In the web industry there is a new language of the moment every other day. This being the case, the need for developers to change their skill set with every change is always present. However, can anyone give a good reason as to why?
Being a developer right now is almost like being a musician. Every so often the buzz sound, language or framework, changes and everyone wants to try their hand on capitalizing on it. Despite this constant change, there is always present opportunities for those not interested in following the trends. The then begins the question of when is enough really enough for your skill set.
Step 1: Analysing The Market
Before jumping into the freelance arena, its important to get an understanding for how the market is shaped at the moment. Considering things like what is the most sought after skill, the average freelance rate, growth potential, the adoption rate of newer technologies and/or design trends, and other things of this nature. Taking into account these factors create a solid outlook, or forecast, of what to expect once you enter the industry as a freelancer.
Step 2: Deciding On Your Niche
After looking over how the market is shaped for freelancers in the industry, take that and apply it to yourself with one question. This question being, how do my skills fit in and stand out. That question relates to skills in your industry in general, and the level of competency you’ve attained. To select your niche focus on the areas you are strongest in, more importantly where your competency is at a senior and/or expert level.
Step 3: Marketing Your Skills
Once you’ve found your niche skill set, there is only one thing to do. Market, market, market, and market some more! The problem of many people starting out in the freelance arena is that they come in with an egotistical mentality. This being found in the belief in the age old saying, “If you build it, they will come.” To make it as a freelancer it takes getting out of your comfort zone, and make your name known in your community. Doing things like going to meetups, conferences, industry happy hour events, and anywhere else you can create relationships and pass out your business card.
Step 4: Trust Your Fear
The most important advice I can give anyone embarking on a freelancing journey is to not ignore your fear. When a person feels fear towards a life changing moment, there are only three possible options that could come from it. It positively puts you in a better position, you crash and burn with maybe having less than you started, or you just don’t take the risk and wonder about what could’ve been.
So the most important thing I could ever say to any new freelancer is to first trust in yourself, and then believe in your fear. Preventing yourself from making a transition due to fear of the outcome is the only thing preventing you from being on the verge of success. Remember that!!!!