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Cloud-based technology has been a significant game-changer responsible for propelling the growth of the freelance industry. Today, cloud-based technology is redefining the definition of work. Traditional workers are being replaced by freelancers who live and work from various parts of the world—thanks to cloud technology. As ever more sophisticated cloud-based technologies evolve and as more companies embrace digital transformation, there is no sign that the rise of freelancers is going to slow down any time soon. Cloud computing empowers freelancers with the tools to operate remotely and network with customers, associates, and other freelancers from various parts of the world. Here’s how cloud technology is supporting freelancers all over the world. CommunicationOnce upon a time, taking on a client in a different time zone—let alone halfway around the world—would have cost you more in long distance fees than your final invoice would bring in. Today, freelancers can communicate freely with their associates and customers at no personal cost. Numerous apps have been designed to facilitate effective communication between working teams in various physical locations, such as Uberconference and Skype, which allow freelancers and their customers to communicate via chat, video, and audio channels via the web. What's more, most cloud-based websites or apps today have communication features as part of their product interface, underlining the importance of communication in facilitating the growth of the freelance economy. SharingJust like communication, cloud technology has provided freelancers with the needed tools to collaborate digitally and share documents from any part of the world. Dropbox, Google Docs, Slack, and many other industry-specific platforms are cloud-based document-sharing innovations that have allowed freelancers to effectively collaborate with other associates and customers from different parts of the world without sharing the same office. Freelancers can share documents for ongoing projects as needed—even working together in the same document at the same time for remote brainstorming sessions. Moreover, website-building platforms such as GoDaddy, WordPress, and Squarespace allow freelancers to host and manage their own websites with little or no web expertise. These cloud-based, pre-coded, DIY websites have contributed in no small measure to the growth of the freelance economy. Freelancers can leverage the use of these platforms to engage with their customers and operate their businesses. PaymentsThe success of the freelance economy is dependent mainly on the development of efficient and highly secure e-payment systems. Thankfully, there are lots of cloud payment sites and other payment APIs that have eased the challenges associated with getting payment from clients around the world. Several digital payment platforms available today have removed the friction that were historically experienced by freelancers using traditional financial management systems. With e-payment platforms, freelancers can send and receive payments seamlessly without losing all of their profits on overhead transaction costs. Furthermore, issues of compliance with the policies of different countries and the challenge of navigating the fluctuating exchange rates associated with cross-border payments have all been resolved by these cloud-based e-payment platforms. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/28/what-the-cloud-means-for-freelance-workers/
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America's freelancing population is growing–and currently takes up over a third of the country. As more people trade in their 9-to-5 schedules for greater flexibility and variety in their careers, we want to know what it's like to make the change–the good, the bad, and the "ugh, I accidentally spent four consecutive days on my couch." To start, we have actor, comedian and writer Bella Carter (@bellac_arter) talking about the "aha" moment that made her want to freelance, how working remote is less lonely than she expected, and the importance of building lasting professional relationships. [Photo: Meghan Marin/@meghanmarin] What made you decide to freelance? Did you make an active choice to leave a full-time job? BC: When I was working a full-time job, I was watching a lot of creative opportunities pass me by. There were some things I had to flat out say "no" to because I knew I couldn't leave my desk for more than 15 minutes. I had a moment of clarity and realized I would never get where I wanted if I was sitting behind a desk. In order for me to advance my career, I had to make an active choice to take the plunge and pave my own way. What surprised you about being a freelancer? BC: Way more people freelance than you think! I am continually surprised by how many people are walking around my neighborhood, or sitting in a local coffee shop at noon on a Monday. It's super comforting to know that I'm not the only supporting myself in a non-traditional way. What are some of the best things about