Freelancing was once reserved for certain workers with specific skills, but today, the gig economy means that quitting the rat race and going freelance is achievable for just about anybody. No matter what you want to do, there are more and more freelance options becoming available to help you do your job on your own terms and enjoy more flexibility and freedom while working. If you are considering quitting your job to start a new freelance career, here are some top tips to keep in mind.
Explore Your Options:
Freelancing is very different to working a full-time job since you are tasked with finding your own work and you’ll only get paid when you work, rather than having a monthly salary to rely on. Since the work is not guaranteed, it’s important to start by exploring your options before you quit your job and make sure that you have a stable, secure freelance option in place. This could be by signing up to a flexible shift-working app like Shiftsmart, signing up to drive with an app like Uber or Lyft, or finding a client who is willing to send you regular freelance work.
Try it Out Alongside Working:
The last thing that you want is to quit your job only to find that freelance working isn’t quite working out for you. This is especially true if you are going to be relying on a client to send you work. Don’t quit your job the first time you are offered freelance work since there is often no guarantee that a client is going to be long-term. Instead, consider working and freelancing at the same time so that you can find your feet and make the transition easier. This also gives you a chance to earn additional money that you can save as a safety net for the future.
Switch Things Up:
Freelancers have the option of working several different jobs if they like. There’s nothing stopping you from designing websites in the day and driving a taxi in the evenings if you’d like. Apps can also be particularly helpful whether you want to exclusively work for companies that are looking to hire temporary workers to cover busy periods, or whether you are interested in finding shifts to work when your regular freelance work has slowed down. Having several different work options to choose from can make it easier for you as a freelancer and takes away a lot of the stress that can come with slow work periods.
Manage Your Time:
Finally, since freelancers are often not provided with set hours or are able to choose when they’d like to work based on their financial needs and time constraints, you want to avoid putting yourself in a situation where you are working too much. Of course, earning more money is great, but don’t burn yourself out. It’s a good idea to put a schedule together that allows for two days off per week and plenty of time to relax and have fun too.
Quitting your job and going freelance is becoming more and more possible. If it’s a move you’re planning to make soon, keep these tips in mind.