Now you've decided that this could be the career change for you, what do you do next?  An important step is to get the word out there that you're starting your freelance business-word of mouth is one of the most effective and inexpensive form of advertising.  Make a list of people you've done business with from both within and outside your field of expertise. You'll be surprised at how many more people require your service just from within your own circle.

The internet can be a challenging but lucrative means of finding new contracts and clients. if you know what to do  Care must be taken to make sure the experience is not a financially draining one.  You can post ads  on one of the many free classified sites,  build your web page and market your site or sign up on a Freelance Auction site.  Buyer beware as advertising on the internet can be an expensive and not always productive way of getting your name out there.

if you've chosen the internet as your means of promotion, first step is to pick your domain name-pick one relevant to Freelancing and your area of expertise.  Build your website and begin to get your name out there!  This takes time and patience so don't think your business will grow overnight. Post ads, join marketplaces, maintain a reciprocal links page on your website-find any means possible too get your name out there.

A new and inexpensive means of finding work and getting your name out there is by signing up at a Freelance auction site.  My site of choice is www.iJobid.com .  You can sign up and post a profile for free and once you get going, your clients can leave you feedback ratings so prospective customers will know you're legitimate.  The free classifieds don't offer that and you may have clients that don't pay their bills.  Welcome to being in business for yourself! Which ever method you decide, the work is out there.  It's up to you to find it.