If you're considering becoming a freelancer, you need to assess which skills you bring to your freelance business. If you were an employer, would you hire you? Make a list of the skills that are required in the job you want. You may have to do some research to find out the following.

• What education is required for the position?
• What experience do professionals need?
• Are any certifications required or helpful?
• What references would potential clients want?

One way to find out more about the essentials is to interview someone who's doing the job. If you're reluctant to call people who may end up being your competitors, call a national association and ask for some contacts in other cities. People are usually happy to talk with you about their careers, and most freelancers are willing to share tips.

After you determine the minimum qualifications for the type of work you want to do, compare them with your own background. Are you already qualified? Will you have to seek additional schooling or other training to meet requirements? As you develop your timetable for going out on your own, you may have to build in a little time upfront to get the training you need.