Being a freelance reporter has some amazing benefits, but one of the challenges is the schedule. In court, you know where to be and when - five days a week (mostly).
With freelance, it can be "catch as catch can," as it were.
It can be stressful. What can you do to alleviate the stress?
Know yourself (your production ability)
Know your market (understand the type of work available)
Manage your persona (marketing items)
Develop a strategy to become more "knowable" - advertise, participate/sponsor local events, speak at events, join clubs/associations.
Don't give up. All it takes is one or two clients to start the snowball. And be ready with great networking subcontractors when the eventual double-booking comes.
And always meet your deadlines.
You all know I love giving back... and I've been speaking at the local law school for many years now, sharing with the students who will be future litigators how they can work WITH court reporters to create a truly excellent record.
I love doing this - and if you have the chance, please consider doing it in your area. The "baby" lawyers appreciated it and the next generation of court reporters will too!
We all love rituals - girls nights, massages, regular workouts... but what about our working rituals?
Do you have any that ease you into your productivity? Perhaps alleviate any anxiety?
Our job as a stenographer (or captioners) is filled with stressors and if we can develop rituals for ourselves to help limit those stresses, think how healthy, happy, and productive we can become?!
I love this profession... and I love sharing it. Wherever you are, in whatever period in your career you find yourself, be an amazing advocate! Introduce people to this incredible opportunity for someone who loves English, the law, computers, learning... Be the little pebble that creates the ripple in the pond!
