Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in freelancing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emily Rose Burley, Founder of Emily Rose Writing, located in London, UK.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a freelance writer, editor, and proofreader. I write for lots of different people and businesses! It could be proofreading a fiction novel for an author, checking for plot holes and grammatical mistakes, to writing articles for businesses based on the products or services they want to sell. The best part of the job is always having something new to write, which allows me to learn new things. I also enjoy building relationships with clients - working out what they want and being able to deliver that is very rewarding.
Tell us about yourself
I started writing as a side hustle during the first lockdown in 2020 while my full-time job was quiet, and I gradually built up my client base during the last two years. I am motivated by the desire to be my own boss, choose my own work and work flexibly. Being out of the 9-5 office routine during the lockdown helped me realise that I wanted something different, and so I took a leap of faith.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has the courage to start - it is not easy to start a business when you are working full-time, and it takes a lot of dedication. You have to work evenings and weekends and give up parts of your social life. Knowing that I was going to be incredibly busy and still going through with it is a huge accomplishment. On a more work-focused level, I have proofread some really interesting novels, and it's been enjoyable to see the work improve with my input.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
There is a lack of certainty on how much money you will make and if your clients will still be there tomorrow. With that, you need some faith in yourself, or else it can become stressful. Knowing how to stay calm in moments of uncertainty is so important when owning your own business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't give up your day job until you've built up a client base and received positive feedback on your work.
- Put yourself out there - advertise yourself, create a website and make a name for yourself. Network with others in your profession.
- Do not panic when things go quiet. It happens to every business and is totally normal.
Where can people find you and your business?
Emily Rose
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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