Archive for June 2018
Three Ways to Get More Work Through Your Network
Networking is one of the keys to success for independent professionals. But for some, networking is easier said than done. While who you know is important, it’s what you do with those connections that can make a difference. Even if industry professionals know your name and you’ve got enough LinkedIn connections to fill a stadium, you have to…
Read MoreIndependent Contractor Misclassification and Compliance News: June, 2018
As the independent workforce continues to grow, so do the issues of worker compliance and misclassification. It is important for enterprises to remain informed about the latest laws, regulations, and developments surrounding these topics. Each month, we’ll bring you the latest news stories from around the web. 1. Massachusetts Attorney General Leads Coalition of State…
Read More6 Tips to Prevent Scope Creep
When requests for additions or changes to your project come up, saying yes can be an automatic reaction. However, that extra work can quickly add up and lead your project into the dreaded area of scope creep. Scope creep occurs when a client adds new provisions, tasks, or deliverables to a project that are outside of…
Read MoreThe Weekly Independent: June 25, 2018
Staying on top of your field means staying ahead of the biggest news stories. That’s why each week we bring you The Weekly Independent, a quick-hit digest of news of note from around the web. A Wall Street Journal opinion piece questions findings in the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest contingent workforce study. Five questions to…
Read MoreUsing Non-Verbal Communication Skills Effectively to Sell Your Services
Whether you’re meeting with a potential client for the first time, giving a presentation about the services you offer, or leading a project kickoff meeting, non-verbal communication skills are incredibly important. Your actions give meaning to your words, and your movements subtly indicate your thoughts, feelings, and personality to the person you are speaking with. In sales,…
Read MoreHow to Approach Professional Development as an Independent Contractor
When you work as a full-time employee for an organization, it is easy to take things for granted—a steady paycheck, benefits, or a manager to keep you on task. But one thing you may not have given much thought to, whether working as an employee or as an independent contractor, is your own career development.…
Read MoreDo I Need a Scope of Work (SOW) for a Consulting Project?
What is a SOW? A Scope of Work (SOW) is a document that defines how a project will be executed through specific tasks, activities, deliverables, and timelines. It also provides important legal protections for both you and your client. While many people associate SOWs with large-company projects, they are equally important for small businesses. In…
Read MoreThe Weekly Independent: June 18, 2018
Staying on top of your field means staying ahead of the biggest news stories. That’s why each week we bring you The Weekly Independent, a quick-hit digest of news of note from around the web. Spend Matters’ Andrew Karpie suggests that enterprises look at how they manage professional independents in the “agile workforce,” a new term…
Read MoreHow to Sell Your Consulting Services
The client-consultant relationship is a two-way street. Before you begin work or sign a contract, it’s important to learn the needs and resources of your client, including what they need to properly engage you, the independent contractor. When searching for new business, the last thing you want is to lose out to a competitor or…
Read MoreLinkedIn for Consultants: Optimizing Your Profile
LinkedIn is an effective social networking platform to display expertise, build connections, and promote your services. Your profile sets the stage for your first contact with potential new clients, displaying your work history, client recommendations, and skillset. Because the profile template is geared towards a more traditional employment background, it can be tricky to figure out…
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