When work gets busy, catch a local freelancer

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Are you seeking flexible work?

What is a freelancer?

A freelancer is an independent professional who works for themselves. Freelancers set their own rates and work with multiple clients. The term freelancer is often used interchangeably with independent contractor. 

How do I become a freelancer?

To freelance you need to have a skill that you can sell to potential clients.  Some freelancers maintain their full-time jobs (moonlight) or keep a part-time job so that they can benefit from a regular income while earning extra from their freelance work. This is often a good steppingstone for many professionals before taking the leap to full-time freelancing

How big is the freelance market?

The freelance market is massive and growing, making it easier than ever to find the right talent! Hiring a freelancer has become a popular competitive strategy for companies today. You can find talented freelancers on marketplace platforms such as Workhoppers. Over 150 million individuals are engaging in independant work in one form or another, representing a $792 billion industry. 

What kind of companies hire freelancers?

Many freelancing jobs are for SMBs as small companies don’t always have the funds to hire on a full-time basis. The rise of freelancing has allowed small companies to tap into top talent on an as-needed contractual basis. This makes it easier for smaller businesses and start-ups to readily compete with more established firms.

What are the advantages of hiring a Freelancer?

The advantages of hiring a freelancer are the gained flexibility to cope with cyclical demand, the possibility of hiring the best expertise and experience and the reduced cost for the company. 

 What kind of skills are in demand?

Freelance hiring is on the rise and many skills are needed. Technology freelancers are in high demand and will continue to be for the next decade: Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Blockchain and Data Science. Non-tech freelance jobs that are also in high demand are Virtual teachers, bookkeepers, Social Media Experts and Administrative Assistants.

Who are freelancers?

54% of freelancers do it to complement their income and 46% freelance on a full-time basis. From those, 25% are Millennials. Freelancing is also a popular option for those close to retirement who have tons of experience to share, university students who may not have the most experience but are eager workers. In general, freelancers seek a more balanced life. 

What is a freelancer's schedule like?

Full time freelancers work an average of 36 hours per week! 52% of these freelancers say that this is the perfect number of hours for them and 23% say they have more work than desired (survey from Careermetis). Freelancers tend to work from home or in a shared workspace and have the freedom to choose to work on projects that are of interest to them.

How did freelancing get started?

Freelancing has only recently become a popular career. Originally, freelancing was strictly seen in only certain professions such as photography or journalism. With the internet came the growth of freelance platforms. These platforms, which began in 1999, were originally designed to help American companies tap into cheaper labor from developing countries. Luckily, now a days we find freelancing in all professions and all countries.

How can freelancers find work?

Freelancers find work by constantly promoting and marketing themselves. Freelancers can create profiles on freelance marketplaces, launch a website or blog, build client relationships and encourage referrals, push for online reviews, create content on social media, network at conferences and network at social meetups and online. 

How do I pay a freelancer?

Freelancers get paid by the hour or by the project. When your project is not clearly defined, and you expect the scope of the work to change along the way then paying your freelancer on an hourly basis may be the right route to go. Read more about how to pay a freelancer.

How do freelancers charge?

Freelancers charge by the hour or fixed price. Giving an accurate value to your work is essential. You will be working on a project by project or contract basis and will not receive employee benefits so that should be considered. Knowing the market is key to setting up your rate. Research what similar freelancers are charging and know your level of experience. Here are some tips on pricing your skills.