Freelance work is steadily becoming a more popular and acceptable way to make a living in today’s progressive, often remote style jobs. The transitions that employers and employees have been making in the last few years in the wake of the aftermath of the pandemic means that many of the traditional views and expectations of a 9-5 job are being let go of.
What was once the standard expectation and requirement for employees is being gradually re-thought. The opinions and wants emerging from employees worldwide are a number of things but might be best summed up as the following: more flexibility and proper compensation for work well done.
Depending on how a previous employer or job experience has gone in light of these new demands and expectations, employees have either doubled down on their current jobs or started planning ways to leave, pivot, or supplement what they feel they are lacking in terms of professional satisfaction. The phrase “side-hustle” has gradually become more popular and familiar amongst professionals in many industries because the idea lived out has garnered attention and respect in terms of success.
Whether picking up a weekend, part-time job, or finally starting that small business out of one’s garage, the number of entrepreneurial endeavors initiated in the last decade has set a new tone for the economy and how employees relate to work. Though there are many different ways to make more money or find career fulfillment, much of that extra effort tends to display itself in terms of freelance work, and for good reason too. Not only does freelance work allow people to test out new options for income and satisfaction, but it also creates more opportunity for learning new skills.
Here are some ways in which utilizing freelance opportunities can help to bolster a professional skill set.
Professional Benefits to a Freelance Lifestyle
Today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world has brought interesting and exciting changes to the workplace. Simply put, the traditional 9-5 office job is no longer the only option for career success. While that may surprise and intimidate a lot of people to think about how they might try to do the same, stepping out of their comfort zones, the millions of people who have done this and are currently doing it are only giving support to the validity and potential of success.
With the rise of more advanced and helpful technologies like AI data analysis for data ethics regulations, the strength of the growing gig economy, more and more people are turning to freelancing as a viable and rewarding career choice. But just what are some of the benefits that accompany the freelance lifestyle?
Flexibility
One of the most appealing aspects of freelancing is the flexibility it offers. As a freelancer, people have the freedom to choose when and where they want. Say goodbye to the strict office hours and hello to setting one’s own schedule.
Whether a night owl or an early bird, freelancing allows people to work at their own pace. This flexibility also allows for a better balance between work and personal life, leading to a happier and more fulfilling lifestyle.
Additionally, freelance work creates opportunities that, in terms of scheduling and project selection, allows someone to focus on areas that most interest them. Very often in a set job description, the roles and responsibilities are assigned and thus, having to manage the same things over and over creates limitations for what employees can spend their time on. Even if there is an important skill or knowledge base that might support or enhance the current role, employees might be denied their request to learn those new skills for budgeting reasons or just because bosses don’t see the value in them.
By doing freelance work, people get to be their own bosses and find projects and education that align, not just with their current responsibilities but with their expanding career goals.
Diversifying Skillsets
Freelancing means that the whole world and multiple industries open up. The freedom and flexibility that is afforded those who spend time considering and working freelance creates and brings more opportunities to diversify knowledge bases and skill sets. As a freelancer, professionals have the chance to work on a wide range of projects, and not just in the typical industry path that other professionals may be taking. It could be contributing articles to a specialized blog, consulting for competitors, or creating marketing videos for social media.
In fact, by stretching oneself and saying yes to opportunities that are outside of the norm people have more time to learn and grow in areas of understanding that might set them apart. This in turn can create whole new niches in industries that may not have yet been discovered. At the very least, branching off into other industries is a great way to network
Additionally, freelancing not only keeps work interesting and engaging but also allows people to continuously learn and grow in the ways that they want or like to. By taking on different types of projects, people can expand their knowledge and expertise making them a more versatile and valuable professional no matter the project or industry. Those new skills and techniques make workers more marketable and valuable.
Building a Strong Portfolio
For decades, a college degree and the right number of years of experience were the keys to getting a good job in a stable career. As with many other adjustments that have been taking place in professional spheres, that too has been changing. Portfolios now can communicate much more than just which college someone went to. The level of work, the style, and professionalism is what sets people apart, and in the same way that one professional wants to be known for good work. So do the companies that want to stand out from their competitors. Freelance work is a great way to accomplish both.
With each project completed, someone adds to their body of work and their resume becoming a great way to showcase skills and experience to potential clients. A robust portfolio not only helps to attract more clients but also supports the credibility and confidence to charge higher rates for services— even if a regular employer won’t.
Freelance work consistently creates opportunities to enliven a portfolio, learn new skills, and establish oneself as an expert in that field.
