Become a freelancer
When we think about freelancing, it is often idealized. Many people consider freelancing to be much better than having a hired job. In fact, both types of work have their pros and cons. But the most important thing is not to look at freelance work through rose-tinted glasses. Here are some myths about working for yourself.
Myths about freelancing
"I will have complete freedom"
Right after graduation, many people are used to living according to a system: school, university or family. There is indeed a lot of freedom in working for yourself, but if you do not know what to do with that freedom, it might feel like a cage. It is often difficult to understand where to start when you take on one job, followed by another and then a third one. This can reduce motivation and lead to a desire to do nothing. Also, before becoming your own manager, you need to assess whether you have enough discipline and organisational skills. Willingness to get up late or have coffee with friends will shorten working hours or postpone all work to the evening. In the long run, this can not only bother you, but also blur the line between work and personal life.
"I will make a lot of money"
The opportunity to earn more than in a hired job position is real. But in reality you will earn as much as you will be able to earn. Unfortunately, not everyone has enough entrepreneurial skills and is able to make new business contacts quickly. This takes time and effort. It usually even costs money, as in the beginning you may have to work for free or on a barter basis (service for service) to get referrals, acquaintances and new customers. You may also need to invest in certain tools and technologies. And you will have to pay for the vacation leave yourself. So, it is worth considering the need to have savings in the beginning.
"Customers will come by themselves"
Many people who start working for themselves naively think that if they work with passion and offer a good service or product, they will be needed. However, in reality people tend to buy products and services that they trust. Even if it costs more. Customer acquisition and the ability to sell are just a few competences that you will need to develop. Another common mistake: people often create a product thinking that if it looks good and seems valuable to them, then othes will like it too. But the truth is that a product or service has to reflect the customer's needs. This means that you may have to create products that you will not like.
"It will be easier than hired work"
When you work for yourself, you will have to do everything. Anyone who start working for themselves must become a salesman, a product developer, a marketing specialist, even an accountant. So, a lot of unpleasant work might accumulate very fast. And there is no other way.