Careers – Page 9 – My Freelance Academy

The AWS Career Path – A Quick Guide

Amazon Web Services is a premium cloud service from one of the largest online retailers. It allows you to reutilize its building blocks to create cloud apps for different purposes. If you’re looking for AWS training & certification, you’re already on the right track.

AWS courses let you leverage one of the most powerful cloud platforms in the market right now. It’s an investment with huge potential for returns, so let’s look at how you can get started.

Types of certifications

You have several certification categories to choose from. Right now, there are a dozen certifications available. Each one has different focuses and depth. Picking the right one is a fundamental first step.

When taking AWS online training, you need to take an entry-level certification. From there, you can take associate, professional, and specialization courses. Some certifications have different levels, so we’ll point that out for each one.

1. Cloud practitioner

The cloud practitioner certification is entry-level. It’s also the newest addition to the program. Its goal is to validate how much you understand about Amazon’s cloud.

The certification lasts 90 minutes, and you need six months’ minimum’s worth of experience. It covers the fundamentals of AWS architecture. It also goes through the common applications and security. It evaluates your core understanding.

2. Solutions Architect (associate)

At this level, you’re evaluated as a designer. Candidates for this certificate must provide evidence of their ability in designing and implementing AWS apps.

It covers network technology and how applications and their interfaces connect to the main platform. You must be able to build reliable apps and deploy hybrid services between AWS and on-premise components.

3. Developer (associate)

This 80-minute certification covers app development and maintenance. You need to understand how to work with code within AWS for custom applications.

The covered areas include understanding the architecture of AWS. You need hands-on experience developing and maintaining apps. You also need to work with AWS notifications, databases, and storage.

4. SysOps administrator (associate)

Certified SysOps administrators must have technical and conceptual expertise. It’s exclusively for administrators, and experience with Windows or Linux is a good advantage.

It covers AWS app deployment, as well as data communication between AWS and data centers. You also need to select the right services for specific organizations. Finally, management and provisioning in the environment are other relevant areas.

5. Solutions architect (professional)

Professional architects are able to evaluate the requirements of an organization. It focuses on architectural recommendations towards implementation and deployment. This certification requires extensive technical and design experience.

It covers the ideal practices for designing app architecture. You must select the correct services for your app’s requirements, as well as migrate systems to the AWS cloud. It also goes through cost optimization.

6. DevOps engineer (professional)

DevOps engineers focus on the provision, operation, and management of AWS platform applications. The exam prioritizes constant delivery and process automation. These processes are core for DevOps.

You’ll have to go through CD methodologies and systems as well as their implementation. You need to set up and monitor systems through AWS. The same is true for implementing scalable and available systems, as well as design/manage relevant tools for automating them.

7. Data analytics (specialty)

This specialty focuses on analyzing and developing big data solutions. Candidates have to be able to extract value available through AWS data.

The areas covered include architecting the ideal practices for AWS big data implementation. You also need to design and maintain big data, as well as implement AWS software for analysis automation. The same holds for security practices and several AWS services.

8. Advanced networking (specialty)

This specialty aims to verify the candidate’s experience and ability, connected with performance related to network operations. That includes applying said skills on both AWS as well as hybrid IT networks.

Therefore, backgrounds in network solutions and AWS networking are mandatory. It also covers cloud solutions’ design, development, and deployment. It evaluates core service implementation and task automation for deploying networks. Security, compliance, and optimization are also important.

9. Security (specialty)

This certification covers security in detail. Both professionals and teams must prove their mastery of security concepts, practices, and services. You’ll have to demonstrate your security knowledge, including encryption, infrastructure, response, and access management.

It covers AWS services for selecting the best security levels, based on data deployment and sensitivity. AWS courses for this certification must teach you how to pick the best protection techniques. Your monitoring solutions must spot and assess structure vulnerabilities.

10. Alexa skill builder (specialty)

This AWS certification is self-explanatory. Candidates must have the ability to create, test, and implement skills for Amazon Alexa. You’ll need a six-month minimum experience using Alexa’s Skills Kit and programming expertise.

It covers the value of voice implementation and user experience. You’ll need advanced knowledge on Alexa and AWS’ security practices. From skill creation and validation to use the developer console are relevant areas.

11. Machine learning (specialty)

Here, you’ll have to validate your skills in creating and implementing related solutions for several business situations. It’s for developers and data science-related professions. You’ll need at least a year of experience working with machine learning.

The covered areas go through implementing the best machine learning strategy for different business issues. You’ll have to prove you can identify the best AWS solutions for your methods. Lastly, optimized and scalable solutions must be part of your skillset.

12. Database (specialty)

Finally, this certification verifies your comprehension of all database-related services in AWS. You’ll have to provide value via database optimization, integration, and architecting. You’ll need at least a couple of years of experience using AWS and on-premise databases.

It covers database design as well as deployment and migration. You’ll have to show you can manage and operate these databases, along with monitoring and troubleshooting them. Naturally, security is another vital area.

How to start AWS training

Starting your AWS certification training doesn’t have to include spending too much time or even resources. Ideally, you want to get a general introduction to the career before going for a specific course.

Naturally, you want to take the entry-level certificate soon, but even that could be a considerable first step. Therefore, let’s go through a few things you can do before enrolling in a course and taking practice exams.

Learn the fundamentals

The best way you can prepare yourself to take a course—and your certification later—is to take matters into your own hand. There are many free resources available, covering the basics of AWS services and how it works.

Even Amazon’s main page provides plenty of documentation for you to prepare. Of course, taking AWS courses enables you to learn more efficiently. However, this information is completely free, and you can gain a decent understanding of the platform.

Assess your goals

As you could see, there’s a certification for every AWS aspect. You should evaluate your skills, knowledge, and expectations first. That way, you’ll know what certificate you want to take.

Keep in mind that AWS certification training can take a while. You can—technically—take all certifications, and completing the tests takes a couple of hours for the longest one. However, training is a significant time investment, so set clear goals before taking the first exam.

Socialize with like-minded people

Finally, the best way to learn more is to surround yourself with knowledgeable people. You can easily find community groups and forums around the internet. They’re filled with people constantly providing useful information via discussions and even casual conversation.

Learning AWS also goes beyond taking courses. You can find valuable lessons even after you’ve completed your certificate. These communities offer excellent insight for beginners and specialists alike.

Course durations

There’s no specific duration for the course you want to take. You can find dozens of people asking about the length of AWS certification, but all responses vary for every individual. That’s primarily because every certification category has its own requirements and subjects.

That means you need to think about the career you’re taking. In the end, that will be the main factor behind its length,

It’s mainly about your rhythm

The answers vary for everyone because you’re largely responsible for how quickly you want to complete it. Virtually all courses give you access to structured content, and some have you unlock new modules as you complete training.

However, learning AWS doesn’t have a set schedule. You have to balance your daily responsibilities and make time for your training. Naturally, people with full-time jobs will take longer. Luckily, the only reward for completing the training quickly is being able to start earlier.

What is the right AWS certification for you?

Picking a certification type can be intimidating at first. You might feel like you’re making a life-changing decision. In many ways, that’s true, but there’s no reason to make an obstacle out of it.

The best approach is to make your initial preparation and introduction shed light on which career you want to take. However, let’s go through every certification type to help you figure out where you want to focus your online AWS training.

1. Cloud practitioner

There’s not much thought behind this one. You should take it before going for an advanced certificate. It’ll help you validate your knowledge, which is vital for the following tiers.

2. Solutions Architect (associate)

Associate certifications aren’t mandatory to take a professional certification. However, it’s still recommended. This certification is for professionals with experience creating AWS apps.

3. Developer (associate)

Again, this degree isn’t a requirement for the DevOps profession. However, it’s intended for professional AWS developers with experience creating and deploying apps on AWS.

4. SysOps administrator (associate)

This is the entry-level for AWS administrators. It aims towards professional AWS admins, which includes operating, managing, and deploying AWS apps.

5. Solutions architect (professional)

This level is for people who have advanced experience designing apps and systems in the AWS cloud. If you can evaluate the needs of a business and focus on the right architectural solution, this is your certification.

6. DevOps engineer (professional)

The DevOps movement is for professionals with hands-on experience implementing and running different methodologies on AWS, as well as delivery systems. This certification also covers the DevOps role in the administration.

7. Data analytics (specialty)

This specialty is the ideal option for cloud experts with the skills to generate valuable observations from huge data volumes. It’ll also validate your skills in designing the best systems for different cloud architectures.

8. Advanced networking (specialty)

Networking deals with analyzing complex operations related to networking AWS applications and platforms. You’ll also need advanced technical knowledge in implementing hybrid structures between IT and AWS architecture.

9. Security (specialty)

This is the only security-related certification for AWS, but it’s also one of the most demanded in the industry. If you prefer to deal with security protocols and practices, this is the right certification.

10. Alexa skill builder (specialty)

Understandably, this certification is the best choice for people with designing and publishing expertise related to skills for Amazon’s Alexa. It also goes through skill certification for the platform.

11. Machine learning (specialty)

People working with both data science and development experience should go for this certification. It’ll also evaluate your skills in designing, deploying, and running related solutions tailored towards specific issues.

Database (specialty)

Finally, this certification is for database administrators. There aren’t any prerequisites, either. It focuses on your expertise using different database services from AWS. It also covers proper database implementation for business growth.

The AWS Training & Certification Journey

Let’s say you already know what certificate (or certificates) you want to take for your AWS training & certification. The next step is to take action. Again, you might feel lost when figuring out the right approach to your certification.

Thankfully, it’s simpler than you think. You can follow a few simple guidelines to drive your general and specific objectives. Laying the right foundation for your training will make the rest of your journey a lot easier.

Plan your studies

The best way to boost your online AWS training is to take it seriously and build discipline. Being able to take the classes whenever you want can be a double-edged blade. It’s easy to fall for laziness and start procrastinating.

Therefore, you want to create a daily schedule for your education. Even a couple of hours every other day go a long way if you stick to them. Make sure to set aside time for your studies without neglecting other responsibilities, however.

Find the right course

Not all courses work for everyone. From content to structure, many factors determine the best AWS online training for everyone. However, you can follow a few guidelines to find the ideal program. Essentially, you want a deep course with plenty of content.

However, you also want to consider the course’s relevance. Not every syllabus is up-to-date, and going for an outdated course can result in wasted time and money. Finally, go for the right course format for you.

Take training exams

Like the fundamental documentation we already mentioned, you can find free practice tests on the internet. Even the AWS site has practice exams for your certification. However, those aren’t the only options.

Many courses offer practice exams as well. They don’t simply provide exam templates, but you can get courses with answer explanations. Other features you should look for include testing modes and difficulty options.

Sign up for the exam

Booking your exam is quite straightforward. You only need to visit the website and set aside the right day. Nevertheless, do keep in mind that you’ll have to pay a fee for different certifications.

