English

Module 1: The Freelance Mindset

Module 2: Defining Your Service and Niche

Module 4: Finding and Pitching to Your First Client

Module 5: Project Management and Client Relations

Final Lesson & Assessment

Learn How to Get Started as a Freelancer

9 / 18 Lessons

Content

Assignment

Freelancing can feel very informal sometimes, but a professional freelancer understands the importance of having clear legal and financial practices. This protects you, ensures you get paid on time, and establishes a professional relationship with your clients. Don't worry, you don't need to be a lawyer to get this right.

1. The Non-Negotiable: The Contract

A contract is simply a written agreement that outlines the terms of your project. It’s a vital document that protects both you and the client. A good contract should include:



  1. Scope of Work: A clear description of the services you will provide.


  2. Project Timeline: The dates for key milestones and the final delivery date.


  3. Deliverables: A specific list of what the client will receive


  4. Payment Terms: The total cost, payment schedule, and late fee policy.


  5. Ownership: Who owns the final work (e.g., you or the client).


  6. Revisions: How many rounds of revisions are included.


You can find many free, simple contract templates online to get you started. The goal isn't to be overly complex, but to have a clear, written agreement that both parties have signed.

2. Getting Paid: The Professional Invoice

Your invoice is your bill. It’s a simple document that tells the client how much they owe and when they need to pay. A professional invoice should include:


  1. Your Name and Contact Info

  2. Client's Name and Contact Info

  3. Invoice Number and Date

  4. A Breakdown of Services (matching your contract)

  5. Total Amount Due

  6. Payment Terms (e.g., "Payment due within 14 days")

  7. Accepted Payment Methods (e.g., Orange Money, bank transfer, Mvola etc.)


Using a simple invoice generator tool can make this process fast and easy.

3. Communicating with Confidence: Sending Professional Invoices and Contracts

Once you have your documents ready, the final step is to send them to your client. This is an opportunity to reinforce your professionalism.


  1. Use a Professional Email Subject Line: A clear subject line is key. Something like, "Contract for the [Project Name] Project" or "Invoice #12345 for [Client Name]".


  2. Keep the Body Short and Sweet: The email's body text should be polite, direct, and to the point. A simple "Hi [Client Name], Here is the contract for your review. Please let me know if you have any questions," is perfect.


Attach as a PDF: Always attach your documents as a PDF to ensure the formatting stays consistent and it looks professional.

4. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t let these simple errors cost you time or money.


  1. Working without a contract: Never start a project, no matter how small, without a signed agreement. A quick email outlining the project scope is not enough.


  2. Not collecting a deposit: Always collect a partial payment upfront. This is a non-negotiable step that protects you from clients who might disappear or decide not to pay.


  3. Ignoring late payments: If a payment is late, don't be afraid to follow up. Start with a polite reminder and escalate if necessary. You have a right to be paid for your work.


  4. Lack of clear communication: Be explicit about your payment terms, late fees, and revision policies from the very beginning. Ambiguity can lead to misunderstandings later.

5. Crucial Detail: Payment Terms

Before you start any project, you should have clear payment terms in your contract. A common practice is to ask for a 50% deposit upfront to secure the project. This protects you by ensuring the client is committed and covers your initial time and costs. The remaining balance is then due upon completion of the project.