GO TO MAINSTACK

First, let's create an account. On your browser, go to Mainstack, and at the top right corner of the homepage, click on 'Get Started for free'

CHOOSE A PRODUCT

Depending on how you intend to use this platform, this next step helps you choose if you want to use the platform as a Storefront, to create a Link in your bio, or to set up Reservations with your clients. In this case, you will choose 'Get Started with Link-in-Bio'

SIGN UP

Here, you can choose to sign up with your preferred email address or use the Google SSO sign-up option (that is, sign up with Google).

Input your email, first and last name, and a strong password. Accept the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy before clicking 'Create account'.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR DASHBOARD

First, you need to verify your email address when prompted. While that is done, you might receive another prompt to include more details about your business. You can choose to skip this step, but if you plan to make money through the platform, do not skip this step.

Again, you may be asked to sign in after the verification, but it is no big deal.

Now that you're in, let's prep our dashboard to fit our style. Click on 'Create new Link in Bio' and complete your details at the pop-up from the right corner.

When it is done, click on 'Create new Link in Bio' again, and you will be asked to create a LIB or Link in Bio username (that also works as your URL).

Done! Let's choose a template.

CHOOSE A TEMPLATE

One thing I absolutely love about Mainstack is the variety of templates available. They make it so easy to customize your page according to your niche. I like to choose between the Business and Creators templates because they are simple and help me curate simple call-to-action buttons.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR CONTENT

After selecting your desired template, personalize your page colors, and fonts, add more elements, etc.

Craft a bio in the 'Header' section that briefly describes what you do at first glance, uploads an appealing professional profile photo, and add your social media links (LinkedIn or social media platform).

Clearly outline the services you offer, along with descriptions and pricing. Avoid words like 'Contact me for pricing' as it makes you elusive and unprofessional. Instead, list your pricing and highlight a note for customers to contact you for 'custom offers'

Include a contact button that links to your email, phone, or messaging app so that customers can reach you.

Mainstack templates

If you’re a photographer, UGC creator, or content writer, include snippets or samples from past collaborations in a neat grid or carousel layout. If possible, add client testimonials, as those can really help build trust!

OPTIMIZE YOUR PAGE

Remember, your one-page site could attract a wide audience, so use relevant keywords connected to your services and avoiding bulky texts or spam words like 'Hurry now' as they may make your site look spammy or misleading.

PUBLISH

Now that everything is customized, go ahead and publish your site. The following pop-up window gives you the option to copy your URL or share your link with friends and on social platforms. Then scroll down and click 'Go back to Link in Bio'

Go back to your page to see how your profile will appear to other users.

Make sure to keep your bio site up to date and you can also adjust your fonts or bio information anytime.

TIPS FOR USING A MAINSTACK ONE-PAGE SITE

1. Be specific with your offer or Header information. Being a 'Content Creator' or 'Graphic Designer' is vague. Your header should be curated to target a specific industry. For example, 'Beauty and Fashion UGC creator' or 'Graphic Designer for Specializing in Branding and Logo design' helps potential clients understand your offers.
2. Keep your page simple. The goal of a one-page site is to help you market and showcase your presence to an online community. Displaying every detail about your work or listing your educational qualifications will make your page look bulky. Instead, showcase your best skills and use simple language. Also, your page colors and fonts should be simple, with less calligraphy. Your profile picture should be simple, appealing, and professional.
3. Use an action-oriented language. Words like 'Hurry now' will make you look like a wannabe pro affiliate marketer. Instead, use action words like 'Get in Touch' or 'Work with me' because they are more engaging than using words like 'Contact'.
4. Do not overload your page with too much content. Remember, it is a one-page site, and you do not want clients scrolling through your page for more than five seconds.
5. Update your one-page site regularly. If there are changes in your email address, web address, or social media handle, update them regularly. No one likes an outdated site or a 404 error message.
6. For better visibility, share your URL on your social media channels, LinkedIn profile, and even to your friends and family.

