If you run a freelance or consulting business, here are some tools you might want in your tackle box.
"Wow. That was kinda cool."
A client actually said this after she paid an invoice of mine through our accounting service, Freshbooks. Freshbooks is a non-bloated, web-based invoicing system with enough features to make invoicing and accounting for freelancers and consultants - dare we say it - fun. 67% of our clients now pay online within three days of getting the bill. Wow. Click here to learn more.
What is the easiest way to manage a client's project?
Basecamp. Hands down. Basecamp keeps all of the messages, files, dates, to-dos - even chats - for your projects organized online, accessible anytime. Add your client and other freelancers to the project and everyone can use it to communicate and collaborate. It will amaze you how effortlessly easy it is to use. I've never had a client not be completely impressed. It makes your business look sophisticated and well-run even if you're running a team of one. Frankly, now that I'm hooked, I'm not sure how I would get projects done without it. Click here to learn more.
What's the best way to start a web-based business?
Flying by the seat of your pants. It's incredible how much we humans worry about planning businesses, when all we really need to do is start. If it's a good idea, things will fall in place when they need to. People will hear and want to jump on board. Your business will start to snowball in a good way. We've personally been involved in one company that started in November 2008 with just four people and now has 20 people involved. It's an amazing process to be part of. Not convinced? Read this book. The Plan-as-You-Go Business Plan
How do you project a great image on the web?
Hire someone who knows how to do it. Don't waste your time or potential earnings by going it alone. Even if you know what you're doing, a second pair of eyes is always a good idea. Email us if you want to discuss a great idea you have for a money-making site.