Tom Goodwin

Total Post: 5

A content writer who enjoys writing in a way that’s fun and engaging, while still being informative and useful to everyday people. I also enjoy writing creatively.

About the Author

5 Reasons You’re Not Getting Repeat Business

5 Reasons You’re Not Getting Repeat Business

It’s one thing to get a customer through the door.

It’s another thing entirely to keep them inside – or coming back regularly.

Yes, customer retention really is the name of the game in a lot of ways, with it being more profitable than customer acquisition in the long run.

It ensures your income is stable and predictable, which obviously helps with things like paying bills on time. As a freelancer, this is huge.

What’s the secret, then? Why are you struggling to keep clients on board?

Here are five possible reasons:
 

Quality issues

You won’t like to admit it, but this is the most likely reason you’re unable to retain clients – especially if you’re someone who already has a roster of regulars.

This is because complacency can start to set in (whether you realise it or not).

It’s important to always remember that your current work’s quality determines whether you’ll get work in the future. For example, even if a particular project is a one-off, the client who commissioned it could end up recommending you to others in the future, provided the work meets a certain standard.

Now, this isn’t to say you have to burn yourself out or take on extra work free of charge, but do your utmost to ensure the service you provide is more than just passable. If you truly go above and beyond, clients will remember you – and will be much more likely to enlist your services again in the future.
 

Communication

The fact of the matter is that in today’s increasingly digital world, clients expect to be able to get hold of you quickly and easily, and there’s really no excuse if they can’t.

If you’re always unavailable or take an age to respond, it could leave clients feeling uncomfortable as they (understandably) want to know their money is being put to good use.

Make sure to reply to things like emails in a timely manner, as doing so demonstrates reliability and care. It’s also never been easier!

To help with this, though – and to stop you from being caught off guard – you can establish the terms of your working relationship upfront, including regular check-in times. You don’t have to ‘always on’.
 

Missing deadlines

This is just generally considered bad practice, showing that you’re unreliable and careless.

Don’t forget that clients often have deadlines of their own (even just internal ones), and you don’t want to be responsible for causing delays in their schedule.

If you think a piece of work might be late, the least you can do is contact the client to let them know, and this may ultimately help you save face. Better yet, try and avoid getting into this situation in the first place.

Technology can make your life easier and streamline your business: set deadline reminders and, if you aren’t already, start utilising some form of digital calendar or software like Trello.

It’s always better to under-promise and over deliver, so with this in mind, try to submit work early in order to give yourself a bit of breathing room.
 

Refusing revisions

Generally speaking, you should be open to making changes if a client isn’t fully satisfied or wants to have some input in the final product. After all, they’re the ones paying for it.

What this doesn’t mean, though, is that you should take on additional work for free. Any revision request should be reasonable and not an excuse to get out of paying.

The thing is, if you flat out refuse to make changes, the client will probably just go and find someone who will – so try and remain somewhat adaptable. It’s worth thinking about including your terms in the contract or work agreement.

Again, you can leverage modern tech to help speed up the process, with AI being a great tool for brainstorming, almost acting as a kind of sounding board for your ideas. You have to be fully transparent about this, though, and the work should ultimately be your own.
 

No follow up

A big mistake a lot of freelancers make is not being proactive in following up with clients. Waiting for clients to reach out when they need something is by no means guaranteed.

Believe it or not, some clients may not even realise that you’re available to work on a recurring basis – not unless you tell them. If you don’t, they’ll mentally file you away as the go-to for one-off work, which is fine, but – again – it’s more beneficial in the long run for you to have a steady stream of projects.

You could also consider offering some kind of special deal or discount for regular work as a way to entice people.

 
Head over to our information hub for more guides, news and advice on navigating life as a professional freelancer, from finance to tech and more.

Will the Fair Payment Code Stop Late Payments for Freelancers?

Will the Fair Payment Code Stop Late Payments for Freelancers?

As a self-employed freelancer, being paid on time is imperative if you’re to pay your bills when you’re supposed to. Of course, this doesn’t always happen – which can be frustrating to say the least.

How do you respond to a late payment, though? Is it just par for the course, or do you have the right to be annoyed?