being a freelancer? BC: The freedom. What are some of the biggest challenges you face as a freelance worker? BC: Structure is a biggie for me. I've learned that I need to be really specific with both my long-term goals and what needs to get done on a daily basis so that I can keep moving forward. [Photo: Meghan Marin/@meghanmarin] What are some tips you can offer to people who are just starting out as freelancers, or even just thinking about the idea? BC: No matter how much you prep for the transition from full-time to freelance, it's going to feel like a huge leap. At least, it did for me. Also, always be planting seeds and continue to water them. Enjoy making new, meaningful relationships. The people you meet today might not lead to a job tomorrow, but they might down the line, so stay in touch. At Trupo, we love hearing from the people who use our benefits. If you bought accident or dental insurance from us and would like to be interviewed, send an email to [email protected]. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/27/freedom-to-freelance-bella-carter/
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How to Build an Online BrandI made a cameo appearance on the Fit Dad Nation podcast w/ Steve Roy recently to discuss keto recipes. LOL – just kidding. We go into some detail on how to go about building an online brand/community in an ethical manner that will lead to long-lasting revenue streams. In a nutshell: It takes a lot more than just setting up an Instagram account highlighting your badonkadonk. You can listen here: Or, you can: Go HERE to listen/download on Apple. Go HERE to listen on Spotify (Episode # 84) Or HERE if you’re an Android owner (Episode #84) Did what you just read make your day? Ruin it? Either way, you should share it with your friends and/or comment below.via Blog – Tony Gentilcore http://tonygentilcore.com/2020/02/appearance-on-the-fit-dad-nation-podcast-how-to-build-an-online-brand/
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I recently had a huge realization about the clients I love working with. They’re smart, view me as a thought partner rather than teacher, know what they want and are willing to go after it, and challenge me to show up and do my best co-creative work with them. Some of them have PhDs and MBAs (letters I do not have after my name) and have, between you and me, always intimidated me a little. It’s only recently, after having successfully coached several of these clients, that I’m allowing myself to believe our work together is not some terrible mistake. That I am the right person to help these clients clarify their vision, chart a clear path to their desired outcome, and support them every step of the way. Can you relate? If you’ve ever resisted…
…you can probably relate! Imposter syndrome is insidious and it’s real. But there’s good news! Once you learn to spot your imposter syndrome in action, call it out for being the jerk that it is, and replace it with better thoughts, you can actually get on with the work of up-leveling your business, charging what you’re worth, and landing great projects and clients. If you’re in a growth stage in your business and life, chances are you’ve got an imposter complex waiting to get its ass kicked. Here are 3 ways to overcome yours: 1) Discern what’s trueImposter syndrome usually kicks in when we’re on the brink of doing something new, big, and scary. Thoughts that arise might include:
When you notice one of these mean thoughts sneaking into your mind, ask yourself the following: Is it true? Now the feeling might be real, but is it actually true? It’s a little-known fact, but if you feel like an imposter, it’s because you have integrity and are committed to delivering (scratch that—over-delivering) on your promise. People with integrity usually aren’t imposters. What would I need to do to feel I’ve got this? Maybe there is a gap in your knowledge that might be bridged by a few great books on the topic. Or perhaps you need to up-level your personal or professional brand to build connection and trust with your target audience. Identify what actions would bridge the gap for you and take them. 2) Button up your processOne of imposter syndrome’s favorite scripts is that you don’t have your sh*t together. After all, why would high-caliber, high-paying clients want to work with someone who is all over the map? Why indeed! One of the best antidotes to negative feelings is taking positive action and creating a process that delivers an incredible client experience. This is one of the best imposter-busting, business-building actions you can take. To do:
