How to Get Your Start as a Freelance PCB Designer

Although it’s good to dream big, being a successful freelancer might not be quite as easy to break into unless you’re prepared to make some necessary alterations in your lifestyle and, more importantly, your mindset. Let’s look at how to get your start as a freelance PCB designer.

Are you Qualified?

One of the things you will quickly learn when pounding the pavement to get hired on as an employee is that there are varying levels of what is considered to be a pcb designer. While it helps to have a minimum of a BS in a related field with emphasis on Computer-Aided Design (CAD), drafting, or electronic design, it isn’t always necessary for an entry level position.

It is assumed that you have a bit of work experience under your belt prior to branching out as a freelancer. Anything you can add to your resume in terms of experience or accomplishments, the better it will serve you when marketing your services.

 

 

 

 

Marketing 101

This is an area you may have very little experience with, but unfortunately, it is one of the most vital aspects of being a successful freelancer. Building a client base is imperative to your success, so you can either take the time to learn some basic marketing skills or hire a marketing team to get your name out there.

When you were employed by a corporation or design team, you didn’t have to worry about that aspect of the business. However, when working as a freelancer, you are all of the above! You are owner, director, HR, marketing, PCB designer, and maintenance! Your key takeaway here is that, if you have no knowledge of basic marketing strategies, it might be more effective in the beginning to get a marketing team on board.

Odds and Ends

One thing to keep in mind is that most new businesses don’t start turning a profit right away. This is something you need to plan for when choosing to go the freelancer route. Some entrepreneurs keep their day jobs while breaking into freelancing slowly on the side. Another factor you may want to consider is just how difficult it might be to discipline yourself to a set schedule.

Yes, your time is your own, but is that really going to be productive? Look at your freelancing business as if you were working a 9 to 5. Schedule office hours and stick to them. Just remember that it’s a learning experience, so don’t be afraid to make a mistake or two along the way. You’d be amazed at some of the setbacks Bill Gates encountered at the beginning, but as history has it, he learned to pick himself up and climb over the obstacles. And, you can too! It’s all about growing with your business, and if you can do that, you’ve got it made.