Well, the government’s stance is pretty clear, with the Fair Payment Code having been introduced to try and combat this exact issue.
 

What is the Fair Payment Code?

Quite simply, it’s a new voluntary payment code introduced to replace the previous Prompt Payment Code.

Its primary aim is to tackle the late payment of businesses, helping to support SME’s cash flow and incentivise good practice. The scheme, which is open to businesses of any size, rewards participants for adopting fair payment practices, operating on a tiered system:

  • Bronze – for those paying at least 95% of all invoices within 60 days
  • Silver – for those paying at least 95% of all invoices within 60 days, including at least 95% of invoices to small businesses within 30 days
  • Gold – for those paying at least 95% of all invoices within 30 days

Each award lasts for two years, after which it must be reapplied for.

The medal system provides businesses with an easy way to demonstrate that they uphold good payment practices.
 

How can the Fair Payment Code help freelancers?

On the most basic level, it helps freelancers in that it improves their cash flow, while also raising the bar for what can be considered ‘good’ when it comes to paying suppliers promptly.

The new code also matches what IPSE thinks should be the ambition of every business, and the fact that the awards need to be renewed every two years further incentivises those who join to maintain their standards, with the tiered system leaving room for meaningful progression over time.
 

Is the Fair Payment Code a legal requirement for businesses?

No, the code is entirely voluntary, and this limits its overall effectiveness.

The attainment of being on the code is a nice pull factor (or carrot), but there really isn’t a push factor (or stick), like if participation was mandatory for certain larger businesses.

As it stands, an FPC award is simply a badge of honour, and nothing more.
 

Can I make complaints about businesses under the Fair Payment Code?

Yes, there’s a complaints procedure with the OSBC to report those businesses which are failing to meet the standards required under their awards or that are not following the code’s principles of being clear, fair, and collaborative.

This procedure is the main form of redress under the code, and if a business is found not to be living up to the standards represented by its award, it can be moved down to a lower tier – or even kicked off the scheme altogether.
 

How can businesses apply to be a part of the Fair Payment Code?

It should be noted that previous signatories to the Prompt Payment Code do not automatically receive an award, so a new individual application will be required.

An expression of interest form must first be submitted to the OSBC, who will then send out an application form, along with supporting guidance which sets out the necessary evidence that should accompany a business’s application.

This evidence includes proof of a UK registered address, the business’s standard contract terms, two references from suppliers, and evidence of payment performance.

Any level of award can be applied for, provided the accompanying evidence meets the criteria.

 
Head over to our information hub for more guides, news and advice on navigating life as a professional freelancer, from finance to tech and more.

What Seasonal Work Can Freelancers Pick Up During the Summer?

What Seasonal Work Can Freelancers Pick Up During the Summer?

It’s no secret that freelance work can be unpredictable, and especially if there are certain times of the year when your business tends to grind to a halt – like during the sleepy summer months.

Thankfully, seasonal work can be a great option, affording you the opportunity to earn additional income and gain experience during this dreaded ‘summer slowdown.’
 

What is seasonal work?

Before we get into it, what even is seasonal work? I’m glad you asked. Seasonal employees are basically short-term workers who come in and fulfil additional staffing needs during an organisation’s busiest months.

The main selling point is that the work is on a temporary basis, meaning there’s no long-term commitment and you can try new jobs to see if you enjoy them without having to dive in headfirst.

In terms of exactly when you can take up a seasonal role, this varies by both industry and individual operation.
 

What should I consider before taking on seasonal work as a freelancer?

The first thing to consider is how long the contract is, as having a seasonal job could eventually get in the way of your freelance obligations, which you may want to prioritise.

You should also take into account the type of work it is. This is because seasonal employment is a chance to upskill in something different and gain valuable experience which can be referenced on your CV in the future.

When it comes to the work itself, there’s likely to be a general lack of freedom or flexibility relative to freelance work (where you get to set your own schedule, for example). There also tends to be less pay than with a full-time job – close to minimum wage in some industries – and also fewer benefits, so you’ll want to consider whether or not it’s worth it to you.
 

