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Just four days after the Paycheck Protection Program became available to freelancers and self-employed people, the Small Business Administration announced the program was out of money. The PPP was meant to be a lifeline to keep small business owners afloat, keep staff employed, and cover some operating expenses. For freelancers, the forgivable loan could be used to replace self-employment income for eight weeks, up to a total of $15,385. Applications to the program for businesses with less than 500 employees opened on April 3, but individuals were barred from submitting their applications for an additional week. In that time, a number of large, well-funded companies used loopholes to take money from the program that should have gone to struggling independent workers and small businesses in genuine need. (Major restaurant groups Shake Shack and Ruth’s Chris, each with multimillion-dollar valuations, took $10 million and $20 million in PPP funds, respectively.) As a result, while freelancers struggled to find SBA-approved lenders who would accept their applications — because of the demand, most large banks only processed PPP applications from those with whom they had an established business relationship — the program’s funds were rapidly running out. Freelancers now find themselves in the same position they have been in since the coronavirus pandemic began: scared, struggling, and without government aid, while big business receives federal bailouts. In most states, systems are still not in place for freelancers to receive unemployment insurance. It’s clear that much more money must be put into PPP now, and priority needs to be given to self-employed applicants who were essentially shut out of the first round of funding. Just as importantly, the SBA must make it easier for individuals to apply for these loans, and prohibit banks from restricting access to its existing customers. Many freelancers do not have separate business banking accounts — this cannot be held against them now as they struggle to keep their businesses afloat. That's why Freelancers Union and a group of independent film and media organizations sent a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to demand that new funding for the PPP put freelancers first. In order to provide real relief to those who need it most, we are urging the government to provide the following:
It’s urgent that we make our voices heard. Contact your local representative today and demand that PPP be re-funded, and that independent workers be put at the top of the list. Here is a sample script you can use. Dear [NAME], Just days after PPP applications were opened to freelancers, the program ran out of funds, while big businesses exploited the system and took millions. Hundreds of thousands of independent workers like myself need assistance to keep their businesses afloat during this economic crisis. Please expand the PPP today, and ensure freelancers are given priority to receive the federal aid this program is meant to provide. More than one-third of the American workforce are freelancers. It’s time politicians answered to us. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/21/freelancers-have-been-shut-out-of-ppp-funding/
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The Payroll Protection Program (PPP) loan fund is officially tapped out (for now), but if you were able to secure a loan through this program for your freelance business, it is important to know how forgiveness of this loan will work on your 2020 tax return. First, let’s look at what are considered qualified uses for funds from a PPP loan. While you can use your loan for any business expense, if you use it for anything other than payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent or utilities during the eight weeks after getting the loan, you’ll have to pay the loan back. If you are counting on having your loan forgiven, make sure you use the money for: · Wages · Commissions · Income · Net earnings from self-employment · Mortgage or rent payments · Utility payments · Interest on debt taken out before Feb. 15, 2020 It is not recommended to use your loan funds for both approved and nonapproved purposes, since only the money spent on approved uses will be forgiven. To qualify for loan forgiveness, at least 75% of the loan amount must go toward payroll costs (or your self-employment income). Only 25% of the funds you receive can be used to cover utility costs, rent, . Additionally, the total amount of PPP loan forgiveness is capped at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The following offers guidance on how to calculate the amount of a Payroll Protection Program Loan that can be forgiven by individuals with self-employment income . These calculations will be made on Schedule C of your 2020 tax return. Note that you must have self-employment income in order to qualify for loan forgiveness: · Your self-employment income based on your 2019 Schedule C will be capped at $15,385 (calculated using a maximum $100,000 annual compensation, divided by 52 and paid for 8 weeks). Be sure to exclude any sick leave amounts for which a credit was claimed under the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act from this total.