Obviously, advanced certification exams are more expensive. That’s why you want to make sure that you’re ready for the exam. Of course, you won’t be 100% certain until you take it, but don’t think it’s something you should take lightly.

Apply everything you learned

Once you’ve paid and scheduled your exam, just put your gained knowledge to the test—no pun intended. Your AWS certification won’t be a walk in the park, but it doesn’t have to be an uphill battle with the right training.

Just remember that you’ll have limited time to answer a noticeable number of questions. Our last tip is to time your performance during practice exams. Assign a time amount per question—with a few minutes to spare. Don’t spend too long on one question. It’s better to go back to them after finishing the rest than losing the entire certification over a hard question.

References

Ultimate guide: How to be a Successful Freelance Designer

Want to become a successful freelance designer? Here’s everything you need to know!

In today’s world, a lot of people are taking to be a freelancer. Be it any field, and freelancing is available everywhere. It is quite good to work as a freelancer in the industry or niche of your choice. Being a freelancer is not an easy job, but it can be exciting and fruitful if you are passionate about what you are doing.

What is freelancing?

When you work as a freelancer, it has its own perks over a full-time job in some company. Though having a full-time job gives you a kind of security and means a fixed income source, working as a freelancer also has its advantages. One of the best things about freelancing is that you are your own boss.

As a freelancer, you can select projects according to your choices and preferences. You can work as per your own will. Not just this, you also have the freedom to decide your work schedule.

What does a freelance designer do?

freelance graphic designer — Image by Alltechbuzz/ Pixabay

One of the most popular fields to be a freelancer in is graphic designing. A lot of people take to graphic designing nowadays. Especially there’s a big craze for graphic designing among youngsters in the present time.

A graphic designer or freelance designer is one who assembles images or motion graphics to create a piece of design. It can be said that they are visual communicators who create visual concepts by hands or computer software.

There are a lot of people nowadays who choose to become freelance designers. If you are a freelance designer, you can create graphics for printed, published, or electronic media such as brochures and advertisements. Being a freelance designer gives you a lot of freedom.

If you are also an aspiring freelance designer, you need to take the right measures to be a successful freelance designer. If you haven’t gone to school or college to learn graphic design, you can enroll in graphic design courses. There are many institutes offering courses in graphic designing for those interested in the field.

How to be successful as a freelance designer?

1. Make yourself a brand

No matter whether it’s a full-time business or freelancing, all of them need a name. When you plan to be a freelance designer, one of the most significant steps you must take is thinking about how you will be deciding a brand name for yourself.

As a freelance designer, you have to decide everything for yourself as no one else is there to help in your work. Making yourself a brand or deciding a brand name is supposed to be done at the beginning of your career as a freelance designer.

In every business, especially in freelancing, word of mouth is one of the important factors that determine your success as it is one of the primary ways you get clients and projects. But, there should be a brand name for you as a freelancer to make people or clients suggest you or refer more clients towards you.

An important question that all freelancers have to consider is whether to use their own name as their brand name or decide on a separate name for their brand or company. Well, it all depends upon what you are planning for the future.

If you plan to be a freelance designer and have a one-person business, then it’s a good idea to use your own name as the brand name. But, if you are planning to grow your freelance business into a business of many people, then decide on a separate brand name.

2. Look for clients

If you really want to be successful as a freelance designer, you need projects and clients. It is only when you have clients and work to do that you will stay in the industry. When you are just starting your career as a freelance designer, the most important thing that you need to do is to find your first clients.

Are you thinking about why it is necessary to find clients? Well, you can’t call it a business until you have clients. And, not having clients means you are not a freelance designer. Just giving your freelance business a name and building a portfolio won’t make you a freelance designer. You need clients to be a successful freelance designer.

When you get your first clients as a freelance designer, it boosts your confidence. It gives you momentum and encouragement to do your work as a freelance designer with all your heart.

There are various ways for a freelancer designer to find clients:

A) Freelance job sites

There are a lot of websites online from where you can find clients for your freelance business. You have to look for clients in your niche. Some of the websites where you can find clients are Upwork, FreeUp, and TopTal.

B) Through personal network:

Whether you are already working as a freelance designer or you are just a student, you must have a personal network related to your niche. You can look for clients among the people in your personal network. Those people can even introduce you to your potential clients.

3. Build a portfolio

Whether it’s a full-time job or freelancing, the portfolio is an important factor that affects the possibilities of you getting the job or clients. A portfolio is like a mirror of your personality, as it tells about all your experiences and skills.

Many freelance designers in the market are yet to find clients and work just because they haven’t finished their portfolios. If you don’t want to suffer like them, build a portfolio that highlights all your best works to prompt the clients to hire you.

Whenever you plan to buy something, the first thing you consider is the qualities of that product. If the product is of good quality, only then it prompts you to buy it. The same is the case with clients. They will hire you only when they find you appropriate and able to handle the project.

4. Treat your clients well

When working as a freelance designer, your work doesn’t get over after you get clients. In fact, that’s where your actual work begins, as those clients will stay loyal to you only when you will treat and serve them well.

Whether you have found your clients through websites or personal networks, you must complete the projects assigned to you efficiently. If you serve your clients well, only then will they be happy with you, and the client’s happiness is the key to become a successful freelance designer.

Treating and serving your clients well has many pros:

Getting more work– When you work well on your projects, there’ a great chance that the client will hire you again for other projects. More project means more work and more money, and hence your success as a freelance designer.

Referrals– When a client gets impressed by your work, he would not only give you more projects himself, he would also refer you to other clients. When other people in their circle need a freelance designer, they’d suggest your name to them, which is a great way to find new clients and success.

5. Market Yourself

When you start working as a freelance designer, one of the most important steps to find work and be successful is to market yourself. To find work and clients, you first need to reach them, and advertising and marketing is the primary way to do that.

There are a lot many ways to market yourself as a freelance designer:

Creating a website– In this internet-friendly world, having an online presence is significant, as it helps a lot. All the businesses and freelancers have their websites where the clients and customers can better know their work.

Blogging– If you want to attract more clients as a freelance designer, start blogging. It’s a good way to market your brand as you can describe it in your own words. When your clients will read your blogs about your brand or work and find it fascinating, they’ll surely hire you.

Social media marketing– Social media is a powerful medium in the present world. Almost everyone has a profile on various social media platforms nowadays.

Not just for entertainment, social media can prove to be quite useful when it comes to working. If you have a presence on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, you will reach more people and find more clients.

Asking for referrals- Don’t just wait for your existing clients to refer more clients to you. When you are a freelance designer, don’t feel shy and ask for referrals yourself. This way, you will increase the chances of you getting more work.

A few tips to get you started

1. Learn to manage invoices. paperwork, and proposals

When you become a freelance designer, your work is not just to complete the clients’ projects assigned to you. When you are a freelancer, it means you don’t have anyone else in your team, and you have to manage all your business on your own.

In a business where the company has various employees, the work is divided among people. But, when you are a freelancer, you have to do everything yourself. It would be best to learn how to write invoices, send proposals, and manage contracts.

It’s completely okay if you are not a pro at making invoices as there are many software available online that can help you with that. Some of the best software to create invoices are Freshbooks, QuickBooks, and Honeybook.

2. Don’t be too choosy in the beginning

If you are starting as a freelance designer, your primary goal must be to find as many clients as possible to get more work. While looking for clients, you should keep in mind that it is not too choosy in the beginning.

When you become too choosy about the kind of clients you want to work for, it decreases your chances of getting more work. When you become picky, you sometimes let good opportunities go and then regret eventually.

Remember that to be a successful freelance designer, and you need clients to boost your confidence and earn money. Your first clients are like your stepping stones, and if you keep turning them down because they don’t pay enough or for some other reason, your career will see a dip even before it starts.

When you are a newbie, you don’t have much experience to show to your clients, and no one will pay a first-year student as much as an experienced freelance designer. So, it’s obvious that people would pay you less at the beginning of your career as a freelance designer. When you don’t have testimonials to show, it’d be difficult for clients to hire you as it can prove to be risky for them.

3. Build a network

When you go to school or college, you make friends or network with your classmates. Similarly, when you start as a freelance designer, it’s necessary to get in touch with others in your industry or niche. Building a network with people is important for various reasons, and some of them are:

Meeting potential clients– As we discussed earlier, your personal network is a good place to look for clients. You never know who can be your potential client in your network or even introduce you to new clients.

Information about conferences– Attending conferences and workshops related to your niche is an excellent way to improve your industry knowledge. When you are in touch with people from the same niche, you get information regarding such conferences near you.

4. Collect payments on time

When working as a freelancer, you don’t have a finance team or accountant working for you who would inform you and keep records of your income. It’s all upon you to handle. As we already discussed, you are the one who’s going to manage the invoices and proposals, and payments.

One thing to keep in mind when working as a freelance designer is that business is business, and asking for your payment is only a part of the profession. Never feel shy or awkward when asking for payment as you have earned it through hard work.

Softwares like Freshbooks doesn’t just help you to create invoices. It also collects payments and reminds people when their payments are due. It’s a part of your work to collect payments on time, and as a freelancer, you must do it.

So, are you working as a freelance designer? Are you a student aspiring to be a freelance designer, not knowing how to succeed in that field? Well, this guide will help you do all the things right. Make sure to follow all the above-mentioned steps to be a successful freelance designer.

11 Interesting Legit Online Jobs You Can Find on Internet – bit copied

Are you looking for legit online jobs? Also, the one that will be a full-time income job, working from home rather than something that’s only going to help you make money for a short period?

It is necessary while considering today’s Coronavirus situation because businesses all across the globe have shut down their offices and adapted the remote mode of work. As per Time Magazine, COVID led the “world’s largest work from the home experiment.

Earlier, most people didn’t encourage the work-from-home concept because it wasn’t profitable at all. According to the time, there are many opportunities for people to earn money from home as various legit online jobs are available.

In 2020, the improvement in technology and the emergence of large-scale social media usage ushered in a new wave of legitimate online jobs.

11 best legit online jobs you can find on the internet

The top 11 legit online jobs have the ideal mix of large-scale demand, a low supply of talented individuals,s and the potential to start earning fast.

1) Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant is a person who offers support services to a business from a remote mode or location. Administrative tasks are generally common for virtual assistants, but they can also be related to any other elements required by the business.

Virtual assistants are in demand by Traders and Online businesses that need help but don’t want to spend money on office space for staff.

This is a good option if you are looking for legit online jobs. However, many small businesses use virtual support, especially for specific tasks such as social media management. These people work as remote executive assistants doing some particular tasks.

Following are the common tasks carried out by Virtual assistants, including answering emails, scheduling appointments, or booking travel.

