80. Develop a workable contract. Many indexers don't use a formal contract. Take time to develop something in it's place that spells out the scope of work expected on a project that can fill in for a formal contract, perhaps a "Client Understanding" or such.
81. Create a proposal template. Proposals are a snap if you have studied how to create one, and taken the time to develop your own template in a word processing program. When the time comes, you can dash one off quickly to a prospective client.
Proposals are overwhelming at first, but there are plenty of web sites available that take you through the process. Doing it ahead of time also helps you to look at the business side of indexing.
Many indexers don't need proposals, but if you DO need one, you will have it all ready to go by having a template.
I have used proposals several times. I never dreamed I would be writing them for indexing jobs! Surprise!
As the Boy Scouts say, "Be prepared."
82. Finally, take time to take care of yourself. As a self-employed business owner, you will no longer be paid if you get sick. You could even lose clients if you get sick and are late with projects. Take time to eat healthy, exercise, reduce stress, get rest. Remember, if you are working so hard to get an extra $700 from "that project," it can cost you more than that if you are overtired and have an accident, or if you have to go to the emergency room in the middle of the night for a stress-related heart incident.
Be reasonable.
Now, get busy while you wait on your lessons to be returned from the USDA!
article written by Dawn Spencer
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