Introduction

A great number of individuals are thinking of or have become freelancers, either by accident or design, for most this proves to be a life changing event. There are a number of highs and lows to being a freelancer, the positive aspects include flexibility over working hours; greater variety of work; increased job satisfaction & work challenges; autonomy and independence; improved work/life balance and increased earning power. The negative aspects of freelancing include no guarantee of work or income; greater degree of isolation and less human contact; increase in financial risks and exposure; increase in stress; and heavier workloads

A freelancer's life can be quite lonely and their experiences are akin to experiencing a roller coaster ride; for example busy work periods followed by quiet periods and feelings of optimism followed by ones of pessimism. Fortunately these days there are a greater number of support agencies that can provide aid and assistance to prospective and current freelancers, either free or at affordable rates,  some of these agencies are quoted in the back of the guide.

This pocket guide is based on Pro Active Resolutions extensive experience of the creative and business sector, and has been written for prospective and actual freelancers. The guide also contains extracts from articles that have been previously published in Arts Professional, the original articles being found in resource materials.

The idea behind the guide is to provide an overview and an awareness of the major issues that a freelancer is likely to face, and thus supplement and support existing resources. We would like to thank Creative Leicestershire for reviewing the guide; contributing to the marketing section and the production of the guide. However, all errors and mistakes that slipped the proof reading net are Pro Active Resolutions.

If you have any suggestions, comments or corrections, then please contact us. All comments will be gratefully received, and where appropriate incorporated into subsequent editions.

We would like to thank you for taking a copy of the guide and we hope that it proves to be a valuable resource in your profession.

Happy and successful Freelancing

Mahmood Reza
Pro Active Resolutions