What is a Freelancer?

A freelancer, by definition, is an individual who’s self-employed working on different projects without long-term commitment. Once the job is done, the freelancer can move to a different job.

What are the advantages of freelancing?

There are many advantages to freelancing, mainly:

1. Your working hours are not flexible.
2. You’re more independent.
3. You’re exposed to a variety of jobs (no routine)
4. You spend less money on commuting.
5. You’re not confined to office dress codes and work environments.

It sounds like freelancers are as happy as a sand boy, however; there are also many disadvantages to freelancing:

1. No steady income.
2. Less social interaction.
3. More liable - you take full responsibility for your actions.
4. No company benefits (health care, etc)
5. Overlapping deadlines - you have to meet different deadlines for different jobs even if they happen to be in the same day.

An interesting fact goes back to the coining of the term, where Sir Walter Scott actually coined the term in relation to mercenary warrior who took on different jobs. We are not suggesting by any chance that freelancers are mercenaries, but you’ve got to admit, any freelancer can look good with a gun, coffee, and honey glazed donuts.

Are you considering freelancing? This blog is a guide for those embarking a freelancing career. How about we start with the basics? In this case: your current job.