Introduction
The definition of "work" is constantly changing. Thanks to the internet, and shifting perception of what "work" entails, we are no longer bound by desks and physical offices; we now have the ability and flexibility to work from wherever we want, whenever we want, with whomever we want, wherever they are. The new work order is exciting, and it's already here. In an annual report by Upwork and the Freelancers Union, 35% of the total US workforce (equivalent to 55 million people) choose to freelance, with 81% of traditional workers saying they would "be willing to do additional work outside of [their] primary job if it was available and enabled [them] to make more money." If you are new to the freelancing lifestyle or are just thinking about it, we interviewed industry experts who are freelancing to get some insights on joining the gig economy.
- Who are they?
Adam Wiltshire is a completion and wells intervention specialist who has been a freelancer for 20 years. Alongside Adam, we spoke to Wouter Antheunisse, a Hydrodynamic Engineer freelancing for the past 5 years. Last but definitely not least, we also interviewed Frederik Vanhee who’s a passionate structural engineer with 15 years of experience under his belt. Although he’s very new to freelancing, he shared some interesting points on the matter.
2. Why did you choose to freelance?
“For me, I don’t fit in cultures; I want to go fast so I decided to be a freelancer.”, Frederik mentioned.
“Definitely the flexibility.”, said Wouter
Adam laughingly mentioned, “stable career is a joke,”
“The flexibility is good and I can walk away anytime if something is not to my liking.”
3. What to expect
Frederik:
“Two words: stability and accountability. The first is non-existing, the second is very much in your face.”
Other things Frederik mentioned that people need to look out for:
- Finding a pipeline of clients is difficult when you don’t have a network
- Creating a retirement fund is your responsibility and requires discipline
- Invest in health insurance
For Wouter, he brought up the freelancing terms that people need to familiarise themselves with, mainly payment terms in hourly rates/lump sums and invoicing.
“Sometimes you need to think ahead about the software, too. While clients might manage to provide software or copy for you to use, - sometimes it isn't the case. Read your job description and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
“When a project gets rugged or shelved, it’s out of your control. Learn to manage.”
4. What Tips Could You Offer?
Frederik mentioned, “First, if you start young as a freelancer; it’s a good idea to invest in training,”
“Second, accountability is important as a freelancer. Study your local laws on freelancing, try to get yourself protected by any means, and look up limited liability companies. Another thing, —tax-wise, freelancing is not as interesting although it depends what your state laws are.”Wouter had a few things to share as well. “I use an accounting software for freelancers (e-boekhouden.nl) which costs 12 euro per month - a pretty good investment as it helps you save time if you’re a busy freelancer, perhaps it’s something you could look into if you have a busy lifestyle,”, according to Wouter.What else Wouter mention:
- Freelancing takes time, you will need reserves in terms of savings before you try
- Trust your clients and let the clients trust you
- Be easy-going, open, and flexible. ALWAYS think about the long term and learn to take risks
As for Adam, he doesn’t particularly view accounting software as necessary. Unless you lead a busy schedule, an excel spreadsheet can be sufficient.“I just create my own invoices and do my own accounting; it’s more convenient for me.”“What matters is your network, it’s always better to have one. In my 20 years of freelancing, most of my missions come from my friends and past clients.”But is networking the only way you can get missions? For Wouter, it isn’t. “ I would recommend people to use a marketplace like Trees Engineering, you wouldn’t need to only rely on your networks. Things are always evolving, be open and adapt to changes.”Other tips from Adam:
- Work by days not hours
- People tend to hire by experience, try to gain some before you freelance
- Be honest all time, own your mistakes and learn from them
- If you do one bad job and it will reflect badly on the rest
- In your contracts, see if you can try to limit your liabilities
Final NoteDon't expect a straight path to success; you'll be juggling several balls at first, so expect to circle back. Some processes will be easier to establish than others, but a freelancer must constantly evolve in order to stay at the top of their game. New to freelancing? Visit www.trees-engineering.com and start scrolling for missions today.