It is wise to calculate whether you will be able to obtain forgiveness on the total of your PPP loan in the next few weeks, so you can be prepared if you’ll need to repay any portion of the loan. The loan agreement with your SBA lender will determine the repayment terms, but under the CARES Act, the maximum loan term for amounts that are not forgiven is two years, and the maximum interest rate that can be charged is 1%. If you missed out on PPP funding and you need cash due to loss of work from COVID-19, be on the lookout for PPP 2.0 as Congress and the president are working on further lending programs and/or adding funds to PPP. Also consider looking at filing for unemployment through your state’s unemployment insurance program. More information can be found on The Department of Labor website. 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 monthly email newsletter covering tax, accounting, and business issues to freelancers on his website, http://www.cpaforfreelancers.com — which also features a blog, how-to articles, and a comprehensive freelance tax guide. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/20/how-ppp-forgiveness-can-turn-a-loan-into-a-grant/
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Today marks a full month that we’ve been quarantined here in Boston. And it’s looking as if it’s going to be more of the same for yet another month. I’d like to sit here and say I’ve used my “bonus” time to pick up a second language, read War and Peace, or, I don’t know, organize my entire DVD/Blu-Ray collection autobiographically. Meaning, for instance, if I wanted to watch the movie, say, Go… …I’d have to remember I put that in the Spring 1999 (but saw in the theater alone) section. Moreover, if I wanted to watch Notting Hill I’d have to remember that’s also placed in the Spring 1999, but in the Took a Friend to the Movies Who Happened to be the Opposite Sex (but Wanted Her to Be More Than a Friend, but She Stayed a Friend) section. Alas, none of that has taken place. Most of my time has been spent having lightsaber battles with my 3-year old and eating an embarrassing amount of cheese. I’ve also been CRUSHING Ozark on Netflix. My wife, Lisa, had watched the previous two seasons without me and I never caught up. Season three was released a few weeks ago and she said she’d re-watch the first two seasons so we could watch the most recent one together. Season 1 = Insanely good. What a treat to watch a well-written show that takes pride in character development and pacing. Season 2 = I’m only half way through and it’s still really, really good. Season 3 = NO SPOILERS. Something else to check out (if you haven’t already) is Questlove’s 7+ hour tribute to Q-Tip and A Tribe Called Quest. I’ve been listening to it non-stop this entire week. Part IPart IISocial Media Shenanigans
Stuff to Read While You’re at Home Not Wearing PantsOn Motivation, Discipline, and Coaching – Jonny PietruntiMy boy Jonny took a break from social media and writing for a while, but he’s been back WITH A VENGEANCE of late. Lower Extremity Injury Prevention & Rehab – Christopher Havens (TD Athletes Edge)I’m a big fan of the team at TD Athlete’s Edge in Salem, MA This is article is one of the reasons why. Awesome content and info. Niched – Pete DupuisIf you’re craving for a podcast recommendation I can’t say enough good things about my good friend and former business partner, Pete Dupuis’s, latest venture. It highlights “unconventional” entrepreneurs who have taken alternative paths to their success. Pete’s an engaging interviewer and the stories told are fascinating. (waiting for him to interview me so I can talk about my biceps for 60 minutes). 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/2020/04/stuff-to-read-while-youre-stuck-at-home-not-wearing-pants-4-17-20/
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If you’re new to working from home, it can be a little intimidating to figure out how to best adapt. After all, you’re used to the buzz of the office, the hum of the coffee shop, or the collaborative energy of in-person team meetings. With that said, you might be surprised by how productive you can be after setting up a true work-from-home office space that is dedicated to your freelance work. Here are some tips for setting up a work-from-home space so you can focus on getting your work done. Step 1. Carve out a space for yourself.Even if you don’t have a home office you can dedicate to work, finding just a corner with a desk is a great foundation. Make sure you have a desk that fits you, along with an ergonomic chair to keep you comfortable throughout the workday. In fact, you may find that you do best with a standing desk. There are a huge array of standing desk models available. Step 2. Make sure your technology is up to snuff.The right tools can make or break your productivity and workflow during the day. If your work requires remote access to clients' systems, make sure you've got everything you need to do your work seamlessly. If any of your gear is getting old or outdated, this may be the time to consider an upgrade. Step 3. Invest in small joys.If you’re not accustomed to working from home, you might feel a little lonely and isolated working by yourself. Take the time to create a space that inspires you. Add a little bit of greenery in the form of a low-maintenance houseplant. Consider adding a Himalayan salt lamp or fairy lights for a more whimsical ambiance. Buy a mousepad that supports frustration-free mouse movement. Step 4. Connect with others remotely.Even if you don't have a dedicated office, you probably used to take advantage