Freelancing is a difficult gig. Work can be inconsistent and the pay rates vary. Often, it can feel like a thankless and unpleasant way to earn a living, but there are wonderful moments. For instance, you have moments when you are working on a project that you have created, on a timeline that suits you, when all of a sudden the freedom and flexibility that go hand in hand with a freelance career seem worth all those fleeting moments of frustration and despair! If you are a seasoned freelancer or are currently considering pursuing a career in this field, there are a number of necessary tips you should follow in order to cut down on rejections and avoid nasty tax bills while flourishing in the freedom of freelancing!

Pitch with care

Whether you are an investigative reporter or a graphic designer, you need to learn the art of the pitch in order to make it in the freelancing world. The most important thing to remember when presenting your idea is to be familiar with the company or publication that you are approaching. It may seem like common sense, but editors often complain that the story pitches they receive are irrelevant or unsuitable for their publications. A quick scroll through previous published work will go a long way.

Keep paperwork in order

Freelancing often requires applying for grant money for specific projects, so even if you consider yourself a creative and artistic individual, remember there will be mathematics involved somewhere! Nowhere is this more important than when completing your annual tax returns. If the thoughts of this sends you into a tizzy, it is worthwhile employing the services of a qualified accountant. An expert can guide you through the process and help you make sense of what you owe. It may save you having to pay a huge lump sum a couple of years down the line.

Don't get disheartened 

Rejections hurt, but for the weathered freelancer they are all too familiar. If you are suffering from a string of rejections, take a look at your strategy. Get a friend to read over your pitch, and ask them what they think. Also, be sure to read rejection emails that offer you a reason and try to learn from them. It is a good idea to maintain a sociable, polite and cordial relationship with editors and project managers regardless of whether they acquire your services or not. A nice email goes a long way, and you never know—perhaps they will want you to do another project for them in the future.