1. Finding Work & Networking
Networking & Communities
Illustrated Freelancer’s Guide – Covers contracts, tax, pricing, and more.
Creative Dundee Amps Network (£40/year) – Industry events, funding, and connections. There are also similar organisations in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling and beyond.
Agency of None's Open House – Informal monthly meet up for freelance creatives and designers working in and around Dundee and beyond.
Creative Entrepreneurs Club – Member shoutouts and opportunities.
Building Connections
Word of mouth & relationships – Past projects, tutors, peers, experienced freelancers, and internships can lead to future work. Staying in touch with people can go a long way.
Grow small jobs – A one-off project can turn into long-term work, you never know where designing simply a logo can lead.
Loss leaders – A lower-budget client (e.g., a startup) might provide great exposure or future referrals.
2. Business Essentials
Rates & Pricing
Know your worth – Junior freelancers typically charge £150–£200 per day.
Working for free – Your time and skills have value, so avoid agreeing to working for free unless it's a structured short-term internship with clear learning benefits in lieu of pay. Unpaid design work is exploitative, and you deserve to be compensated for your expertise.
Value your expertise – Clients pay for your skills and process, not just the final output.
Finance & Admin
Business Bank Accounts – Keep personal and work finances separate, open a business account. It's super easy and you can probably set one up with the bank you have your current/personal account with.
Insurance – Protect yourself against disputes or equipment damage. a-n The Artists Information Company (£40/year) offer affordable cover for creatives.
Tax & Invoicing
Track invoices and expenses monthly
Set up a standing order into a savings space to gather your tax every month to cover your tax in January.
TaxScouts (£169) offer affordable tax return assistance.
3. Final Tips
Avoid Isolation – Connect with like-minded creatives through networks. Finding your community can make freelancing feel less solitary.
Co-work – Switch up your workspace! Try cafés, co-working spaces, or libraries, find what keeps you motivated and connected with others.
Quiet Periods Happen – Work naturally ebbs and flows. If possible, save a financial buffer for slower times. Stay proactive, follow up on leads, keep learning, and trust the process. More work will come.
Stay in touch