Hey all,
I'm starting to get into doing freelancing work. I've already got two customers (both of them who I know personally). I was wondering: what do I need to start doing freelancing work? Any pieces of wisdom you'd like to share? How do you handle your customers? Do you send them a contract? What is your preferred method of payment? How should I advertise?

I have sort of a shabby portfolio, should I make some mock-up sites?

Any help at all would be greatly appreciated!
-Trey

It matters how far you want to go into it. I just do it part time to earn extra cash, and use a site http://www.scriptlance.com to get all my work done. I also have a portfolio, but usually never use it since I do all my work off that site.

Hope that helps

Try ODesk dot com to get more experience. Money is lousy, but experience is great.

First of all, be careful doing work for people you "know personally." Business and friendship rarely work well together and they will expect far more from you than you may be willing to give.

Second, legitimize your business. Register with the state, et....

Third, while BBB and Chamber may sound like THE organizations to join for networking and reputation, it's been my experience that both are a horrible waste of time and money.

Also, stay away from an organization called BNI. They will rip almost $500 out of your pocket annualy for little to no return. They are a national breakfast club group. they will lie and tell you all kinds of stories but don't believe a word.
And NO I did not join. I was smart enough to see through the Amway style pitch.

Place your ads carefully. In this economy, every media salesman in your area will
want your money.

As for Odesk.com and giving away your skills for lowball prices. Do what you have to do to survive but don't thnk that is the only way. You can build a portfolio without giving away the farm.

As for contracts, some I do, some I don't. Depends on the money involved
and how I feel about the way the client is dealing with me.

NEVER sign a non-compete. If they want more than a non-disclosure
or Confidentiality Agreement, PASS THEM BY.

That's my 2.00 worth and I don't take Paypal.

Always use a contract.

It saves stress for you AND the client when your
respective roles, rights and responsibilities are clearly
spelled out.

The biggest selling factor will be the quality of your own
website.
The second will be the quality of your portfolio.

You don't need to spend any money on advertising.
Use social media channels.

One of the major things you will face is managing the scope of the project. This will get easier over time as you gain more experience. A statement of work document should be created for each project which outlines the definition and scope of the project. That document should contain language that a change order will be written up if the client asks for additional work or a change to the existing project once you have begun.

Managing billing and invoicing is another thing as a freelancer you need to stay up on. Freshbooks is an excellent application for doing this. I would highly recommend looking into it.