Some assistants take on multiple agents simultaneously, allowing them to earn over five figures a year from home.
Average pay: $15 to $40 per hour approx

Benefit: The more systematic and efficient you become, the more clients or customers you can add.

Disadvantage: Mostly business people would want you to work only for certain hours of the day.

2) Photography

If you are looking for legit online jobs and your photography skills are amazing, you have plenty of online jobs for photographers and image buffs. You can take awesome photos of anything, and there are good chances that you can sell them to online image sellers and create a niche side income online.

It is an easy task with smartphones and digital photography technology today, and anyone can take and sell photos. Many websites, blogs, and even social media need images and photographs to engage and attract their audience, so they are willing to pay for great shots.

It doesn’t matter whether you are taking pictures of natural attractions in your area or focusing on staged shots. There is supposed to be a buyer out there who wants to use your photograph and is willing to pay for it. Therefore, it can prove to be one of the best legit online jobs.

Average pay: 10 to 40 cents per image approx

Benefit: Many of us have it as a hobby, which can be turned into a profession.

Disadvantage: It takes time to build up your stock of photos for sale.

3) Freelance Writing

If you are good at writing and looking for a legit online job, you can earn a high income as a freelance writer. You can work in a niche that you enjoy and understand while making (from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per article.)

A freelancer can be described as a self-employed person who provides services, usually to multiple clients at a time.

As a freelance writer, if you want to increase your earning capacity, you should try working directly with businesses and finding online clients. Regarding freelance writing, you write online content for blogs, magazines, and online businesses, etc.

There are a variety of legit online jobs available in the field of freelance writing. To search for customers, try engaging with online businesses to inquire if they need any content.

Talk and engage with their social media contacts online, and reach out to site editors to look if they have any vacancies.

Apart from that, you can try having your website post your written content in the niche because this is a great way to find new customers. They can see your writing’s standard or quality, which leads you to the top paying online jobs.

Average pay: $10 to $35 per hour approx

Benefit: In the contemporary world, the growth of online publishing is increasing, and because of this, there is a huge demand for freelance writers.

Disadvantage: One should have some experience

4) Bookkeeping

Are you looking for legit online jobs to work from home? If you have a head for figures and especially if you know accounts or have financial planning experience, you can earn money by helping individuals or other businesses with bookkeeping. Bookkeeping is a major task for ensuring that a company runs smoothly and will survive in the future.

Market your services to entrepreneurs to help them manage their finances. Find customers by searching local works in your locality or joining social media such as Facebook groups to promote your services.

One can make a lot of money if they are interested in numbers and do legit online jobs. There are a lot of opportunities available in this field. It doesn’t require any certification.

Average pay: $20 to $50 per hour approx

Benefits: You will work with customers on an attendant or retainer basis, which offers you a steady income base.

Disadvantage: Atleast need basic training for the first customer.

5) Translator

If you are looking for suitable legit online jobs, then becoming a translator is the best option. A translator converts the written word from one language to another without losing the literal meaning.

It doesn’t matter which country you are in. Being a translator is always fruitful. So, one can use translation online earning sites to make more money from home.

The best thing is that one doesn’t require a degree (although having a bachelor’s degree helps), but the most important requirement is fluency in at least 2 languages.

One can easily look for hundreds of projects related to transcriptions to make money online. Not only that, the approx national wage in this field was around $46,000 in 2016, although the top 10% of workers earned an average of $83,000.

There are sites available like LinkedIn and Freelancer, which can help you find legit online jobs. Everything depends on the languages you are an expert in and how effectively you can translate from one language to another.

Average pay:$5 to$50 per page approx

Benefits: It is very convenient and easy if you are fluent in any two languages.

Disadvantage: It can be very time-consuming, and at the same time, is a slow process to make money.

6) Online Tutoring

In India, during this pandemic, the high-growth business industry right now is online education. Apart from that, one of the fastest-growing niches within online education is online tutoring jobs.

There are a lot of legit online jobs available in the field of education. If you enjoy helping others learn, your knowledge can be put to good use through online tutoring.

You don’t require any qualifications if you are good at that particular subject. Platforms such as Udemy are a great place to sell your course.

Average pay: $20 per hour approx

Benefits: There is a chance to start earning in as little as a few weeks.

Disadvantage: Limited upside.

7) Medical Transcription

If you are looking for legit online jobs, being a Medical transcription is one of the best options. Even though many medical transcriptionists work at hospitals or physician’s offices, most can work from home or at a time or place according to their wish.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report: Medical transcriptionists earned a national median wage of $34,770 in May of 2018 or $16.72 an hour even after being self-employed.

They usually edit medical transcriptions for local healthcare providers. The most important thing regarding this is that medical transcription requires a certification. With the medical transcription certification approved by the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity, you can prepare yourself to land an online job as a transcriptionist in an industry that’s hungry for qualified talent.

Average pay:$10 to $25 per hour approx

Benefits: It is a steady source of income

Disadvantages: One needs a high startup cost to earn a credential.

8) Travel agent

One should believe that travel agents are still in demand, and there are many opportunities present in this field if you are looking for legit online jobs. It just depends on finding the right niche. This is a good business for you if you have personal or professional travel experience because you can offer your clients insights they can’t get from a website.

Travel agents are in charge of helping individuals, groups, and business travelers plan and organize their travel schedules, purchase tour packages, and book flights and hotels. A travel agent also plans trips and offers advice on destinations.

We all know that job prospects can be best for travel agents who offer expertise in certain areas of the world, have experience in planning tours, or focus on group travel. So, if you have experience in traveling, there are various legit online jobs available in that field.

Average pay: It depends on the cost

Benefits: It is a way to earn more money for those who love to travel.

Disadvantage: Income can vary, as travel tends to rise at certain times of the year.

9) Social media marketing

Use social media platforms to connect with your audience to build your brand or increase sales and drive website traffic. This involves publishing great content on your social media profiles, engaging your followers, evaluating results, and running social media advertisements. This is an excellent option when you are finding legit online jobs.

The prime social media platforms are Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, YouTube, and Snapchat.
Generally, what happens is that many company owners don’t have the time to make consistent updates to their social media platforms or to respond to customer requests and answers made through social media.
That is why companies nowadays hire social media managers for media marketing.

As long as you can post accurately and manage content on social media channels, you can take on customers and begin your job. So, what are you waiting for? Search for legit online jobs in the field of social media marketing.

Average pay: $20 to $100 per hour approx

Benefits: They work on a retainer basis.

Disadvantages: Limited upside

10) Data entry

Data entry may not be one of the exciting legit online jobs, but it can offer you to earn $15 to $20 per hour. Data entry is a legit online job that does pay less than some of the others we’ve listed, but it can provide you to make a decent side income.

These jobs tend to be highly flexible, which provides you to work in your spare time. You can opt to work as much as you can or as little as you need according to your schedule.
There are various platforms like Capital typing, which allow you to find online data entry jobs. Most of these generally require setting up a basic profile and confirming a few details before you start earning. This is one of the best legit online jobs.

Benefits: It is a very convenient task to do.

Disadvantage: Less earning.

11) Graphic Design

If you are an artist, graphic design is a great way to monetize your hobby to turn your passion into money. This is one of the most creative legit online jobs available. The web is becoming more and more visual, especially as mobile devices have become the supreme browsing method.

The highest-paid graphic designers compile multiple skills into their designs. Knowledge in branding or sales can help – graphic designers to charge over $150 per hour. Choose this among all the legit online jobs if you want something creative.

Average pay: $150 per hour approx

Benefits: One can work in flexible hours

Disadvantage: It needs certain kinds of certifications.

Overall, we can say that the internet has made it much easier to make money from home nowadays. Many people are just looking for legit online jobs and opportunities to make a little money here and there by taking online surveys. Whether your goal is to work full-time, part-time, or run your own business, there’s no shortage of work-at-home jobs. So, it is time to get ready and get started today. Take at least one action and give a fresh start to your career.

11 Genuine Ways to Get Free YouTube Views for Your Channel

Want to get free YouTube views on your channel?

YouTube is constantly evolving as its users are increasing day by day. Research says that more than 2 billion people use it every month. No matter what kind of content or video you are looking for, it’s always available on YouTube. According to the statistics, YouTube is one of the largest websites in the world.

About YouTube

Free youtube views — Image by NordWood Themes/ Unsplash

No matter which group you belong to, YouTube has relevant videos for all the communities and groups. Nowadays, YouTube is used for various purposes (be it entertainment, educational, informational, or business purpose). YouTube has evolved as a strong and powerful business tool in the present time. Business owners and companies use YouTube to boost their business and brand.

One of the problems that many YouTube channels face is that they don’t get many views on their videos. To be popular among the audience, you first need them to view your videos. This means that to be successful, you need to get more free YouTube views on your videos.

Here are 11 Ways to Get Free YouTube Views

1. Encourage Viewers to Subscribe To Your Channel

Free youtube subscribers — Image by CardMapr/ Unsplash

Whenever we talk about business, retaining the existing clients and customers is one of the important strategies for the success of the business. The same is the case with YouTube channels. To get free YouTube views for your channel’s videos, you must retain your audience or customers.

To retain your audience to get free YouTube views, the best way is by encouraging them to subscribe to your channel. When you get more subscribers, you will get more free YouTube views right after publishing a new video.

Now, if you are wondering how you can encourage your current viewers to subscribe, we have the answer for that also. Just ask them to subscribe in the beginning and end of your videos. When you ask your viewers to subscribe, don’t forget to make them turn on the notifications as well.

After the viewers subscribe and turn on the notifications, they’ll be notified whenever you release a new video. This way you will get free YouTube views from your subscribers.

2. Promoting Videos on Other Social Media Platforms

In the present time, social media has been continuously evolving as a powerful medium. It can prove to be a good platform to promote your videos to get free YouTube views. If you have good amount of followers on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook, why not use it for your YouTube channel’s success?

While promoting your videos on social media, never post the full video, as once the viewers watch the video there, why would they come to YouTube to watch it again? A good way to promote your videos to get free YouTube views is by posting only a small part of your full video on social media with a link to watch the full video on YouTube.

When people watch a small part or teaser of your video, their curiosity will make them come on YouTube and watch the full video. This way you will get free YouTube views through your followers of other social media platforms.

3. Optimization of Your Video’s Title

As a result of the subsequent increase in internet significance, use of search engines is constantly increasing. This has lead to an increase in the importance of Search Engine Optimization and SEO experts. YouTube is also a search engine and hence SEO matters a lot.

SEO is a way to improve your search rankings to get free YouTube views. YouTube takes into consideration various items while showing search results. Like other platforms, YouTube also allows you to optimize your videos through video names, titles, tags, and descriptions, etc. You must add the keywords and tags that can help your videos and channel get good ranks.

There are various online tools accessible to help you in the optimization process. Google Trends and Google Keyword Planner are good options while searching for relevant keywords for your videos. Always decide the title of your video of the right length. Not just this, choose your title and description appropriately to get free YouTube views.

