Is freelancing really for you?

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 have your very own schedule. However, the lifestyle may not be for everyone and there is nothing wrong with that.

Some 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. Some, on the contrary, enjoy working flexible hours, dislike daily routines and feel more freedom when choosing their own workplace for the day. It’s only you who can decide which one is for you!

Nowadays, you have the freedom to choose from various freelancing platforms and app-based jobs to find the best fit for you and your skills. But, starting a new career path and shifting from a full-time job to flexible employment can sometimes be hard. Starting off or leaving a full-time job to pursue your dream as a freelancer has its own risks, but is a genuinely brave decision.

You should think about having a solid backup that is family and friends who support you, which can only increase your chances of surviving at the beginning of your freelancing career. It’s also best if you do have some money saved up for the first months as a freelancer. That way, you can focus on landing great gigs and getting the job done and not worry about whether or not you will make rent next month.

Here are 4 things you should think of before jumping on the freelancing path!

1. Nothing is fixed

The scariest thing you will face is the constant transition your freelance status imposes. You have to cope with the fact that nothing is fixed. You might have lots of work in one month, but hardly get anything in the next one. This evidently means you need to think about the future regularly in addition to seizing the moment.

Flexible hours might sound fantastic as you can do whatever you want and whenever you want. The only thing you need to stick to the deadline agreed with your client.

Our tip: Be extra careful with deadlines, set reminders on your phone if possible.

2. Building a 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!

Our tip: A simple to-do list can help you get some order in your life.

4. The financial side

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, you don’t have to be your own accountant anymore. If you’re working as a freelancer with one of the companies found on AppJobs, the companies will handle your payments so you don’t need to worry about invoicing the company, calculating your taxes… All of that will be done for you! All you need to do is get the job done and you will get the payment directly to your bank account.

If you want to avoid unnecessary stress, always put part of your paycheck in a savings account. That way, you will always be prepared for when work is a little slower or you’re not getting as many assignments as before.

Are you ready to take on the challenge and start freelancing?

Check out all the best freelancing offers at AppJobs.com! Start by entering your work town and browse all the freelance gigs from trusted companies!