire a loan.

Avoid depending on friends unless they share the same business goals. But if you are, make sure to maintain your accounts well. Collect your dues from clients on time. This way you will not be indebted to anyone.

• Set Realistic Goals

Fix realistic money goals for yourself. It is importat to decide the minimum monthly earning at the outset. Then do whatever it takes to reach that.

Everyone doing the same freelance job will not make the same money. You may not be able to put in the same hours or may yet to have built the required expertise and reputation.

For example, party planner or a hair stylist can build a reputation only after practising for a while. Word of mouth plays an important role in getting good business opportunities. So not just your clients, but friends too can help you.

If you are planning on freelancing through a website, prefix your remuneration in order to avoid confusion later. It is ideal to get it in writing.

• Get a Work Setup

You may be working out of your home but that does not mean you can sit in your PJs with your laptop. You won't go far that way. Make sure to keep a seperate space in your home for your work-related activities only.

From freelance writing to recruiting, most jobs require you to have a computer and a good Internet connection at home. You don't want to spend your earnings at the cyber café.

Also your mobile phone is very handy as you must be easily accessible if you want your business to grow. You might also require other infrastructure depending on your job.

• Manage Your Time

Just because you do not have fixed timings like in an office does not mean you work less. Targets remain the same but you can choose timings that are convenient to you to complete tasks. Make sure you inform friends and relatives that you will not be available during certain hours. Keep the phone strictly off-limits during that time.

• Keep Your Business Going

Never hesitate to ask for work. If need be, call up people three or four times a week to remind them that you are still interested.

You must be prepared to take up what ever comes your way. This way you can ensure a continual source of income. Don't be too picky and wait for the ideal assignment.

• Give It 100%

Lastly, and most importantly, be ready to commit fully. It is impossible to build credibility in the industry if you are not serious.

When freelancing, your previous experience counts a lot. Potential recruiters most often do a background check. Also if you perform well at one place, word will get around and offers will keep pouring in.

(With inputs from Varda Pendse, Director, Cerebrus Consulting)