Freelancer Lifeline is a resource destination where FX members can find grant opportunities, loan information, digital events, creative tools, and more. We hope it serves as a source of comfort, inspiration, and support as we navigate the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic together.
Save the date for this in-person luncheon! More details to come. Members and nonmembers welcome.
Date: Friday, August 30
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Thank you to our partners:
In this presentation, we will explore essential cybersecurity strategies tailored specifically for freelancers who are increasingly reliant on digital platforms for their work. As independent professionals, it is crucial to understand that you are as much a target for cyber threats as any large organization. We’ll start by identifying common cybersecurity risks that freelancers face, including data breaches, phishing attacks, and malware.
We will then delve into the importance of maintaining IT assets, explaining how regular updates, effective antivirus solutions, and secure backup practices can protect your valuable work data from potential threats. By adopting a proactive approach to cybersecurity, freelancers cannot only protect their digital environments but also enhance their reputation as trustworthy professionals.
Throughout the presentation, practical steps will be shared to help you implement robust security measures. This will include setting up strong, unique passwords, utilizing multifactor authentication, and educating oneself about the latest cybersecurity trends and threats.
The goal of this session is to empower you with the knowledge and tools to fortify your freelance operations against cyber threats, ensuring that your digital workspace remains secure, efficient, and resilient against disruptions.
Meet Our Presenter:
With over two decades of expertise in the IT industry and a focused passion for managed service provider (MSP) solutions, Lawrence Prettyman stands as a seasoned veteran and co-founder of Dragonfly MSP. He launched the company alongside his business partner, Robert Reinert, on January 2, 2024, aiming to elevate IT services with precision and personalized care.
Beyond the realms of technology, Lawrence is deeply committed to family and community. He is a devoted husband and father to three energetic teenagers. His home is a bustling hub of activity, shared with his wife, three teenagers, three dogs, and three exotic dragons—two bearded dragons and a Chinese water dragon. L
awrence dedicates time to volunteering with the Argentine Betterment Corporation in Argentine, KS, where he not only contributes his skills but also ensures that Dragonfly MSP supports their IT needs. Additionally, he regularly attends ACA Business Clubs coffee and networking events around the Kansas City metro area, engaging with peers and staying connected to the local business community.
An Eagle Scout, Lawrence carries forward the values of leadership, service, and commitment to excellence that have defined his journey from scouting to professional life.
Date: Friday, July 26
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Thank you to our partners:
Whew, it’s hot! No, not the weather—the networking. Members and nonmembers are invited to celebrate each other’s successes and share not-so-great stories over coffee. Order it iced, if it’s a warm one. Plan to join us now and RSVP on Eventbrite via the button below.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Free to attend.
Questions? Contact Angela at [email protected].
Thank you to our partners:
Get ready to unleash your full potential at The Freelance Exchange Freelance Boot Camp! This year’s theme is “Finders / Keepers” and it is a must-attend event for all advertising/marketing freelancers looking to find their inner flame (and keep it burning steady). Our select speakers will help you find the enthusiasm, time, and people you need to get started. The chase continues in the afternoon with breakout sessions focusing on how to create long-lasting success in the freelance world.
Join us for a day full of inspiration, knowledge, and networking with your community. Members and nonmembers are welcome.
SCHEDULE:
8:30-9:00 a.m. – Registration/Breakfast
9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. – 3 Speakers
12:00 – 1:15 p.m. – Lunch / Networking
1:15 – 4:00 p.m. – Choice of 3 breakout sessions
Full-day and half-day attendance options are available. Full ticket prices include coffee and a light breakfast, plus lunch and beverages. Lunch can be added to any half-day ticket as well.
Members:
Full Day (includes lunch) – $50
Half Day A.M. or P.M. – $35
Nonmembers:
Full Day (includes lunch) – $75
Half Day A.M. or P.M. – $45
Lunch Add-On – $15
MORNING SESSIONS:
Finding Real Enthusiasm Every Day
Presenter: Hazel Krebs
Working for yourself takes drive, passion, or, in other words, enthusiasm! What does that actually mean? What does enthusiasm feel like? Where does it come from? How can I find it? What if I lose it? In this session, we’ll explore how each of us feels enthusiasm, specifically around endeavoring into the freelance world, which has a unique set of challenges. Whether we are staring down long days, tough clients, or judgment from others taking another path, we must find the same enthusiasm that started our journey, because that’s how we make it through. Ultimately, this is who we are: freelancers, solopreneurs, business owners, or any other way to define it; we are FREE to be ourselves.
Finding Time for Profitable Work
Presenter: Jen Roberts
Overwhelmed by your to-do list? Putting out last-minute client fires too often to make any progress on the actual paying projects? Take back control over your time in this session on how to prioritize with hands-on practice of time management techniques.
