Who’s A Freelancer? Are You?

When somebody says “freelancer”, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably a writer, novelist or journalist. True, for the longest time, the only freelancers we heard of were those who worked with the written word.

But not in the twenty first century, a time that appreciates freelancers in many different fields.

Sure, you have probably heard of freelance photographers, too. You may have even met one or two in your life, but what about freelance software designers, freelance medical billing specialists, or even freelance scientific researchers? Freelancers can come from the field of Internet technology, finance, law, business, customer services… almost any field at all.

Freelancing has become increasingly popular, not only because many have lost jobs or are unable to find work. The allure of freelancing also comes from the realization that you can make far more money working for yourself as a freelancer than you ever could solely from working under the wing of an employer. No more commuting, lunches away from home, and having to buy corporate clothes. Plus, no being at the beck and call of bosses!

In my case, not having to pay for child care and deal with the stresses of juggling employment and family were the main appeal of freelancing.

Sounds pretty good doesn’t it? You work in a field for a few years, get a lot of practical experience in your chosen area of employment and then gradually make the switch from working the nine to five to becoming your own boss as a freelancer.

So who’s a freelancer – is it you?

Image by toolmantim via Flickr