Thread by @ccmarce_writes

Since I announced that I quit my job, I’ve had a lot of people reach out and tell me they either recently did the same or are looking to do so.

Many asked if I had any advice.

Here are 6 things I think you should know (and some tips from other, smarter folks, too).

1. The primary things worrying most people are financial.

I recommend saving enough to comfortably last for several months.

If you're worried about money, it could push you to take ANY work rather than the RIGHT work.

Freelancing before you quit can help out w/ this.

2. Next up is insurance. If you’re in the US, your health insurance is likely tied to employment.

I’ll share 2 potential options.

Even if you're not married, you could be added to your partner's benefits if they work FT. Many companies recognize that not everyone is in a

traditional marriage anymore and are modifying benefits policies.

Have your partner reach out to their employer to ask how you could qualify (for ex, if you own a home together, etc.)

But there are also collectives and companies that offer benefits for the self-employed. They have flexible packages, similar to a FT employer, at reasonable costs.

(I did a quick Google search for freelancer health insurance and got ads for several companies.)

3. My next recommendation would be to lay as much of the groundwork as possible before you quit.

I was thrown by how many admin details need to be managed.

Here are some things to consider:

-Meet w/ an accountant or tax specialist to get educated.

Ask about the difference

between being a sole proprietor, S-Corp, or LLC.

-Research payment platforms, like PayPal, Stripe. You’ll need a way to send invoices/contracts, receive payments. Learn about fees for credit cards, int'l transfers, etc.

-Sign up for a project mgmt tool. These help stay

organized and communicate w/ clients.

-Look up templates for contracts, invoices, proposals. Ask others to share examples with you.

-Set up a separate business email and hone number. (Google Voice is great and free.)

4. Tally the cost of all the tools you’ll need. This includes Internet, your phone, your website.

But clients also expect you to have access to the specific tools you'll need.

If you’re an SEO, you might need @ahrefs. If you’re a creator, a premium @Canva account.

5. Grow your network.

Follow people you can learn from. Join communities where you can get support.

I'm very grateful for the people who have lent me time, advice, or sent referrals.

6. And last, be ready to make mistakes.

You'll face tough decisions you didn't prepare for.

Sometimes you’ll make a wrong call.

You’ll set rates too low. You'll struggle to find work. You’ll lose clients.

This isn't failure.

Use these moments as opportunities to grow.

Now some tweets that others have shared to offer valuable knowledge.

First, this thread by @tom_hirst changed my mindset on pricing.

https://twitter.com/tom_hirst/status/1277933730078785537

Some great learnings from @amandanat, who's been in the game for a while.

https://twitter.com/amandanat/status/1388204312375947266

General tips from @JelleTells on how to navigate being a freelancer.

https://twitter.com/JelleTells/status/1458218246348365825

Learning to recognize red flags and choose better clients, by @stefanpalios.

https://twitter.com/stefanpalios/status/1359145173461131271

A great thread on how to approach your own brand and how that ties into your work by @brianne2k.

https://twitter.com/brianne2k/status/1364704372664459272

I hope this helps you as you look to explore new opportunities, whether as a side hustle or full time.

If you’d like more useful info, follow me at @ccmarce_writes or consider subscribing to my newsletter: chantellemarcelle.com/marketing-news…