Finding Your People: Farming vs. Hunting
Presenter: Debbie Jackson
What if you could create an endless source of quality referrals and connections to grow your business? You can with simple networking techniques and the right mindset! Many times, people think of networking events like going hunting and hoping to “kill it” by making a big sale or booking, focusing mainly on the transaction. Debbie Jackson will teach you about approaching networking like farming instead, cultivating relationships that will yield many sales over time because others will know, like, and trust you. She offers practical tips and ideas to find your people through networking!
AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS:
Keeping Your Brand Consistent: Maintaining Cohesion Across Platforms and Interactions
Presenter: Cole Sales
Join Cole Sales, Founder of Brand Repairman, for an engaging discussion on maintaining brand consistency in today’s dynamic digital landscape. Explore strategies for ensuring cohesion across multiple platforms and interactions, spanning from social media to customer engagements. Discover practical tips for aligning your brand messaging, visuals, and tone across various channels to build trust and credibility with your audience. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding freelancer, Cole Sales will guide you through actionable insights to navigate the complexities of multichannel branding and maintain a consistent and impactful brand presence.
Keeping It Simple and Sane When Starting Your Freelance Business
Presenter: Kimberly Beer
In this session, you will learn the steps you need to take to set up your freelance business for success. From basic business model design to business setup and networking, this will give you the answers you need to get started working with customers.
Keeping Your Brand Fresh for Growth and Impact
Presenter: Holly Hempfling
Tips and strategies to align your brand with your target audience, clarify your message, and reach your business goals.
Keeping the Right Mindset for Success
Presenter: Julie Cortés
We all have one thing in common: We all want to be successful in our freelance businesses. Yet, we know success doesn’t always come easy … especially for the self-employed. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to help yourself out along your freelancing journey, no matter if you’re looking to make the jump to full-time freelancing, are just starting out, or need a kickstart. In this presentation, you’ll discover the secrets to finding (and keeping!) the right mindset, including how to get out of your own way, practice important self-care, and treat your business like a business. Hosted by 25+ year freelancing veteran and The Freelance Exchange founder herself, Julie Cortés, this breakout session will give you the tools you need to succeed and rock the freelance life.
Keeping Ahead of AI
Presenter: Noah Rhee
For decades we’ve told stories about how AI would be all-powerful and all-knowing, and now it feels like the AI onslaught is here to take jobs! But the fact is AI is still just a tool. Noah Rhee will show you how the most common AIs work (chat GPT, stable diffusion, etc.), where they fall short, and how you can position yourself to stay ahead of AI by exploring its weaknesses and leveraging its strengths. While it may seem smart, it’s still just a tool.
Keeping Your Eye on the Prize: Pitch Your Best Work
Presenter: Shannon Carpenter
Want to land your work in the biggest publications? Want to grab that client when you only have a minute? Learn to pitch with Shannon Carpenter who will take you through all the ins and outs of getting your work out there. Cut down on the rejections and cut up on the income.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
The event is sponsored and hosted by Aspiria NOW in Overland Park, Kansas.
MEMBER SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE
Promote yourself at the event and beyond! With a sponsorship, you’ll receive visibility on event marketing materials, as well as the FX website, and have an opportunity to add a promotional item to our swag bag. Put your business front and center to generate even more leads! Sponsorship opportunities for FX members:
Level 1 Member Sponsorship ($250)
Slide that will run during nonpresentation times (1920 x 1080 px)
Logo on event signage and fliers handed out at event (time permitting)
Large banner ad (1150 x 315 px, JPG, PNG, or GIF) on FX website for six months
Promotional item included in 50 event swag bags
Mentions in social media posts and email newsletters
Level 2 Member Sponsorship ($150)
Slide that will run during nonpresentation times (1920 x 1080 px)
Logo on event signage and fliers handed out at event (time permitting)
Small banner ad (550 x 315 px, JPG, PNG, or GIF) on FX website for three months
Promotional item included in 50 event swag bags
Level 3 Member Sponsorship ($100)
Slide that will run during nonpresentation times (1920 x 1080 px)
Logo on event signage and fliers handed out at event (time permitting)
Small banner ad (550 x 315 px, JPG, PNG, or GIF) on FX website for one month
Promotional item included in 50 event swag bags
Level 4 Member Sponsorship ($35)
Slide that will run during nonpresentation times (1920 x 1080 px)
Promotional item included in 50 event swag bags
Sponsor form with additional details and logo/ad submissions will be provided after sponsorship is purchased.
May is rolling. What better time could there be to share a cup of Joe and sweet treats among fellow freelancers? Come out and share your latest deal or solicit advice on one to come with friends new and old.
Members and nonmembers are welcome. Free to attend. Please RSVP on Eventbrite so we know how many to plan for.
Questions? Contact [email protected].
Thank you to our partners: