Page 27 - The Visual Suite Vol2.6

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When it comes to freelancing, most amateurs who are starting out (like me) tend to be over-zealous in giving oneself a title before
the job has even been accepted! Keep in mind, freelancing is when you offer audio/visual services for a client, not a friend of the family or your neighbor (in some instances), but a paying customer whom you might not know too well. This of course brings me to the next thing, KNOW YOUR CLIENT! Or at least know what they want from YOU. Being able to understand the client’s specific needs and proposed ideas will
be half the battle at the completion of the gig.
If I had to describe my first gig
in a word, I’d simply say “terrifying”! I had no idea want the client wanted. Communication is key, ALWAYS ASK QUESTIONS! It doesn’t make you any less professional to ask, “What’s that?” or “How would you like me to do this/that?” Questions like these show the client that you care about both their needs and the
quality of your work. Let your work speak for you; don’t throw out every word in the dictionary to impress your customer because that just makes you look arrogant. Next thing you know, you won’t get a good review and it’ll be twice as hard for you to find another gig.
Ideally, appearance is everything when you’re on a date, but it is the same for A/V as well. Don’t show up on show site sloppy. 9 times out of 10, the client is going to give you a look over and feel less confident because your attire doesn’t say “Hire me”, it says, “I’m going to let you down.” You can never go wrong with all black. Black slacks/khakis, a black polo shirt and a nice belt with the shirt tucked in is minimalist, but effective. Always show up early to test your equipment and scout the place. There’s no greater frustration than not knowing where an outlet is for an emergency tap or experiencing an equipment malfunction just when the show is about to start.
Conclusively, being a freelancer is risky due to its inconsistencies, but it can also be rewarding. I strongly advise that if you are to succeed, heed the advice above and you will be fine on your first gig!
Written by Marcus Long