So, you have finally decided to take an online job to increase your monthly income. Welcome to the freelancing world! However, you still have doubts about whether this is really profitable. He worries that he is just wasting her time, energy, and effort. Truth be told, being self-employed is not always a piece of cake. There will be ups and downs, and yes, there is not a lot of stability in this industry as most jobs available are contract jobs. However, don’t be discouraged. You will find that being a freelancer is one of the most satisfying and rewarding experiences you could have.
Here are the top reasons to pursue a freelance career:
- It’s free. You do not need financial capital to launch your freelance career. Reputable independent websites, such as Odesk.com, do not charge registration fees to members. You definitely do not need money to start working. As long as you have skills and experience to offer, it is highly unlikely that you will run out of job openings or jobs to apply for.
- More options. Unlike a corporate environment where you are boxed into a monotonous job, there are plenty of freelancing options. Office workers have a specific job title at work, but as a freelancer you can explore a wider range of options. You can be a freelance writer and SEO specialist in one. Or you can be a web designer, professional blogger, and web researcher all in one. The opportunities are limitless. You can even pursue a career in programming if you’re interested. All you have to do is study on your own, if you can, or sign up for a class that will train you to become an expert in the particular area you love.
- earn money. This is obviously the number one motivation for most people. Cash and money! So is. There is a great possibility to earn a lot of money working as a freelancer. Although most contracts are short-term, it doesn’t necessarily mean that being a full-time freelancer is an unstable profession. If you’re really good at your chosen field, have the right work attitude, are professional, and are a highly responsible contractor, job offers will keep coming your way. The best of freelance money? You usually get paid weekly. Unlike offices where employee pay is posted twice a month, freelance websites like Odesk.com post contractor earnings every Wednesday morning. Weekly pay is great as it makes it easy to plan your daily budget.
- Set your own terms. In freelance work, when an online employer hires a contractor, both parties will decide on all aspects of the project. Of course, the employer is still the boss, but the freelancer has the right to request fees up front, set their hourly rate, and arrange their work schedule. Unless they agree on everything, the project will not proceed. So if you’re an aspiring freelancer, it’s a plus if you’re good at negotiating with people.
- Comfort. Do you hate traffic jams? Then working as a freelancer is for you. First of all, freelance jobs are done from home. This means you don’t need to commute from home to the office and back to work alone; therefore, there is no need to face heavy traffic and rush hour every day. No need to wear awkward or ugly office uniforms. And best of all, there’s no need to travel or, worse yet, drive. Think about it. Actually, this is a great way to escape the rising price of gas.
Having said all, freelancing is a great way to start a career online. It is an excellent training ground to improve your skills while earning money. As a freelancer, your earnings increase as your skills develop. The best part is that you can create your portfolio without spending a dime.