There are times where I’ve found that finding new business is one of the toughest parts of being an independent contractor. During these past few months of being a freelancer, I’ve been pretty lucky to have either A) been asked by former coworkers to help out on their projects, B) referred by previous coworkers to people who were looking for a writer, or C) found new clients/agencies through my own networking efforts.
What has been an eye-opening issue has been my relationship with the umpteen different temp agencies I’ve registered with over the past few years. Sure, I get calls occasionally from them about my availability and/or interest in temp gigs. But why is it that their pay scale is less than half of what I’ve been able to bill on my own? I understand they have to make money, too. But why is it an agency will pay me my asking rate, but not get even close to that number when it comes through a recruiter?
I’m hopeful that 2010 is going to be a great year for my career. But before we get there (there still are 25 “shopping days” til the end of the year…and my birthday), I’m making a point of remembering the opportunities I’ve been blessed with during 2009.
As the inside of the Thanksgiving card read that featured the artwork above (1 of 3 that I sent out), I give thanks for this year’s opportunities to express my unique brand of creativity.