Success In A Freelance Economy

These days, we are all aware of the difficulties in the economy, with increasing numbers of redundancies and a lack of career opportunities. However, we are also seeing a change in the way people are working. Home-based offices and working away from the business premises are becoming more common, as is using professional freelancers for projects. Working as a freelancer is not only a great way to fit work around family commitments, it is also a good way to make a living for those professionals with specialist skills or knowledge.

Is There Work Available for a Freelancer?

The recession has brought hard times for everyone and businesses in particular now fear the costs of recruiting additional staff. Instead, they are turning to freelance professionals whom they can employ on a contract or project basis, guaranteeing them the skills and experience they need without an expensive hiring process or the long-term cost of full-time employees. Using a freelancer is nothing new, as for many years businesses have been outsourcing some projects. These days, however, more and more elements of companies' operations are being outsourced to freelancers. If you are thinking of choosing a freelance career, there is no better time than now.

What Are the Benefits of Being a Freelancer?

As a freelancer you will have more control over your life. This applies to not only the hours you want to work, but the projects you take on. Many parents choose freelancing as a way of combining childcare with working while avoiding expensive childcare costs. Depending on your chosen industry, the internet and other technological advances mean you can work from anywhere - you are not tied to an employer's premises. Being able to choose your own projects allows you to focus on the specific areas that are of interest to you and will give you the chance to develop new techniques and skills as you build up your business.

What Do I Need to Get Started?

It is worth remembering that freelancing can be challenging too. Firstly, you will need to find your niche. You will have to decide if your skills and experience are needed by potential employers. Freelancing covers a variety of roles, from graphic designers to accountants, but whatever sector you choose you will need enthusiasm and motivation to make your new business a success. Be prepared to put in the time, especially when you start out, as it will take you quite a while to build up relationships with clients and you might find yourself working all sorts of hours. Finding clients who will give you regular work is essential and remember that word of mouth is the best form of advertising for freelancers.

Freelancing can be a daunting prospect, but there are lots of companies and freelancing websites that are more than happy to offer advice and guidance. Consider starting up your business and developing it slowly alongside your regular job to make the transition easier. One thing that seems fairly clear is that the current economic situation is not going to change any time soon, so opportunities for freelancers can only grow in the coming years.

Rob is an experienced business blogger and freelance writer, who loves to contribute his articles to various topical blogs and websites.