Love having a nosy at other people’s working days? This week, ReeRee Rockette gives us a sneak peek at her freelance life.
Tell us a bit about you!
Tell us a bit about you!ReeRee Rockette, I’m a blogger/writer and I own a hair salon in East London. Although not technically a freelancer, I feel a lot of my actual work (I’m not a hairdresser) is very similar to what a freelancer may do. I work from home a lot, and juggle my online plates the best I can.
How long have you been freelancing, and why did you start?
I quit my career in education back in 2010 and off the back of my blog , launched a lipstick line in 2011. In 2012 I changed paths (but not brand) and opened my salon – Rockalily Cuts
Let’s talk about the start of your day – Are you an early riser, or a night owl?
I’m an early-ish riser, but not an early worker. I like to take ages to ‘wake’ and am a night owl when it comes to productivity. I always joke that I wrote my dissertation at 2am night after night.
What time do you start work?
If I’m working from the salon, we open at 11am (my choosing!) but I start some form of work as soon as I wake. Like many, the first thing I do is check my emails and social media. This is crucial as people book and change appointments using these methods, so I need to know straight away. Social media is one of the main ways that clients find us, so my use of it is an important part of my role.
Do you work from home?
Yes, currently I spend 4 days at home a week. I don’t block any out of ‘days off’, I just work through out the day as and when is needed. I love my work, and I love my life, so I would never complain! I get to be really flexible on these 4 days, so some days feel pretty full whereas others do not. It’s perfect for the type of personality I have.
What’s your working routine before you start work?
I wake, check emails and social media, and boil the kettle. While my coffee is cooling down I get dressed and do my hair and make up. I play some sort of background tv as company as I live alone. I drink my coffee and then take pictures of my outfit (I’m a style blogger!).
Do you take a lunch break?
Not really. I don’t need to.
How do you tend to spend your afternoons?
It really depends. I don’t have schedules as such.
How do you stay motivated? Do you have any particular techniques?
I devour business books. They keep me in the right frame of mind, but I think I’m a pretty motivated person anyhow. I also like to reflect on my goals and refocus myself if I’ve swayed off track.
What time do you tend to sign off for the day?
Again, I don’t really. My work is spread thin but constantly, rather than fixed into blocks.
Tell us – what’s your favourite thing about freelancing?
I love the freedom of my lifestyle, and the complete control I have over my own success. I get to hire people who are awesome and adore my work.I got to create a career around what I love as well as what I’m best at.
And your least favourite thing about freelancing?
The responsibility and the money (bills, taxes, employment etc).
What tools/apps/gadgets/things could you not live without as a freelancer?
The internet. I adore my Galaxy S4 for being able to connect where ever I am. I’ve used Hootsuite as my twitter app for years and wouldn’t be without it. I’m also addicted to tabs in my browser.
Where can we find you online?
www.rockalily.com – my business
www.rockalily.com/blog – my blog
Twitter – @ReeReeRockette @RockalilyLondon
Instagram – @rockalily @rockalilycuts
Facebook – facebook.com/rockalilylondon
The Big Question – What’s the secret to your success?
Immersing yourself in your quest – and loving it.