3) Surround yourself with business owners who are further along than youOne of my best qualities is my laziness. Don’t get me wrong, I work hard, but if I can find someone who has already done what I want to do, I’m not going to reinvent the wheel; I’m going to ask them to tell me exactly how they did it, and I’m going to do that. And it goes both ways. When people a couple of steps behind me ask for advice, I give it freely and without fear. To do: Find at least three people who are further along than you and meet with them regularly. This might take the form of a mentor, a group coaching program, or mastermind. Meet with these people regularly, check your ego at the door, and absorb their wisdom while sharing freely of your own (because you have tons to share, too!). Imposter complex is real and it’s not going anywhere, so learning to recognize and handle it is an entrepreneurial life skill. If you’re in the process of up-leveling and experiencing growing pains that threaten to slow your roll, now might be the time to get support. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/26/how-to-beat-imposter-syndrome/
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I’ve used a similar slogan in other ways:
There’s a t-shirt in there somewhere…;o) Needless to say: 1) I have a potty mouth (#sorrynotsorry) and 2) I’m a firm believer that strength training is not only a wonderful (and often overlooked) way to get people strong(er) – duh! – but also as a means to “correct” or address a perceived dysfunction/road block in movement. Owning POSITION(s)I work with a lot of individuals who complain of shoulder ouchies, especially as it relates to performing stuff overhead. There are any number of factors to consider:
Who knows? Lots of things can run awry. I think it behooves any coach/trainer to put on their detective’s hat, dig deep(er), and try to ascertain what could be the root cause for someone’s discomfort or pain. SIDE NOTE: Too, I think it’s important to be careful of scope of practice and not DIAGNOSE anything. Nothing irritates me more – other than people who refer to themselves as an “entrepreneur” or “influencer” – than a personal trainer who thinks he or she is a physical therapist or doctor and attempts to diagnose their clients:
It’s within our wheelhouse to assess movement, of course, and to use that information to help guide programming. But outside of that I implore you to stay within your lane and not get into the habit of diagnosing anything. Okay, end rant. Back to why someone’s shoulder hurts. All of what I mentioned above applies and can definitely be a part of the conversation. One factor, however, that often gets glanced over is the congruency of the shoulder blades and rib cage. I.e., Can a concave scapula play nicely together with a convex rib cage? One way to accomplish this is to give the Serratus Anterior muscle waaaaaaay more attention than we typically give it. The Serratus is a “reaching” muscle and helps the shoulder blade move AROUND the rib cage. For those who have been incessantly told to keep the shoulder blades “together & back” – which, to be fair, is important to lift heavy things – it can sometimes result in faulty mechanics where they’re more or less cemented in place. And, shoulder blades that don’t move = no bueno. Renowned physical therapist, Shirley Sahrmann, popularized the phrase “Scapular Downward Rotation Syndrome” in her book Diagnoses and Treatment of Movement Impairment Syndromes. Without getting into the wordplay too much, Downward Rotation Syndrome can be the result of a few things, but the main players at play are (generally) overactive/tight Rhomboids, levator scapula, and lats. Symptoms can range anywhere from subsequent glenohumeral compensatory joint motion (joint fraying to tears) and instability to neck pain, and, in extreme cases, thoracic outlet syndrome. It sounds like some nefarious, end-of-days stuff (and it can be). However, rest assured the “fix” can be quite accessible. Anything which allows more reaching (protraction), in addition to better access to rib cage expansion (movement), can be MONEY for many people. You can see both in action in what’s undoubtedly the most boring video on the internet. 1️⃣ As I press my hands forward I’m thinking about reaching as far out in front of me as possible (I’m not keeping the shoulder blades still). Hello Serratus. Nice to meet you. 2️⃣ As I progress overhead I’m reaching upward towards the ceiling with my upper traps, staying careful not to cheat via my lower back. Ribs stay down. Not coincidentally BOTH – Serratus & Upper Traps – play an integral role in scapular upward rotation. The shoulder blades are designed to move! If overhead activities hurt it could be because you’ve programmed yourself to keep them in place. 3️⃣ At the top I’m OWNING the position (very important) by adding a breath: INHALE through the nose expanding the rib cage all around. Then a FULL, accentuated, EXHALE to get the ribs down and promote a canister position (rib cage stacked over pelvis). 4️⃣ Pants optional. If you want to aid better overhead motion – or just help people’s shoulders feel better – it’s imperative to get the shoulder blades and ribcage to become BFFs and to OWN better position(s). Less band external rotation drills and more Serratus activation in concert with positional breathing. EDIT: Props to both Luke Worthington and Conor Harris for the idea. Did what you just read make your day? Ruin it? Either way, you should share it with your friends and/or comment below.via Blog – Tony Gentilcore http://tonygentilcore.com/2020/02/if-you-want-to-correct-shit-you-need-to-own-shit/
