Western Horseman editor Chris Hamilton and freelancers Kate, Katie Navarra and Abigail at the American Horse Publications Seminar. Photo credit: Darrell Dodds Freelancing can be a solitary job. Instead of working in a cubicle or office with other professionals, you may find yourself at home most days. If you’re like us, you may get a little bored without social stimulation. Worse, if you don’t make a conscious effort, your skills could stagnate. In this episode, we’ll be talking about ways you can continue your education, and also how you can find and build relationships with other equine media professionals.ConferencesBenefits of conferencesNetworking with colleagues, potential clients and clientsLearn new techniques, trendsRefresh and renew--gain motivation.Examples:American Horse Publications ConferenceLivestock Publications Council Ag Media SummitPhotoshop World or other learning opportunities like Santa Fe Photography Workshop, Texas School of Professional Photography or theNiche Media Conference offers podcasting, blogging, advertising, sales, etc.Podcast Movement There are so many conference opportunities. Choose something that is more than just a “cool” event to attend but one that offers the best learning opportunities for what you need.In-person coursesBenefits of in-person coursesBuilding relationships shops with teachers and fellow studentsHands-on skills and learningUse of equipment and softwareExamples: University and community college classesContinuing education courses--Early on, Abigail took photography courses though UT ArlingtonPoynter InstituteMentoring and coachingBenefitsOne-on-one, customizable to attack exactly what you needTargeted and intenseCan take you to the next levelFinding a mentor or coachReach out to other professionals or instructorsSome groups offer mentorship for a fee. Kate is in a photography group that does offer mentoring. Check out Facebook groups. Seek someone with the skills you want to attain, or the career path you want to emulate.Online courses and webinarsBenefits of online courses and webinarsUnlimited potential to gain knowledge and skillsFlexible pace, timingTakes less time to attend than going to a brick and mortar locationExamples of pay courses online:Poynter - journalismLynda.com - business, technology and creative skillsMediabistro - journalism, marketing, PR and social mediaCreative Live - photography, video, design, business, audio, music, crafting, and software trainingKelbyone - Photoshop, photography and LightroomDon’t forget YouTube!Building your own communityReach out at conferences and network—not just for a job, but also for friends and collaboration possibilities.Join our Freelance Remuda private Facebook GroupFind a Hub or shared workspace or even a coffee shop to grow your local network of creatives--or just to get some social interaction.Don’t view other freelancers as a threat. Be confident in your own value.Envious? Reach out and congratulate that person, and use that feeling as motivation to improve your own work.Schedule phone calls / coffee / drinks to trade concerns, challenges, successes.Collaborate!
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