^{Want to be an equine freelancer?}

Becoming an equine freelancer can be an incredibly rewarding way to work in an industry you love while choosing your own hours, clients, and locations. But before you start there are a few essential steps you should take to set yourself up for success.

Whether you're mucking out stables, providing equine clipping services, offering admin help at a yard, or covering shifts at a tack shop—here’s what you need to do to start strong.

1. Get Insured: Public Liability & Accident Cover

Freelancing in the equine world means you’re often working in high-risk environments, that’s why the first (and arguably most important) step is to get yourself insured.

You’ll need:

• Public Liability Insurance – to protect you if someone is injured or property is damaged due to your work.
• Personal Accident Insurance – to cover you if you are injured while working.

There are specialist insurers for equine freelancers, so shop around for a policy that fits your role and budget. It might feel like a big cost, but it’s non-negotiable—this is your safety net.

2. Build a Financial Buffer

It takes a little while to build up regular clients and consistent income. Try to save at least 1–3 months’ worth of living expenses before you go fully freelance. This will ease the pressure and give you space to find your rhythm without panicking over bills in the first few weeks.

3. Create Your Freelance Profile on TallyHO Temps

TallyHO Temps is designed specifically for people like you—freelancers looking for equine-related work across yards, shops, offices, and everything in between.

Make sure your freelancer profile is up to date with:

• A clear photo of you
• Your experience and skills

Think of it as your online shop window—this is what people see when deciding whether to book you. It’s worth spending some time getting it right.

4. Use Social Media to Promote Yourself

Don’t be shy—if you want work, people need to know you exist. Share your TallyHO Temps profile on your Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and anywhere else horsey people hang out online.

Post content that shows you at work, or gives people a glimpse of your personality and reliability. Even simple posts like “Got a few days free next week, message me via my profile on TallyHO Temps!” can get you bookings.

Tip: Add your profile link to your bio so it's easy to find.

5. Stay Organised

When the work starts rolling in, you need a good system to track your bookings. A digital calendar (like Google Calendar or an app like TimeTree or Calendly) can help you:

• Avoid double-booking yourself
• Block off unavailable dates
• Easily shift appointments if plans change

Make it a habit to update your diary every time you confirm a job—it’ll save you lots of stress later.

6. Track Your Finances From Day One

Freelancing means you’re responsible for your own accounts and taxes. The easiest way to stay on top of it is to:

• Keep a folder (or digital folder) for all your receipts and invoices
• Familiarise yourself with basic bookkeeping – how to track income, expenses, and mileage
• Use free or low-cost apps like Wave, QuickFile, or Xero to help manage your finances

In the UK, you’ll need to register as self-employed with HMRC and file a self-assessment tax return each year. It sounds scary, but once you get into the routine of keeping records, it’s manageable (and you can always hire a bookkeeper later if needed).

7. Look the Part – Even if You’re Covered in Mud

First impressions count, even in the muddiest of jobs. Wear tidy, appropriate clothing, be punctual, and show up ready to work hard. Word travels fast in the equine world—being reliable and friendly will get you far.

8. Build Relationships, Not Just a Client List

Being a good freelancer isn’t just about ticking tasks off a list. It’s about building trust. Be respectful, communicate clearly, and check in with your clients. A quick “Thanks for today, let me know if you need help next week!” goes a long way.

Starting out as an equine freelancer can sometimes feel overwhelming, but take it one step at a time. Set your foundation with the right insurance, finances, and tools, then get your name out there with a great profile and consistent presence.

And remember—you’re not alone. TallyHO Temps is here to help connect you with clients who value your skills, and to support you as you build your freelance career in the equine world.

Happy freelancing, and give yourself a pat on the back when you finish your first job!

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