When most people think of being self-employed, they automatically associate it with owning a business. While in a sense this sentiment is true, that’s not always the case. Some independent contractors offer services to a wide variety of clients, rather than owning and operating a traditional business.
Regardless, there are certain tools and assets every independent contractor should have to grow their wealth, whether they own a business or make a living as a gig worker. We want to help set you up for success.
Keep reading for a quick guide on the top five tools every freelance worker needs to build their success.
1. Accounting Tools and Software
First, understand that at the root of financial success is financial management. As an independent contractor, it’s especially important to learn how to manage your personal and professional money.
As such, it’s a good idea to invest in accounting tools and software to help you manage your cash flow, prepare for taxes, and keep an eye on your financial growth. You can use user-friendly apps like Quick Books or hire a professional accountant if you need further assistance.
2. Calendar and Scheduling Tools
Running a small business or being a freelance worker means you are directly in charge of your schedule. While this can be incredibly liberating, it also makes it easy to let things slip through the cracks.
To avoid forgetting about important phone calls, assignments, and meetings, we suggest downloading reliable calendar and scheduling software. It should be easily integrated with your PC, laptop, and smartphone. It should be automatically updated on all of your devices through a cloud network.
3. Project Management Software
Next, let’s talk about managing your active projects. It doesn’t matter if you’re a self-employed freelance photographer, a construction contractor, or a gig worker specializing in content creation. To create a glowing reputation, you must deliver amazing results on time.
Freelance project management software will help you keep your active jobs organized. That way, you can avoid disappointing clients by falling behind on the projects you’ve been hired to complete.
4. Marketing Tools
Whether you own an independent business or just do small gigs on the side, marketing is paramount to your success. You can’t expect to attract new leads without an effective marketing strategy.
Fortunately, there are countless marketing tools at your disposal. Some are free, some are paid. We recommend starting with:
- A user-friendly website
- Social media profiles (on Facebook, Instagram, and Linked-In)
- Content marketing (blog articles, social media posts)
- Email marketing
- Various paid marketing programs (like PPC)
These digital marketing strategies are vital for any self-employed freelance worker.
5. Communication Tools and Software
Finally, let’s talk about communication. Timely, reliable communication is at the heart of customer service. If you want to make a good impression on potential clients as an independent contractor, you must be available and accessible.
Therefore, you need to invest in communication software to help you engage with and respond to people on your website. This might include AI chatbots to help answer questions and keep people on your website longer.
Are You Striving to Become an Independent Contractor?
If you want to start working for yourself as an independent contractor, make sure you plan ahead and set yourself up for success. Start by considering all the tools and software you might need for your small business.
And remember, it takes time to build success, especially as a freelance worker. Give yourself some time to establish credibility and visibility. And if you’re looking for more valuable professional insight, check out some of our other articles before you go.