4. Publish Videos at the Right Time

You must have heard that ‘Everything has its best time’. The same is the case with YouTube. How many free YouTube views you are going to get depends upon the timing of publishing your videos.

You must post your videos on YouTube while your audience or viewers are watching them or are active on YouTube. The best thing is that it is no longer difficult to get to know the right time to publish your videos on YouTube. You have to search online, and there are many sites telling you when to post your videos on various days of the week.

Now YouTube tracks the particular days and hours when there’s more traffic on YouTube. Once you get to know about the peak time, publish your videos 1 or 2 hours before the time so that your viewers can get time to discover your videos, and you will get more free YouTube views.

5. Get Recommended After a Popular Video by Using Metadata

There’s nothing wrong with getting ideas and inspiration from others or even your competitors. If you want to get free YouTube views on your videos, look at the other videos in your niche. If you want to achieve big, go for the most popular videos list and have a look.

YouTube wants its viewers to be there for a long time so that they can watch as many ads as possible. To keep its viewers on the platform, YouTube keeps recommending one video after another.

The videos that YouTube recommends come out of nowhere. They recommend videos from the same channel, that are popular, or viewed and liked by many, videos based on a particular person’s watch history or videos with similar or related Metadata.

Well, if you use good and similar Metadata like some famous videos, you will get recommended and get free YouTube views. But, don’t just go and copy-paste a video’s Metadata as the viewers will not watch the same thing again.

Just get to know about the content that’s there is a popular video and think about how you can add value to what viewers have already seen, through your video. While choosing keywords for your videos, think about the words people can use while searching for that particular content in your video.

6. Create Playlists

An effective way of getting more free YouTube views on your videos is to keep the viewers glued to your channel by not letting them move to another channel. How to do it? Create and organize Playlists on YouTube, and it’ll do the work.

If you are thinking why I suggest creating Playlists, it is because of the auto-play feature. When people are watching your video and it ends, the next video gets started from your Playlist and keeps the viewers engaged with your channel.

When you create Playlists, you save your viewers from the work of searching for another video. If your video is engaging enough, your viewers will surely watch your next video after the previous one ends and, you will get free YouTube views.

Not only does Playlists keep your viewers on your channel, it also helps in improving your search rankings, as the title of your Playlists is an excellent opportunity to target keywords. This will eventually lead to get you more free YouTube views.

It’s very easy to create a Playlist on YouTube. You just have to click on the ‘+’ icon given below the video, and then you can make a new Playlist or add the video to an existing Playlist.

7. Enable Embedding on Videos

This is a very significant step that a lot of people don’t pay attention to. When you are publishing your videos on YouTube, never forget to enable embedding. If you forget to enable embedding, your viewers won’t be able to share your videos.

When you enable embedding on your videos, you allow your video to be embedded by the viewers in their blogs and websites, to reach a new audience and get free YouTube views. Your viewers have to click on the ‘share’ option, and they’ll get the ’embed’ option. Once they click on it, they’ll be able to copy your video’s embedding code and paste it into their blogs or websites.

You have to go to the Creator Studio on YouTube and then to the editing page. Select ‘Advanced settings’ and then ‘Distribution options’ and then tick the ‘Allow embedding’ option. It’s done. Now your viewers can share your videos, and you’ll get more free YouTube views.

8. Know What’s Viral and Then Publish Videos

No matter which field you belong to, it’s always important to be updated about everything that’s happening around you, especially in your industry. The same is the case when you publish videos on YouTube. You will get free YouTube views only when you create videos about things that are going viral.

When you serve the audience with the things that are getting viral, they’ll be attracted to your channel. Not only this, they’ll share your videos with others as well.

When you share some viral content through your videos, make sure to do it before everyone else in your niche. If you reach the audience before anyone else does, the viewers will look at you as the leader in your field. It will attract more viewers to your videos, and you will get free YouTube views.

9. Create Captivating Thumbnails

I hope you all know that Thumbnail is the small preview image that’s visible along with your video title. That small image plays a very significant role when it comes to getting free YouTube views.

When your audience or viewers are going through their search results on YouTube, they select the video on the basis of its Thumbnail. If a Thumbnail seems to be attractive to the viewers, they’ll surely watch that video.

When you are publishing a video, you can choose from auto-generated Thumbnails, but it’s always a better option to create your Thumbnail that stands out from the others. Not just this, your Thumbnail must be appropriate according to your video title.

There are various ways to make your Thumbnail more effective to help you get more free YouTube views. You can use bright colors in your Thumbnail so that it stands out among others. You can use weird face close-ups to catch the person’s attention through the search results. You can also use text overlays.

While creating thumbnails, make sure that it’s not misleading. If the viewers open the video, attracted by your thumbnail, but get disappointed or annoyed in the middle, they’ll stop watching it. This will affect the watch time of your video. So, make sure that your thumbnail is appropriate. You can employ tools like Canva to make thumbnails.

10. Using Cards and End Screen

Other than Playlists, cards and end screens are two important tools that can be used to promote your videos and get more free YouTube views. Using of cards and an end screen, you can directly influence your viewer’s choice to watch the next video.

To get access to these features, you first need to verify your YouTube account. To do this, go to the ‘Creator Studio’, and choose the ‘Status and features’ option. After that, you will be able to view extra YouTube channel features and can set them up.

Cards are clickable tools that pop up in the video according to the time you set. You can choose a card and link it to other videos of your channel and keep your viewers engaged.

This will help you get more free YouTube views on your other videos as well. Make sure that the link attached to the card is relevant to the moment so that the viewers don’t feel spammed.

On the other hand, end screens are calls to action that you can add at the end of your video to wrap things up.

Both end screen and cards are significant tools that can help you get free YouTube views.

11. Optimize Your Channel

Optimizing your channel is very important to strengthen your brand and channel, and help you get more free YouTube views. There are a lot of ways available to optimize your YouTube channel, and some of them are:

Optimizing the channel’s description– The description you set for your channel is visible in the ‘About’ tab of YouTube. Write a good description, including the information about your channel and the benefits that one can get by watching your videos. You can tell your viewers why they should watch your videos. You can also include your goals and niche in the description.

Creating a strong and consistent brand aesthetic– Make sure that your YouTube branding is consistent with other social channels and websites. It means that the logo and images used by you to promote your channel should be the same everywhere.

Add appropriate channel keywords– Decide relevant keywords that you want your channel to rank in the search results. For this, you have to go to the ‘Channel’ and then choose ‘Advanced.’ After this, you can enter your desired keywords in the ‘Channel keywords’ box.

Enable related channels– Many people forget to enable related channels. By doing this, you get your channel removed from YouTube’s recommendations leading you to lose network. So, always enable related channels to get recommended and get free YouTube views on your videos.

So, are you going to start your own YouTube channel? Or are you already having a YouTube channel but struggling to get free YouTube views on your videos? Your problem will get solved now. After getting through this guide, you know what measures you can take to make your videos reach your audiences and get free YouTube views.

Ultimate Guide: Become a Successful SEO Expert in 13 steps

Can you build a successful career as an SEO expert? The answer is yes. Read on to find out how you can become an SEO expert and pursue a successful career.

Become a Successful SEO Expert

About Search Engine Optimization

What do you understand when you use the term ‘SEO expert’?

Well, a search engine expert or specialist is someone who optimizes websites (through analysis and reviewing) to make them achieve higher search engine rankings.

In other words, we can say that by improving page rank within search engines, an SEO expert maximizes the traffic to a site.

Why should you start an SEO company?

In the present time, the importance of SEO experts and companies is constantly rising as all businesses rely on getting discovered by people on the internet. SEO services are an excellent way to help other enterprises to improve and grow.

The primary reason there’s a great demand for SEO Agencies or SEO experts is that it helps improve business’ visibility in the search results online to increase website traffic.

As a business owner, it will be highly profitable to start an SEO company, as the field’s recurring revenue is good. Most SEO services are delivered monthly as they require consistency, so it helps the owners have a predictable and steady book of work.

Moreover, it makes the hiring process more manageable when you expand your SEO business.

Stay away from misconceptions.

Be it any field or industry; misunderstandings are everywhere. The first thing to keep in your mind before starting an SEO business is to stay away from misconceptions regarding the industry.

You don’t have to know every term in the SEO glossary to run a successful SEO business.

On the contrary, if you know a few core SEO ideas, it’ll be sufficient for you to explain the basics of SEO to your clients.

Remember that as an SEO expert, your work is not to give in-depth information about how you will show them the results.

You have to help them achieve good service engine ranks and more traffic on their website. A well-laid plan is all you need to help your clients in the SEO business.

You need a team of hardworking, efficient, and trustworthy partners and employees to make your SEO agency successful. Teamwork is always better than a solo effort.

This doesn’t mean that you go on hiring so many employees and spending money, as some of them might turn into unused assets later on.

Just have enough members in your team so that you can complete your projects as an SEO expert.

In such cases, you can even provide SEO services to your clients by choosing a good White Label SEO service provider from the industry.

White Lable SEO Service Provider

It is also known as SEO reseller services. We can define it as a search engine optimization partnership among two or more companies.

The alliance embodies at least two companies who agree to share sales and marketing responsibilities of an SEO product. It fulfils the demand of other companies.

The achievement of any newly formed SEO company depends on the potential of the search engine optimization services you provide to the client. It also depends upon the skills and expertise of an SEO expert.

Always look for an efficient White Lable SEO service provider to profit from. It offers SEO services to agencies without taking credit for completing the work.

Are you planning to start and build your business as an SEO expert? We all know that starting a business is always tricky, but things start getting easier once you know the basics and get a hold of the industry.

Let’s get familiar with the requirements for starting your SEO business.

Skills Needed to Start an SEO Company

1. Business Discernment

The first skill needed to start any business is to know about it. Before starting your own SEO business as an SEO expert, you must possess business discernment.

It means that you must have the ability to understand the industry and make sound judgments for the growth of your business. If you don’t have this skill, you will have a hard time in your business.

2. Basics of Digital Marketing

If you want to work your way towards becoming an SEO expert, you must know the basics of digital marketing. No client would trust an agency with zero basic SEO and digital marketing knowledge.

You can learn the basics on your own to better your business. There are many online resources that you can easily access just by signing up on various sites.

3. Legalities

Starting a new business comprises a lot of legal steps. Every decision in your business has to be guided by specific rules and regulations.

First of all, you need to get your SEO agency registered, and for that, you have to determine the business structure. It can be of two types:

Sole proprietorship– When you register your SEO agency as a sole proprietorship, it means that you will be running your business with a single owner. This can be a good option for those business owners who want to operate their business as freelancers.

This structure provides flexibility and a simple setup, but at the same time, it comes with a few risks as the agency will be liable in case of any damages.

