Dear Uncle Matthew,

I’m sorry to use your time for my selfish quandaries, however I am a young writer who is plotting an escape from agency life for the unknown territory of freelance writing.

I have lots of experience but these connections were made via an agency and I am wondering how best to approach these (and other) companies when I embark on my own.

Thank you!

Flying solo

Dear Flying Solo,

Good for you! First, can I suggest Pamela Slim’s excellent blog, Escape from Cubicle Nation. It’s full of useful advice for people starting out in business on their own for the first time.

On this site, there are some articles that might help:

• 27 proven freelance marketing tips
• 10 free ways to get more business
• Big fish, little fish: selling to multinationals
• How to close a billion-dollar deal

My main recommendation, though, is to do some marketing. You’d be surprised how many would-be entrepreneurs sit on their hands waiting for the phone to ring.

You haven’t given me much information about your relationship with your existing agency. I would be a little cautious about trying to end run around any legal or ethical obligations you have. Your existing contacts may be a good place to start but you may have to restrict yourself to asking for their advice or referrals rather than hitting them up directly for business. If in doubt, get legal advice.

Good luck!

Matthew