TO CONCLUDE

­As a new or upcoming freelancer, your goal is to build or set up systems at low cost or with minimal effort. Creating a one-page site with Mainstack, free and without coding, is an easy and effective way to build an online presence without breaking a sweat. With the few steps and tutorials that I described in this post, you can set up a simple online presence that puts your work in front of potential clients and starts growing your freelance business.

As you continue to build your career, getting a domain and website may seem necessary, but you do not need to break the bank to do that.

Remember, the goal here is to make it easy for clients to find and connect with you seamlessly.

Happy Freelancing!

Taking time off can be an excellent way to alleviate stress. Managing a business, job or even a family can induce stress and fatigue over time, and sometimes off-days or rest days may not be sufficient for us to recharge. Personally, a long vacation takes time and effort to plan and requires being away for a couple of days but, a brief vacation provides the perfect escape, enabling much-needed but short rest – a weekend getaway.

This short break from routine activities can revitalize the mind and body, enhancing overall well-being and productivity. With careful planning, a weekend trip can be affordable and unforgettable, offering a much-needed break from daily responsibilities.

CONTENTS

1. Choose budget accommodation
2. Seek out accommodation deals
3. Pack light and smart
4. Stay hydrated
5. Use public transportation
6. Consider Carpooling or Renting a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle
7. Explore Local cuisine
8. Take advantage of free activities.
9. Be flexible with your travel dates.
10. Manage Money on the Road
11. In a nutshell
    

You are a fan of weekend trips but you don't want to break the bank while planning for this short trip? Here are my 10 tips for a cheap and budget-friendly weekend getaway trip:

CHOOSE BUDGET ACCOMMODATION

It's just for a couple of nights so don't go for anything fancy (unless you are into it). Finding budget accommodations is a smart way to save money on your weekend trip. I stay in hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels that offer the basic amenities I need for a few nights without the high price tag. Many budget accommodations provide a comfortable stay, often with free Wi-Fi and breakfast included, which can further stretch your travel budget. Additionally, exploring home-sharing options can offer unique and affordable lodging options.

Staying in budget accommodations does not mean compromising quality or cheap; it simply means being resourceful and open to various options that meet your needs and preferences during your weekend travel.

SEEK OUT ACCOMMODATION DEALS

Once you have chosen your budget accommodation, seek deals and discounts to cut costs further. Many booking platforms offer special promotions, last-minute deals, or discounts for extended stays and attractions. My Booking.com Genius Level gives me up to 10% discounts on select attractions and stays.

Signing up for newsletters or following travel deal websites can be a great way to alert you on exclusive offers. Do not hesitate to negotiate prices directly with the accommodation provider, especially during off-peak seasons when they might be more flexible.

Taking time to search for deals allows you to secure comfortable lodging at a fraction of the usual cost, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

PACK LIGHT AND SMART

There is no need to pack non-essentials for a weekend getaway trip, especially when you are on a budget. Packing light can significantly enhance your travel experience, save money, and save you baggage stress.

Limiting your luggage to a carry-on bag helps you avoid extra baggage fees and makes it easier to navigate public transportation. Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and prioritize packing only the essentials. Bringing fewer items reduces the risk of losing belongings and simplifies your packing process. Additionally, packing light lets you be more flexible and mobile, making your weekend trip more enjoyable and hassle-free.

This streamlined approach ensures you can move freely and focus on enjoying your weekend trip.

STAY HYDRATED

Staying hydrated while traveling is essential for maintaining energy and health, especially during long flights.

Begin by always carrying a reusable water bottle to refill throughout your journey. Drink water regularly, especially during flights where air cabin pressure can cause dehydration. Avoid excessive consumption of caffeine and alcohol (which can also help you save), as these can deplete your body's hydration levels.

Don't forget to include water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables in your meals. If possible, set reminders on your phone to drink water if you forget.

