The Pros and Cons of Being a Freelancer

This article discusses both the perks and the downside of working as a freelancer. Whether you are a freelancer yourself, looking to hire a freelancer, or thinking about becoming one, this article is sure to prove useful in helping you to understand the differences and similarities that exist between freelancing and having a normal office job.

While freelancing works for some, it isn't for everyone. So, what are some of the pros and cons of being a freelancer?

What many freelancers seem to appreciate the most about their profession is the flexibility of the working hours. Not everyone functions at their optimum level first thing in the morning; therefore, freelancing often does the trick for those who work best at night, or those who feel on top of their game in the middle of the day. Working as a freelancer—as opposed to working in a corporate environment—affords you the privilege of being able to decide whether to complete your tasks first thing in the morning, or over the weekend when your schedule is less hectic.

Being a freelancer, you are free to pick and choose the types of project you wish to work on.

Another perk of being a freelancer is that you have a say in which projects you choose to take on, and how much of it you want to get done in a week. Being a freelancer, you are free to pick and choose the types of project you wish to work on. You can also discuss with clients the amount of work you are available to take on. This is another area where the beauty of freelancing lies.

Despite these advantages, working as a freelancer is not without its negative aspects. Freelancing usually means that your job no longer comes with the benefits that typically come in hand-in-hand with a regular 9-to-5 job. This includes health insurance, social security, and other employee benefits. Working as a freelancer may also mean the occasional lonely day; in the world of freelancing, there are no ‘officemates’ to chat with, or water coolers to make casual conversation by—at least not face-to-face.

Unlike an office job, freelancing is entirely dependent on whether or not your client currently has any work to offer you. Unless you've got another job on the side, if your client walks out the door, your source of income walks out right along with them.

The most significant disadvantage of working as a freelancer would have to be the instability or financial uncertainty that comes with the territory. Unlike an office job, freelancing is entirely dependent on whether or not your client currently has any work to offer you. Unless you've got another job on the side, if your client walks out the door, your source of income walks out right along with them. This is why it's important to maintain a professional attitude and work ethic at all times.

Nevertheless, many freelancers continue to enjoy what they do, because freelancing means that they are their own bosses. In some countries, performing outsourced or offshore work can sometimes mean that you don't even have to pay taxes.

About Sergio Guillen Rodriguez

I’m a translator, copywriter, proofreader, and editor. My working languages are Spanish, Finnish, and English. Connect with me on Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.

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