Types of seasonal jobs for freelancers

  • Events/festivals – on an ad hoc basis – enables you to fill gaps in your income
  • Bartender/hospitality – may require more of a time commitment than events, but still not full-time
  • Retail – flexible hours, e.g. weekends only or 2/3 days per week
  • Barista – flexible working hours
  • Hotel staff – on an ad hoc basis or a few days per week, depending on contract
  • Dog walker – nice change from freelancing (not client-facing) and flexible hours

 

Should I look for employed or self-employed seasonal jobs?

The truth is it doesn’t really matter either way, so long as you’re comfortable doing your Self Assessment tax return (which you likely already are as a freelancer ).

That said, if you opt to take up a self-employed seasonal role, be sure to keep separate records and add a separate section to your Self Assessment. Also make sure you understand how this affects the way you pay tax.

As well as taking on seasonal work, you could also expand the freelance work you do to open up a wider client base. In today’s increasingly complex world, it’s good to have multiple strings to your bow.

 
Head over to our information hub for more guides, news and advice on navigating life as a professional freelancer, from finance to tech and more.

How to Survive the Summer Slowdown as a Freelancer

How to Survive the Summer Slowdown as a Freelancer

We all know freelance work can be unpredictable in nature (to say the least), so it’s fair to assume there’ll be times when there isn’t a whole lot of work to go around. Most notably during the summer months, when your clients are burning on a beach somewhere and you’re left waiting by the phone.

Fear not, though, as there are a number of things you can do to survive – and even thrive – during this so-called ‘summer slowdown’.
 

Run an expense forecast

Being financially prepared for an income drop is key.

Start by making a list of all the business and household expenses you will need to cover over the summer months. Your financial data from previous months and years can help, providing insights into your typical spending habits.

The next step is using this information to try and plan how you will pay your summer expenses if your income does slow down. It will also help you consider (or reconsider) any major purchases you might be planning.
 

Think about your summer schedule

If you know there’s a certain period (e.g. mid-August) that tends to be particularly slow for you in terms of work coming in, then why not align your own summer getaway with this?

You’ll get to enjoy some much-needed time off without worrying over an empty inbox. You also won’t technically be missing out on any income if you choose to go away during this time, as you don’t normally earn while on holiday.

Rest and relaxation are also vitally important, so there’s that, too.
 

Be clear about the time you’re taking off

Basically, just communicate your holiday plans consistently and often. If you don’t, you might receive work requests while you’re away, especially if you’re in a direct working relationship with a particular company.

Make sure to touch base upon your return, though, letting them know you’re back and available for new projects. (This also just gives you an excuse to reach out.)
 

Take the opportunity to market yourself

If, however, you’d rather keep working over the summer, you should start reaching out to your clients as early as possible and let them know about your continued availability. This will be very much appreciated by project managers in larger agencies, who will be glad to know they can reach out to you when many regular providers are out of the office.

You could also spend the time dedicated to building your online presence, in addition to generating leads. Now is the time to tinker and experiment with new services that complement your current ones. For example, if you’re a blog writer, you could consider offering a content calendar or SEO research.

There’s room for variability, too, as these new services can be add-ons or standalones; just play around and see what works.

They may bring in new clients (which is obviously the aim), but even if they fall short of that for whatever reason, they’ll still add value for existing ones and ultimately generate more revenue for your business.

So it’s kind of a no-brainer.
 

Consider seasonal work

While you may not have considered it, seasonal work can be a great option, affording you the opportunity to earn additional income during dry spells throughout the year – e.g. during summer.

The main selling point is that the work is on a temporary basis, meaning there’s no long-term commitment and you can try new jobs to see if you enjoy them without having to dive in headfirst.

It’s also a chance to upskill in something different and gain valuable experience which can be referenced on your CV, depending on what sort of seasonal work you pick up!

Seasonal employment also allows you to fill in any unemployment or missing income gaps you might have. This might be particularly useful if you’re worried about gaps in your National Insurance record affecting your entitlement to the State Pension in the future.

More broadly, though, you can forge connections within a new company – or even a new industry – and these can lead to future recommendations or job tips. (If you’re asked to do freelance work for an employer, just make sure you don’t fall inside IR35.)

