Working more than one job just to maintain your lifestyle is becoming more and more common. A few years ago most people were able to enjoy a comfortable living with just one job.

However, the downslide of the economy has caused many to seek out second or even third jobs as the basic necessities of life including food and clothing are becoming more and more expensive.

In the past, those in need of extra income turned to part time jobs in retail or the food service industry. However, these days more and more employees in search of additional income are turning to freelancing in their own profession. This is advantageous because it provides the individual with the ability to use his current skill set to earn additional income.

Freelancing also offers an individual a great deal more flexibility than traditional side jobs. This is because while retail and food service industry require employees to work set shifts, freelancing enables the individual to set his own work schedule. He is free to work whenever he has time available as long as he is still meeting deadlines.

Another advantage to freelancing is the work can usually be completed remotely. This saves the freelancer from spending money on commuting costs, wardrobe and meals. It also provides the freelancer with the ability to work with clients around the world instead of forcing him to focus on a specific geographic location.

There are certainly many advantages to freelancing but there are also many obstacles. The following tips can help an individual to develop a successful freelancing career.

Build a Solid Reputation

The most important thing some freelancers have is their reputation. Repeat orders from existing clients and referrals to new clients are all generated through solid work ethics and the ability to meet deadlines. Clients who are satisfied with your work are more likely to contact you to complete future projects and refer you to others who may need your services.

Avoid Conflicts of Interest

Freelancers who do work in the same industry as their brick and mortar job must be cautious about the subject of conflict of interest. For example accepting assignments from direct competitors to your brick and mortar job may be a conflict of interest.

To avoid these types of problems carefully review the conflict of interest section of your employee handbook as well as conflict of interest sections of any contracts you sign as a freelancer. These will likely outline scenarios which are considered to be conflict of interest and not considered ethical.