Have you always wanted to make more money or have greater control over your work schedule? One way to achieve these is by freelancing.
Sure, there are risks involved, but freelancing is on the rise. Thirty-five percent of the workforce is freelancing, according to ” Freelancing in America: 2016,” a study conducted by Upwork in partnership with Freelancers Union. Why would so many people be trying it, if there was too much risk involved?
[See: 8 Things That Are More Productive Than Staring at a Job Board.]
Why become a freelancer? Sometimes you reach a point when you just know you have to make a change. Freelancing is one option to pursue if you want to re-invigorate how you feel about work. The Upwork study found the top reasons people chose to become freelancers were to be their own boss, to have a flexible work schedule and to have a flexible work location. Do any of these sound like your reasons for needing a change?
More jobs allow flexibility. If you decide to freelance, there are more options for real, scam-free freelance work today. FlexJobs released their Flex 250 list, which shows the top 250 companies offering the greatest number of flexible jobs since 2013. These companies offer jobs that are pre-vetted and defined as professional-level jobs that have a telecommuting, flexible schedule, part-time, or freelance component. You can find a wide range of roles for all career levels.
Who is freelancing and what types of roles do freelancers pursue? “Marketing, business consulting and design topped the charts as the leading industries for freelance work in 2016,” according to LinkedIn’s survey of more than 9,500 of ProFinder professionals.
LinkedIn’s study reports the most popular roles held by younger freelancers include writing, photography and home improvement. Most older freelancers choose to be career coaches, business consultants, real estate professionals and marketers.
As you consider what type of freelancing work you would like to do, evaluate whether you are more interested in selling your skills or knowledge.
[See: The 6 Best Jobs for Work-Life Balance.]
Freelancing is easier today. There are more online tools available to help you market and sell your products and services. Seventy-three percent of Upwork’s surveyed freelancers said “technology has made it easier to find freelance work.” Creating a website and using social media to promote and grow your freelance business should be on your list of things to do.
Be happier with your work. Freelancers are happier! Almost 80 percent of freelancers surveyed by Upwork said freelancing is better than a traditional job. In fact, half would never go back to a traditional office job again, even if they were offered more money.
Build new skills. Becoming a freelancer, either full time or on the side, does require new skills. From marketing your services to managing accounts receivable, you will need to enhance your knowledge of certain business elements. Some skills you will learn on the job, others you will need to learn by enrolling in training. Don’t let a lack of skills deter you if you are serious about freelancing, as there are many simple ways to acquire them.
[See: Will Your Job Kill You?]
Start freelancing on the side. One of the best ways to start freelancing is while you have a job. Begin taking on projects that are not a conflict of interest with your current employer. Twenty-five percent of the surveyed freelancers in Upwork’s study categorized themselves as moonlighters, meaning they did their freelancing while holding another job. There is less financial risk to freelancing on the side since you still have income from your primary job.
Top concern of freelancers. The primary concern for not becoming a full-time freelancer is income predictability, reports Upwork. There is definitely a level of hustle and salesmanship that goes into being a freelancer. Freelancers need to have tough skin, too. Risk can be scary, but if you are determined, don’t let it hold you back from trying something you really want to do.
Develop personal career security. You may not have realized it yet, but job security is a fleeting concept. At any time, without warning, your employer could eliminate your job. And then, you have nothing to fall back on or alternative income streams. When you freelance, either on the side or full time, you are fully in control of your career and income stream. It is up to you to line up new clients and assignments. It is also your call as to whether or not you want to accept an assignment.
The bottom line. As freelancing opportunities continue to grow, will you be willing to accept a side gig?
More from U.S. News
Relaxation Exercises for When You’re About to Lose It at Work
10 Reasons to Quit Your Job Already
Why You Should Consider Freelancing in 2017 originally appeared on usnews.com
