Ever notice that some creative freelancers have clients waiting in line to hire them? While much of their popularity can be attributed to their creative ability, the most successful freelancers have another talent: managing their careers. They tend to take a strategic approach to project work, carefully selecting and assessing their assignments to ensure that they - and their clients - derive maximum benefit from the relationship. Following are four strategies for effective freelancing.

Know the client

Before beginning a project, familiarize yourself with the client company, including product or service lines, its position in the industry and relevant trends. You can research the firm and its competitors through corporate websites, trade journals and industry associations. Knowing the answers to the following questions will provide you with the necessary "big picture."

• What products or services does the company offer and who are its chief competitors?
• What are the company's values? How would you define its corporate culture?
• What major events have recently taken place within the company or industry that may have an impact on its current and future business?
• What is the company's public image? Does it accurately reflect the business and its position in the industry?
• What specific challenge must the business address with the proposed creative project?

Become the chief executive of your own company

Run your career like a business. It's only as successful as the leadership you provide. Take inventory of your experience and talent. Manage your own time, education and finances. Evaluate your customer service skills. Be prepared to compromise and adapt to a client's needs. Learn to accept disappointment - even rejection - gracefully. Not every creative project you pursue is the right "fit."

Learn to market yourself and your ideas

As a freelancer, you will continually need to meet new people, and it's important to make a good first impression. One of the most effective ways to communicate who you are as a creative professional is to develop a "career soundbite." In two minutes or less, verbally highlight your talents, experience and potential for success. Prospective clients will appreciate this clear and concise overview of your qualifications.

Consider developing specialized experience