[header] How to be a contractor [title] Identify the skills and expertise you can offer. [step] Contractors are hired by companies, educational institutions, non-profit organizations and other entities to perform finite, specific tasks. Figure out what you do well that has value in the marketplace. 
Professions that typically perform contract work include : [substeps] Graphic designers massage therapists hair stylists writers and editors carpenters [title] Decide on your prices. [step] Sometimes you will be negotiating fees with specific clients, but in general you need to figure out what your services are worth and how little or much you need to charge to make a living.