Limited liability company– When you register as an LLC, it implies that you can have more than one owner for your business.

This structure possesses fewer risks, and one of those is that you have to pay business tax and personal tax separately. This structure also provides the business with legal protection.

4. Payment preparations

Setting up payment methods

As an SEO expert of a new SEO company, you must decide and set up the methods of payment that you’d prefer. There are various methods available nowadays, which include:

Credit card payment: This is one of the most commonly used methods for payment by businesses. Most clients prefer this method, as transactions through cards are way more manageable.

Digital wallets: This is the method that’s evolving continuously in the present times. PayPal, Paytm, Google Pay and PhonePe are some well-known apps used nowadays for payments.

Automated Clearing House transfers: In this method, clients send an electronic money transfer from their bank account to a US-based business bank account.

5. Creating SEO Contracts

An SEO contract is significant as it binds your company with your clients. It is a kind of agreement about what is expected from both parties. An SEO contract has all the details about how your agency will handle projects.

6. Invoice templates

Preparing invoice templates for your SEO business is one crucial step when starting your business as an SEO expert.

Invoice is proof of the transaction between your company and clients, which helps you track accounts to ensure that your agency is getting paid as per the payment terms and conditions.

Your SEO invoice must include the charges with clear descriptions of all the services provided by your company. Not only this, the due date and payment method should also be mentioned in the invoice.

7. Business name and logo

When you start your SEO agency as an SEO expert, your first goal is to develop your brand. The name and logo are the most significant aspects of your brand as your company is recognized by it.

Deciding on a name and logo for your business is essential as both of them go into all the business cards, brochures, websites, advertisements and other digital resources.

8. Deciding the target audience and choosing your niche

After selecting a name and logo for your business, you must decide on your target audience to know the ideal clients you want to attract.

When you decide your audience and define their personas, you can easily understand their goals, expectations and the digital marketing solutions that they need.

When you choose your target audience, you must select your niche as an SEO expert. This is where many SEO agencies fall short and face disappointment due to the ‘provide services to everyone’ approach.

Deciding your niche makes a big difference as you know what kind of clients you will serve beforehand.

When choosing your niche, in the beginning, go with an industry you’re familiar with or start with your social circle. Before finalizing your niche, do market research and then choose accordingly.

9. Website Building

Almost all brands and agencies have their websites nowadays, as the internet is an excellent medium to reach the audience.

When you start your business initially, it doesn’t matter whether the website is as attractive and stunning as other established business’ websites. What matters is the one you have, helping you reach your target audience.

10. Developing a Methodology

To make your SEO business successful, you must develop your methodology as it highlights the expertise and strategies to provide value to your business.

Being an SEO expert and then establishing your industry shows your expertise in the field. You can either build an in-house team or outsource the work to other experts.

11. Ability to Manage Projects

SEO is an incessant project. To make a website advanced and famous, one needs to keep upgrading the website. For this, it is essential to learn project management to manage the enterprise.

The two points we all need to focus on while managing a project are planning and fulfilling.

Planning includes investigation, judgment, and strategy. This helps build the foundation of your SEO campaigns, so you have a clear direction of what and when to do things.

After planning comes to the execution stage, it goes beyond the delivery. It’s a process of implementation of our plans.

12. SEO tools

Starting an SEO business requires basic knowledge about Google Analytics or Google Search Console, as that’s when you can be called an SEO expert.

Both of these tools provide you with good results. But a robust SEO methodology needs more SEO tools.

Many SEO and marketing tools are designed so that they can accomplish other tasks, such as keyword research, as well.

Various free and paid tools available are online for the same, and some of them are Google Data Studio, Moz and SEMRush and more.

13. Getting Clients by Marketing Your SEO Company

After you set up your agency, it’s upon you to make it successful and take it to new heights. If you want your agency to be the top choice for businesses, you need to market your agency.

You can market your agency to get more clients through many practices. Some of the most effective ways for marketing are:

Search Engine Optimization: You must also serve your own business for what you are about to serve others. As you know that SEO is an effective way to build your online presence, you better work on your website’s on-page and off-page improvements.

Ensure that your website is working properly, has a good loading speed and gives a good user experience.

Reviews: This is another way to attract clients to your agency, as having reviews on top sites and your website makes others able to understand your expertise in the field.

Ask your clients to review your company (without being forceful), as their reviews will add to your agency’s value.

Adding your business on listings: You can add your SEO business on relevant business listings so that you get more clients when they check those lists of business companies.

While doing this, make sure that your business name, address and contact number are correct and consistent.

Social media: There’s no business in today’s era without a social media account. After starting your SEO business, create an account on various social media platforms and publish posts regularly to reach more people.

Content marketing: This is a way that every company uses for marketing their business. When we talk about content marketing, it’s not always about blogging.

You should look for the questions people have regarding your agency and then create topics through these questions. After that, create content that to make your clients understand your agency.

Paid advertising is one of the most common ways to market a brand or business. Paid ads are ideal for attracting your target audience as you can highlight all your specialties and offerings in those ads to make people look at you as their primary choice.

You can either make Google ads or remarketing ads to get displayed on other sites and your website.

Attending conferences: Other than so many online ways to market your business, there are offline ways, and attending trade shows, and business conferences are some of those ways.

It gives you an excellent opportunity to get introduced to a lot of people and connect with prospects.

Through all these methods, you can reach your target audience and attract many clients to choose your agency for getting SEO services for their businesses.

Retail your clients: Your work doesn’t end when you attract business owners to choose your agency for SEO services. When your project and prospect end with a company, it doesn’t mean that you have to break all ties with them.

Instead, you should try to build desire consistently so that they stay with your SEO agency in the future.

If you stop trying to build their desire to work with your company, you lose your clients that very moment. Having good relations with your clients is a crucial feature of a successful business agency as it helps your agency grow and achieve more success.

So, give your best to retain your clients even after completing their projects.

So, after getting well-versed with the steps to start your SEO agency, are you ready to give your career and business a great start? Are you prepared to take your SEO business to new heights?

Nothing is impossible. You need to understand the basics and know the right steps, and this guide gave you knowledge about all of it. So, my best wishes to all the aspiring SEO experts planning to start their agencies.

Freelance Writer: 11 Powerful Tips for Continuous Improvement

Being a freelance writer, you always need continuous improvement to be successful. A freelance writer is a full-time professional writer who works as a contractor for various clients.

As a freelance writer, you are your own boss and not a staff writer for some company.

In this profession, you may have to work across different genres while writing for a topic assigned by a client.

Your Journey to Become a Freelance Writer

Freelance writers are not restricted to a single type of writing, they have to work upon different kind of write-ups. Some of them are Short stories, creative writing journals, news articles, magazine articles, and editorials. You can even work as a content writer or copywriter for your clients.

Freelance writing: How does it benefit you?

A freelance writer has proven to be such an excellent profession for someone who is a passionate writer. Nowadays, many people are using freelance writing instead of writing a full-time job for a particular company.

If we have a look at freelance writing in contrast with other professions, it has many advantages and benefits.

When you work as a freelance writer, you are not supposed to work under anyone or listen to anyone. You are free to decide your hours of work and can fix your schedule and timetable accordingly. You’ve even got a chance of working from home if you please.

But along with having all those advantages, freelance writing requires hard work, and one must be good at time management. You must be energetic and ready to find new customers and clients, as needed by you.

Although it requires much effort to be a good freelance writer, every profession seems difficult at the beginning. You need to establish a steady and consistent customer base, and you’ll notice that it’s a good career choice.

The returns you receive from this kind of writing can be useful, you just have to become familiar with this field. It is essential to focus on various things for your continuous improvement in the field of freelance writing.

Freelance Writing: Guidelines for Continuous Improvement

1. Opt for your area of focus

You decide the topics that you want to try writing about as per your appropriate expertise. Picking the right niche throughout your freelance career as a writer makes things easier for you, and could indeed prove to be appropriate for your continuous improvement

You should not just write about everything that comes in front of you, instead, it is advisable to dive into some particular writing type or field. Selecting an area of focus makes writing effortless for you.

Once you have begun your career in freelance writing, try writing about multiple subjects and fields in order to understand which one suits you the most.

Try to recognize if you are into medical writing, technical writing or something else and then sharpen your skills for that kind of writing.

When you opt for your area of focus, it improves your writing and makes you feel at ease. This is because you are writing for identical clients or audience every time.

When you master a genre, it prompts the clients to choose you over others.

2. Associate with others in your field

Another recommended way for your continuous improvement as a freelance writer is to associate with others in your field. No matter the field; it is always a good idea to learn from those who have mastered the art.

Though it might appear as if you are communicating with your competitor, it’s necessary for your success.

Whether you get information about the rates in the market or the clients, it always helps to grasp knowledge from those who already know everything. It develops you personally and professionally.

Connecting with others provides you with updates about the recent information and news. Moreover, it helps you be successful as a writer.

If you are looking for freelancer writers to network with, you can search on social networking sites and other freelancing websites.

Getting in touch with other writers helps in the continuous improvement of your reputation.

3. Editing

Good editing skills are complementary when you talk about writing. When there is a writing agency or company, they have a special team of editors.

While working as a freelance writer, it becomes your duty to edit the write-ups yourself because you don’t have any other person to do that.

When we talk about the basic skills one must-have for freelance writing, editing tops the list. A well-edited and error-free article becomes more powerful and helps in the continuous improvement.

Following the right pattern makes your editing more impactful.

a) Editing the composition: The first thing you should do is to check whether your article or content is correctly formed or not. Ensure that the writing scheme and arrangements are correct, and all the sections are coherent.

You write up should be divided into three major parts- introduction, main structure, and an appropriate end.

b) Edit the way of writing: You must look deeper into the style of sentence formation in your write up. Your paragraphs should also be in a good shape.

Change all the incorrect compositions in your written work.Moreover, it’s also necessary for you to follow the client’s desired writing style.

c) Edit the grammatical mistakes: Checking for all the grammatical mistakes in your article is very important as it showcases your fluency and proficiency in the language and field.

4. Generate ideas and ask questions

No matter if you are engaged with some clients presently, you must keep thinking of new concepts daily as it helps in keeping the brain cells running.

You must keep writing as per your field of interest; in this way, you can save your writings for future use.

If you keep generating ideas, you’ll be having better opportunities to find clients. Moreover, you might not generate the same ideas, that you are getting now, in future.

You are not just expected to generate ideas. You should also keep communicating and asking questions from the client, as it contributes to your continuous improvement as well.

Once you start working for someone, you must clear all your doubts related to the kind of written work they ask from you.

In freelance writing, the primary objective is to write according to your client’s expectations as only then you can get a good reputation.

If your content is appropriate, you will become your client’s first choice, and they’ll keep in touch with you even after your assignment is completed.