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You may recall that last year’s tax season was one for the history books, with the most sweeping overhaul of the tax code in recent memory going into effect. While this year doesn’t bring quite as many changes to freelance tax returns, it’s still important to be aware of what’s new. With barely eight weeks to go, now’s the time to take note of these changes that will impact your 2019 tax return: An increase in the standard deduction.Yes, the standard deduction doubled in 2018, and it is increasing again this year to account for inflation, making it much more likely that most people will be claiming it rather than itemizing their deductions. Single filers can claim a standard deduction of $12,200, and married individuals filing jointly qualify for a standard deduction of $24,400. Individuals who qualify as head of household get a standard deduction of $18,350. Since the standard deduction is expected to be more advantageous for approximately 90 percent of taxpayers than itemizing deductions (and most likely you, unless you have very high unreimbursed medical expenses), you may want to check with a tax professional if you do the math and still think you should itemize your deductions. A reprieve on the threshold for medical expense deductions.If you have a medical condition and you have high unreimbursed medical expenses, you may be better off itemizing them than claiming the standard deduction. Last year, if you had medical expenses equaling 7.5 percent or more of your income, you could itemize these expenses as deductions. Initially, the medical expense threshold for 2019 was supposed to increase to 10 percent, but at the last minute, the government decided to retain the lower threshold. In 2020, the threshold is expected to raise to 10 percent. The penalty for not having health insurance is gone.The 2019 tax year is the first one since the introduction of Obamacare in which the Affordable Care Act’s individual Shared Responsibility Payment, or individual mandate, no longer applies. This fee was collected by the IRS from taxpayers who could afford health insurance but who chose not to buy it. However, if you are filing your taxes in the District of Columbia, Massachusetts, or New Jersey, you are not off the hook. These states have introduced a new individual health insurance mandate that requires you to have qualifying health coverage or pay a fee on your 2019 state taxes. In 2020, California and Vermont will have this mandate, and several other states are considering it as well. If you live in a state that requires you to have health coverage and you don’t have coverage (or an exemption), you will likely be subject to a state tax fine. Alimony payments are no longer a tax liability or a deduction.If you finalized a divorce in 2018 or later and you pay alimony, you can no longer deduct these payments from your taxable income, because those who receive alimony no longer have to claim it as income. If your divorce happened before 2018, alimony is still considered a tax deduction and a source of taxable income unless explicitly stated in your decree that the new rules are reflected. These tax provisions were extended for the 2019 tax year and can work in your favor:· You can deduct the cost of private mortgage on your taxes. · The $500 lifetime credit for making IRS-approved energy-efficient improvements to your home is still in effect. · If you experienced a home foreclosure and your debt was canceled, you do not have to claim it on your return. Last year, this was not the case, so if you did pay tax on this kind of canceled debt, you can file an amendment. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrency transactions are being scrutinized by the IRS.The IRS is paying more attention to digital currencies and views them as property rather than currency, which means for tax purposes it is treated the same as if you are trading stock. This year, if you are active in the digital currency markets, you will need to report your activities on a separate form: Schedule 1, “Additional Income and Adjustments to Income.” This applies to any taxpayer who has received, sold, sent, exchanged, or otherwise acquired any cryptocurrency. Since the IRS is scrutinizing these transactions more closely for potential criminal activity or tax evasion, if you trade cryptocurrency, be sure to keep detailed records of all of your transactions in case of an audit and to make completing the Schedule 1 form easier. These are the key changes that you’ll notice when completing your 2019 freelance taxes. While they may not be as extensive as the introduction of tax reform in 2018, they are likely to impact at least a few areas of your tax situation. If you are in doubt about how these changes apply to you, reach out to a tax professional—and don’t delay, because prime filing season is here! Jonathan Medows is a New York City–based CPA who specializes in taxes and business issues for freelancers and self-employed individuals across the country. He