Written by: Flexing It
6/01/2023
5 minutes read
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With the rise of the gig economy, freelancing has become an increasingly popular way to make money. However, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions surrounding freelancing that can lead people to believe it’s not a viable career option. In this two-part blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common myths about freelancing and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: Freelancing is Working 1-2 Hours a Day
One of the most common myths about freelancing is that it’s easy work and involves only working 1-2 hours a day, but in reality, that is wishful thinking. Freelancing can be a full-time job that requires long hours and hard work. While it’s true that freelancers have more flexibility in when and how they work than people with traditional 9-5 jobs, they still need to put in the hours to be successful.
Myth #2: Freelancers Charge More
Another myth about freelancing is that freelancers charge more than traditional employees. While it’s true that freelancers may charge a higher rate than an employee in a specific job, they’re only charging for the unique skills and expertise they bring to the table. Freelancers often have specialized knowledge and experience that can be invaluable to a project, so it makes sense that they’d be compensated for that.
Myth #3: Freelancing is Unreliable
One of the biggest myths about freelancing is that it’s an unreliable way to make money. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Freelancers are in control of their own destinies and can work with clients they trust and who pay them on time. If freelancers are organized and manage their time well, they can easily create a steady stream of income.
Myth #4: Freelancers Are Too Expensive
Some people might think that freelancers are too expensive to hire, but that’s not always the case. There are freelancers who charge very reasonable rates, so it’s important to shop around and compare prices. Additionally, you may be able to find a freelancer who specializes in the type of work you need and can do it more quickly and efficiently than an employee, so you may end up saving money in the long run.
Myth #5: Freelancers Have to Work Alone
Some people think that freelancers have to work alone and don’t have access to the same resources as traditional employees. However, that is completely false. Freelancers can easily join remote teams and collaborate with colleagues just like any other employee. This can be a great way to stay connected with other professionals and to get feedback on your work.
Myth #6: Freelancers Don’t Have Benefits
Another common myth about freelancing is that freelancers don’t have access to the same benefits as employees at a traditional job. While it’s true that freelancers don’t have access to employer-provided health insurance and other benefits, there are other options available. Many freelancers purchase their own health insurance, and there are also some freelancer-specific benefits like retirement plans and liability insurance that are available.
Myth #7: Freelancing is Risky
Some people may think that freelancing is a risky career move, but that’s not necessarily the case. Freelancing can be a great way to make money and build a career if you’re organized and manage your time wisely. Additionally, there are plenty of resources available to help freelancers succeed, so you don’t have to go it alone.
How to Get Started Freelancing
Now that we’ve dispelled some of the myths about freelancing, let’s look at how to get started.
- Find Your Niche: Before you start freelancing, it’s important to figure out what type of work you’d like to do. This will help you find the right clients and market yourself effectively.
- Build Your Online Presence: Once you’ve decided on your niche, it’s time to build your online presence. This can include setting up a website, creating a portfolio, and joining freelancer communities.
- Network: Networking is an essential part of freelancing. Reach out to people in your industry and let them know about your work. This is a great way to find new clients and stay informed about industry trends.
- Set Your Rates: It’s important to set your rates according to your skills and experience. This will help you attract the right clients and ensure you get paid what you’re worth.
- Market Yourself: Finally, don’t forget to market yourself. This can include creating blog posts, attending networking events, and using social media.
In conclusion, freelancing can be a great way to make money and build a career. However, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about freelancing that can lead people to think it’s not a viable option. By understanding the truth behind these myths and taking the steps to get started, you can be on your way to success as a freelancer.
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