of coworking spaces or coffee shops to get out of the house and network. It’s important to keep that up when you are working from home. Consider setting up both formal one-on-one chats with clients as well as informal videoconferences with your freelancer friends, like a Friday happy hour where everyone can talk about their professional and personal wins. Step 5. Create a schedule.One of the best ways to make the most of your new remote work situation is by setting up a schedule that you can follow each day. The human body and mind thrive on routine. If you normally wake up at 7, continue to do so. Give yourself breaks throughout the day, including a long walk or exercise break at lunchtime to get away from being inside and looking at a computer. Step 6. Know when to call it a day.Working from home can sometimes mean that your work and regular lives bleed into each other. While working past 5 p.m. is sometimes inevitable, make sure you reach a point where you power down your computer and don’t respond to non-urgent work emails. Turn off your notifications and give your brain a break until tomorrow. Step 7. Work through motivation slumps.It's a tough time for everyone, and we're all feeling more anxiety. You or people you know may be ill, and you may have childcare duties that aren't usually part of your usual workday. Be forgiving with yourself if you're not feeling motivated, but set timers for to block off periods of concentration, or take a walk if you need to get past a mental block. It’s okay to have less productive days, but dial in on the reason why and try to come back the next day with fresh creativity. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/17/set-yourself-up-for-work-from-home-success/
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Short Answer = No. Long(er) Answer = Read more below. Will Squatting Make You Tight?I can’t believe we still have to have this “debate” in 2020. While it’s not nearly as prevalent of a thought process as a decade or two ago, there are still people out there under the impression that lifting appreciable weight – and therefore, by extension, squatting – will result in big, bulky, and stiff muscles. Merely looking at a barbell will make you tighter than a crowbar. I don’t even think that makes sense, but whatever…you get the idea. The same people who fall prey to this mind-trap are the ones who likely still believe lactate acid causes muscle soreness, creatine is a steroid, starvation mode exists, and that Tom Selleck doesn’t have the sexiest and manliest mustache of all-time. Recent research indicates that global warming can be attributed solely to the effects Tom Sellecks’s mustache has on women (and me). I could opine on why I feel the argument that lifting heavy/squatting makes you tight is a tepid and weak one at best, but I’m not going to because 1) this is blog post and 2) not a dissertation. I can respect and appreciate that people are at the mercy of their milieu and can often succumb to the atmosphere, anecdotal experiences, and the echo chambers that feed into their biases. I get it: You watch one too many Tom Brady documentaries and the idea of touching a barbell (or a tomato) makes you sick to your stomach. Although, in TB12’s defense: SIX Super Bowl rings earns you the right to do & think whatever the hell you want with regards to strength & conditioning and what you feel is the ideal approach for your goals and body. Nevertheless, I do feel it’s a silly stance to take. To steal a line (and photo op) from Chris Duffin:
I’m stuck Make no mistake: There are many nuances to consider with regards to squat technique and what variation, setup, and execution will be best suited given an individual’s injury history, goals, ability level, genetics, and anthropometry. I don’t think there’s any ONE best way to execute or coach the squat, and I lose a lot of respect for coaches and trainers who play all hoity-toity and think THEIR way of coaching it is the only way to do so. Again, and this can’t be reiterated enough:
…all need to be taken into consideration when coaching up the squat. The internet likes to argue semantics on bar position, hand position, depth, stance, what day of the week it is, barometric pressure, and a myriad of other things that may or may not matter when it comes to enhancing squat technique and performance. For me, so long as the feet, ankles, knees, and hips are appropriately positioned and loaded (using all the info above as guidance), “neutral” spine is maintained, and we’re doing all we can to prevent any destroying back of pants… …we’re (probably) accomplishing some good things. Moreover, if you think about what’s required to pull off a decent looking squat:
We could make the case that everything listed above is a splendid way to “offset” sitting at a desk all day, particularly when you consider a loaded squat will nudge or force people to adopt a little more thoracic extension, which is rarely a bad idea for that population. By contrast, squatting (and by proxy, lifting appreciable weight) correctly can be viewed as the opposite of making someone tight. NOTE: For some more insights on how I address squat technique check THIS and THIS and THIS out. Oh, and if your favorite He-Man character isn’t He-Man you need to check yourself before you wreck yourself. 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/2020/04/will-squatting-make-you-tight/
