The F Word: Going Freelance With Duchess Plum
credit; @duchess_plum
In our Going Freelance series we interview creative freelancers who are “knee deep” in it. What was once a side hustle is now one of - if not the main focus in their careers. How did they get there, why and is it all worth it?
Our interview is with UK freelance designer who goes by Duchess Plum who is also part of our Freelancer for Hire network. She gives valuable tips on how to start freelancing if you’re a newbie along with honest anecdotes.
WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO START FREELANCING?
I chose to start freelancing as I work best when I am given creative freedom, I also like being able to select clients which fit my style and aesthetic. Flexibility is key for a good/work life balance if I am not feeling too creative first thing in the morning I can switch over my hours to evening as my brain seems to buzz the most late at night, I have noticed a pattern in when I feel most productive and use these times to my advantage - Saturday mornings (as long as I haven't been out the night before) are usually when I get most work done!
YOU ALSO HAVE A PART-TIME JOB. ANY TIME MANAGEMENT TIPS FOR OTHER FREELANCERS WHO ALSO JUGGLE BOTH WORK LIVES?
I can't live without a to-do list, I create them on my phone and add stars once complete.
It goes something like this :
8am - Wake up
8.5 - Shower, get dressed
8.30 - Coffee and toast
9.00 - Answer emails
9.30 - Design
1pm - Beach Walk & Lunch
2pm - Design
5pm - Cook and clean
7pm - Either design more or watch a bit of rubbish tv
11pm - Bed
When I star off all my to-dos it makes me feel like I have achieved something.
Working a job and freelancing at the same time can sometimes mean going at it am-pm 7 days a week, I don't recommend booking yourself up to the eye balls unless its a huge opportunity, most clients understand you are one person and will wait a few weeks.
WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A CLIENT?
I like a client who knows what they want, that provide a visual brief so that we are on the same page. I also like clients that pay on time :)
WHAT ADVICE OR TIPS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO START FREELANCING?
I would definitely keep another job for stability especially when you are first starting out as it takes time to build a name for yourself and a client base! Also pick the jobs that compliment your portfolio to build your design identity. This helps you grow and helps you gain more jobs in the future that suit you best.
WITHOUT NAMING NAMES, DESCRIBE A FAVORITE CLIENT YOU’VE HAD OR HAVE AND HOW THEIR WORK STYLE ALSO MAKES YOUR WORK LIFE EASIER.
My favourite client is super lovely, they completely understand how I work and always provide me with a full visual brief, my style fits hand in hand with theirs and there are usually no amends! dreamy!
FREELANCER DO’S AND DON’TS
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When you're feeling passionate run with it and keep going.
Reach out to your dream clients - you've got nothing to lose.
Plan your days.
Make time for your social life - everyone needs to have a bit of fun!
Get your hands into all of the pies within your industry.
Know that failure = growth
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Don't work with rude people.
Don't do jobs that you don't want to.
Don't undercut your value.
Don't stand for bad wi-fi.
EVERY FREELANCER NEEDS …
industry experience, adobe suite, a to-do list, a good nights sleep and coffee!
Follow @duchess_plum and shop her prints.
