One of the lesser-known types of employment is freelance work. As a freelancer, you aren’t committed to one particular employer in the long run. Instead, you’re self-employed and work with several different businesses as an independent contractor.
Freelance work comes in all shapes and sizes, from web work and programming to writing and illustrating. Freelance jobs allow you to work at your own pace, are sometimes contracted and generally don’t come with any benefits. To learn more about freelance jobs, continue reading the topics below.
Pros & Cons of Working Freelance Jobs
Are you considering becoming self-employed? Before you begin freelancing, consider the following advantages and disadvantages of working freelance jobs.
Pros
- Flexible hours. You set your own schedule and work when it’s convenient for you. While you may have deadlines to meet, you don’t have to clock in at a designated time.
- Work from home. Want to work in your pajamas? Work wherever you have an internet connection, whether it be on your couch or in your local coffee shop.
- Control over your clients. If you’re having a rocky relationship with a client, simply move on. You have complete control over who you work with.
- Higher income potential. Take on new jobs as you see fit and expand your opportunity for earning more.
Cons
- Inconsistent income. While you have the chance to earn more, the earnings aren’t always consistent. You won’t be receiving a set weekly paycheck like a part-time job. This can be problematic if you are looking for a home loan, as lenders may not see you as being a bigger risk.
- Finding work. It’s up to you to find work as a freelancer. If you slack for a week and can’t find any new jobs, your paycheck may take a hit.
- As a freelancer, you’re not part of an office or team environment. You may begin feeling isolated the longer you work by yourself.
- Lack of benefits. Health insurance can be expensive for self-employed workers.
How to Find Freelance Jobs
It can be a bit tricky to find freelance jobs. It’s up to you to do all the searching if you want to make money. Here are some valuable tips for finding freelance jobs.
Tip #1: Network
Being a successful freelancer is all about your networking ability. Most freelance jobs are found through word of mouth or by recommendation. Talk with former coworkers, neighbors, friends and family members to help spread the word about your services.
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Tip #2: Search Online
Most of the popular online job boards like Indeed allow you to search for freelance gigs using keywords and phrases but don’t stop there. There are many job search websites designated for freelance job postings. Browse as many of these sites as you can for the best chances of employment.
Tip #3: Use Social Media
If you’re not on social media these days, you’re already behind the eight ball. Having an active social media presence is the key factor in bringing in clients. Posting pictures, status updates and newsletters on your social media sites lets customers see that you’re a legitimate service provider.
Tip #4: Professional Associations
There are many professional associations and organizations out there designed to promote freelancers and self-employed individuals like yourself. Search online for an association near you and become a member to access job search tools and resources.
Reasons to Work Freelance Jobs
Millions of Americans begin freelancing each day. Here are some of the most common reasons for working freelance jobs.
- If you’re like most people, you don’t have time to work a full-time job while balancing family obligations, school, extracurriculars and other activities. Freelancing grants you the freedom to work according to your own schedule. Whether you’re a morning person or a night owl, freelancing lets you find the time to work when it’s convenient for you. Being in control of your schedule is especially beneficial if you are a single parent on a fixed income.
- If you enjoy moving from place to place or simply taking long vacations, freelancing allows you to do just that while never missing a paycheck. There’s no need to request vacation days or work for your PTO. Simply travel whenever you wish and bring your work with you. Freelancing is great for those who move frequently.
- As a freelancer, you are your own boss. Many people work better without the constant oversight of supervisors, managers and bosses. Working as a freelancer gives you the opportunity to be your own boss and work however you want. Need some music playing in the background while you work? No problem – you’re the boss!
Learn About the Top 10 Best Freelance Jobs
Nearly all job fields have freelance opportunities. Here’s a list of the 10 best jobs to work as a freelancer:
1. Web Developer
If you’re computer savvy and have an eye for detail, web developing is one of the best freelance jobs out there. Design and manage websites for an array of clients, from small businesses to large entities.
2. Photographer
Let your creativity run wild as a freelance photographer. Shoot everything from weddings and engagements to products and real estate.
3. Writer
Every job industry requires quality content to succeed. As a freelance writer, you can create mobile, web and print content for various projects.
4. Virtual Assistant
Complete basic administrative tasks from the comfort of your home. Depending on your client, you may need to conduct phone calls, organize meetings and create schedules virtually.
5. Voiceover Actor
Lend your voice to short animated films, cartoons and commercials by freelancing as a voiceover actor.
6. Graphic Designer
Draft, design and create everything from logos to banners as a freelance graphic designer. Every top company has an attractive website designed with help from a graphic designer.
7. Tech Support
Provide technical assistance to customers and companies using complex software. As a freelance tech support representative, you might even be able to work from home.
8. Event Planner
Market yourself in one niche or broaden your skills to all events. Freelance event planners organize parties, oversee weddings and plan corporate outings.
9. Translator
If you’re bilingual, your skills are in high demand. Translate everything from medical pamphlets to legal documents right from home.
10. Social Media Marketing
Set up and manage the social media platforms of businesses far and wide. Utilize knowledge of marketing strategy and SEO to bump them to the front of their field.
How to Turn a Freelance Job Into a Full-Time Position
Most freelancers work for themselves, but if you’re looking to settle down and work for one employer, consider the following tips.
Tip #1: Be Clear
When you find a client with which you hope to work long-term, be clear about your intentions. The company is contracting you for your services. If you want to work for them as an employee, discuss it with the hiring manager. You must make it worth the client’s time, so be sure that you have a good-standing relationship with that client before discussing employment.
Tip #2: Adjust Your Mindset
After working as a freelancer for quite some time, you’re in “me” mode. You are your own boss, CEO and employee. Working full-time is far different than working as a freelancer. Remember that if you transition into full-time work, you must follow the instructions of your boss and work with your colleagues to reach goals.
Tip #3: Bring Your Skills
When you go from freelancing to working full-time, don’t lose all the qualities that made you successful. Bring your skillset to your new employer with zeal. Suggest out-of-the-box ideas and recommend new ways of approaching a certain subject. Your background in being your own boss can shine through these oral recommendations.
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