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

I am a huge advocate for using public transportation during a vacation or trip because it is the most cost-effective way to get around during your weekend trip (aside from taking a walk).

Find out the various transit options available at your destination, such as buses, trains, trams, or subways, and take note of the travel requirements and costs. Many cities provide day passes or tourist cards that offer unlimited travel for a set period, cutting down your expenses. This can make your trip more affordable, exciting, and enriching, adding an extra layer of adventure to your weekend trip.

Public transportation also saves you money compared to taxis or car rentals and offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture.

CONSIDER CARPOOLING OR RENTING A FUEL-EFFICIENT VEHICULE

If public transportation is not an option or is difficult to access, especially in remote or rural areas, consider carpooling or renting a fuel-efficient vehicle. Carpooling with friends or fellow travelers can help to split the cost of gas and parking, making it an economical choice.

Alternatively, renting a compact, fuel-efficient car can save you money on fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. Many rental agencies offer competitive rates, especially if you book in advance or take advantage of weekend deals.

So, opting for a cost-effective mode of transportation allows you to explore your destination freely without straining your budget and contributes to a more sustainable and budget travel experience.

EXPLORE LOCAL CUISINE

When I plan budget trips, I am not keen on adding fine-dine restaurants to my list. My food list is mostly street food stalls and local restaurants because I want to experience authentic native cuisine. After all, they are affordable!

Exploring Local Cuisine or sampling local cuisine can be a delightful and budget-friendly way to experience the culture of your destination. Seek out street food vendors, city markets, and affordable eateries to savor authentic dishes without breaking the bank. Engaging with the local food scene not only offers a memorable culinary experience but also provides insight into the region's traditions and flavors.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF FREE ACTIVITIES

If you are a regular reader of this blog and go through my travel posts, you will notice that my attraction experiences are curated on free activities. Of course, you can explore paid activities as well, but why not maximize every tour you can get from free activities and attractions?

Research and take advantage of free or low-cost activities available at your intended destination for your weekend getaway as they are a good foresight to planning a budget-friendly weekend getaway trip. Many cities offer free walking tours, public parks, museums with discounted entry fees, and cultural events that provide enriching experiences without a hefty price tag.

Embracing these opportunities allows you to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and make the most of your weekend trip without straining your budget.

BE FLEXIBLE WITH YOUR TRAVEL DATES

Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant cost savings and I learned this tip late. I discovered that if you make your travel dates flexible, it will allow you to look for deals and reduced fares for the period you intend to travel.

Consider traveling during off-peak seasons or mid-week to take advantage of lower airfares, accommodation rates, and fewer crowds at popular attractions. But since your goal is to plan a budget-friendly weekend trip, my tip is to make your bookings early and on a Sunday night (it has always worked for me), as it is cheaper than booking mid-week.

Flexibility with your travel dates also opens up opportunities to enjoy your weekend trip without the premium prices associated with peak travel times.

MANAGE MONEY ON THE ROAD

Managing your finances while traveling is essential to stay within budget. Nobody likes to be extravagant on a trip and come back home broke.

Utilize mobile apps or budget-tracking tools to monitor your expenses, set spending limits, and avoid unnecessary splurges.

Being mindful of your financial resources allows you to enjoy your trip without worrying about overspending, ensuring a stress-free and financially responsible travel experience.

TO CONCLUDE

Planning a budget-friendly weekend trip is all about making smart choices. By choosing budget-friendly accommodations, hunting for deals, and being resourceful, you can enjoy a great weekend getaway without breaking the bank.

These tips not only save you money but also help you discover new experiences at your destination. So, take a break, plan wisely, and enjoy a weekend adventure without a dent in your wallet!

Guest article by Sarah Bull of Economy Mom - a blog dedicated to empowering mothers and readers with practical financial insights and wellness tips, helping them thrive in both their personal and financial lives.

