Freelancing through a recruitment agency — Quick fire tips and hints!
Written by Annie McCulloch
We’ve pulled together a few quick tips that should make freelancing through a recruiter even smoother than it already should be!
- Keep in touch. You don’t have to go next level stalker (best not to go stalker at all really), but pop your agent an email or day time text once every couple of weeks regarding your availability. If you’re going into or coming out of a longer assignment, let them know. And keep your contact details up to date as well.
- Flexibility is key. Having an open mind and flexible attitude as a freelancer ensures you are getting the most out of freelancing and the opportunities it brings. Anything is possible when it comes to being a freelancer. A one-week assignment could lead to a six-month contract, or the offer of your dream job! Be prepared too, for things to change in a heartbeat. One minute you’re booked for a week, then the job is pulled or postponed. That’s the nature of freelancing and, while it’s frustrating, put it down to experience. Don’t burn bridges or let it ruin a relationship. Be open to different work. You never know what it could lead to.
- Keep your CV up to date. Keep it relevant. There are loads of websites out there with handy tips to help produce the best CV. You can start with some samples here on our website for some inspiration.
- And your portfolio too. It can be tricky to keep your portfolio current as a freelancer. Where you can, ask if you are able to show samples of work you’ve done at an agency and make sure it’s clearly labelled. Again, keep it relevant.
- It can also be difficult to get current references as a freelancer. So if appropriate ask for a quick reference or feedback where you can. But know your audience, it often won’t be appropriate so if you’re unsure, check with your recruitment agent.
Portfolio Recruitment are your specialist recruitment agency in the NZ creative industry, and, proud sponsors of Design Assembly.
portfoliorecruitment.co.nz
Photography and retouching by Chris Smith – junior creative.
