Want to be a freelancer? Here are some good tips

1. How to Get Started in Freelancing

Becoming a freelancer is a way to work at home and be independent without needing to start an actual business. As a general rule, so long as you operate under your own name you do not need to register as a business (check your home state for any special requirements). This makes it possible to get started as a freelancer overnight without a lot of hassle and with the least amount of expense. This article takes a closer look at freelancing and how to get started.

2. Freelance Writer

Many people who like to write wish that writing were their profession. Actually, it can be and while getting established as an independent writer is not especially easy, it may not be as hard as you might think. Writing is one profession that is especially suitable for those who are considering freelancing. That's because most types of writing today only require a computer, an Internet connection and word processing software. Like all freelancing endeavors, you can start part-time and build up your income as you grow and learn.

3. Freelance Virtual Assistant

The Virtual Assistant (VA) industry is growing fast and becoming a popular for those who want to start freelancing - usually by doing the things they have done well in the past for prior employers. It's an area of freelancing that lends itself to low startup costs and one that can be started on a part-time basis. In short, this is a freelancing area that is seen as trendy with a good deal of growth potential, especially servicing smaller employers who don't have the budget to hire full-time staff to get work done.

4. Freelance Desktop Publisher

Mastering software, meeting deadlines, and making yourself known are the keys to freelancing as a desktop publisher. The need for professional looking computer-generated documents and publications has never been greater -- and for those who are too busy or don't understand the ins and outs of creating professional looking documents and other items, a freelance desktop publisher can be a big help.

5. Freelance Bookkeeper

Freelancing as a bookkeeper can be lucrative, with many experienced freelancers earning between $25 and $40 an hour. Today's bookkeeping freelancer should be knowledgeable in bookkeeping and accounting software - especially QuickBooks, which is by far the industry leader in this area for the types of small business freelance clients you'd be likely to serve.

6. Freelance Web Design

Designing a simple template can net a freelancing web designer as much as $1,000, with more complicated projects paying even more. There is both a great demand and a lot of competition for web design freelancers, but it's an area when you can start out small and grow pretty quickly through word of mouth and online recommendations. You may have to bid on freelancing gigs at a lower price than you'd like to in the beginning, but as you get more experienced and build your portfolio you'll be able to charge more and still land good web design gigs.

7. Freelance Computer Tutor

A computer tutor teaches individuals and businesses how to best use their computer programs and the Internet, typically at the client's home or office. Freelancing as a computer tutor can be the perfect way to break into freelancing and working on your own and can provide some extra money to complement a full-time job.

8. Freelance Disc Jockey

If you like spinning tunes and being the life of the party, freelancing as a disc jockey could be perfect for you. DJs often act as the master of ceremonies at social events. Disc jockeys play the music, break the ice so guests dance and have a good time, and keep the party flowing. Most disc jockey freelancing gigs will be at night and on weekends, and there are plenty of opportunities at gigs like weddings, bar mitzvahs and birthdays.

9. Freelance Resume Writer

Providing resume editing and writing services as a freelancer can translate into a good income, either part-time or full-time. And, the beauty of freelancing as a resume writer is that there's plenty of work when times are good, and perhaps even more work when times are bad and jobs are hard to come by.

10. Freelance Internet Marketer

Because there are so many specialty areas within the field of Internet marketing and the demand continues to grow every day, if you like the web and have an area in which you might like to specialize, freelancing as an Internet marketer could be a great way for you to get used to the idea of working for yourself and staying at home.