The Ins and Outs of Booking Freelancers

Creative Talk this month is with our freelance specialists at The Creative Store - Elin Stonham from our Auckland office and Stephanie Shone from our Sydney office.  We talk over the ‘Ins and Outs’ of booking freelancers.

  

 

Freelance is a growing trend, which we have seen across all the market sectors we work across.  What trends have you been seeing?

 

Steph

I’ve certainly had an increasing number of requests for designers with a strong grasp on HTML, CSS and JavaScript. That line between Designer and Developer is certainly fading and those that can take advantage of this are in high demand!

 

Elin

As Steph is saying, I’ve noticed a growing trend in full-stack designers where the client can get the same freelancer in to design and develop. UI / UX in general is also growing, which is expected with the industry heading in to digital in general. I’ve also noted an increase in demand for motion designers to create content for social media. From the freelancers’ perspective, we have a real mix of freelancers who do a mix of working inhouse and remotely.

 

 

What does it take to be a great freelancer?

 

Steph

Strong technical skills across the Adobe Suite and the ability to execute anything thrown at you beautifully. Personality can play a large role too, those that can get in and get the job done with a smile and positive attitude are often those that get asked back time and time again.

 

Elin

Commitment and a lot of flexibility – being able to go in to any client and pick up whatever they throw at you. It’s also a great idea to think of yourself as a brand – always make sure you present yourself in a way that you’d want your favorite brand to do, this includes your attitude and interactions, and also the work that you are producing.  A nicely laid out CV and portfolio that showcase a wide variety of skills will ensure you have greater chances at getting those assignments as well.

 

 

Hiring freelancers is a quick and convenient option for clients – what can the client do to ensure you make the process easy for them?

 

Steph

A clear brief and a bit of background on the project your freelancer will be working on. This allows us to target the right candidates immediately.

 

Elin

The more information you can share regarding the project, and any additional freelance requirements – the more the better, including software, length of assignment, who the client / work is, what your budget is.

 

 

Any tips and recommendations you would give to clients when requesting freelancers?

 

Steph

It’s great to know exactly what you’re looking for.  If you are not sure, or have an open mind, we will also have talent that is slightly outside the box, that can also be a great option. Also, ask me as many questions as you like about the candidates sent. We’re here to help!

 

Elin

Have a clear idea of what you want and when you need them for, and when we present the freelance options to you - lock them in as soon as you can – as freelance moves quickly and your top option will get booked out.

 

 

What would you suggest to candidates who would like to become full time freelancers?

 

Steph

Stay open to all opportunities that come your way and give everything your all. Freelancing is all about continuously pushing your name out to new clients and making a big impression when you’re booked!

 

Elin

Be ready to accept assignments on short notice and try your hand at everything. Have a nicely laid out and versatile portfolio, which will ensure you get a great range of assignments.  And remember, clients are paying a premium rate to have you in and are expecting you to deliver – make sure you give 100% on each and every job.

 

 

What determines the freelancer rate?

 

Steph

Several factors. Obvious being your years of experience, field of work and strength of skills. However, our biggest influence can often be a client budget. Working with those smaller businesses can often bring tighter budgets or working to set hours.

 

Elin

Experience and skill level first and foremost, but client budget is a big part as well. As a freelancer, it’s good to be a little flexible and sometimes drop your rate to get those assignments confirmed and likewise with clients - sometimes that extra $5 per hour will open a whole new pool of candidates.

 

 

What are the benefits of using freelancers?

 

Steph

It’s a great way for companies to keep their talent fresh. You can engage anyone at any time to bring new life and ideas into your studio. It’s also a great option for agencies, with clients coming and going, freelancers can be a great option to get you through your busiest times without the hassle of finding them work during the quiet months.

 

Elin

Freelancers are great when you need an extra pair of hands to reach that deadline. Or when you need a fresh pair of eyes for a new concept. You can pick and choose when you need someone, having a freelancer offers you the flexibility where you don’t have to worry about additional staff overheads or what to do during the slower periods.

 

 

If you would like to book a freelancer, discuss any areas of freelance, or register with The Creative Store.

 

www.thecreativestore.co.nz

 

New Zealand – contact Elin Stonham – elin@thecreativestore.co.nz

/ +64 021 245 3337

Australia - contact Stephanie Shone – stephanie@thecreativestore.com.au

/ +61 0420 336 442