Who is a computer freelance professional
Being a computer freelancer means that you are doing computer work independently, and not punching a time clock for any one business. You may have several clients that you are working with from a remote location that they work from. They may only work part time for each client, but they regularly keep in touch with the ones that they work with on a continuously basis. Sometimes they may only work for a client one time to write a program or to fix a problem and never hear from the again. They can work fulltime remotely or travel to different offices for the customer, but they are not on the employee payroll.
How to get started
First thing that you will want to do is to write down all your skills and see which ones are in demand. Do some research online and find the one that are paying the most and which skills do not have a lot of competition. Once you figure out your marketable skills you will have to start putting the word out, either with your friends, or online and with ads to get jobs that will pay you.
Where to find work
There are several great websites online that you can register your skills and get matched with clients, they may have you sign a contract, and you will be able to telecommute. The more skills that you have the more in demand you will be, and the easier you will be able to get signed on with a client. You can also advertise your skills on places like Craigslist, and place ads online. You basically are a small business owner.
What you need
You will need good selling skills, because you will be selling yourself to the client, and you also need top notched computer skills. You will need to keep these skills up to date with the ever changing technology. You need to make sure that you are always on top of your game.
To start out as a computer freelance professional, you may start out part time while working your fulltime job until you get your reputation built up. Once you get a good reputation and people start referring you, you may find that you have more work than you can handle. This can be a very lucrative business and you will find that you may enjoy being your own boss and working with the many different clients.