Of course, there’s always the possibility of you being offered a full-time position after your seasonal contract ends.

 
Head over to our information hub for more guides, news and advice on navigating life as a professional freelancer, from finance to tech and more.

The Pros and Cons of Seasonal Work as a Freelancer

The Pros and Cons of Seasonal Work as a Freelancer

We all know that freelance work can be unpredictable in nature (to say the least), and so it’s fair to assume there’ll be times when there isn’t a whole lot of work to go around. Like those long summer months when most of your clients are burning on a beach somewhere, while you wait by the phone.

These dry spells can be frustrating – but there is a possible solution you might want to consider if you haven’t already: seasonal employment. As with anything in life, it’s not perfect, but it might just be the answer to your prayers. Let’s break down the pros and cons.
 

What is seasonal work?

Well, as the name suggests, seasonal employees are basically short-term workers who come in and fulfil additional staffing needs during an organisation’s busiest months. The specific season varies by both industry and individual operation, but that’s the general gist.
 

What’s the difference between full-time employment and seasonal work?

The key difference is that seasonal jobs are finite, or temporary, typically lasting for 6 months or less and have a start and end date. This is in contrast to full-time jobs, which tend to be infinite or unending (at least on paper).

Seasonal employees may work part-time or full-time hours, so this isn’t a determining factor, but most countries have specific labour laws around seasonal work to govern things like taxes, insurance, contract terms, and the deductions an employer is allowed to make.

In the UK, for example, seasonal employees are paid a National Minimum Wage according to how old they are.
 

Should I include my seasonal employment in my Self Assessment?

In short, yes. This is because the tax rate which applies to your earnings depends on how much you earn during a tax year, so you’re required to report all of your income.

Even if you’re primarily self-employed (e.g. a freelancer), you still need to include any PAYE (Pay As You Earn) income in your Self Assessment in addition to your freelance earnings. This doesn’t mean you’ll need to pay tax on your wages again, though.
 

Pros

The most obvious benefit of seasonal employment is the opportunity to earn additional income to make up for times your freelance work tends to be quiet. There are other potential plus points too:

  • Seasonal work is offered on a temporary basis, meaning there’s no long-term commitment on your part, so you can try new jobs to see if you like them without diving in headfirst
  • It’s an opportunity to upskill in something different, which will stand you in good stead moving forwards, depending on what sort of seasonal work you find!
  • It’s an opportunity to gain experience (for you personally, but also for your CV)
  • You can forge connections within a new company – or even a new industry – and these can lead to future recommendations or job tips
  • In certain situations, seasonal employees may be offered full-time positions after their seasonal contracts end (for example, if they impress or perform particularly well)
  • Seasonal employment also allows you to fill in any unemployment or missing income gaps you might have. This might be particularly useful if you’re worried about gaps in your National Insurance record affecting your entitlement to the State Pension in the future

If you’re asked to do freelance work for an employer, just make sure you don’t fall inside IR35. This is legislation introduced to close a loophole allowing ‘disguised employees’ to avoid paying tax on a self-employed basis, when the nature of the relationship is actually closer to permanent employment.
 

Cons
  • Having a seasonal job could eventually get in the way of your freelance obligations, which you may want to prioritise
  • In terms of the work itself, there’s likely to be a general lack of freedom or flexibility relative to freelance work (where you get to set your own schedule, for example)
  • Due to the temporary nature of seasonal work, training can often be quite limited, with employees having to adopt a ‘learn-as-you-go’ mentality
  • There tends to be less pay than with a full-time job – close to minimum wage in some industries – and also fewer benefits
  • Under a seasonal contract, employers have very few restrictions on letting people go, so there isn’t a great deal of stability
  • While it does happen, there’s no guarantee of you being offered a full-time position after your seasonal contract ends

 

Is seasonal work for me?

There are clear advantages to taking up a seasonal role if you’re a freelancer – most notably the fact that you might be able to keep earning at those times of year your freelance work tends to go quiet. Ultimately, like every business decision, it’ll be for you to decide for yourself, based on your own unique situation and preferences.

 
Head over to our information hub for more guides, news and advice on navigating life as a professional freelancer, from finance to tech and more.