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On Wednesday, April 15, Freelancers Union President Rafael Espinal held his first State of the Freelancers Union since he took office on March 2, 2020. Rafael presented his vision for a 50-state freelancers movement post-COVID-19, which includes an expanded network of Freelancers Hubs modeled after our coworking and career development space in Dumbo, Brooklyn, and a push to other cities and states to adopt legislation like New York’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act, which provides landmark protections for freelancers against client nonpayment and retaliation. But first, we need to get through the current crisis together. While a number of programs have been established or extended to include freelancers, their implementation is a mess. Unemployment agencies across the country are struggling to set up applications for nontraditional employees, and were not formally given funds to provide the additional $600/weekly Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) payments until this past week. It is provided in the CARES Act that both regular UI and PUA benefits are retroactive, so if you are not yet able to apply in your state, your first payments will cover that waiting period since you lost work. There are also emergency loans available under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program from the federal Small Business Administration. Right now, there is no regulation from the federal government about sole proprietors accepting both unemployment insurance and a small business loan, so our recommendation is to apply for both. And while EIDL and PPP funds cannot be used to cover the same expenses, you can use PPP to cover your income and EIDL to pay operating costs and expenses, and you should apply for both as needed. PPP funds are fully forgivable if used correctly, and EIDL is a low-interest loan. For PPP, which is intended to cover 8 weeks of payroll for small businesses, sole proprietors would calculate their “payroll” as the income they bring in (e.g., if you usually bring $5,000/month, your self-employed payroll would be calculated at $5,000). And while a number of large lenders are limiting their loan applications to clients who already have business accounts with them, new lenders and smaller banks are accepting new clients, and more are lobbying the Small Business Administration to be approved soon. Recently, Paypal and Quickbooks were approved. See a full list of smaller lenders here. We encourage members to apply for any and all relief programs now. PPP does not require you to prove hardship or impact by the coronavirus, so if you are doing OK now but expect to have issues later, give yourself the safety net of that 8 weeks of income. But remember that you do not qualify for unemployment insurance and PUA if you are still working! In New York, the limit is $504/week — your state number may vary — so if you are still seeing some income come in, your eligibility to claim UI can be jeopardized. New York Sen. Jessica Ramos, who represents part of Queens and is the chair of the Labor Committee, joined to give an update on New York’s programs. She said one of the issues with UI implementation is that the New York Department of Labor has long been underfunded (as is the case in many states), which impacted its ability to accept the increased volume of calls since the pandemic began. But they are accepting applications from both W2 and 1099 workers, and the New York Department of Labor has a simple chart to help freelancers navigate the UI system. Sen. Ramos encouraged New Yorkers to advocate Gov. Cuomo to increase funding for the DOL, in addition to endorsing the bill to cancel rent that is currently in the legislature. She pointed out that while the state has enacted a 90-day mortgage freeze and 90-day eviction moratorium, currently, renters are on the hook for their full rent amount even if they are seeing no income. California Sen. Scott Wiener, who represents part of San Francisco, echoed the need for rent relief. He is coauthor of Assembly Bill 828, currently under discussion, which strengthens a statewide moratorium on evictions and extends the period of time for repayment of back rent. He is also sponsoring a bill to forgive rent for nonprofits and small businesses. For those applying for UI in California, Sen. Wiener said that the Employment Development Division is currently building their system for processing freelancer applications. The estimate is that it will be open to freelancer applications on April 28, and they commit to sending first payments within 24-48 hours after applications are received. The Senator recommended that freelancers set up their accounts with the EDD now but do not attempt to submit an application, so that when the new portal opens on April 28, you will be ready to file quickly. He also shared that the Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development is hosting regular Facebook Live events to answer further questions. Check that Facebook page for information on the next event. Finally, attorney J.R. Skrabanek joined to discuss the power of New York’s Freelance Isn’t Free Act (FIFA) and give recommendations for those dealing with nonpayment issues. FIFA provides double damages and mandatory attorney’s fees in the event of a positive ruling in a freelancer’s favor, making the process for submitting a legal claim in NYC simple and easy. For those not in New York, be polite, professional, and firm when requesting your payment. Make sure your invoices contain payment terms (like net 30). Follow up on your requests regularly, and escalate to a contact in the accounting department, the CEO or CFO. At a certain point you can tell them you have no choice but to take legal recourse. Google “Small claims court” + your