Top 5 Mistakes Freelancers Make

If you're considering or have recently started freelancing, here are five mistakes you can easily make and should avoid.

1. Rates aren't High Enough

Many freelancers don't know what to charge and out of desire to find clients, undercut themselves. It's important to ensure your rate-either hourly or for the entire project-counts for your business expenses, provides some sort of wage to cover your personal bills, and has a little extra for wiggle room and savings. Think of it like this: Doubling your rate allows you to lose half your clients, make the same amount of money for half the work.

2. Hesitating to Apply for Jobs

When starting out as a freelancer, it may be intimidating to apply for some jobs because you feel as though you don't have enough experience to handle it. Don't be afraid, because it takes jobs to build experience, and there are many people out there willing to give freelancers the chance they are looking for. Put yourself out there, and make it a point to apply for at least one job a day until you build a steady stream of clients and work. Don't settle into the pattern-make looking for more work a part of your daily routine.

3. Avoiding the Phone

Email is easy. It's quick. It doesn't require complete silence in the background. Freelancers rely on email to communicate because they want to work on their own terms and avoid sitting by the phone. Providing your phone number to clients is a good idea because it will make your correspondence more personal. Clients will feel like they can rely on you if you are available by phone, and it will make ideas easier to communicate because an immediate response is required. Keep notes of all phone calls and discussions to make projects easier to work on, but don't be upset when a client continues to call-because they just want to ensure the project is running smoothly.

4. Not Paying Attention to Breaks

Most freelancers have a hard time focusing on the task at hand and find themselves busy with other things such as social bookmarking or social networking. While participation in social media is important for a freelancer, getting lost in it (or television for that matter) is not good for productivity. Set predetermined breaks throughout the day or set a goal to reach before a break can be taken. Breaks are necessary, but it is equally important to stay on track so you're maximizing your earnings. A $400 project that takes you 100 hours to complete is no longer worth the money.

If possible, setup and office in your home containing only what you need to work. It will eliminate many distractions and keep you productive throughout your work day. At the end of the day, you can close the door and stay away from work until the next day.

5. Taking Things Personally

Eventually all freelancers run into a difficult client. Remember to clearly-and politely-voice any and all concerns about the project. If the client still won't change their mind, it's time to do what they ask of you and let it go. You're getting paid to do what they want. If issues arise, take a moment to step away from the project before communicating with the client.

Taking these five things into consideration will help you build a better, stronger, and more profitable freelance business, regardless of specialty.