If you’ve ever thought about leaving your current job to become a full-time freelance copywriter, this is the episode for you! Nicki and Kate walk you through the process start to finish and include important steps to make the switch as seamless as possible.
Enjoy listening to this episode as our hosts cover how to build your client base before you leave your job, how to overcome anxiety surrounding the change, and how to tell when you are ready to take the step towards full-time freelance.
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Looking for closed captioning or a transcript? Watch the episode on YouTube!
A Sneak Peek at the Episode
[0:52] Nicki touches on the many different ways that you can set up your copywriting career. One of the best parts about copywriting is that you get to decide what your career looks like. But, the focus today is the transition from a full-time job to full-time freelance copywriting.
[3:02] Kate points out that the first step of moving to full-time freelance is to look closely at your finances. You need to know what you need to make to pay the bills and what you are comfortable bringing in each month.
[8:02] Nicki explains how helpful it can be to build up your savings before you quit your job. Even though you will be able to find work, it’s always smart to have cash put aside just in case you need it.
[11:08] The best way to ensure a smooth transition from your job to full-time freelance is to start freelancing part-time before you quit your job. Our hosts talk about how to do this effectively and why it is so helpful.
[16:42] It can be difficult to find the right time to fully jump into your freelance career. Kate and Nicki give tips for how to identify when you are ready to leave your current job and make the switch.
[19:42] Nicki makes a great point that when you switch to freelance full-time you can be confident you will have enough clients because you will take the necessary action. The security is in your willingness to do the work.
[24:47] One way to make the transition easier is to make a checklist of what you need to do before you leave your job. Kate explains what should be on the list and how it sets you up for success moving forward.
[27:27] Nicki and Kate give guidance on how to build your own benefits for yourself in your freelance business. It is totally possible to recreate a benefits package (that can often be better than the one your job gives you) completely on your own.
[31:42] Our hosts clear up some misconceptions around the taxes you pay while working for yourself. Hint: you are paying the same taxes you currently pay, the process is just a little different. Nicki and Kate advise that you talk to a tax preparation professional to make sure you have your taxes in order.
[33:42] Nicki leaves us with the reminder that you can ensure success for yourself by following a series of steps throughout the process of transitioning to full-time freelance. Remember: it’s not a leap of faith, it’s a step of faith in yourself and your ability to do the work.
Mentioned On This Episode
- How Much Can a Copywriter Earn?
- Tax and Bookkeeping Tips for Freelance Copywriters
- The Illusion of Safety: Freelance vs. Full-Time Copywriting
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About the Build Your Business Podcast
Ready to turn your love of writing into a successful copywriting career?
Join professional copywriters Nicki Krawczyk and Kate Sitarz to get the tips, tools, and training to help you become a copywriter and build a thriving business of your own. Nicki and Kate have 20+ and 10+ years of experience, respectively, writing copy for multi-billion-dollar companies, solopreneurs, and every size business in between.
Whether you want to land an on-staff job, freelance full-time and work from wherever you want, or make extra money with a side hustle, the best place to start learning is right here.
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Ep. 72: 3 Tips for Combatting Imposter Syndrome
Last Updated on September 10, 2023