city to find out how to file — most cities make it easy to do. As Sen. Wiener said, when this crisis ends, “We will get back to normal, but only in the good ways.” Right now, we have the opportunity to disrupt the status quo that has left freelancers without a safety net, and has perpetuated the oppression of people of color, low-income people, and undocumented immigrants. For us, it is a moment to join together and insist that these temporary protections for freelancers become permanent. When we raise our voices together, the 57 million freelancers in this country are too strong a force to be ignored any longer. The event was hosted on Instagram live, and the video will be uploaded to our YouTube channel shortly. We are deeply grateful to our guests for sharing their time and expertise. If there are people you would like to hear from in a future discussion, please let us know! If you sent in a question for the event that was not answered, a member of the Freelancers Union team will be reaching out to respond to you directly. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/16/the-state-of-the-freelancers-union/
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The COVID-19 pandemic is unprecedented in our time. It has left countless companies unable to keep their doors open, putting millions of people out of work and making it hard for those who work for themselves to keep moving forward. But there is one type of work that has a better chance of getting through a crisis like this: freelancing. Even if you already work independently, you probably know plenty of people who don’t. Here are 13 reasons why you should help your friends start freelancing today. 1. It Will Be HardThe next few months are going to be incredibly hard for a lot of people, and having the chance to make some extra money will be a great benefit. Most people don’t know how freelancing works, though, and the people you care about may need some help to get their careers started. 2. You Know the MarketBreaking into the freelance market can be complicated, which can be a shock when people first approach this sort of work. With your existing knowledge of this market, you can help the people you care about take control of their work. 3. Rapid WorkOne of the biggest challenges being faced by people during the COVID-19 outbreak is being able to get enough work. Freelance work provides the chance to get work very quickly, and this can be crucial when someone is trying to pay bills or support a family. 4. Flexible HoursMore parents are having to stay home to look after their children than ever before, and it is putting huge amounts of pressure on professionals who must work during normal hours. Freelance work gives you the chance to choose your own hours, enabling you to give both your work and your children enough of your time. 5. Variable Workloads/IncomeMost normal jobs come with very few opportunities to bolster your income. Freelance work lets you pick up more work than usual in times of greater need, giving you the chance to earn enough money to cover any gaps. 6. Work From HomePeople across the world are having to move their work home, but it can be a challenge for a lot of professionals. Much of the freelance market has been built around working at home. 7. No Formal Education NeededGetting a traditional job without the right education can be very hard. Freelance work takes this barrier away, giving you an opportunity to improve your friends’ careers and raise their earning potential without the cost or time commitment of more schooling. 8. Interesting and Varied WorkJobs often get boring when you’ve been doing them for a long time; there’s very little variety in most modern roles. Freelance work offers the chance to enjoy more varied work, as you can take on projects from different companies, making life far more satisfying in the process. 9. Your Own GearIn times like this, being careful about the things you touch and use is very important. Offices and other shared work environments make it easy to spread viruses. If you turn your friends into freelancers, they will be able to avoid this, ensuring that they can always use their own gear to do their work. 10. SecurityWhile people often view freelance work as lacking the security of a normal job, a lot of traditional workers have found themselves without jobs thanks to COVID-19. While freelance work can change at any time, this flexibility can make your work more adaptable and ultimately more secure, especially during times like these. 11. Early RetirementFreelancers don’t get a pension like traditional workers, and must save for their own retirement. However, this opens the doors to a much earlier retirement, if you choose. Or, for those with insufficient savings to retire fully, they can retire part-time and boost their income by freelancing part-time. 12. Staying Secure in the Digital AgeYou can help your friends secure their working life, from using different phones for work to installing the right kind of software on their laptops and other machines. This extends to helping them become aware of the risks of working online and the need for cybersecurity, including simple things like using a password manager. 13. Moving the Economy ForwardPeople aren’t sure how long COVID-19 is going to last, but the impact of this outbreak is going to be felt by the world for generations. Having more people able to work is going to improve the economy for everyone, making it well worth pushing as many of your friends as possible to take up work online. The digital economy doesn’t have to suffer as much as the finances of the real world.