offers a free consultation to members of Freelancer’s Union* and a monthly email newsletter covering tax, accounting and business issues to freelancers on his website, www.cpaforfreelancers.com which also features a new blog, how-to articles, and a comprehensive freelance tax guide. *Jonathan is happy to provide an initial consultation to freelancers. To qualify for a free consultation, you must be a member of the Freelancers Union and mention this article upon contacting him. Please note that this offer is not available Jan. 1 through April 18 and covers a general conversation about tax responsibilities of a freelancer and potential deductions. These meetings do not include review of self-prepared documents, review of self-prepared tax returns, or the review of the work of other preparers. The free meeting does not include the preparation or review of quantitative calculations of any sort. He is happy to provide such services but would need to charge an hourly rate for his time. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/25/whats-new-this-tax-year/
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[unable to retrieve full-text content] You won't get paid more until you ask for it. Here's exactly what to say when you do.via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/24/say-these-magic-words-to-get-the-money-you-deserve/
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Do you have a way with words and want to support the freelance community in a meaningful way? We’re looking for a Communications and Marketing Manager who can grow Freelancers Union’s membership, lead marketing activities to support our business goals, and drive a national conversation on the challenges facing freelancers by providing valuable content and resources across all of our channels. Responsibilities include managing Freelancers Union’s communications calendar, developing and maintaining marketing partnerships, and leading the growth of our blog, email, and online community. Applicants should be well-organized, extremely detail-oriented, and able to translate the mission and values of Freelancers Union into effective member communications. Freelancers Union is an innovative nonprofit representing more than 500,000 independent workers across the United States. We support our members with advocacy, education, and services, including a national benefits platform, the landmark Freelance Isn’t Free law, and the No. 1 blog for freelancers in the country. Our office is in DUMBO, the first stop into Brooklyn on the A, C, or F subway lines. See the full listing here. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/21/were-hiring-a-communications-and-marketing-manager/
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First things first: A new season of Clone Wars starts today. No big deal. It’s official: This marks the sixth year in a row Dean Somerset and I are presenting together. We’re so excited to be coming to Athens to kickstart 2020. I’m expecting ticker tape parades. My little guy has the day off from daycare today. He went to the gym with mommy and I this morning, we went for a scooter ride, and now he’s watching an episode of Clone Wars. Oh, I also taught him the phrase “bring the ruckus” ala Wu-Tang. Stellar morning. — Tony Gentilcore (@tonygentilcore1) February 17, 2020 If you’re someone (like me) who prefers to hang out with your cat on a Friday night than this article will help a ton. I’ll tell you what it isn’t: Standing on an unstable surface performing circus tricks. Bookmark this fucker. SO good. via Blog – Tony Gentilcore http://tonygentilcore.com/2020/02/stuff-to-read-while-youre-pretending-to-work-2-21-20/
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This article was first published by the IRS and has been reproduced with permission. Subscribe to IRS tax tips here. Millions of Americans use IRS Free File to file their federal taxes every year. They can use either name-brand software or the Free File Fillable Forms. Combining IRS Free File with direct deposit is the quickest and safest way to get a tax refund. Here are some facts to remember about IRS Free File:
The IRS works with the Free File Alliance partners to provide 10 brand-name online tax software options at no cost. Many Free File alliance member companies also provide free online state tax preparation software. If taxpayers need help while on the company's website, they should use the company's free customer service options. Taxpayers using an online product may need their adjusted gross income amount from their prior-year tax return to verify their identity. Taxpayers can learn more about how to verify their identity and electronically sign tax returns at Validating Your Electronically Filed Tax Return. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/02/21/could-you-file-taxes-for-free-this-year/ |
AuthorI have 5+ years experience working as a medical transcriptionist. When I am not working, I enjoy sports like playing basketball or judo. I love making friends and connections. Archives
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