We’ve all had tough clients – the one who’s always looking for a discount; the one who changes their mind at the last minute; the one who wants to go over the minutiae of every little detail. Twice. And then wants you to throw in a flying pony at no extra cost. *Sigh*… It’s not the end […]

As a freelancer, you’re likely to go to far more job interviews and potential client meetings than full-time folks. You’ve probably already got the basics down – a professional-but-not-intimidating handshake, flawless punctuality and your go-to suave suit. But here’s how to make sure you really stand out from the crowd when it counts. Do your research […]

Here at MAF, we’re always on the look out for ways to help the freelance community – that’s why we set up The Life Hub, after all. Since the freelancers we work with have all told us how much they like to escape to a coffee shop with decent wifi, we thought we’d round up some […]

Freelancing and contracting are often seen as a route to a freer, more relaxed lifestyle. However, the self-employed life comes with its own stresses, especially if you work alone or for a demanding client. Without someone to share the load, the lifestyle can take it’s toll, so it’s important to find time for yourself, even during your […]

Watching contestants on The Apprentice squirm as their business plans are comprehensively dismantled isn’t the easiest watch. But arming yourself with a plan can actually be hugely beneficial for your company. They’re not just for Sir Alan’s trembling hopefuls or big businesses – freelancers can benefit from having one too. It could save you time, stress and ultimately money, […]

Being self-employed isn’t easy, especially with more and more of us heeding the call to set up alone every year. And when the market’s this competitive, often it can be something as simple as your day rate that wins you business or loses the deal. Finding that sweet spot is harder than it might seem. Go […]

There are two words guaranteed to bring any business owner out in cold sweats: Dragon’s Den. It’s the ultimate gamble – you could come away with the investment of a lifetime from people who’ve been there, done that and got the designer three-piece suit. But on the other hand, you could leave in tatters, your business plan in […]

Whether you’re starting up as a freelancer or a small business, the question of office space is bound to crop up sooner rather than later. While many single-person businesses operate a ‘have laptop will trade’ model, there are obvious benefits to working in an on-demand office set up – it solves the need for an official business address, […]

Chasing for payment is the bane of the freelance life. Here are a few ideas on how to make it happen sooner rather than later. Remember the good old days of PAYE? Once you go freelance, even if you’ve got the best online accountancy service in the land on your side, you can kiss goodbye to […]