The State of Freelancing in 2015

More and more people are turning away from office work and choosing new career paths. Freelancing is becoming a major player in a global economy, and millions flock to this inviting market. A home desk is a much more comfortable and flexible work environment, but not everything in a garden is rosy. You can experience work droughts, and making a sustainable career doesn’t come easy. Income is often shabby and job security nonexistent. Some struggle to earn enough to live on, and those who thrive are not so numerous.

Waiting in a long line

Freelancing is not just a temporary solution for someone searching for a traditional job. It is a vast and varied professional field of opportunities. A decisive majority of freelancers are writers, while the likes of photographers, illustrators and designers make up the 10 percent of freelancers. Many of them see it as a long-term career solution and a good source of income.

Still, the freelance earning can be low at the beginning. In America, for example, the wages of freelancers fall below the national average. One of the reasons is that most freelancers have less work hours than full-time workers. Some choose to work less, while others are forced to do so. Many just do whatever they can, since finding high-paying clients takes time.

For most people, securing enough work is the prime concern in their careers. Clients are offering many short-term engagements to the first one that accepts it and meets the requirements. Being alert and first in line is important, but so is to get the job done right. This enables you to find new clients and opportunities. This comes with experience, network of contacts and qualifications of course. In this regard, freelancing is not much different than most traditional jobs.

Getting professional

A freelancer needs to position himself as a valued professional, not as a cheap alternative. Competition is great, and many new freelancers flood the market. This can decrease the compensation, but good quality does stand out. It’s thus a good idea to establish yourself as an expert in a certain field. Being a generalist is a double-edged sword, and one can find it hard to prosper as one.

Showcase your work and don’t shy away from self-publishing. This is a good way to get creative, even if you are not earning any money. Paid or not, just write it, because you will improve your skills and create content that could improve your position on the market. You should, however, try not to invest too much time in writing that doesn’t generate profit. Freelance work shouldn’t be just a hobby, but a lucrative job.

Stiff shoulders

Freelancing is a preferred way to work for millions of people. That lifestyle is quite appealing, and many independent workers are in for a long haul. The demand for independent workers is increasing, but competition is also becoming stiff. Opportunities are everywhere, but consistent income is hard to find. Thus, always strive to produce the original and unique content. The weight of success or failure rests on your shoulders alone, so brace yourself.