Even Before the Pandemic Freelancers Were Ahead of the Times

February 4, 2021

Let's face it, who would have guessed that freelancing and working-from-home would become so popular; even mandated in some places since recent events. Many freelancers probably feel that they have some type of sixth sense or something. I guess freelancers ARE ahead of the times.

Though the circumstances surrounding this increase is unfortunate, those of us who struck out on our own were well prepared for the work-from-home transition some time ago.

However, if you were a traditional employee working in-office 9 to 5 or perhaps worked at home one day a week or on weekends, going remote full-time is a huge lifestyle change.

The Differences Between a Freelancer and Remote Worker

Just so that there is no confusion between freelancers and remote workers: freelancers are 'true' independent workers usually juggling a number of clients. Freelancers are usually multitaskers as well.

For example, a freelance writer may have also acquired competent skills in graphic design, social media managing, or translating.

Remote workers usually work for one company albeit remotely in a particular skillset. For example, they may have joined a company as a consultant, IT Specialist, or engineer. The engineer won't transfer over to try their hand as a Human Resources Coordinator or work in Customer Service.

Both positions have their pluses and minuses. It simply depends on the mindset of the individual. Though freelancers come out slightly ahead. Why? Because they were already accustomed to the intricacies involved with working independently, away from the traditional office archetype.

What the Statistics Say About Remote Work

Flexjobs has fascinating up-to-date remote work statistics. Here are a few:

-65% of people surveyed want full-time remote employment post-pandemic and roughly 31% prefer a hybrid work setting; together that's 95% that prefer some type of remote work

-27% of employees admit that teleworking is important for them and they're not adverse to taking a 10% to 20% pay cut in order to work remotely.

-81% of workers said that they would be more committed to their employer if they were offered flexible work options

-The article also affirms that though 2020 was a difficult year, 75 out of 100 remote workers said they were satisfied compared to 71 in-office workers. Additionally, remote workers are more likely more content with their jobs than in-house workers - 57% vs 50%.

What the Statistics Say About Freelancers

According to sites like ddiy.com:

-Though many people began their freelancing career on a temporary basis, the amount of individuals embracing freelancing long-term increased from 18.5 million to 28.5 million since 2014.

-Freelancers are roughly 35% of the global workforce. There are approximately 3.5 billion people in the workforce worldwide and 1.1 billion of those are freelancers

-75% of freelancers stated that they wouldn't swap their freelancing job for any other work

-A recent study from Fiverr, an online market for freelancers, noted that people are more satisfied working from home and that it also opens up additional revenue streams.

Freelancing is often linked to the 'gig economy.' Meaning that an individual usually has a 9 to 5 job or works regularly part-time for a particular employer while 'earning money on the side.' That's not always true.

Read this article from the BusinessNewsDaily, you'd be surprised how much income a freelancer can bring in. And what's surprising is that the highest pay is not exclusive to those with a college degree!

The article emphasizes that companies who hire freelancers, are more interested in experience and client reviews than an individual's former education.

Additionally, freelancing gives you the freedom to 'set your own price.' Where as most remote workers are paid the salary their company offers, with little room for negotiations.

Freelancing provides individuals with the chance to work 'on their terms.' You're paid what you 'think you're worth.' You may not get the amount each time; however, you're in a better position to negotiate, if you know how.

Isn't that what more working people want today? To work and live their lives on 'their own terms' as much as possible? No doubt, freelancers were way ahead of the times.

Now it's time for a fresh cup of coffee and to check my work list for the next assignment. Cheers!