To help your friends and family get started, I have produced the Ultimate Freelancing Library, a step-by-step set of 12 Amazon eBooks that have been discounted to $1 each to help people under financial stress. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/15/help-your-friends-start-freelancing-today/
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If you’re wondering, Why should I bother improving my brand name in the middle of a crisis?, you couldn’t be more off! In fact, now is one of the best times to work on your branding. Building a personal brand to represent you as a freelancer can make a huge difference for your business. You’ll especially feel the impact at times like this, during a crisis. The highly competitive nature of freelance work is even more of a challenge at times when your income is at risk. How can you avoid the stress of losing out on more work during this time? Build a solid brand. Having a strong and identifiable brand can set you apart from your competitors and make a client choose you for a project over another freelancer. The perks of building a brandBuilding a strong personal brand for your business, in addition to differentiating you from your competition, also has the following benefits:
Your clients and audience want to see an authority figure and relate to them on a more personal level. This, in turn, will help your professional relationship grow and flourish. When a crisis occurs, you will see how having a strong brand to supplement your freelance operations can carry you. Your clients won’t doubt your quality standards, and will continue to hold you in the highest regard if you’ve proven your worth to them in the past. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s start building your brand. How to build your brandAs a freelancer, you may often face the challenge of letting go of your work-life balance and burning the midnight oil. Having an established brand name can, to an extent, carry some of that work strain for you by getting your clients to trust you faster. No longer do you have to worry about constantly having to reassure your clients that you are of top-notch quality. How is this possible? By reinforcing a strong freelance brand identity. Following these steps can get you and your brand there. 1. Strengthen your rootsThe first thing you have to do is build upon your foundation. What sets you apart from other freelancers in the market? A huge component of your personal brand has to do with authenticity. If you want clients to be drawn to you, they have to find you not only relatable, but a true master of the skills you possess. Your brand should embody the passion you have to meet your goals as a freelancer. This translates to a willingness to serve your clients to the best degree. And that’s exactly what they want to see. This first step requires a certain level of introspection. Take a step back from yourself as a freelancer and objectively review your freelance business. Ask yourself the following questions:
Once you have answered these questions and have some clarity surrounding your freelance identity, you can start to build your brand! 2. Choose your audienceIn your dreams, you may have every client in the market in your pocket. But reality works differently. When building a personal brand, don’t think about having all the clients in your corner — just the right ones. This means identifying what a "perfect client" means to you. For example, a social media consultant would operate in the broader market of digital marketing. He might have knowledge around SEO, but building a brand around all clients requiring SEO expertise would not be logical. Identifying clients in his/her particular niche of social media marketing would be best. A way to get a picture of your perfect client is to build a profile of them. Ask yourself questions about their challenges and needs to essentially create a buyer persona. Here are some things you can ask yourself while brainstorming your clients’ persona:
3. Make an offer they can’t refuseAfter asking the questions about your freelance brand identity and your ideal client, it’s time to identify how you can bridge the gap between the two. How can your brand be positioned to sell itself and appeal to your clients’ innermost desires? What pain point is it addressing for them? At this stage, creating a name for yourself as an expert in your niche can have an impact. If your clients can view you as a reliable authority figure in your domain, they will be more confident that you can meet their needs. Think of this step as a Venn diagram approach and find the overlap between what you have to offer and what your ideal client wants. The answer will give you an irresistible brand offering that you can work on articulating to your audience, either in your brand’s tag line or mission statement. Remember to stay authentic. Be humble but confident in assuring that you can deliver exactly what you promise. 4. Create the perfect websiteAs a freelancer, you are probably already aware of the importance of having your own website. Unlike social media, your website is the one platform you have complete ownership and control over. Review your website to see if it reflects your brand identity and the ideals you are trying to communicate. Look for:
Incorporating your freelance brand into these elements can make the difference and convert a visitor into a loyal client. You can further extend your website to a store using ecommerce builders. 5. Have a content strategy in placeCreating a content strategy is an important piece of your overall marketing and branding strategy. It’s a good way to get your clients to view you as an expert. By creating content that is helpful to them, you can build authority and set yourself apart from your competition. Your content should always be relevant to your niche. Take a look at your content production plans and the mix of content that you leverage to connect with your audience. Evaluate the most popular forms and the feedback and participation you receive from your audience to determine the best approach. 6. Create a social media strategyOne of the best ways to gain more visibility for your brand is to publish your content on varying platforms. Whether you’re using a product-led approach to your social media marketing or focusing on building relationships with your clients, embodying your brand ideals and values throughout is essential. For example, if one of your values is to deliver excellent and timely customer service, you can leverage social media as one of the modes of communication between you and your clients. Promoting your business on Instagram is also a good idea if you have highly visual pieces of content that you can share. When not engaging with your target audience through your own social media profiles, it’s a good idea to partner with others who have a large audience and visibility. This can be an entry point for your brand to reach an already established base. You can achieve this by:
7. Be part of a communityYour final move on your way to creating an unforgettable brand is to build a community of both existing clients and new prospects that are looking to interact with your brand and get to know you better. There are a number of ways to go about this. For example, you could create a closed Facebook Group exclusive to your niche audience and engage with them on a daily basis. Other alternatives include Discord groups for ongoing conversations, conducting live events, or maybe even incorporating a "membership zone" to your website. No matter the means, the end goal remains the same: fostering a sense of brand identity that extends beyond just you, the freelancer, to your clients as well. If your audience feels like they are part of something bigger than themselves, they are more likely to convert into loyal clients in the long run. 8. Solidify your branding with the right branding toolsTo build a solid brand that sets you apart, you need branding that clients can recognize you by. One way to do this is to build branding collateral and consistently use it.
I can go on and on, but my point is you need to “personal-brandify” every engagement with your clients. This will create a brand that’s hard to forget. Why build my brand now?With COVID-19 disrupting business around the world, the opportunities for growth may seem limited to you. If you have a solid brand, it will do the work of consistently bringing in clients, even in uncertain times. Currently, nearly all business models are operating on a remote basis for their employees. Freelancers have already perfected the art of working remotely. The energy that others are focusing on adjusting to these changes is something you can divert into solidifying your brand and boosting your freelance offering. When a crisis occurs, it does not need to be a slowdown for you as a freelancer, although it may feel that way. Rather, it is a test of your resilience and, ultimately, a trial by fire for your brand. Remember: it’s the embodiment of your freelance identity in your brand that speaks for your business in challenging times. via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/14/branding-your-freelance-career-is-more-important-than-ever/
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The whole world is hurting. The fitness industry, though, in an admittedly personal and biased take, is really hurting. The bulk of businesses across the health & fitness community have been forced to shut down for a seemingly indeterminate amount of time as the COVID-19 pandemic runs its course and disrupts everything. I felt it prudent to share this splendid initiative courtesy of LiveMomentous.com designed to help small businesses in the fitness industry generate much needed revenue/income to help offset expenses and overhead during this difficult time. #SupportYourSweat #SupportYourSweatHow It WorksWhether you’re a trainer, a small gym owner, run a yoga/pilates studio, operate a bike shop, or train Kumite fighters (<– hey, I’m sure they still exists) you have likely been grossly affected by this public health crisis. The #SupportYourSweat initiative was created to get funds into the hands of these businesses now, even while they are closed and struggling. Apply to the program HERE by simply filling out a five minute form. The website will promote and facilitate the buying and selling of “Sweat Bonds” for small businesses in the health and fitness industry. Sweat Bonds are discounted services to be redeemed in the future, once your business is allowed to operate again. Many of you reading are small business owners yourself and/or have friends and colleagues who are (health & fitness) small business owners. This initiative will only succeed if the message is spread and businesses apply. Moreover, many of you reading are members and patrons of small businesses/gyms in your area and would love to support them in some way. This is how you can do it. So if you know of people within the fitness industry who can benefit from this, please share this program with them! Learn more about how you can benefit at SupportYourSweat.org. 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/2020/04/support-your-sweat-a-call-to-action-for-trainers-coaches-fitness-professionals/