5. Start Blogging

Blogging is another brilliant way for your continuous improvement in this field, as it is a creative activity that sharpens your skills.

An interesting way to encourage yourself to start blogging is to writing blogs on things or activities you are passionate about (be it cooking, travelling, skiing, or something else).

There are various pros of writing blogs:

Online presence- In the present generation, the internet is a powerful medium, and writing blogs gives you an online presence. SEO strategies can be used so that various clients can reach you.

Improvement in way of writing- “Practice makes a man perfect.” You must have heard this saying, and writing blogs is like practice when it comes to freelance writing.

Writing regularly organises your style of writing in a better way. Moreover, there won’t be any grammatical mistakes and spelling errors.

Helps in reaching the customers and clients- When people will read your blog, they might get hired if they like it. In the field of freelance writing, getting more clients is an important thing, and writing blogs helps you with that.

6. Write good pitches consistently

As a freelance writer, you should keep writing well-crafted pitches on a regular basis. Even if you get to work for one or two clients, in the beginning, you still need to keep pitching because clients will not come to you all at once on their own as it takes time.

It is necessary for you to write pitches, so, think of the customers or clients, newspapers or journals for whom you are interested to write.

You are expected to set your aim for that and try to achieve them, as it is essential for your continuous improvement.

You should search for various sites such as Mediabistro to look for companies and clients to write pitches for, in case there are no clients in your mind.

After you find a suitable client, it’s your responsibility to prepare a good proposal to make them hire you.

It’s not everyone’s cup of tea to write pitches, but it surely is important in order to hone your writing skills, as it lets you get customers to write for.

It is used as a kind of proposal, based on which a client decides whether he should hire you or not.

7. Keep Writing to Improve Your Odds

When you do something on repeat, you soon become a pro in that particular activity, which leads to your continuous improvement. It is almost similar in freelance writing as well.

When you write constantly, you gain more expertise in writing. This is why freelance writers with a regular writing routine are more successful as it is excellent for continuous improvement.

You must not make it look as if writing is your hobby by writing occasionally or whenever you please, you must instead, take writing as a profession. You must hone your writing skills in order to attract more clients.

Keep writing about various topics even if you are out of work. It’ll build a healthy writing habit in you that’ll make you more productive and efficient.

8. Time management and keeping the due date in mind

Ability to manage your time efficiently is a key requirement to be competent in the field of freelance writing. When you learn how to handle time, it helps you improve continuously.

Some clients might assign you a week to write a short article, while some might ask you to write a 3000-word article in just two days. You have to monitor your time according to your client’s expectations.

The key to managing your time is to decide how much time you spend on different steps. You must attempt to manage how much time you spend while searching for new opportunities, performing research on the current assignment, and writing your content.

Remember that versatility is a very important feature in the field of freelance writing that contributes to your continuous improvement. Not only that, you must also be good at organising.

You should always be aware of your work deadlines, as late submissions create a bad image and reputation for your clients.

To avoid overloading work, you can start making plans and schedules to complete your tasks and work on that basis.

9. Change in Workspace

The mind of each person functions differently. No matter what sort of job you do, the world around you changes tremendously, and it sometimes needs to improve constantly.

You get the advantage of selecting your working area as per your will and needs while you work as a freelance writer.

It’s pretty cool if you are allowed to work from anywhere. Be mindful that your productivity is enriched by a good workspace.

As a freelance writer, you have to know what the atmosphere is for you, whether you like to work in silence, or at a place with some noise.You should take your time and learn what sort of workspace makes you more profitable.

Find your comfort level, but bear in mind that you should continuously change your workplace as at times environmental change helps produce more innovative ideas.

One day in a busy cafe, another day in a park, you might write fluently. Some days in your own home, sitting alone, you can be more imaginative.

Only pick your workspace and suggest changing your workspace if you can’t compose in a particular setting effectively.

10. Improving Productivity

Time is a precious commodity we all know. It must be one of your key purposes when you are a freelance writer to complete your tasks in time to maximise your productivity.

You can’t just carry on writing a short article of 600 words during the day. You are slowing down by doing so.

It is your responsibility to balance the time you offer to a particular project. Devote more time to the comparatively longer articles.

Ideally, you should split your time by writing and editing to maximise your productivity. As an independent writer, you must be mindful that writing and editing are two entirely distinct processes, so you never attempt to slow down the pace at the same time.

Another important method of increasing efficiency is the Pomodoro technique. It also helps in your continuous improvement.

According to some researches, it makes you more effective and productive if you take strategic breaks or intervals. In accordance with this Pomodoro method, the role must be divided into diverse intervals and short breaks.

11. Develop an impactful writing voice

You must build an effective writing voice to be a good freelance writer, as it helps in your continuous improvement.

Your writing style allows your work to be remembered. Your work would be better if you have a special and sincere writing style.

You might think that an effective written voice is difficult to create, but it is not. You have to write in the voice of your reader, and it is interesting to write.

Your words and phrases affect your speech greatly.You have to write in a manner that it seems as though you speak to the readers directly.

As a career, freelance writing is quite interesting. You absolutely need to know how to develop your skills in freelance writing.

You must use these ideas to be successful in the field of freelance writing if you are a freelance writer grappling to better yourself in the industry. These measures will definitely help in your continuous improvement.

Almost every occupation has ways to perform a particular job more efficiently. This guide will contribute to your continuous improvement, and allows you to achieve freelance writing success.

As you become more efficient and know the right ways to work, you become the first choice for your customers. Not just this, you will get more projects.

How Much Does Uber Cost: The Uber Car Service Rate

Unless you had been living under the sea, you have probably heard or even taken a ride with Uber! Uber Technologies Inc, is a transportation network company that allows users with smartphones to book a cab using the Uber App. As of today, Uber has launched it services in 545 cities across 66 countries. So, wondering how much does Uber cost?

If you are thinking to try out Uber too, it’s a good choice. You need to focus on customer service, timely pickups, and professionalism – since Uber has a strict qualitu control mechanism.

And the rewards for following the policies are great.

You can be a full-time driver and earn a good amount from the daily driving. You could even use Uber for part time income – we often find working professionals taking a dive to supplement their income from 9 to 5 jobs.

So, if you are into the Uber business as a driver, how do you turn it into a great income opportunity? And how much does Uber cost?

It all depends on the money you’re making for each ride, and Uber uses various metrics to determine the final fare.

Here, we are going to tell you exactly how the final fare amount is determined.

How are Uber Fares Calculated?

To know how much does Uber cost, we need to take a look at a few other things. Behind the scenes of the Uber Car Service Rate is a simple algorithm to calculate the charges levied on the passenger. Uber calculates its service charge based on four criteria:

Base Fare: This is the flat fee that is charged at the beginning of the ride. It is a standard fee but varies depending on the type of service you pick like UberX, Uber SUV, Uber Black.
Time Sharing cost: You must hear this a lot: ‘Time is money,’ and Uber really does apply that. If you are riding with Uber, one component of the Uber Car Service Rate is the time sharing cost, which is calculated as cost per minute for each minute you ride an Uber cab.
Cost per Mile: This one’s obvious. It is the cost per mile you travel.
Booking Fee: Also known as the ‘Safe Ride fee,’ this is another flat fee that covers operational costs. Apparently, it also helps support safety initiatives for drivers and riders alike.

So, the equation to the answer of how much does Uber cost is simple; Uber Fare Estimate is the sum of these four components.

You can also look this up on the Uber Passenger App by going to Help> A Guide to Uber> How Fares are Calculated. There’s a bunch of topics that will give you details about Uber Fares.

Aside from these four components, sometimes, you will still notice that your fare doesn’t add up based on these criteria. Yes, there are certain other charges sometimes, and of course, prices also depend on the city. These charges are great incentives for drivers who can earn extra above the normal fare. It’s also what tells you as to how much does Uber cost.

Additional Variables of Uber Cost

When you are trying to make more, you need to take these into account. It will help you know the system more so that you can get better leverage.

Uber Minimum: A rider I once picked up had left his keys in the door and locked himself inside his own house. And he had some stuff that he needed to give to a friend who lived less than half a mile away. So, he called for an Uber. I ‘rescued’ him from his house and dropped him at his friend’s place.

Now for these kinds of short rides, the drivers are not fairly compensated. I mean, they come from a certain distance to pick you up, and nothing adds up to the Time Sharing cost or the cost per mile. Hence, Uber has a minimum fare that you will be charged if you book a ride, even if your actual fare is lower than the minimum fare.

Surge: This is the fees that Uber charges during rush hours when the demand is high, and the supply of drivers is low. Sometimes the surge pricing can go up to 5 times the basic cost. Driving around such periods can earn you considerable money in a short time!

Cancellation: There is a cancellation fee that you need to pay if someone cancels a ride after five minutes or later of booking a cab. They also need to pay a cancellation fee if the driver has arrived at the destination and the passenger doesn’t show up within five minutes. For UberX, this fee is 5 $, and for Uber Black or Uber SUV, it’s 10 $.

Airport and Toll: Airports charge the drivers for picking up and dropping passengers. So, this extra component is added to the final bill. The same goes for the toll fees the driver pays on your behalf.

Cleaning Surcharge: In the incident of you causing any damage to the car’s interior or exterior, an extra cleaning fee gets added to your bill. This fee is also charged if the passenger mess up the car, say for instance drop food all over or vomit; yes, it does happen, and vomit is the most common cause of the cleaning fee. Remember, when someone rates the driver, there’s also a pointer on the cleanliness of the car.

It’s evident that Uber charges on various levels for availing their service. But have you wondered to whom does all the money go? To Uber or to the driver?’

It is an interesting question, especially with all the ads saying ‘Drive with Uber.’

How much do Uber Drivers Make?

Driving with Uber is not going to make you really rich to buy a jet for yourself, if that’s what you are thinking. Some time ago, Josh Mohrer, General Manager of Uber NY, made a statement that Uber drivers make an average of $25 an hour. However, you can really make some good money.

The driver’s share is the total fare paid by the passenger less the booking fee, less Uber’s commission, which is 25% of the total fare. That’s how much an Uber driver will pocket!

Plus, most of the Uber drivers are independent contractors, meaning they are responsible for their own taxes. So, they also pay for gas on their own. At the end of the year, Uber send the drivers a 1099-K which directs them to pay self-employment and federal taxes. (A lot of us are working for Uber Part-time.)

So, How Much Are You Going to Make?

Remember, you really can make a good income on your own, and you can make use of the tax deductions using expenses for fuel and maintenance which saves them a substantial amount. And then, there’s the surge! The surge is a friend of the driver, and tips are always welcome.

So, on an average, an Uber driver can make $15-20 an hour. The experienced ones do have some tricks up their sleeves to get a good number of rides by being at the right place at the right time and can earn a little more.

With a good bit of strategizing, you can make more than $20 an hour easily. There are drivers who make more than $50 an hour easily and it all comes down to how you plan your rides.

