Even when you go from being a photographer who works in an agency to being a photographer who works on their own as a solopreneur, there are many new terms, concepts, and things you need to learn. Maybe you already know some of the terms we will mention on this list. But trust us. A contract, rate, or fee works differently on solopreneur terms. Beginning to work as a solopreneur can be like getting into a new world, and you do not want to look like an outsider, right?
Let’s Start from the Basics. What Is the Meaning of Solopreneur?
A solopreneur is a freelancer who works on their own and also is their own brand. They are not looking to create a big corporation and hire employees. But to become the best and most qualified in their niche. They regularly find new clients on freelance platforms or through their portfolio website. Solopreneurs grow by getting new clients and increasing their rates as they gain a more positive reputation.
Glossary of Terms for a Solopreneur
Contract
In the world of formal workers, contracts will always exist. You will probably have to sign a paper, and they will tell you what that contract includes and what period it covers. But this changes when you work as a freelancer. If you are getting your clients through an online platform like Upwork or Fiverr, the same platform will make an online contract that both parties must comply with. On the other hand, if you are getting clients through a mutual friend or by email, the contract will depend on you.
So, where is the issue? The problem is that many freelancers make the mistake of not establishing a contract but instead start working after reaching a spoken agreement with the client. In case the client suddenly does not want to comply with the payment or does not want to take responsibility for the work they commissioned you, and there is no contract to remind them of their commitment, there will be no way for you to make a claim legally.
Deadline
One of the best things about being a solopreneur is the flexibility. You are free to work at any time you want, on the days you prefer, as long as you meet the deadlines. A deadline is the delivery date and time you have for a project, and you must meet it since not doing so will affect your relationship with your client and your reputation. The client usually gives the deadline, but you can also make an arrangement, considering your possibility and their needs.
Rate
Your work rate will establish how much you will earn with each project. But it varies depending on your experience, the project complexity, the client, and other factors. For example, the rate of an experienced freelancer will be much higher than someone who is just beginning. If you are starting to work as a freelancer, a good advice is to set a lower rate than the average to start catching your first clients.
Fee
If you work on a freelance platform, you probably have heard about this word. When you join one, it is most likely that a percentage of your income will go to the platform. Investigate in advance if the platform you want to use charges a fee to its freelancers and consider if it is acceptable to you. By working outside a website, you can avoid the fee and receive your full earnings, but you will not have a platform to support you in case the client does not want to pay you for the work you have done.
One of the best ways to learn is through experience. So do not wait any longer if you want to become a solopreneur! Now that you know the basics, go live the experience, learn from your successes and mistakes, and become a professional.
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