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This is a sponsored post from Bench, the online bookkeeping service that pairs you with a dedicated bookkeeping team and elegant software to do your books for you. With the effects of COVID-19 rippling through the economy, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Many businesses are being forced to shut their doors temporarily. What should you do first? How can you protect your finances in a volatile economy? Understand your business’ current financial positionIt’s always a good idea to have a handle on your numbers, but this becomes doubly important during times of economic uncertainty. A clear understanding of your company’s financial position lets you immediately see where you can cut costs, what expenses you can justify, and what debts might need to be renegotiated or deferred. Evaluate current assets and loans and see what can be leveraged during this time. Bookkeeping in times of recession is more important than ever — having financial statements on hand are often necessary for payment deferrals or loan applications. If you’re behind on your bookkeeping and you’re not sure how you’ll get financial statements together, Bench can help. Apply for disaster loans or financial reliefNobody was ready for the heavy-hitting impacts of COVID-19, but the government has stepped up and is rolling out new programs and loans to help you stay in business. Here are some of the latest options to take advantage of: SBA Disaster Relief Loan. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved low-interest federal disaster loans for small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. The highlights:
Further reading: How to Get an SBA Disaster Loan SBA Express Bridge Loans. Applied for an SBA disaster loan but need cash, now? The Express Bridge Loan Pilot program authorizes SBA Express Lenders to provide emergency loans in amounts up to $25,000 while your small business applies for and awaits long-term financing through SBA’s direct Disaster Loan Program. There is a catch, though — your small business must have an existing business relationship with an SBA Express Lender. Check with your banking institutions to see if they offer SBA Loans. The highlights:
Further Reading: Express Bridge Loan Pilot Program Guide Paycheck Protection Program. The Paycheck Protection Program is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. This program is intended to provide American small businesses with eight weeks of cash-flow assistance through 100 percent federally guaranteed loans. The highlights:
Further Reading: What is the Paycheck Protection Program? (A Simple Guide) The CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Economic Security). The government just passed one of their biggest financial relief bills yet — the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, Economic Security). $350 billion is being dedicated to preventing layoffs and business closures while workers have to stay home during the outbreak. The highlights:
Further Reading: The Coronavirus Relief Bill: Every Benefit for Small Businesses File your taxes sooner rather than laterIf your tax filing deadline is April 15, good news: The IRS has officially extended this deadline to July 15, 2020. This extension includes making payments on any taxes owed, so you can defer without penalties and interest. But just because you can put off filing your taxes doesn’t mean you should. If you’re owed a refund, the IRS is encouraging taxpayers to file as soon as possible. Most tax refunds are still being issued within 21 days, which could mean some much-needed cash back for your business. Even if you owe money, it’s still in your best interest to file sooner rather than later. A lot of lenders or relief programs want to see an up-to-date business tax return. By filing now, you’ll have this important document on hand and ready to go — and you’ll still have until July 15 to make a payment for any taxes owed. If you’d rather have someone else handle your federal income tax filing, check out BenchTax. It’s optimized for remote working conditions, and gives you the support you need to navigate changing deadlines and tax environments. Consider pivoting your business strategyEven if you’ve made all the right moves for your business during COVID-19, there are still some things that are out of your control. A dip in sales is one thing, but what if your customers or revenue disappear altogether? Consider an alternative, temporary revenue stream. Create an ecommerce site for your brick-and-mortar store. Or, if you run a fitness studio, stream live classes. If you run a salon or spa, sell gift cards for future services. Loyal customers are eager to help out their favorite small businesses if they can, so staying connected and empathetic to your customer base right now goes a long way. Further Reading: Leading a Small Business Through a Recession: Five Best Practices via Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2020/04/13/4-steps-to-getting-your-business-through-covid-19/ |
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
April 2023
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