I didn’t plan to freelance. It was the last thing on my mind. But some events began to unfold – I moved to France for my master's program, started selling gigs on Fiverr to get by, and I finished school and couldn't get a work-sponsorship job. I found an employer who would only hire me if I registered as a freelancer, and I have succumbed to that. I have not looked back since then.

It was all in 2019.

By mid-2020, I identified as a freelancer and had to teach myself the administrative aspects of the business because no one wants to receive a letter from the French social security system that you owe them. I learned that it was considered a business in France, and you are required to do as the system stipulates.

I have had my highs and lows but gave myself grace and learned many things the hard way. I knew first-hand doubt, asked myself if this would work and be sustainable, went two months without a client, and even upskilled.

Four years later, here I am, and I am thankful for everything I learned all these years. I'm not there yet, but I'm on the path.

I have a zillion tips to share, but in no particular order, here are my best practical freelancing tips for a long-term freelance career:

TRUST YOURSELF

Like every new business, you will not automatically drum up customers' especially if they don't know about you. I started by sending 50 cold emails per month, and got a "we'll get back to you later" and a "we don't need that now" response out of 50 recipients. I persevered and was consistent in what I was doing until it clicked. So, it is too early to give up on yourself and too late to turn back now.

DON'T WORK FOR EXPOSURE

If a brand or company (no matter the size) approaches you for a free collaboration in exchange for referrals or a retainer package, 9 out of 10, the odds will be against you. Here's the truth: businesses looking to outsource or contract an aspect of their business to an independent contractor or content creator or influencer, already has an allocated budget for that service. So, if you are approached with the promise of a free gift or 'we would like to test your services for a while before we commit', you should decline politely and redirect your energy to clients that will appreciate your time and effort.

DON’T HOPE TOO MUCH

When I send out cold emails, I try not to dwell on them in the hope that the client will get back to me (because I thought I wrote a killer proposal). I was washed up with disappointment every time because I expected every client to reply with a "Let's do this!".

Please don’t do this!

So, my tip is after researching your client, draft a personalized email, send it, and move on to the next client. If it works, it works. This way, you are not distracted by your imagination and can focus on other tasks.

PRIORITIZE WRITTEN COMMUNICATION OVER VOICE.

There is a clear communication clause in my contract that says all discourse will be written – by email or my WhatsApp business chat. Of course, you can have verbal communications with your clients, but let it be to reiterate any prior communication you may have had, like confirming your working times, etc.

Further reading: 12+harsh truths about freelancing

NICHE DOWN

Everyone says niche down, but no one is talking about ways to identify the strengths that could help you niche down. I started in customer support, then I picked my interest with ecommerce businesses, focused and became good at it, worked with a SaaS company, and then it clicked: I niched down to Customer Support Specialist for Ecommerce and SaaS (so says my LinkedIn too). So, pick something in demand that interests you, get the right skills, find your strength, build it, focus on it, do it again, and be very good at it.

SEND THAT EMAIL

Forget the glamour you see on YouTube that you should build a website, set up automation, and use automated campaigns. Of course, there's nothing wrong with these, but they should not be at the top of the list. As long as you have a dedicated email address, zoom or meet a contract, and a sample invoice, you can start sending cold emails immediately. So, start cold emailing right away.

ADAPT TO NEW SKILLS OR TECHNOLOGY IN YOUR MARKET.

A man who is a master in his craft is a man who is skilled and knowledgeable in his field. With the rave of AI and technology, it is slow to rely on traditional methods when working. I try to look out for industry updates, new add-ons, or AI features from helpdesk companies and familiarize myself with updates that make me stand out from the crowd. Aside from that, look out for AT tools or software that saves you time and energy, especially in the administrative aspects of your business.

YOUR CONTRACT IS YOUR BIBLE.

No matter how friendly a client is to you, do not take on a project without signing on the dotted lines. The contract is not for the job. It is for you: to protect you and ensure that your work is valued. Your contract is not just about your rates or work boundaries but can protect you from intellectual theft.

