Here are dozens of checklists, templates, other tools, and blog posts to help you thrive in a recession. Tools are downloads. Guides and blog posts are links.

Download a list of bonus content Download all bonus content

Step 1. Develop the Fearless Freelancer Mindset

Blog post: The Superhero Power You Need to Know About: Grit

Blog post: How to Boost Your Resilience When Things Go Wrong

Blog post: 11 Ways to Keep Anxiety at Bay and Focus on Freelancing


Step 2. Stand Out in a Sea of Freelancers

Blog post: Case Studies: How 3 Freelancers Created their Brands

Blog post: 11 Steps to a Business Name that Will Make You Memorable

Template: Freelance Brand Statement Worksheet
(Download all tools at top of page)


Step 3. Build the Marketing Habit

Blog post: The Habit that Will Make You a Success—Even in a Recession

Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Goals for Freelance Success


Step 4. Choose Your Money-Making Specialty(ies)

Tool: Simple Strategic Plan for Surviving the Recession
(Download all tools at top of page)

Blog post: Want to Worry Less and Make More Money? Be a Specialist


Step 5. Find the Right Prospects

Template: Prospect List and Direct Email Template
(Download all tools at top of page)


Step 6. Reach and Attract the Right Clients with Direct Email

Tool: Direct Email Swipe File, with templates and examples
(Download all tools at top of page)


Step 7. Develop a Client-Focused LinkedIn Profile

Guide: The Ultimate Guide to LinkedIn for Freelancers

Checklist: The Ultimate LinkedIn Profile Checklist for Freelancers
(Download all tools at top of page)


Step 8. Create a Client-Focused Website

Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Websites for Freelancers

Checklist: Awesome Freelance Website Checklist
(Download all tools at top of page)

Blog post: How to Make your Web Content Awesome, with Free Checklist

Template: Awesome Freelance Website Template
(Download all tools at top of page)

Blog post: Why You Need a Website Designer


Step 9. Meet People Who Can Help and Hire You

Blog post: 3 Surefire Ways Volunteering Helps You Get Freelance Work

Checklist: The Ultimate Networking Event Checklist for Freelancers
(Download all tools at top of page)

Blog post: 12 Ways to Make Networking Events Amazing, Not Scary

Blog post: How to Be Active and Effective on LinkedIn Even if You Hate Social Media


Step 10. Be First in Line for Freelance Work

Blog post: The Surprising Thing That Will Get You More Freelance Work: Follow Up

Blog post: 11 Steps to a Remarkable E-Newsletter that Will Impress Clients

Blog post: Why You Need to Have an Email Newsletter

Template: Targeted Follow-Up Tracker Template

Download all tools at top of page