There are hundreds of professions that don’t require you to work in an office from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Working as a freelancer, you are your own boss and can set your own schedule. That being said, the lifestyle may not be for everyone and there is nothing wrong with that.
Many people feel more secure with a steady full-time job and an 8-hour-long workday. Stress can be still a factor here, even if they are lucky enough not to take their work home. For others, enjoying flexible work hours, more freedom in planning their schedule and in choosing their own work
With all of the freelancing platforms and app-based job platforms in today’s gig economy world, you are have more freedom to find the best fit for you and your skills. However, making the change and going down a new career path and shifting from a full-time job to flexible employment can sometimes be a bit difficult. Starting off or leaving a full-time job to pursue your dream as a freelancer has its own risks, but also can have great payoffs.
Having a good support system behind you such as family and friends can help increase your chances of being successful earlier in your freelancing career. Having a financial reserve of expenses in your first few months as a freelancer will allow you to focus on landing great gigs without the worry of needing to make next
1. Nothing is Guaranteed
One of the scariest things you will face is the constant transition your freelance status brings with it. You have to deal with the fact that nothing is guaranteed. You might have lots of work in one month, but hardly get anything in the next one. So it is important that plan for the ups and downs that the freelance business may bring.
Flexible hours might sound fantastic as you can do whatever you want and whenever you want. However, it is very important to make sure to make the work deadlines you have agreed to
2. Building a Personal Brand
In order for you to actually have deadlines, you need clients. Whatever profession you have, as a freelancer you must promote yourself, especially at the beginning of your career. Personal branding is part of your job whether you like it or not.
Luckily, several books have been written on this topic and videos are also available online, so if you haven’t got a clue on what and how to do it, those can help you.
Our tip: Try to be consistent with your words, attitude, and skills. Don’t overdo it to make yourself look better.
3. Time Management
Having great organizational and time management skills is crucial when working as a freelancer. Without a fixed daily work routine in the office and a boss who sort of creates an initial but adjustable schedule for you, you’re in charge of arranging your tasks for the day/week/month.
Poor time management skills do not necessarily mean you’re doomed to fail, but the chances are higher. Try to avoid distractions while working, maybe even switch your phone off and dedicate some time to focus on your work. That way, you’ll get it done faster and with better results for sure!
4. The Financial Side of Things
Even if there is pressure on you due to your financial situation, namely the monthly income was really low, you need to be organized. Similarly to time management, dealing with financing is very much a skill you can learn. Additionally, with a strategy for self-promotion, you will be able to build a steady clientele.
Fortunately, with many of the work platforms currently available, you no longer need to be your own accountant. If you’re working as a freelancer with one of the companies found on SpreeWork, they handle all of the invoicing and payments so you simply need to complete the job to the customer’s satisfaction and you will get paid directly through the platform.
Are you ready to take on the challenge and start freelancing?