SET UP A SOLID PAYMENT AND INVOICING SYSTEM.

It doesn’t have to be automated or chic. Set up a payment and invoicing system that protects you and ensures that your payment methods are secured. Not only that, include a clause in your invoice that states a payment deadline and elaborates the consequences of a payment delay in your contract.

If you can, request a 60% or 70% down payment from your clients before starting a project, especially design and servicing contracts.

Further reading: 9 signs your business needs a freelancer

SET BOUNDARIES

DON'T RELY ONLY ON FREELANCE PLATFORMS.

HAVE MORE THAN ONE CLIENT.

You are set up for disappointment if you let one client account for 50% of your income. Spread them evenly so that each client should only account for about 30% of your monthly income. The reason is if your major client decides they no longer need your services, a large chunk of your income is gone to the wind. So, while you can have a client with the most pay, ensure that there are other sources of income within your portfolio.

BUILD A STRONG PROFILE.

Whether it is on your favorite freelance platform, your resume, LinkedIn, or your website, create and optimize a profile that speaks for you in your absence. You want people to know your niche and skills once they visit your profile. So, I always advise that you make your profile stand out and easy to understand.

UNDER-PROMISE AND OVER-DELIVER.

An important tip for freelance beginners is to set modest goals and exceed them – that is, under-promise and over-deliver. If it takes you five days to complete a design, set it for seven days: five days for the work, one day as a buffer in case you need extra time, and one day to review and send to the client. It allows you to build good credibility and reviews, so don't be in a hurry to impress a client.

DON’T UNDERSELL TO FIT IN.

HAVE VARIED SKILLS AND INCOME.

Have multiple skills that generate multiple incomes, to keep you afloat during low periods.

If possible, sell your craft – that is, digitalize it. A freelance web designer can decide to sell editable Shopify templates to business owners on Etsy, or a graphic designer can sell notion or app templates on Shopify.

If you are skilled in different fields, have clients from both fields to have consistent income coming in. For Example, a receptionist skilled in data analytics can have clients in hospitality and IT.

LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR TIME.

Submitting projects late and not responding promptly to clients are two things that a freelancer, new or old, should never do. Learn to schedule tasks and follow them, submit your projects before the deadlines, and be early to meetings with your clients. Set rules for yourselves and be disciplined to abide by them.

Further reading: How to use your hospitality experience to transition to customer support

ASK FOR REVIEWS.

I worked for a client for a year before I remembered to ask for a review – a review that later paved the way for other reviews. Don't be shy or afraid to ask for client reviews. Collect them and publish them for others to see. I recommend inviting them to review your LinkedIn Service Page, that way, prospective clients know they are authentic. Some people may doubt self-published reviews on your website, so make it credible. 

ASK FOR HELP.

Don't assume you know everything or that you have it all. Do your research, ask questions, and get the necessary help needed. Freelancing isn't just about working - there are admin and financial aspects to it. Whether it is from another experienced freelancer in your field, a community of freelancers, an accountant, or government assistance, don’t be shy to seek help. The worst they can say is no, but there is no shame in admitting that you need help.

CONCLUSION

One of the things I have learned over the years in freelancing is that it doesn't matter your qualifications, and if no one needs your skill it’s pointless. It is okay not to have people cheer you up, but it's important to have a circle you can turn to when you need guidance.

Again, freelancing is not a get-rich overnight endeavor. It is a lifestyle that rewards consistency and discipline. Your clients are not one-off purchases you add to your invoice, but remember, setting up good customer relationships with your clients can be your ticket to an arsenal of clientele.

My honest summary of these tips to beginners is to be open to change, seek help, be patient, don't undersell yourself, upskill and retrain, undersell and overperform, always sign a contract, set boundaries, and create a compelling profile that describes you.

 I am always open to connecting with other freelancers and business owners. Link with me, or say hello in the comments.

What tips have you learned over the years and would like to share? I’d love to hear them!