There are many great books for freelancers to read in order to get an insight, below are some that freelancers have found very helpful.
1. Will It Fly? How to Test Your Next Business Idea So You Don’t Waste Your Time and Money by Pat Flynn
Will it fly is a step-by-step guide to help you when starting and testing out your business idea. This is to make sure that your new idea matches what you want to achieve in the long run. The book will help you figure out when you’re wasting time or money on an idea that does not fit in the current market or not many people will be fond of. Here are a few points taken from the book:
- Make sure the business you create is in line with who you are by interviewing your future self.
- Create a Customer P.L.A.N. to make sure your idea matches your audience.
- Always validate financially by getting 10% of your target group to buy the product upfront.
2. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People contains advice on how to become a more effective person not only in business but for the rest of your life. The book aims to do this by changing how you see the world and a better understanding of your own definition of success.
Covey’s 7 habits aim to adjust your character so you see the world in a positive way. Here are a few of the habits as written in the book.
- Be proactive
- Begin with the end in mind
- Put first things first
- Think “win-win”
- Seek first to understand, then to be understood
- Synergise
- Sharpen the saw if you want to keep sawing
3. Do The Work by Stephen Pressfield
Do the work outlines the many ways that can help you conquer your fears and stop procrastination. This will essentially help you to accomplish your long-term goals. Within the book, you will come across ways to fight any negative thoughts and help fight any form of resistance.
4. Survival Skills for Freelancers by Sarah Townsend
There are many great points to take away from Survival Skills for Freelancers. Below is a list of a few that Sarah mentions in the book
- Trust your instinct, and discover the empowering magic of saying no
- Build a community, find new clients and make the most of your network
- Set better boundaries and create a work–life balance that works for you
- Take control and remember you’re the boss – not your clients!
- Deal with the isolation that comes with self-employment
- Value your worth and know how and what to charge
- Deal with comparison and put a stop to negative self-talk
- Prioritise your own mental health and wellbeing
- Tackle the fear of failure and grasp opportunities that’ll build your confidence
- Ditch self-doubt and imposter syndrome for good.
5. The Freelance Bible by Alison Grade
Some may say that this book is one of the essentials to read when wanting to become a freelancer. The book has many insights on what a freelancer would need to keep in mind throughout their journey.
The book will help you in how to develop your personal brand, pick up financial essentials, grow your client list and negotiate deals. It also includes advice from the founder of the Mission Accomplished consultancy.