Freelancing (aka on-demand work or gig work) has become increasingly popular during the pandemic. Freelance can mean anything, from computer engineering to marketing to copyediting to data analytics. You can start freelancing at any age and any position. Covid has and will accelerate the gig economy. It’s forced companies to blow through some of their concerns about distance work for their overall workforce, and that facilitates the use of distance workers and third parties in ways that they may have not anticipated.
1. Figure out what you can do best
One of the worst things to do when starting as a freelancer is spreading out. The market rewards specialization. You need to figure out the thing you do best and then analyse that skill. Ask yourself how relevant your specialty is, especially now that companies are adapting to social distancing and remote work. Explore the skills you enjoy the most! If you offer a skill that you are not only good at but also enjoy, you will achieve a happier and more fulfilling work-life.
2. Be realistic with income expectations
Working freelance means you can no longer count on a steady income. You must review your finances before you go into self-employment.
It may take months to get your first work and payment. It is important to ask yourself how long you can stay afloat. Further, account for health insurance and unpaid time off.
3. Consult your contacts
In order to build a network as a freelancer, you need to establish a client list. Contact family, friends, former clients and so on. Staying connected to your network and building relationships is key.
4. Make the most of online platforms
There are a huge amount of online platforms that match independent workers with companies looking to assign a work contract. Some of the most popular are Braintrust, Catalant, Fiverr, Toptal and Upwork. These are great places to start building a reputation and expanding your client list.
5. Embrace the extra effort
Freelance is by no means synonymous with less work. Just because you are working for yourself or working from home does not mean you won’t work hard. In fact, freelance requires extra effort. When you go into freelance, every part of your work routine becomes your responsibility. Develop routines and practices around organization.
6. Socialise
When you transition out of office life and into a work-from-home environment, it can be incredibly lonely. You no longer have fellow employees to chat with over a morning coffee or a lunch break. Join business group, a local chamber of commerce or a CEO roundtable or group of colleagues that are in the same environment. Or may be try even co-working. Stay connected!
The change from a traditional 9-5 job to a freelance lifestyle can be challenging.
Sven Franssen