You can also make more money where there is surge pricing and other tactics. There have been instances where an Uber driver earned up to $500 in a single day!

So why not give it a try and find out for yourself? The joining process of Uber is really simple and easy.

Why We say You Cannot Become Rich by Driving Uber Alone

Ever wondered whether you can get rich by driving Uber alone? From late 2013 until 2015, Uber campaigned about how you can make $90,000 an year as a driver with Uber in the New York area and $74,000 in San Francisco. This was a part of their recruitment campaign when they were trying to get more drivers on-board in order to expand their reach and stay ahead of their major competitor Lyft.

Uber also allegedly made claims about ‘Unlimited Mileage’, while as it turned out there were limits imposed on the actual leases on the cabs and the drivers ended up paying way more than Uber said. Ultimately Uber ended up in a law suit with the Federal Trade Commission for having misled drivers about their earnings on the platform and had to pay $20 million dollars in order to settle.

But when you think of it, there are so many drivers out there and when Uber starts dividing the $20 million between them, no one really knows how much ‘compensation’ a driver will receive. The bottom line is that nobody ever got rich by driving Uber alone. Although it is still a great platform that allows to make money part time, if you want to mint some bucks, you will need to know the tricks of the trade and do a little more smart work.

So, how do you go about making that $90k an year?

Let’s start by defining your targets. In order to make $90k a year, you need to make $7500 a month which means $1875 a week.

Let’s start from here.

The primary source of your income as a driver is obviously by picking up rides. That means you need to be in the right place at the right time and for that you need to know your city well. Events around the city like a sports event or a musical concert are a sure shot way of getting rides.

You can always find out about the upcoming events in your city by calling a local hotel. They will give you good information under the presumption that you are calling as a customer who is about to make a booking with them. Get the start times and the end times, so that you can position yourself in the area and pick up some good rides.

The Top Reasons You Cannot Get Rich by Driving Uber Alone

Since, Uber doesn’t keep tabs on these, you ideally don’t get the information from them and neither do the other drivers. So, you already have an edge over here. However, the fact is that in order to make those big bucks you need to put in some extra hours as well. And the crazy hours, sitting chained to your seat can take a toll on your health too.

Moreover, if you are an independent contractor with Uber, although you do enjoy the luxury of working at your own convenience, you are not covered by the benefits that regular employees get and you are responsible for the gas and the maintenance of your own car. So, you need to be a little careful unless you want to end up spending all the money you earn on gas. Hence, we spoke about being in the right place at the right time.

How to make money driving with Uber without actually Driving?

The good thing about Uber is there are ways to make money without driving and that is done by reaping the benefits of their referral scheme. Sometime last year, Uber invited all the top referrers of the Bay Area to their office in order to reward them. Well, there was pizza and a lot of brain picking on how these drivers were at the top of their referring game and how they could do even better so that it’s a win-win for both the driver and the company.

The underlying fact is that, we have been bred to think that we can only get rich doing a job. Well, if a job was to get you that much money, Bill Gates or Michael Dell wouldn’t have dropped out of school to run their own businesses. The same applies for us drivers as well.

We need to treat this as business. We need to be a little smart. You could start your own website and use Uber’s referral program to make money without actually having to drive. You could also start you own youtube channel to this end.

When you refer another driver and he completes 20 rides, both of you get $300 each. I also know of a 65 year old Filipino driver who posts ads in the English and Chinese newspapers to get referrals. He accompanies the interested drivers to the Uber inspection, teaches them ropes, and makes them comfortable by going on a test ride with them. And is he a magnet for referrals? He certainly is.

Make Money Driving with Uber While You Still Can

Nobody ever got rich by following the crowd, it the ones who thought differently that were able to do so. Moreover, us Uber Drivers aren’t going to be around for that long. Uber is afterall a technology company not a taxi company. They will soon launch unmanned automatic cars.

I’m not kidding. Those are already being tested in Dubai where driverless Maybachs are taking rounds, and the changes will happen sooner or later. And there won’t be any part time driving gigs left for you either to make that extra buck. So, as long as you’re here you need to up your game a notch, and think of better ways to make money while driving. And remember, driving isn’t the only way.

The Top Tips to Set Revenue Projections for Law Firm?

Most law firms set out annual revenue projections for the next year early – at times long before they could even understand if the present year’s projections would be met.

There are quite a few challenges to this approach – especially if you’re looking to get the revenue projections right. Determining what’s going to happen a year and half around the line is difficult – there are a lot of variables involved.

You don’t even know the price of mangoes a month down the line. It depends on different variables – the weather, the supply, the demand for mangoes worldwide, the government policies and more. You could take an error margin of around 5% but even then there isn’t a surety you would get it right after a month.

For businesses, things are a lot more complex. The variables are a lot more – from the fixed overhead costs to the variables.

What you need is a good strategy.

Setting Strategic Revenue Projections – The Right Way to Set Revenue Projections for Law Firm

Your strategic budget doesn’t just give you one traditional budget – instead, you underline a lot many goals and expectations and set budget for each.

What happens, thus, is that instead of looking at everything together, you’re looking at only one, piece by piece. So, if you need 10 fruits, you focus on the price of one mango, the price of one grape, the price of one papaya and so on. You may go wrong in a few but you won’t go wrong totally. Plus, studying them individually will help you get better insights, ones that you wouldn’t get otherwise if you looked at ‘fruits’ as a whole.

This reduces the error of margin. You’ve a greater probability of going wrong in your projection should you consider the price of all the 10 fruits together – which leads to more variables, than when you add up each individually. Focusing on each goal or component gives you a better chance of getting it right. Additionally, it helps you get better management.

In a strategic budget, you have three parts – one where you make a projected revenue, one where you make an estimation of projected expenses and another where you record the projected profits and cash flow. However, it is how you derive at these projections that makes a difference.

Projected revenue, for instance, is the bug that’s difficult to catch. Law firms have constantly changing scenarios – from the unpredictability of clients to government policies and employee management, there are a good many things that can go wrong.

Simply taking a percentage growth and trying to work things around it isn’t the ideal way – instead, as I said above, it’s about looking at the different components together – the practice group levels – to understand the growth you can possibly achieve.

How Far Ahead Should You Carry Out Revenue Projection?

That’s the other question to ask yourself when you get to set revenue projections for law firm.

To know how far ahead you could ideally forecast, there are a number of things that we need to consider. The legal market in India, for instance, is even now concentrated mostly domestically, unless one is working at a LPO.

That means that you need to know just how long you could continue your present growth – and the answer may lie in india’s GDP itself. Studies state that most organizations cannot grow faster than the country’s economy, but that isn’t the sole criteria.

Let’s suppose you are selling eggs for a living. The primary indicator would be just how many people are there in the neighbourhood who eat eggs. That would be your potential – to do more, you would have to reach out to other neighbourhoods. However, not all egg eaters would buy from you at all times. They could order online or buy from other sellers. It’s your competitiveness, brand credibility and market position that would determine actually how many egg buyers would flock to you.

Similar is the case with mid sized law firms. You need to look at how competitive you are and your market position, to make the right assumption. You could use the DCF analysis to help you do the same.

The DCF analysis, while we would not get into the nitty gritties of it, states the following:

If your organization is slow growing, and operates in a highly competitive industry with low margins, you shouldn’t forecast ahead for more than one year.
You could forecast for as many as 5 years, if you have been witnessing outstanding growth for the last few years, and are in a dominant position in the market. Forecasting for 10 years is probably foolhardy.

How to Set Revenue Projections For Your Law Firm?

Most law firms have different groups – like one for the litigation and one for taxation. Ask the team leaders the fundamental questions – like the number of deals in the pipeline, or the cases to go on trial soon. Enquire from them how they think they can respond to changes – like enquiring from the tax team what effect would it have if the government increased the tax bracket next year by 10%? The individual leaders are much better prepared to answer these questions than anybody else.

The next thing would be looking at the individual members – what is the work coming in from existing clients? What is the percentage of new clients each month on an average? How many billable hours does an employee have on an average? Important to note is that you need to do this for each practice group.

After this, look at the number of hours you expect each member to work the next year to achieve the goal – from the amount of workload you see. Normally, you would have someone working around 1,800 hours a week. So if you see your projections state that members may have to work more than 1800 hours a year, you are looking at an understaffed scenario. And if it’s less than 1,800 hours, you need to get more clients and work to avoid over-capacity.

If you feel that there would be over capacity in a certain department, it is a good idea to re-evaluate the current marketing strategy and transfer a few members, where possible to other groups. On the other hand, understaffing means that you need to allocate more budget to your recruitment team so that they are able to hire the right talent next year. If you’re already on a healthy budget from the last few years, you may even want to look at acquisitions to maintain a balanced headcount.

The other thing to note is that not every payment would come as expected. Even the Government doesn’t give you the tax rate you need – changing it often to their liking. Life’s unfair, and even if you’ve the best circumstances, you would have to face a default at one time or the other. You have to discount the billings by a realization rate – and you might want to look at the realization rates of your previous years here. Realization rate depends on different factors though and with many mid-sized firms, drop over the years.

With some clients, you would know that it would be an easy affair, with others you do not. New clients and assignments are difficult to forecast too. Additionally, when calculating the realization rate, you need to look at discounts if any, given to particular clients, transition costs of lateral hires or any alternative fee arrangements.

Building the Foundations is Important To Set Revenue Projections for Law Firm

The above paragraphs state one important thing – you need to have the basic fundamentals cleared to be able to make revenue forecasts correctly.

To reach the right ballpark, you need to focus on realistic expectations. When you are asking your team leaders to give you the specifics and their assumptions, it’s important that they focus on the following:

The ground revenue projections they currently get
Evaluate key revenue assumptions strictly
Understand sales channels and their prospects

To do all this properly, team leaders need to take note of the following, as applicable.

The total number of clients they could actually serve
The amount of calls they make and the amount of time it takes on an average to close a deal
Customer satisfaction and sales channels – which includes the speed and effectiveness
Any seasonality in question – like for litigation, courts could be closed for the summer break.

Focusing on Customer Service

While you may be a medium sized law firm, the one thing that will separate you is your customer service. Customer satisfaction works across all services and industries.

Let’s talk about Air India and Jet Airways.

Both are in the same league, and don’t have the reputation of low cost carriers. They offer seats with more leg space, good food and are premium carriers in the country. However, unless you’re left with no option, you probably wouldn’t want to go for Air India – which has been traditionally notorious for poor customer service. You wouldn’t know what to do if your flight gets late. You wouldn’t know what to do to get refunds. And you wouldn’t enjoy the entire journey.

Customers and repeat clients continue to happen when they are happy – and revenue projections need to take into account just how many repeat clients you have. It needs to take into account the number of clients you normally keep, versus the number of clients who wouldn’t want to try out your service because they were unhappy. Building on customer satisfaction ultimately helps you set better revenue projections.

