Streetwise Guide To Freelance Design And Illustration

by Theo Stephan Williams

The Streetwise Guide to Freelance Design and Illustration will give you the business smarts and the confidence you need to start and maintain a thriving career. This book guides you through every step, from determining whether you're cut out for the freelance life to hiring an accountant to help you keep track of your finances. Throughout the book, interviews with designers and illustrators who are already out there detail the realities of full-time freelancing. They also offer answers to those sometimes-tricky questions - like how much pro-bono work should you do? And should you have a self-promotion piece? Plus, you'll find checklists and valuable tips for improving your communication skill, using your time effectively, avoiding procrastination and much more.

144 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1998

Reviews

[Catherine Cavanagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because this book was published in 1998, some technical aspects are a bit dated, however the core information on discipline, record keeping, networking, negotiation, portfolio, dealing with clients, and setting up a studio is just as relevant as ever.
If you, or a loved one, are thinking about freelancing as a graphic designer or illustrator, read this book. Why? Because it will give you a much needed reality check and many invaluable tips.
Here's a few: Always present your work from a standing up position; Get yourself a day planner Now; Everyone likes to go with a winner, so act positive and present yourself that way; Keep in contact with your clients before, during and after projects; Give your business card after you have presented your portfolio (not before); If you can't sell yourself, find a good agent after doing lots of background research; Always explain your creative process and the steps you both need to take to get the project completed to your client as early as possible.