An advantage to working onsite is they keep the software up to date and the computers working. At home, it all falls on your shoulders. You never want to turn down work, so what do you do when asked if you can accept a job using a version you do not have? or the freelance company wants to test you?
There are many low cost and even free resources to keep your skills sharp. This is an especially good idea if you get lured back to an office by a great salary or benefits!
Things You'll Need:
- A good computer with lots of RAM
- A fast internet connection, DSL or Cable
- Ability to self-learn software
- Step 1
Don't Skimp on Hardware
Crashing is downtime and downtime earns no money!
Know and understand your computer! Make sure you have all the RAM you can reasonably afford. Keep your computer healthy: do due diligence when it comes to computer housekeeping -defrag if necessary, buy and use anti-virus and malware software! Don't forget to occasionally blow the dust out inside your computer shell. It collects over time and can damage delicate components.
Remember, at 2:33 am working on a tight deadline, you do not want your computer to crash! You need to get up and working fast, a back up computer is a good idea. You will not get rehired for missing deadlines.
Find and be active on computer forums. You will find yourself amongst friends. Be very clear and concise in your subject line and check back for answers and give thanks!
Bad Forum Subject:
OMG!!!! I NEED HELP!!!!
Good Forum Subject:
Windows XP crashing when pasting effects into InDesign CS3
Chances are your problem is related to the OS or Software and someone has found a workaround or fix! Pay it back! Offer any help or suggestions you may contribute. Remember to stay on Topic -these forums are for professionals not gossip or drama! - Step 2
Know Your Software
Do not think that your copy of Photoshop 5.5 is going to cut it in today's world. Yes, you may be able to do many of the same things but the end user may need the current version and can not even open your document or prep it for press. You will look unprofessional and worse, you make the person paying you look bad.
Spend the time looking for tips and tricks. Read the latest books by the experts and subscribe to the graphics magazines. If you want to be considered a Photoshop Pro, then join the Professional Photoshop Organizations, they are full of helpful advisors and give credibility to your resume and are deductible business expenses.
Software companies like Adobe manage very helpful online forums for their users. Learn about the latest bugs and fixes before they hit your wallet!
Bad Forum Subject:
HELP ME NOW!!! OMG! I CRASHED!!!
Good Forum Subject:
Need help with Illustrator CS4 drop shadow effects... - Step 3
Use 30 day free trials
Many of the software companies offer 30 day free trials, this isn't cheating and they want you to use them! How else can they get you to spend so much money on software.
Need to use an application you haven't touched in years? Download the 30 day free trial and see how well you do. Chances are you can use the search engines to find instructions on techniques and workflow that is unfamiliar. As soon as you become proficient and can afford it, buy the full version. Don't cheat, 30 days is a very generous offer.
Many times an employer is so happy with your work, they will upgrade to a newer version if the job demands it. It is a deductible business expense but it may also be considered income, so be tax smart!
There are also many Tutorial web sites offering lessons in the most popular software. Some are available for a minimal monthly fee like Lynda.com, others offer CDs or Books.
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