The Top Tips to Keep in Mind to Set Revenue Projections for Law Firm

The other thing to note when setting revenue projections for your firm is that you shouldn’t look at making implicit assumptions – even when it seems most likely. Let’s go back to the egg seller example. It may seem likely that if two people from the same family buys eggs, the third member of the family could eat eggs too. However, you really cannot be sure unless you know it.

Similarly, you may want to believe that your staff could handle the client workload. You may not anticipate any difficulty staffing up but it could happen – a reason you need to look carefully at whether your employees would be able to manage workload, and the recruitment drives, if any, you need.

Assumptions must be tested and verified.

The other common mistake is to mistake assumptions for facts. Let’s take a look at the egg seller example again. He only caters selling eggs to your neighbourhood. You may likely want to assume that he ‘never’ sells eggs to others outside the neighbourhood. However, the word ‘never’ is the problem. He could sell eggs to those outside the neighbourhood, should they come to him, a reason you only need to use the word ‘never’ only when there is no other possibility. If you feel that the growth rate shouldn’t dip below a certain level, it’s likely that it won’t. You cannot possibly guarantee it.

The next thing to do is to be disciplined while making risk analysis, and focus on each point, including making a best and worst scenario case. This would ensure that you know both the extremes. To do this properly though, you would need to talk to all stakeholders or team leaders, who in turn, need to be properly knowledgeable, as we talked before.

It’s difficult to make accurate revenue projections. Just arriving on an expected desired market growth rate compared to current year revenues isn’t going to work, after all. However, focusing on the basics can just help you hit the right ballpark.

Social Media Reputation for Lawyer in India: How to Improve It?

While the top law firms in the United States and the UK have found a direct correlation between the extent of social media and client success, there are innumerable law firms in India that are reluctant to use social media and their respective digital presence to engage with existing clients and attract new ones. Its perhaps because of the stringer BCI laws that tells law firms they cannot advertise their services. However, while advertising isn’t allowed, you can still use social media to reach out to clients and customers, and we will tell how. Social media and advertising, after all, are different, though it may be easy to mix the two.

Social Media Reputation for Lawyer in India

Indian lawyers are slowly going online – and while we still haven’t explored the true potential, we are slowly getting there.

In fact, as we shall see below, several young lawyers from India are giving their senior counterparts a major run for their money as they are more adept with technology and have welcomed social media when it comes to creating interesting content online and interacting with existing and potential clients.

Top Indian Lawyers Using Social Media Today – Social Media Reputation for Lawyer in India

More Indian lawyers are now using social media than before – let’s take a look at a few examples.

Gautam Bhatia, an expert in Indian constitutional law, and a 2011 law graduate, has over 13.1k followers on Twitter. You would find him engaging in debates, replying to followers on recent cases, and posting recent court documents and analysis on his blog indconlawphil.wordpress.com.

Apar Gupta, who describes himself as a litigator and public policy professional, is another example. He has over 11.8k followrs on Twitter, and is known for speaking on the right to privacy. While a proponent of digitization, it was him along with others that made the Apex court concede it as a fundamental right. He believes that the recent Aadhar link-up is an ‘administrative fetish’, and doesn’t shy away from letting his views known on Twitter.

Shivam Singh, who defines himself as a Sports Law and Dispute Resolution Counsel, uses both Twitter and LinkedIn to his advantage. Expect timely updates on sports news on Twitter and some great sports tips on his LinkedIn page.

Karuna Nundy, a powerhouse constitutional, commercial and media lawyer in the Supreme Court, is known to fight for Bhopal’s gas tragedy survivors and framing India’s anti-rape bill. But that’s not all she does – she has a power packed online presence too – with over 50k followers on Twitter. From expressing her views, sharing bits about her professional life to reporting on recent news – she does it all.

So, how is the social media scenario in India changing for lawyers? And how do you make the most of it? Here is a look at what you can do as a lawyer.

Why do you need a good presence in the virtual world?

To build trust:

Having a good presence in social media creates an air of superiority and reliability. In the world of law, especially in India, trust is indispensable if one wants to be successful. Lawyers can create trust and reliance among the others by generating and sharing valuable content on different social media channels.

Just creating a page won’t do. Since intellectual capacity is what they rely on to make a living, coming up with interesting topics are necessary and they must be shared through owned, earned and paid media channels to reach out to more and more people.

It helps generate more business:

There has to be a connection between social media strategy and business development strategy if you want to make more business through social media. In surveys and studies, it has been observed that there is an important connection between how a lawyer uses social media and improves his profitability.

The average conversion rate observed has been around 10 percent. However, an important thing to keep in mind is that the quality of content and the ease of understanding and sharing it will be an important factor in driving more and more customers towards a lawyer.

Top Strategies To Ensure Social Media Success for Indian Lawyers

So, how do you need to go about creating your social media presence? Here is how to improve social media reputation for lawyer in India the easy way.

Most Indian lawyers seem to focus on Twitter and their website to build followers but that shouldn’t be the only source you need to be looking at.

How to use LinkedIn Publisher?

Many lawyers have complained that they have been on LinkedIn for a long time but have not received and useful results. This arises mainly because of two problems:

Misunderstanding the tools that LinkedIn provides
Misunderstanding the purpose of LinkedIn

LinkedIn is not about having more contacts but building fruitful relationships with your connections. You can’t just accept invitations and forget about them, you have to devote some of your time and attention to your contacts, endorsing them and posting their work to get the same devotion from them.

Opt for the LinkedIn Publisher:

You can use the LinkedIn Publisher for creating and charing content on LinkedIn. Since the content can be searched by keyword, you can use this tool to showcase your knowledge and expertise.

Pulse in the newsfeed of LinkedIn and posts articles on the basis of how popular they are. It is the number of views that helps you decide the popularity of an article. The right article will get posted on Pulse and thereby make you visible to a whole new world of people and your profile gets viewed by a huge number of people.

Since LinkedIn allows your posts to be a part of your profile, anyone who checks you out on LinkedIn also gets to see your work.

How to use the LinkedIn Publisher?

The ‘Update’ section of your profile will have an option called ‘create a post’. Click on that.
Once the publishing platform opens up, write a well-researched and well-articulated article. You can also put up a previous work out here. Stick to the 500 word limit as that is an ideal one.
Ensure that your article has a good headline.
If possible, select a photograph to accompany the writing. A small camera icon on the tool bar will help you post pictures along with your article. And we all know… a picture is worth a thousand words.
Once you are done writing, proofread, edit and post it and keep a track of the response you get. All your contacts in your network will get a notification whenever you put up a post. So ensure your work is of superior quality and makes for a good read. Nobody will like being disturbed with sub-standard articles.

Use LinkedIn correctly:

If used correctly, it’s another way to improve social media reputation for lawyer in India. LinkedIn can become an important part of your business development activities. You must first set out the goals that you wish to achieve through LinkedIn to know how to use it correctly. Generally, there are three goals that lawyers wish to achieve through LinkedIn.

Targeting potential clients:

Use the search bar and ‘advanced search’ options to find potential clients who might be interested in using your services. In most of the cases, you might have a first or second tier connection connecting you with your potential client.
If you have a first tier connection in your contacts, give them a call and request them for an introduction. This would also be a good time to tell them why you are interested in getting in touch with the concerned client.
Use the ‘personal note’ feature that LinkedIn offers if you are trying to connect with someone new. This would let them know why you are interested in connecting with them.
Use LinkedIn’s InMail to send emails to prospective clients as surveys have shown that they have a 30% higher chance of being read.

Attracting more opportunities:

First join a LinkedIn Group that matches with your area of expertise. Participating actively in such groups will increase the traffic to your profile.
Your profile must be ready since now you will have more people visiting your profile who are likely to present you better opportunities. One of the ways in which you can do so is put up SlideShare or videos of you making presentations which instantly adds more credibility to your work and profile.
Start your own group, dealing with issues in your area of expertise for more interaction with prospective clients.

Client Service:

You can use LinkedIn not only to attract more clients and opportunities but to improve existing client relations as well.

Make sure you are connected with all your clients on LinkedIn. That is the basic step.
Find out what it is that your client needs. If they need to know more about how a new law will affect the business and investment decisions, give them a call and advise them or connect them to someone who can help them out.

Deconstructing Twitter

Twitter has over 284 million monthly users, and its what you need to look at as a lawyer. Here are a few tips to help.

Use Twitter Analytics

With it, you can get helpful data and know what to tweet or retweet. Lawyers are encouraged to get as creative as possible with their tweets.

Be Prepared:

Ensure you are well versed with the indian legal rules when it comes to tweeting. In this world, it is very easy to get caught in the bad books of the law, particularly when discussing your court wins, previous cases and actively promoting your business through these channels.

Blog it all out

That’s right. Several lawyers are so deep in books that they don’t find time to share all the knowledge that they are gathering all the time. While it is not possible to have such gatherings where you can meet an interested audience, blogging helps you reach out to more people right from the comfort of your study room.

Most Indian lawyers with an Indian presence have a blog – it’s the first thing they invest in. Some have gone in for their own domain names – like Apar Gupta – while others haven’t invested in one yet, often going by the .wordpress.com default free domain name. Either way, a blog is one of the first things you need to look for.

The Hashtagging Rules

The other thing to know to increase your reach, is to use the right hash tags. These hash tags basically create a clickable link to a stream of posts, arranged chronologically and thereby, make your posts available in additional streams.

How do you create hashtags?

Very simple! Hash tags are nothing but a ‘#’ sign followed by a string of characters with no spaces in between. However, they must make sense and have some meaning.

Using hashtags the right way

Using them in real-time discussions:

Twitter has created a rage by allowing users to use hash tags to have discussions on important events in real-time. You can follow these discussions and respond to them. TweetChat is a free program which helps you in this. So if you have decided to tweet your post using a hashtag for a conversation related to your field of expertise, you have more chances of getting re-tweets if you use a hash tag stream which you don’t generally use in your daily conversations.

Hashtags can help you make useful searches

When you carry out the searches using the hash tag stream, you are likely to come across people who have an interest in that specific topic or the necessary and associated knowledge and skills. You can carry out searches in the search page, but since that is unfiltered, your chances of striking gold gets highly diluted.

Use them in conference participation:

Hash tags are perhaps best used when it comes to conference participation. If you can use a famous conference hash tag to your advantage, then you will overcome a major obstacle when it comes to reaching out to interested audience members who are likely to use tour services.

The Other Methods

Wonder what the other methods to improve social media reputation for lawyer in India are? You can also try out Facebook to increase followers, and generate shareable content. However, in the Indian context, we haven’t yet seen many lawyers with social media presence, though we do have a few legal firms with their own Facebook pages – like A.K Singh and Co. Law Offices.